June 17, 2022

Dear Friend,

Every day, I hear from constituents about how rising prices, from groceries to gas bills, are impacting their families and I understand the worry this creates. Putin’s unjust invasion of Ukraine and oil companies’ greed for record profits while limiting production have increased gas prices to levels that are truly straining budgets. I have continued to advocate on behalf of northern Illinois families to lower costs and provide our community with relief.  

That is why I voted to pass the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act. The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act would: 

• Lower the cost of gas by expanding access to biofuels: This legislation provides relief to consumers at the gas pump by expanding their access to Unleaded 88 gasoline, which is up to 40 cents cheaper per gallon, and supporting increased domestic production of biofuels. 

• Cut costs at the grocery store by lowering costs for farmers:  Putin’s unprovoked war has dramatically driven up the costs of fertilizer for American farmers. This legislation includes supports to help farmers use fertilizer in a more targeted manner, reducing costs for farmers which reduces grocery costs.

• Increase competition in the meatpacking industry: Most of the meat and poultry market is controlled by a handful of companies whose price gouging harms livestock producers and consumers. This legislation would increase competition in the industry, leading to better prices for consumers. 

• Strengthen the food supply chain to minimize price changes at grocery stores: This legislation empowers the U.S. Department of Agriculture to work with producers to establish and build upon local supply chains, creating a more competitive and resilient food systems.  

I will continue to work to alleviate the financial strain on our community by cutting costs at the grocery store, the gas pump, and across the board. To learn more about my work to lower costs, including the gasoline tax credit I have proposed for middle class families, visit Underwood.house.gov/loweringcosts. 

Sincerely,