FOXX HELPS FARMERS, RURAL COMMUNITIES

Friday October 28, 2005

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Amy Auth
202-225-2071
 
WASHINGTON –  Today, United States Rep. Virginia Foxx (N.C.-5) took an important step to help farmers in Northwest North Carolina by voting for the Agriculture Appropriations Conference Report for FY 2006.

“I am pleased that we were able to pass a bill to help our farmers and rural communities,” said Rep. Foxx, a member of the House Committee on Agriculture.  “Farmers are the backbone of our communities and we must provide the resources they need.”

One important aspect of the bill is it delays the implementation of Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) on meat and meat products.  “This is a very important issue to the beef, poultry and pork producers in the Fifth District.  Delaying the implementation of COOL will save farmers millions of dollars,” she said.

Rep. Foxx personally contacted Chairman Henry Bonilla to ask for assistance in delaying the rule until there was legislation to address COOL.  “I am very pleased the Chairman listened to my request and helped the farmers and ranchers of the Fifth District,” she said.

The conference report will also maintain funding for the Resource Conservation and Development Program which provides resources to local communities for economic development. 

Finally, Rep. Foxx is pleased to report that she was able to include the Wilkesboro/Kerr Scott Reservoir Intake project in the conference report.  This project will help the towns of Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro by providing for the installation of a new raw water intake on the prong of the Kerr Scott Reservoir and a new raw water booster pumping station. 

“This project will guarantee an adequate water supply for residents of Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro and enhance the towns’ image by providing sufficient water supply to attract new industries,” said Rep. Foxx.

Once the conference report is signed by President Bush, it will become law.

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