Administration Opposes Ag Spending Bill Approved by Committee

The Obama Administration is strongly opposed to the Agriculture Appropriations measure as reported by the House Appropriations Committee. According to the Statement of Administration Policy – the bill severely undermines key investments in financial oversight in a manner that would cripple Wall Street reform. The statement goes on to point to harmful cuts in rural economic development, renewable energy development, nutrition programs, food safety and international food aid. The Administration says investing in these areas is critical to the nation’s economic growth, security and global competitiveness. The Administration also opposes the inclusion of ideological and political provisions that are beyond the scope of funding legislation. This includes the provision that would effectively prevent the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration from further implementing the remaining portions of its marketing rule. If presented with the measure – H.R. 5973 – the President’s senior advisors would recommend he veto the bill.