CAFTA Ads Fooling Rural America, Says DeLauro

CAFTA Ads Fooling Rural America, Says DeLauro

House Agriculture Appropriations Ranking Member Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3) today questioned ads produced by USDA on the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA). According to media reports, some segments are airing without a disclosure that the ads are government-sponsored and not independent news stories.

"I am concerned that pro-CAFTA ads are airing in rural America with no indication of who paid for them," said DeLauro. "Without disclosure of their funding source, these ads create the illusion that they are independent news reports - fooling rural America."

DeLauro added an amendment to the FY 2006 Agriculture Appropriations bill to bar funding under the bill from being used to produce prepackaged news stories without a clear notification within the ad that it was prepared or funded by a federal agency.

"We must ensure that taxpayers understand the type of information they are receiving," said DeLauro. "I encourage USDA to take proactive steps so that this information is communicated regardless of the segment that is aired."

DeLauro's amendment is identical to one which passed the Senate unanimously, and which passed the House as a part of the Supplemental Appropriations bill. It was unanimously agreed to in subcommittee.

http://www.house.gov/delauro/press/2005/June/CAFTA_ads_06_16_05.html