House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) announced two bipartisan initiatives in recent weeks that span the future of youth agricultural education and the regulation of digital commodity markets.

On June 11, Thompson relaunched the Congressional 4-H Caucus, reaffirming support for one of the nation’s largest youth development programs. The caucus will be co-chaired by a bipartisan and bicameral group, including Ranking Member Sanford Bishop (D-GA), Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN), Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), and Senate Agriculture Committee Chair John Boozman (R-AR). The caucus aims to strengthen 4-H’s role in preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders through programs focused on science, civic engagement, and workforce development.

“4-H plays a vital role in shaping responsible citizens and future ag professionals,” Thompson said in a statement. “This caucus ensures continued support for youth who are the future of agriculture, science, and innovation.”

Separately, on May 29, Thompson and House Financial Services Chairman French Hill (R-AR) introduced the Digital Asset Market Clarity (CLARITY) Act, a bipartisan legislative framework intended to provide regulatory certainty for digital asset markets, particularly those intersecting with commodities. The measure builds upon H.R. 4763, with updated language that enhances oversight, fosters innovation, and promotes interagency coordination between financial and agricultural regulators.

The legislation reflects growing concern about digital assets and decentralized finance platforms that may impact rural investment channels, agricultural commodities markets, or cooperative funding streams. While the bill’s text has not yet been published, Thompson emphasized its goal to "strike a balance between consumer protection and market access.”

Together, the two efforts demonstrate the committee’s broad focus on the evolving landscape of agriculture, ranging from foundational education to emerging financial infrastructures.

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Source: U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, Press Releases (May 29 and June 11, 2025), https://agriculture.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx