Senator Jon Ossoff is pushing back against the Trump Administration’s decision to cut funding for a program that supports Georgia’s HBCU students in agriculture, calling the move harmful to the state and its future agricultural workforce.
In a statement released Monday, Ossoff criticized the suspension of funding, which has provided essential educational and career-building opportunities at Fort Valley State University, Georgia’s only public Historically Black College and University (HBCU) with an agricultural program.
Ossoff emphasized the impact this funding has had on students, particularly those preparing to contribute to Georgia’s massive agriculture industry—one of the state’s leading economic drivers.
“The Trump Administration’s suspension of funding for Georgia HBCU students who support Georgia agriculture is wrong and hurts our state,” Ossoff said.
“This program has been a lifeline for HBCU students in Georgia, providing learning opportunities at Fort Valley State University and empowering young Georgians who are excited and committed to contribute to our agricultural industry’s growth and innovation.”
Ossoff is urging the Trump Administration to immediately reinstate the funding, emphasizing that Congress allocated these resources specifically to support students pursuing careers in agriculture.
The suspension of this funding could have long-term effects on students, Fort Valley State University, and Georgia’s agricultural workforce. The program has been instrumental in training young Black farmers, researchers, and industry leaders who play a vital role in keeping Georgia’s agricultural economy strong.
Ossoff, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Select Committee on Intelligence, and Rules Committee, is expected to continue pressing the administration for answers and a reversal of the decision.
