Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010

Floor Speech

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2010 -- (Senate - July 31, 2009)

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BOVINE TUBERCULOSIS

Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I seek to clarify with the chairman an effort across two States to address the growing issue of bovine tuberculosis.

I have asked the subcommittee to provide funds for a joint effort between the University of Minnesota and Michigan State University in support of research to prevent the spread of bovine tuberculosis and ultimately eradicate the disease from cattle, deer, and other wildlife. My colleagues from Michigan and I understand the negative economic impacts bovine tuberculosis impose on our States' agricultural industries. In fact, agriculture is the second largest industry in both States, and this research is key to protecting our economies.

However, it is my understanding that this research effort may have been mistakenly associated with Michigan's ongoing eradication efforts.

Mr. KOHL. I thank the Senator from Minnesota for bringing to my attention this issue. I understand the importance of the joint research effort on bovine tuberculosis taking place at the University of Minnesota and Michigan State University.

I will work with Senator Klobuchar to ensure that the bovine tuberculosis joint university research program is addressed as the fiscal year 2010 Agriculture appropriations bill moves through the legislative process.

Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I congratulate the chairman for crafting a strong fiscal year 2010 Agriculture appropriations bill and thank him for his efforts to assist me on this important initiative.

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