King Comments on AG Committee's Budget Reconciliation Instructions

Press Release

KING COMMENTS ON AG COMMITTEE'S BUDGET RECONCILIATION INSTRUCTIONS

U.S. Congressman Steve King (IA-05) released the following statement regarding today's passage of the budget reconciliation instructions out of the House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture:

"Even though budget reconciliations are tough, it must be done. With the Fiscal Year 2006 budget deficit projected to be $295 billion and the national debt hovering around $8 trillion, Congress must be held accountable to spending discipline because that is the only way the deficit will be lowered for the sake of the economy and future generations.

We went through at least three rounds of negotiations with Agriculture Committee Republicans before we could arrive at a final package. Everyone had to give something. My first priority was to protect the interests of Iowa's agriculture. Other members worked to protect the interests of their districts. I'm confident that we achieved the best possible balance given the circumstances.

World Trade Organization (WTO) agriculture negotiations have been deadlocked without results in market access or reductions in export subsidies. The United States has consistently and in good faith negotiated with the WTO member states to reduce domestic subsidies and to eliminate export subsidies in exchange for market access. I hope this budget reconciliation decision shows the commitment by the U.S. and sets the stage for successful WTO trade negotiations in Hong Kong this December."

King is a member of the House Agriculture Committee.

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