2008 Ag Appropriations Bill Passes House

August 3, 2007 -The U.S. House of Representatives finalized the 2008 agriculture appropriations bill this week approving $17.3 million for the scrapie eradication program and $76.95 million for Wildlife Services operations.

The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) issued a call to action to state associations and the legislative council early in the week to ward off potential amendments limiting USDA Wildlife Services programs. Amendments supported by animal rights organizations were attempted on this legislation each year from 1996 through 2001.

"ASI appreciates the producers that contacted their U.S. Representatives in support of Wildlife Services and is pleased that anti-livestock amendments were not attempted," commented Bill Sparrow, ASI legislative council chair.

The House approved the appropriations bill to fund agriculture programs for fiscal year 2008 following several days of contentious debate and parliamentary procedures. The U.S. Senate will address its agriculture funding bill in September as it will be in recess for the balance of this month.
Staff contact: Peter Orwick, ext. 33

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