Thurs., Jun 20 02 - USDA May Move to New Department of Homeland Security

Suggested Lead:

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service may moving away from the USDA.  According to Leah Becker, associate director of food policy for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the move will affect seven different agencies – including one of key importance to cattle producers.

Cut #1        :20            Outcue: "...protecting the homeland."

Becker says both the House and the Senate will be involved with this proposed move.

Cut #2        :37            Outcue: "...on the Senate floor."

According to Becker, the NCBA has been very supportive of APHIS and its work to keep beef and cattle safe.

Cut #3        :40            Outcue: "...situation we have here."

Becker says NCBA has helped coordinate a group of animal and plant associations to develop a list of issues that are critical for the administration to review as it considers this move.  The group is working with both the administration and congress to assure that current APHIS work is not lost in the process.