Sioux Empire Today

U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson from South Dakota has been appointed as the Chair of a Congressional subcommittee focused on rural broadband development. Before his tenure in the U.S. House, Johnson co-owned an engineering and consulting firm in South Dakota that specialized in rural broadband.

"We’ve got our work cut out for us in the Ag Committee," stated Johnson. "We must pass a long overdue Farm Bill and establish regulations for the crypto industry. I’m looking forward to serving as a subcommittee Chairman again to improve lives in rural America and improve our economy."

Johnson's panel, known as the Subcommittee on Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development, addresses several policy areas:

- **Crypto Regulation**: The Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which regulates commodity markets including digital assets, falls under this subcommittee's oversight. Recent issues within the digital asset sector have led to calls for improved cryptocurrency market regulation.

- **Farm Bill Drafting**: The subcommittee is responsible for drafting sections of the 2025 Farm Bill—specifically Title VI (Rural Development) and Title IX (Energy)—and will contribute to other provisions of the bill.

- **Commodity Markets**: This includes oversight of exchanges, swaps, futures, and derivatives by both the CFTC and the subcommittee. They also examine how inflation, global conflict, and trade distortions affect global commodity markets.

- **Rural Infrastructure**: The subcommittee oversees USDA Rural Development investments in energy, businesses, housing, and connectivity improvements in rural areas.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson expressed enthusiasm about new leadership roles within the committee. "I'm thrilled to welcome both returning and new subcommittee leadership for the 119th Congress," said Thompson. "Together, we will work tirelessly to ensure that American farmers, ranchers, and rural communities thrive during this pivotal moment."

Additionally, Johnson was appointed to other roles including membership on the Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit; as well as various positions within the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

The full announcement from the Agriculture Committee can be accessed along with information about other Subcommittee Chairs.