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Walberg Opening Statement Before Agriculture Full Committee Mark-Up of Farm Bill

Press Release

Date: July 17, 2007
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Agriculture and Food

WALBERG OPENING STATEMENT BEFORE AGRICULTURE FULL COMMITTEE MARK-UP OF FARM BILL

U.S. Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI) today delivered the following statement before the House Agriculture Committee as it began mark-up of the 2007 Farm Bill.

"As we move to full committee consideration of the 2007 Farm Bill, I would like to reflect on my district and the state of Michigan. I am concerned for Michigan's agriculture industry and for the family farmer, as agriculture is one of Michigan's most valuable industries. As the only Michigan member of Congress on the House Committee on Agriculture, I have the job of representing the second most agriculturally diverse state in the nation, behind only California.

"This is my first Farm Bill, and as a freshman member, serving the people of south-central Michigan is both an honor and a privilege. Agriculture is the leading industry in my district, and the outcome of this bill will be very important to my farmers and agri-business. I do have some concerns about this bill. I am particularly concerned with the coming discussion about Davis-Bacon provisions and value-added agriculture products, and I will work for some necessary changes.

"I support the great efforts Chairman Collin Peterson and Ranking Member Bob Goodlatte have put into this process and this legislation. I also commend both committee, subcommittee and member staff for their hard work and long hours. I believe we, the Agriculture Committee, are the best stewards to shape agriculture policy and assist the profession that feeds the world. We should not let the Speaker or others sway or interrupt this process. This country has the safest, cleanest and most affordable food -- we need to maintain this standard and move forward to continue to support agriculture, agri-business and the food industry.

"I look forward to giving south-central Michigan a voice in the coming weeks as we work to finalize the formation of this landmark legislation."


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