The American Soybean Association (ASA) presented Congressman Mike Pompeo (R-Kan.) with the organization's Soy Champion Award, recognizing the lawmaker's outstanding public advocacy for soybean farmers. In a presentation before its board of directors Tuesday in Washington, ASA presented Rep. Pompeo with the biennial award, citing specifically his work in authoring legislation establishing a national framework for the labeling of foods containing biotechnology as a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

"Through his exemplary representation of a very unique urban, suburban and rural district, Congressman Pompeo has been a great advocate for farmers in Kansas and across the country," said Charles Atkinson, a soybean producer and ASA Director from Great Bend, Kan. "His work on the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act has laid solid groundwork for success on one of our industry's most significant issues, and we are proud to honor him as a Soy Champion today."

ASA presented Rep. Pompeo with the award during the association's annual July board meeting and Legislative Forum, in which the ASA directors and representatives from 30 soybean-growing states gather in Washington to meet with lawmakers and raise the profile of public policy issues impacting soybean farmers.

"I am truly honored to receive the Soy Champion Award. The American Soybean Association has been a vital partner in efforts to ensure our farmers have the biotechnology tools required to feed a growing world," said Pompeo. "Thanks to the support and hard work of this organization and its many members, the American people will continue to have access to safe and affordable food."

ASA will meet with lawmakers and administration officials in Washington through Wednesday.