Beef Checkoff Modernization Act of 2008

USCA requested that Congress and the U.S. Department of Justice conduct an intensive investigation regarding JBS Swift and Company's proposal to buy National Beef Packing, Smithfield Foods beef operations, and Five Rivers Ranch Cattle Feeding. USCA requested this review to ensure that the proposed purchase does not violate U.S. anti-trust laws. USCA requested emergency federal funding to assist the State of Texas in its efforts to combat fever ticks. USCA opposed USDA's efforts to implement a rule to allow additional imports of meat from Argentina, despite Argentina's problem with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). USCA supported equivalent bills S. 3238 and H.R. 6522. These bills are known as the "Foot and Mouth Prevention Act of 2008," prevent the USDA from implementing its proposed rule to incease meat imports from Argentina. USCA supported S. 3404. The "Beef Checkoff Modernization Act" amends the Beef Research and Information Act to allow the promotion of beef that is born and raised exclusively in the United States, allow the establishment of an importers qualified beef council to promote nondomestic beef, and to establish new referendum requirements. USCA opposed H.R. 6598. The improperly titled "Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act" seeks to criminalize the ownership or transport of horses with the intent to send them to slaughter. USCA worked with Congress and the USDA to clarify implementation of mandatory country of origin labeling as legislated by the 2007 Farm Bill USCA supported increased access to broadband internet. USCA provided input on the USDA's National Animal Identification System (NAIS). USCA is opposed to a mandatory NAIS program. USCA supports utilizing and upgrading animal tracking existing systems.

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $10,000

Government targets: Agriculture, Dept of (USDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Justice, Dept of (DOJ), Office of Management & Budget (OMB), SENATE, U.S. Trade Representative (USTR)

H.R. 503 - To amend the Horse Protection Act to prohibit the shipping, transporting, moving, delivering, receiving, possessing, purchasing, selling, or donation of horses and other equines to be slaughtered for human consumption, and for other purposes. S. 311 - To amend the Horse Protection Act to prohibit the shipping, transporting, moving, delivering, receiving, possessing, purchasing, selling, or donation of horses and other equines to be slaughtered for human consumption, and for other purposes. H.R. 661 - Downed Animal and Food Safety Protection Act S. 394 - Downed Animal and Food Safety Protection Act H.R. 1726 - The Farm Animal Stewardship Purchasing Act H.R. 6433 - Animal Generic Drug User Fee Act of 2008 H.R. 6432 - Animal Drug User Fee Act H.R. 1232 - Veterinary Public Health Workforce Expansion Act of 2007 S. 746 - Veterinary Public Health Workforce Expansion Act of 2007 S. 2770 - Downed Animal Enforcement Act of 2008 H.R. 6202 - Farm Animal Anti-Cruelty Act H.R. 6598 Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act of 2008 S. 3404 Beef Check-Off Modernization Act National Animal ID Program Country of Origin Labeling Mandatory Price Reporting Animal Biotechnology/Cloning

Client expense: $540,000 · Firm income: Not reported

HR 6124; The Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008; Implementation of dairy import assessment provision S 3404; The Beef Checkoff Modernization Act of 2008

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $15,000

Government targets: Agriculture, Dept of (USDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

H.R. 2135, Competitive and Fair Agricultural Markets Act of 2007 H.R. 2213, Captive Supply Reform Act S. 305, to amend the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921 S. 622, Competitive and Fair Agricultural Markets Act of 2007 S. 1017, Captive Supply Reform Act S. 3238, Foot and Mouth Disease Prevention Act of 2008 S. 3404, Beef Checkoff Modernization Act of 2008 Issues other than legislation: JBS Swift purchase of National Beef, Smithfield Beef interests and Five Rivers Feeding

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

HR 7143, Food Safety Modernization Act of 2007. S 2245, A bill to establish a commission to ensure food safety in the United States, and for other purposes, issues related to the FDA overhaul. S 3385, FDA Food Safety and Modernization Act. HR 2419, Food and Energy Security Act of 2007, issues related to melamine testing at the United States Department of Agriculture. S 3404, Beef Checkoff Modernization Act of 2008, issues related to beef irradiation. Issues related to food safety. Issues related to the FDA Globalization Act. Issues related to FDA priorities and reform.

Client expense: $70,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Agriculture, Dept of (USDA), Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Food & Drug Administration (FDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), SENATE, Transportation, Dept of (DOT), Treasury, Dept of

Agriculture/food-related provisions of: H.CON.RES.25, expresses goal of U.S. to provide at least 25 percent of energy from renewable resources. H.CON.RES.142, expresses goal of U.S. to provide at least 25 percent of energy from renewable resources. H.R.80, to provide for activities to develop farms that produce food and energy. H.R.124, to require restoration of integrity to commodity limitation requirements. H.R.167, to provide for financial aid for farmers markets. H.R.185 to provide compensation for certain livestock losses. H.R.293, to provide financial aid for farmers markets. H.R.419, to provide aid to producers for crop and livestock losses. H.R.809, to repeal a section of the Federal Power Act. H.R.829 to amend the Federal Power Act. H.R.925, to provide emergency disaster aid to California for farm losses. H.R.926, to restrict assistance to any entity using eminent domain to obtain property for private development or that fails to pay relocation costs. H.R.1018, to amend Animal Health Protection Act. H.R.1152 to provide for challenge grants to encourage conservation easement purchases. H.R.1371, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.1551, to reauthorize USDA conservation and energy programs. H.R.1583, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.1600, to continue efforts to ensure good supply of fruits, vegetables, nuts and other specialty crops. H.R.1649, to delay closure or relocation of Farm Service Agency offices. H.R.1709, to authorize research to address bee Colony Collapse Disorder. H.R.1760, to amend the Federal Meat Inspection and the Poultry Products Inspection Acts. H.R.1882, to amend the 1986 Internal Revenue Code. H.R.2088, to provide cost-share payments in support of on-farm water conservation projects. H.R.2135, to enhance fair and open competition in agricultural commodity production and sale. H.R.2144, to extend USDA farm programs. H.R.2213, to amend the 1921 Packers and Stockyards Act. H.R.2235, to amend the 1981 Agriculture and Food Act. H.R.2348, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Development Act. H.R.2364, to promote opportunities for farmers and ranchers. H.R.2401, to provide for greater opportunities for socially disadvantaged farmers. H.R.2419, to provide for continuation of agricultural programs. H.R.2462, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.2473, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. H.R.2656, to enhance the ongoing profitability of Americas farms through biofuel opportunities. H.R.2720, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.2766, to establish regional dairy marketing areas. H.R.2876, to permit the interstate distribution of state-inspected meat. H.R.2879, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.2913, to amend conservation program administrative requirements. H.R.3208, to amend U.S. Troop Readiness,Veterans Care,Katrina Recover & Iraq Accountability Approp. Act. H.R.3751, to amend Consolidated Farm&Rural Development Act to set up Farm&Ranch Stress Assist. Network H.R.4193, to extend fund authorization for Farm Security and Rural Investmend Act of 2002. H.R.4626, to amend and reauthorize the Commodity Exchange Act. H.R.5575, to extend agriculture programs beyond March 15, 2008. H.R.5578, to extend agricultural programs beyond March 15, 2008. S.165, to provide compensation for livestock losses. S.195, to amend the Federal Crop Insurance Act. S.221, to amend Title 9, US Code, relating livestock and poultry contracts. S.305, to amend the 1921 Packers and Stockyards Act. S.311, to amend the Horse Protection Act. S.528, to amend the Agricultural Adjustment Act. S.529, to allow modified bloc voting by milk cooperative associations. S.566, to amend the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act. S.622, to enhance fair and open competition in production and sale of agricultural commodities. S.786, to amend the 1946 Agricultural Marketing Act. S.919, to reauthorize USDA conservation and energy programs. S.944, to require an independent review of Farm Service Agency headquarter offices. S.1017, to amend the 1921 Packers and Stockyards Act. S.1031, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1034, to create investment opportunities for rural families. S.1093, to reward those who choose to live in and help preserve small, rural towns. S.1149, to amend the Federal Meat and Poultry Products Inspection Acts. S.1160, to ensure a good supply of fruits, vegetables and other specialty crops. S.1188, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1242, to amend the Federal Crop Insurance Act and the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1412, to amend the 1978 Agricultural Trade Act. S.1422, to establish a program to provide an agricultural reserve to help in times of low revenue. S.1424, to continue agricultural programs through fiscal year 2013. S.1447, to amend the Agricultural Act. S.1460, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Development Act. S.1486, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1496, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1502, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1646, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1694, to authorize research to address bee Colony Collapse disorder. S.1706, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1721, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1722, to amend the Agricultural Adjustment Act. S.1821, to delay move or closure of Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation or other offices. S.1872, to amend 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1904, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1962, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1983, to amend the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act. S.2022, to delay move, closure of Farm Service Agency offices. S.2043, to delay move, closure of Farm Service Agency offices. S.2228, to extend and improve agricultural programs. S.2302, to continue agricultural programs through FY2012. S.2691, to amend the 1994 Federal Cop Insurance Reform and Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act. H.J.RES.88, to amend the 2008 Food, Conservation and energy Act to reinsert trade title. H.R.5768, to amend the CEA, giving CFTC authority over off-exchange retail foreign currency transactions. H.R.5813, to amend PL110-196 to extend 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.5957, to reduce subsidies for agricultural commodity programs. H.R.6051, to amend PL110-196, to extend 1002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.6124, to continue USDA programs through FY2012. H.R.6130, to study effects of speculation in futures markets for various fuels. H.R.6264, to prevent excessive market speculation for certain energy commodities. H.R.6284, to amend the CEA to prevent excessive energy commodity speculation. H.R.6334, to provide energy price relief by increasing resources of Commodity Futures Trading Commission. H.R.6341, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to provide regulation of energy derivatives. H.R.6349, to to provide energy price relief by increasing Commodity Futures Trading Commission resources. H.R.6354, to adjust the thrifty food plan to raise benefits of supplemental nutrition assistance program. H.R.6377, to direct the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to curb excessive energy market speculation. S.2691, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to enhance oil trading transparency. S.3122, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to regulate oil commodities markets. S.3129, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to curb energy market manipulation and excessive speculation. S.3130, to provide energy price relief through greater authority for Commodity Futures Trading Commission. S.3131, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to relieve any excessive energy market speculation. S.3134, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to require energy commodities by traded on regulated markets. S.3183, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to have energy price relief through action by CFTC. S.3205, to direct Commodity Futures Trading Commission to curb excessive energy market speculation. H.R.6432, to amend the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act regarding generic new animal drugs. H.R.6598, to amend U.S. Code to prohibit certain conduct relating to the use of horses for human consumption. H.R.6604, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to bring greater transparency, accountability to markets. H.R.6793, to help local farmers to grow food to be sold locally and for other purposes. H.R.6849, to amend the 2008 Food, Conservation and Energy Act to help alleviate ban on certain payments. H.R.6921, to provide more oversight, transparency to commodity futures markets. H.R.6976, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to bring greater transparency, accountability to markets. H.R.7202, to provide disaster aid to producers who suffered 2008 crop year losses via natural disaster. S.3248, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to clarify treatment of limits on certain commodity purchases. S.3251, to amend the Federal Crop Insurance Act and the 1974 Trade Act to authorized assistance payments. S.3255, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to provide more energy, ag contract oversight. S.3267, to amend Federal Meat, Poultry and Egg Products Inspection Acts and Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. S.3337, to implement conservation reserve program notice CRP-598. S.3404, to amend the Beef Research and Information Act to promote U.S. beef. S.3435, to allow CRP participants to participate in feed use program. S.3538, to amend the 2008 Food, Conservation and Energy Act to allow certain farm payments. S.3577, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to prevent excessive price speculation. S.3588, to provide grants to hospitals and others to acquire local nutritious agricultural products. S.3644, to provide crop disaster assistance to producers suffering 2008 crop year losses from natural disaster. H.R.6604, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to bring greater transparency and accountability to markets. S. 3671, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to have limits on certain transactions and more. S.3709, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act to expand Rural Energy for America. S. 3714, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to ensure more market coverage by regulated exchanges. Issues other than legislation: Farm Service Agency personnel levels. USDA agricultural credit availability. Reform of the Federal Milk Marketing Order. Establishment of a farmer-owned grain reserve. Distribution of farm program benefits. Expansion and improvement of Federal Crop Insurance programs. Review of Packers and Stockyards Act effectiveness in enhancing competitive practices in the livestock industry. Mandatory livestock price reporting. Contract production of agricultural commodities. Long-term domestic agricultural policy. Commodity loan rate adjustments. Facility loan programs for commodity storage. Natural disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers. Regulations of the agriculture futures industry. Farm bill implementation. Indemnity payments to dairy producers. Agricultural conservation programs. Funding and implementation of rural development programs. Funding for farmer-owned cooperatives. Balancing supply and demand. Natural resources. Real estate, land use, public lands, conservation. Small business. Agroterrorism. Grain standards, reauthorization.

HR 6124; The Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008; Implementation of Dairy Subtitle Provisions S 3404; The Beef Checkoff Modernization Act of 2008;

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $15,000

Government targets: Agriculture, Dept of (USDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

Agriculture/food-related provisions of: H.CON.RES.25, expresses goal of U.S. to provide at least 25 percent of energy from renewable resources. H.CON.RES.142, expresses goal of U.S. to provide at least 25 percent of energy from renewable resources. H.R.80, to provide for activities to develop farms that produce food and energy. H.R.124, to require restoration of integrity to commodity limitation requirements. H.R.167, to provide for financial aid for farmers markets. H.R.185 to provide compensation for certain livestock losses. H.R.293, to provide financial aid for farmers markets. H.R.419, to provide aid to producers for crop and livestock losses. H.R.809, to repeal a section of the Federal Power Act. H.R.829 to amend the Federal Power Act. H.R.925, to provide emergency disaster aid to California for farm losses. H.R.926, to restrict assistance to any entity using eminent domain to obtain property for private development or that fails to pay relocation costs. H.R.1018, to amend Animal Health Protection Act. H.R.1152 to provide for challenge grants to encourage conservation easement purchases. H.R.1371, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.1551, to reauthorize USDA conservation and energy programs. H.R.1583, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.1600, to continue efforts to ensure good supply of fruits, vegetables, nuts and other specialty crops. H.R.1649, to delay closure or relocation of Farm Service Agency offices. H.R.1709, to authorize research to address bee Colony Collapse Disorder. H.R.1760, to amend the Federal Meat Inspection and the Poultry Products Inspection Acts. H.R.1882, to amend the 1986 Internal Revenue Code. H.R.2088, to provide cost-share payments in support of on-farm water conservation projects. H.R.2135, to enhance fair and open competition in agricultural commodity production and sale. H.R.2144, to extend USDA farm programs. H.R.2213, to amend the 1921 Packers and Stockyards Act. H.R.2235, to amend the 1981 Agriculture and Food Act. H.R.2348, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Development Act. H.R.2364, to promote opportunities for farmers and ranchers. H.R.2401, to provide for greater opportunities for socially disadvantaged farmers. H.R.2419, to provide for continuation of agricultural programs. H.R.2462, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.2473, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. H.R.2656, to enhance the ongoing profitability of Americas farms through biofuel opportunities. H.R.2720, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.2766, to establish regional dairy marketing areas. H.R.2876, to permit the interstate distribution of state-inspected meat. H.R.2879, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.2913, to amend conservation program administrative requirements. H.R.3208, to amend U.S. Troop Readiness,Veterans Care,Katrina Recover & Iraq Accountability Approp. Act. H.R.3751, to amend Consolidated Farm&Rural Development Act to set up Farm&Ranch Stress Assist. Network H.R.4193, to extend fund authorization for Farm Security and Rural Investmend Act of 2002. H.R.4626, to amend and reauthorize the Commodity Exchange Act. H.R.5575, to extend agriculture programs beyond March 15, 2008. H.R.5578, to extend agricultural programs beyond March 15, 2008. S.165, to provide compensation for livestock losses. S.195, to amend the Federal Crop Insurance Act. S.221, to amend Title 9, US Code, relating livestock and poultry contracts. S.305, to amend the 1921 Packers and Stockyards Act. S.311, to amend the Horse Protection Act. S.528, to amend the Agricultural Adjustment Act. S.529, to allow modified bloc voting by milk cooperative associations. S.566, to amend the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act. S.622, to enhance fair and open competition in production and sale of agricultural commodities. S.786, to amend the 1946 Agricultural Marketing Act. S.919, to reauthorize USDA conservation and energy programs. S.944, to require an independent review of Farm Service Agency headquarter offices. S.1017, to amend the 1921 Packers and Stockyards Act. S.1031, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1034, to create investment opportunities for rural families. S.1093, to reward those who choose to live in and help preserve small, rural towns. S.1149, to amend the Federal Meat and Poultry Products Inspection Acts. S.1160, to ensure a good supply of fruits, vegetables and other specialty crops. S.1188, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1242, to amend the Federal Crop Insurance Act and the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1412, to amend the 1978 Agricultural Trade Act. S.1422, to establish a program to provide an agricultural reserve to help in times of low revenue. S.1424, to continue agricultural programs through fiscal year 2013. S.1447, to amend the Agricultural Act. S.1460, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Development Act. S.1486, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1496, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1502, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1646, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1694, to authorize research to address bee Colony Collapse disorder. S.1706, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1721, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1722, to amend the Agricultural Adjustment Act. S.1821, to delay move or closure of Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation or other offices. S.1872, to amend 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1904, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1962, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1983, to amend the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act. S.2022, to delay move, closure of Farm Service Agency offices. S.2043, to delay move, closure of Farm Service Agency offices. S.2228, to extend and improve agricultural programs. S.2302, to continue agricultural programs through FY2012. S.2691, to amend the 1994 Federal Cop Insurance Reform and Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act. H.J.RES.88, to amend the 2008 Food, Conservation and energy Act to reinsert trade title. H.R.5768, to amend the CEA, giving CFTC authority over off-exchange retail foreign currency transactions. H.R.5813, to amend PL110-196 to extend 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.5957, to reduce subsidies for agricultural commodity programs. H.R.6051, to amend PL110-196, to extend 1002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.6124, to continue USDA programs through FY2012. H.R.6130, to study effects of speculation in futures markets for various fuels. H.R.6264, to prevent excessive market speculation for certain energy commodities. H.R.6284, to amend the CEA to prevent excessive energy commodity speculation. H.R.6334, to provide energy price relief by increasing resources of Commodity Futures Trading Commission. H.R.6341, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to provide regulation of energy derivatives. H.R.6349, to to provide energy price relief by increasing Commodity Futures Trading Commission resources. H.R.6354, to adjust the thrifty food plan to raise benefits of supplemental nutrition assistance program. H.R.6377, to direct the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to curb excessive energy market speculation. S.2691, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to enhance oil trading transparency. S.3122, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to regulate oil commodities markets. S.3129, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to curb energy market manipulation and excessive speculation. S.3130, to provide energy price relief through greater authority for Commodity Futures Trading Commission. S.3131, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to relieve any excessive energy market speculation. S.3134, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to require energy commodities by traded on regulated markets. S.3183, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to have energy price relief through action by CFTC. S.3205, to direct Commodity Futures Trading Commission to curb excessive energy market speculation. H.R.6432, to amend the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act regarding generic new animal drugs. H.R.6598, to amend U.S. Code to prohibit certain conduct relating to the use of horses for human consumption. H.R.6604, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to bring greater transparency, accountability to markets. H.R.6793, to help local farmers to grow food to be sold locally and for other purposes. H.R.6849, to amend the 2008 Food, Conservation and Energy Act to help alleviate ban on certain payments. H.R.6921, to provide more oversight, transparency to commodity futures markets. H.R.6976, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to bring greater transparency, accountability to markets. H.R.7202, to provide disaster aid to producers who suffered 2008 crop year losses via natural disaster. S.3248, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to clarify treatment of limits on certain commodity purchases. S.3251, to amend the Federal Crop Insurance Act and the 1974 Trade Act to authorized assistance payments. S.3255, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to provide more energy, ag contract oversight. S.3267, to amend Federal Meat, Poultry and Egg Products Inspection Acts and Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. S.3337, to implement conservation reserve program notice CRP-598. S.3404, to amend the Beef Research and Information Act to promote U.S. beef. S.3435, to allow CRP participants to participate in feed use program. S.3538, to amend the 2008 Food, Conservation and Energy Act to allow certain farm payments. S.3577, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to prevent excessive price speculation. S.3588, to provide grants to hospitals and others to acquire local nutritious agricultural products. S.3644, to provide crop disaster assistance to producers suffering 2008 crop year losses from natural disaster. Issues other than legislation: Farm Service Agency personnel levels. USDA agricultural credit availability. Reform of the Federal Milk Marketing Order. Establishment of a farmer-owned grain reserve. Distribution of farm program benefits. Expansion and improvement of Federal Crop Insurance programs. Review of Packers and Stockyards Act effectiveness in enhancing competitive practices in the livestock industry. Mandatory livestock price reporting. Contract production of agricultural commodities. Long-term domestic agricultural policy. Commodity loan rate adjustments. Facility loan programs for commodity storage. Natural disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers. Regulations of the agriculture futures industry. Farm bill implementation. Indemnity payments to dairy producers. Agricultural conservation programs. Funding and implementation of rural development programs. Funding for farmer-owned cooperatives. Balancing supply and demand. Natural resources. Real estate, land use, public lands, conservation. Small business. Agroterrorism. Grain standards, reauthorization.

HR 7143, Food Safety Modernization Act of 2007. S 3385, FDA Food Safety Modernization Act. Issues related to drug safety. Issues related to the FDA Globalization Act of 2008. Issues related to food safety and tractability. S 3404, Beef Checkoff Modernization Act of 2008, issues related to beef irradiation.

Client expense: $50,000 · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Agriculture, Dept of (USDA), Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Food & Drug Administration (FDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE

USCA requested that Congress and the U.S. Department of Justice conduct an intensive investigation regarding JBS Swift and Company's proposal to buy National Beef Packing, Smithfield Foods beef operations, and Five Rivers Ranch Cattle Feeding. USCA requested this review to ensure that the proposed purchase does not violate U.S. anti-trust laws. USCA requested emergency federal funding to assist the State of Texas in its efforts to combat fever ticks. USCA opposed USDA's efforts to implement a rule to allow additional imports of meat from Argentina, despite Argentina's problem with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). USCA supported equivalent bills S. 3238 and H.R. 6522. These bills are known as the "Foot and Mouth Prevention Act of 2008," prevent the USDA from implementing its proposed rule to incease meat imports from Argentina. USCA supported S. 3404. The "Beef Checkoff Modernization Act" amends the Beef Research and Information Act to allow the promotion of beef that is born and raised exclusively in the United States, allow the establishment of an importers qualified beef council to promote nondomestic beef, and to establish new referendum requirements. USCA opposed H.R. 6598. The improperly titled "Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act" seeks to criminalize the ownership or transport of horses with the intent to send them to slaughter. USCA worked with Congress and the USDA to clarify implementation of mandatory country of origin labeling as legislated by the 2007 Farm Bill USCA supported increased access to broadband internet.

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: $10,000

Agriculture/food-related provisions of: H.CON.RES.25, expresses goal of U.S. to provide at least 25 percent of energy from renewable resources. H.CON.RES.142, expresses goal of U.S. to provide at least 25 percent of energy from renewable resources. H.R.80, to provide for activities to develop farms that produce food and energy. H.R.124, to require restoration of integrity to commodity limitation requirements. H.R.167, to provide for financial aid for farmers markets. H.R.185 to provide compensation for certain livestock losses. H.R.293, to provide financial aid for farmers markets. H.R.419, to provide aid to producers for crop and livestock losses. H.R.809, to repeal a section of the Federal Power Act. H.R.829 to amend the Federal Power Act. H.R.925, to provide emergency disaster aid to California for farm losses. H.R.926, to restrict assistance to any entity using eminent domain to obtain property for private development or that fails to pay relocation costs. H.R.1018, to amend Animal Health Protection Act. H.R.1152 to provide for challenge grants to encourage conservation easement purchases. H.R.1371, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.1551, to reauthorize USDA conservation and energy programs. H.R.1583, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.1600, to continue efforts to ensure good supply of fruits, vegetables, nuts and other specialty crops. H.R.1649, to delay closure or relocation of Farm Service Agency offices. H.R.1709, to authorize research to address bee Colony Collapse Disorder. H.R.1760, to amend the Federal Meat Inspection and the Poultry Products Inspection Acts. H.R.1882, to amend the 1986 Internal Revenue Code. H.R.2088, to provide cost-share payments in support of on-farm water conservation projects. H.R.2135, to enhance fair and open competition in agricultural commodity production and sale. H.R.2144, to extend USDA farm programs. H.R.2213, to amend the 1921 Packers and Stockyards Act. H.R.2235, to amend the 1981 Agriculture and Food Act. H.R.2348, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Development Act. H.R.2364, to promote opportunities for farmers and ranchers. H.R.2401, to provide for greater opportunities for socially disadvantaged farmers. H.R.2419, to provide for continuation of agricultural programs. H.R.2462, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.2473, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. H.R.2656, to enhance the ongoing profitability of Americas farms through biofuel opportunities. H.R.2720, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.2766, to establish regional dairy marketing areas. H.R.2876, to permit the interstate distribution of state-inspected meat. H.R.2879, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.2913, to amend conservation program administrative requirements. H.R.3208, to amend U.S. Troop Readiness,Veterans Care,Katrina Recover & Iraq Accountability Approp. Act. H.R.3751, to amend Consolidated Farm&Rural Development Act to set up Farm&Ranch Stress Assist. Network H.R.4193, to extend fund authorization for Farm Security and Rural Investmend Act of 2002. H.R.4626, to amend and reauthorize the Commodity Exchange Act. H.R.5575, to extend agriculture programs beyond March 15, 2008. H.R.5578, to extend agricultural programs beyond March 15, 2008. S.165, to provide compensation for livestock losses. S.195, to amend the Federal Crop Insurance Act. S.221, to amend Title 9, US Code, relating livestock and poultry contracts. S.305, to amend the 1921 Packers and Stockyards Act. S.311, to amend the Horse Protection Act. S.528, to amend the Agricultural Adjustment Act. S.529, to allow modified bloc voting by milk cooperative associations. S.566, to amend the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act. S.622, to enhance fair and open competition in production and sale of agricultural commodities. S.786, to amend the 1946 Agricultural Marketing Act. S.919, to reauthorize USDA conservation and energy programs. S.944, to require an independent review of Farm Service Agency headquarter offices. S.1017, to amend the 1921 Packers and Stockyards Act. S.1031, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1034, to create investment opportunities for rural families. S.1093, to reward those who choose to live in and help preserve small, rural towns. S.1149, to amend the Federal Meat and Poultry Products Inspection Acts. S.1160, to ensure a good supply of fruits, vegetables and other specialty crops. S.1188, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1242, to amend the Federal Crop Insurance Act and the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1412, to amend the 1978 Agricultural Trade Act. S.1422, to establish a program to provide an agricultural reserve to help in times of low revenue. S.1424, to continue agricultural programs through fiscal year 2013. S.1447, to amend the Agricultural Act. S.1460, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Development Act. S.1486, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1496, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1502, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1646, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1694, to authorize research to address bee Colony Collapse disorder. S.1706, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1721, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1722, to amend the Agricultural Adjustment Act. S.1821, to delay move or closure of Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation or other offices. S.1872, to amend 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1904, to amend the 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. S.1962, to amend the 1985 Food Security Act. S.1983, to amend the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act. S.2022, to delay move, closure of Farm Service Agency offices. S.2043, to delay move, closure of Farm Service Agency offices. S.2228, to extend and improve agricultural programs. S.2302, to continue agricultural programs through FY2012. S.2691, to amend the 1994 Federal Cop Insurance Reform and Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act. H.J.RES.88, to amend the 2008 Food, Conservation and energy Act to reinsert trade title. H.R.5768, to amend the CEA, giving CFTC authority over off-exchange retail foreign currency transactions. H.R.5813, to amend PL110-196 to extend 2002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.5957, to reduce subsidies for agricultural commodity programs. H.R.6051, to amend PL110-196, to extend 1002 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act. H.R.6124, to continue USDA programs through FY2012. H.R.6130, to study effects of speculation in futures markets for various fuels. H.R.6264, to prevent excessive market speculation for certain energy commodities. H.R.6284, to amend the CEA to prevent excessive energy commodity speculation. H.R.6334, to provide energy price relief by increasing resources of Commodity Futures Trading Commission. H.R.6341, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to provide regulation of energy derivatives. H.R.6349, to to provide energy price relief by increasing Commodity Futures Trading Commission resources. H.R.6354, to adjust the thrifty food plan to raise benefits of supplemental nutrition assistance program. H.R.6377, to direct the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to curb excessive energy market speculation. S.2691, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to enhance oil trading transparency. S.3122, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to regulate oil commodities markets. S.3129, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to curb energy market manipulation and excessive speculation. S.3130, to provide energy price relief through greater authority for Commodity Futures Trading Commission. S.3131, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to relieve any excessive energy market speculation. S.3134, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to require energy commodities by traded on regulated markets. S.3183, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to have energy price relief through action by CFTC. S.3205, to direct Commodity Futures Trading Commission to curb excessive energy market speculation. H.R.6432, to amend the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act regarding generic new animal drugs. H.R.6598, to amend U.S. Code to prohibit certain conduct relating to the use of horses for human consumption. H.R.6604, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to bring greater transparency, accountability to markets. H.R.6793, to help local farmers to grow food to be sold locally and for other purposes. H.R.6849, to amend the 2008 Food, Conservation and Energy Act to help alleviate ban on certain payments. H.R.6921, to provide more oversight, transparency to commodity futures markets. H.R.6976, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to bring greater transparency, accountability to markets. H.R.7202, to provide disaster aid to producers who suffered 2008 crop year losses via natural disaster. S.3248, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to clarify treatment of limits on certain commodity purchases. S.3251, to amend the Federal Crop Insurance Act and the 1974 Trade Act to authorized assistance payments. S.3255, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to provide more energy, ag contract oversight. S.3267, to amend Federal Meat, Poultry and Egg Products Inspection Acts and Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. S.3337, to implement conservation reserve program notice CRP-598. S.3404, to amend the Beef Research and Information Act to promote U.S. beef. S.3435, to allow CRP participants to participate in feed use program. S.3538, to amend the 2008 Food, Conservation and Energy Act to allow certain farm payments. S.3577, to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to prevent excessive price speculation. S.3588, to provide grants to hospitals and others to acquire local nutritious agricultural products. S.3644, to provide crop disaster assistance to producers suffering 2008 crop year losses from natural disaster. Issues other than legislation: Farm Service Agency personnel levels. USDA agricultural credit availability. Reform of the Federal Milk Marketing Order. Establishment of a farmer-owned grain reserve. Distribution of farm program benefits. Expansion and improvement of Federal Crop Insurance programs. Review of Packers and Stockyards Act effectiveness in enhancing competitive practices in the livestock industry. Mandatory livestock price reporting. Contract production of agricultural commodities. Long-term domestic agricultural policy. Commodity loan rate adjustments. Facility loan programs for commodity storage. Natural disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers. Regulations of the agriculture futures industry. Farm bill implementation. Indemnity payments to dairy producers. Agricultural conservation programs. Funding and implementation of rural development programs. Funding for farmer-owned cooperatives. Balancing supply and demand. Natural resources. Real estate, land use, public lands, conservation. Small business. Agroterrorism. Grain standards, reauthorization.

House FY 2009 Agriculture Appropriations Bill H.R. 2135, Competitive and Fair Agricultural Markets Act of 2007 H.R. 2213, Captive Supply Reform Act S. 305, to amend the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921 S. 622, Competitive and Fair Agricultural Markets Act of 2007 S. 1017, Captive Supply Reform Act S. 3238, Foot and Mouth Disease Prevention Act of 2008 S. 3404, Beef Checkoff Modernization Act of 2008

Client expense: Not reported · Firm income: Not reported

Government targets: Agriculture, Dept of (USDA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE