Oct. 15, 2004 - Actions at End of Congressional Session Benefit Cattlemen

Suggested Lead:

Before Congress recessed recently they passed some important legislation that will have an impact on the cattle industry.  According to Bryan Dierlam, director of legislative affairs for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, one of the pieces of legislation will benefit individuals hit by disasters.

Cut #1     :33        Outcue: "...very thankful for that."

Dierlam says other parts of the U.S. also were considered in this disaster relief.

Cut #2     :24        Outcue: "...rest of the country."

According to Dierlam, NCBA understood the ramifications of these disasters for its members and was very active during this process.

Cut #3     :48        Outcue: "...their feet again."

Other legislation important to cattle producers was also passed prior to recess, including a tax law that will help delay capital gains taxes to cattlemen.  That bill includes an extension of a section that will allow cattle producers to write off equipment purchases in the year of purchase without having to depreciate the expense over time.

President Bush is expected to sign the bills.