LETTER: Ruben Gallego Demands Answers for Rising Egg Prices
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Ruben Gallego (AZ-03) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack expressing his concern on the recent increase in egg prices in Arizona.
The letter states: “While the average cost for a dozen Grade A large eggs has more than doubled in the past year to reach a national average of $3.59, prices in Phoenix have reached closer to $6. And it’s not just Phoenix – similar price spikes are being reported across the state. Eggs are a staple food upon which families rely, and the budgetary impact of this price increase is immediate, particularly for low-income families.”
To understand what the USDA will do to combat the avian flu outbreak, Rep. Gallego requested Sec. Vilsack answer the following questions:
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What is USDA doing to keep egg costs down without punishing egg farmers?
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What steps is USDA taking to prevent further spread of the avian flu?
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What lessons have been learned in addressing this particular outbreak of the avian flu?
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What forward-thinking programs is USDA prioritizing related to disease prevention?
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Are there any additional resources or authorizations that would be helpful for disease prevention?
Rep. Gallego concluded the letter: “I have heard directly from constituents that the heightened price of eggs is impacting their nutritional wellbeing as well as their wallets. Providing relief as soon as possible is a top priority for me, and I look forward to working together to that end.”