JESS PETERSON

USCA supports prescriptive labeling for meat products exported to the U.S. USCA supports those trade agreements which adequately address and ensure that appropriate safeguards concerning agricultural products are maintained. USCA opposes the proposed changes in trade with countries and/or regions affected by FMD.

USCA supports USDAs efforts to investigate and enforce antitrust laws ensuring fair market competition. USCA encourages Congress to help increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supports USDAs efforts to enhance competition, access, and opportunities for producers, while enhancing value based market structure and encouraging branded programs. USCA continues to support country of origin labeling (COOL) and truthfulness in labeling. USCA supports prescriptive labeling for meat products exported to the U.S.

USCA worked with Congress, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the USDA to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level. USCA supports the USTR and Administration as they continue to defend COOL at the WTO level. USCA supports the integrity of the "A" label within COOL which maintains the specifications by which a product may achieve the designation of "Product of the U.S." USCA supports those trade agreements which adequately address and ensure that appropriate safeguards concerning agricultural products are maintained; USCA is monitoring the Trans-Pacific Partnership Free Trade Agreement and ongoing U.S.-EU FTA discussions to ensure such safeguards are in place and fair market access is assured. USCA supports the passage of Trade Promotion Authority/Fast Track Authority given that necessary safeguards and snap-back provisions are in place in any trade agreement moving forward. USCA supports efforts to engage in competitive trade with international partners.

USCA supports provisions within the FY 2016 agriculture spending bill which enable funding for inspectors at horse processing facilities and language restricting use of funds for the implementation of proposed changes by the USDA-APHIS to trade protocol with Argentina and Brazil. USCA supports language within the FY 2016 Environment and Interior spending bills which restricts any funds used for the implementation of the EPA's Waters of the US Rule.

USCA supports the current estate tax rate; $5 million exemption per individual, 40% rate assessed thereafter. USCA opposes any reduction of the exemption or increase in the rate assessed and supports those efforts by Congress to address the estate tax and a possible repeal in order to best support producers across the country.

USCA supports increased access to broadband and high speed internet services throughout Rural America. USCA opposes any loss of Low Powered Television within rural America as a result of the spectrum auction within the FCC.

USCA opposes the proposed rule as offered by the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers, "Definitation of "Waters of the United States" Under the Clean Water Act". USCA opposes the broad nature and scope of the proposed rule. USCA opposes any changes made to definitions within the Clean Water Act which would broaden the scope of the agency's reach and would potentially place undue harm on agricultural producers. USCA remains concerned regarding any changes made to "significant nexus" and "connectivity". USCA is opposed to any changes in the reach of those waters under "jurisdiction" by the EPA. USCA supports legislative action and appropriation measures taken to restrict any further action on the implementation of the proposed WOTUS rule.

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA is working with industry groups to establish consensus on necessary changes to the Livestock Mandatory Price Reporting Act, as is currently up for re authorization. USCA supports the ongoing implementation of the Farm Bill and will review the implementation of the Pasture Range and Forum program as it applies to cattle producers. USCA will continue to work with and provide input to the USDA as they develop the animal ID rule to address cattle 18 months and younger. USCA supports the participation of the USDA Secretary in ongoing efforts to implement comprehensive reform to the Beef Checkoff program. USCA supports the review of the original 1996 Act in these discussions. USCA supports the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative in continuing to uphold the right of U.S. cattle producers to label their own product at the World Trade Organization. USCA supports the continued implementation and enforcement of the final rule offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding Country of Origin Labeling and the terms by which it will bring the U.S. into compliance with WTO standards.

SRM Supports the ongoing implementation of the 2014 Farm Bill and those programs within the conservation title which support best-management practices on the country's rangelands. SRM supports the utilization of technical assistance when implementing conservation and working lands programs as authorized within the 2014 Farm Bill. SRM supports directives from the agencies and the Administration that urges for federal employees to receive necessary trainings and access to professional societies specific to their field. SRM supports directives from the agencies and Administration which urge their respective employees to attend professional conferences and to participate in continuing education opportunities. SRM supports directives from the agencies and Administration which highlight the issue or active range management on tribal lands. SRM supports directives which highlight active participation between range professionals and representatives from the respective tribal regions in order to implement and engage on those issues regarding best management practices. SRM supports increased engagement between range management professionals and representatives from the respective tribal regions in order to facilitate technical trainings and workshops within tribal regions that focus on best management techniques and practices.

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supports the ongoing implementation of the Farm Bill and will review the implementation of the Pasture Range and Forum program as it applies to cattle producers. USCA will continue to work with and provide input to the USDA as they develop the animal ID rule to address cattle 18 months and younger. USCA supports the participation of the USDA Secretary in ongoing efforts to implement comprehensive reform to the Beef Checkoff program. USCA supports the review of the original 1996 Act in these discussions. USCA supports the U.S. Department of Agriculture in addressing necessary changes as to increase fairness of livestock marketing. USCA supports the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative in continuing to uphold the right of U.S. cattle producers to label their own product at the World Trade Organization. USCA supports the continued implementation and enforcement of the final rule offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding Country of Origin Labeling and the terms by which it will bring the U.S. into compliance with WTO standards.

USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implementing a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S. USCA opposes language within FY 2015 Appropriation legislation that restricts funding to be allocated to federal inspectors at domestic horse processing facilities. USCA opposes the limiting and decreasing of livestock numbers on public land as to allow for increased herd sizes of wild horses and burros. USCA supports the best management practices of the nation's natural resources that allows for the continued allocation of livestock on public lands and that in no way decreases those numbers to allow for greater herd sizes of wild horses and burros. USCA supports the use of producer driven partnerships which aim to address potential species listings under the ESA; USCA supports the continued efforts utilized by producer and private partnerships to address the potential Sage Grouse listing. USCA opposes any action taken to designate the Chisholm and Great Western Trails as national trails by the National Park Service without consideration of current policy and provisions as outlined within the National Trail Act.

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics. USCA opposes the regionalization of those regions in South America, notably Argentina and Brazil, for the purpose of importing meat, as it will allow for the potential introduction of Foot and Mouth Disease within the United States. USCA opposes the recently released Dietary Guidelines which propose decrease servings of beef products as an approved source of protein. USCA asks the USDA and HHS to utilize current and best science available in the development of the revised guidelines.

USCA worked with Congress, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the USDA to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level. USCA supports the final rule issued by USDA regarding COOL. USCA supports the USTR and Administration as they continue to defend COOL at the WTO level. USCA supports those trade agreements which adequately address and ensure that appropriate safeguards concerning agricultural products are maintained; USCA is monitoring the Trans-Pacific Partnership Free Trade Agreement and ongoing U.S.-EU FTA discussions to ensure such safeguards are in place and fair market access is assured. USCA supports Congressional action taken to authorize Trade Promotion Authority/Fast Track Authority if such legislation ensures that necessary safeguards and snap-back provisions are in place in any trade agreement moving forward. USCA supports efforts to engage in competitive trade with international partners.

USCA supports increased access to broadband and high speed internet services throughout Rural America. USCA opposes any loss of Low Powered Television within rural America as a result of the spectrum auction within the FCC.

SRM supports the sufficient appropriation of funds within the FY 2015 Appropriations bill to those programs authorized within the 2014 Farm Bill which support conservation and working lands provisions. SRM supports the FY 2015 Interior Appropriations bill which supports active and best management practices on the country's rangelands and supporting ecosystems.

USCA opposes the inclusion of language within the FY 2015 Appropriations legislation which directs the Secretary to halt action on checkoff reform; directs the USDA to review the COOL law at a specified time; restricts any action taken to address competition in the marketplace and continues restriction of funding for inspectors at horse processing facilities.

USCA supports increased access to broadband and high speed internet services throughout Rural America. USCA opposes any loss of Low Powered Television within rural America as a result of the spectrum auction within the FCC.

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics. USCA opposes the regionalization of those regions in South America, notably Argentina and Brazil, for the purpose of importing meat, as it will allow for the potential introduction of Foot and Mouth Disease within the United States. USCA opposes the recently released Dietary Guidelines which propose decrease servings of beef products as an approved source of protein. USCA asks the USDA and HHS to utilize current and best science available in the development of the revised guidelines.

USCA supports the current estate tax rate; $5 million exemption per individual, 40% rate assessed thereafter. USCA opposes any reduction of the exemption or increase in the rate assessed.

USCA opposes the proposed rule as offered by the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers, "Definitation of "Waters of the United States" Under the Clean Water Act". USCA opposes the broad nature and scope of the proposed rule. USCA opposes any changes made to definitions within the Clean Water Act which would broaden the scope of the agency's reach and would potentially place undue harm on agricultural producers. USCA remains concerned regarding any changes made to "significant nexus" and "connectivity". USCA is opposed to any changes in the reach of those waters under "jurisdiction" by the EPA. USCA opposes the release of information from EPA to environmental groups as requested through a FOIA. The information released contains sensitive information regarding the addresses and contact information of many small farms and ranches. USCA supports efforts that will restrict such releases from occurring in the future.

USCA worked with Congress, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the USDA to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level. USCA supports the final rule issued by USDA regarding COOL. USCA supports the USTR and Administration as they continue to defend COOL at the WTO level. USCA supports those trade agreements which adequately address and ensure that appropriate safeguards concerning agricultural products are maintained; USCA is monitoring the Trans-Pacific Partnership Free Trade Agreement and ongoing U.S.-EU FTA discussions to ensure such safeguards are in place and fair market access is assured. USCA supports efforts to engage in competitive trade with international partners.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida. USCA supports the USDA in their efforts to work with states to offer Certainty to farmer and ranchers who comply with CAW provisions.USCA opposes the proposed rule as offered by the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers, "Definitation of "Waters of the United States" Under the Clean Water Act". USCA opposes the broad nature and scope of the proposed rule. USCA opposes any changes made to definitions within the Clean Water Act which would broaden the scope of the agency's reach and would potentially place undue harm on agricultural producers. USCA remains concerned regarding any changes made to "significant nexus" and "connectivity". USCA is opposed to any changes in the reach of those waters under "jurisdiction" by the EPA. USCA opposes the release of information from EPA to environmental groups as requested through a FOIA. The information released contains sensitive information regarding the addresses and contact information of many small farms and ranches. USCA supports efforts that will restrict such releases from occurring in the future. USCA supports the ongoing communication efforts between the EPA and agriculture groups in providing transparency to issues regarding agriculture and the environment. USCA supports efforts to address increasing fuel storage quantities allowed on agricultural operations. USCA supports increasing the capacity at which oversight and monitoting from federal agencies must occur regarding this storage. The need for access to fuel by farmers and ranchers in order to run tractors, trucks, etc. garners an increase in that amount which is allowed to be stored on their operations; the proximity to fueling stations makes this increase in size allowed even more pertinent.

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics. USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S.USCA opposes H.R. 1150/S. 1256 "Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2013" as it restricts delivery of potentially needed antibiotics within the industry. USCA opposes the regionalization of those regions in South America, notably Argentina and Brazil, for the purpose of importing meat, as it will allow for the potential introduction of Foot and Mouth Disease within the United States. USCA opposes the proposed notice by the USDA-APHIS that would allow for trade into the US from 14 states within Brazil. USCA opposes the proposed change as offered by USDA-APHIS that specifies a change in classification regading FMD to regions within Argentina, Patagonia South and Patagonia North B. USCA opposes the proposed notice as offered by USDA-APHIS to allow for the importation of meat from regions in Argentina, Patagonia South and Patagonia North B, given the prior notice which announced a change in classification of these regions as pertaining to their FMD status. USCA supports an extension in the current comment period for this proposed rule.

USCA supports the estate tax rate reached through the 2013 Fiscal Cliff negotiations; $5 million exemption per individual, 40% rate assessed thereafter. USCA opposes any reduction of the exemption of increase in the rate assessed. USCA supports reform to current tax code that addresses a reduced Capital Gains rate for sellers of land to beginning Farmers and RanchersUSCA Supports S. 1280/H.R. 2671 Charitable Agricultural Research Act as it allows for tax deductions for a charitable contribution to an agricultural research organization. USCA supports reinstating those tax provisions related to Section 179 and the passage of a comprehensive tax-extenders bill.

USCA supports the continued funding, at sufficient levels, for the USDA-APHIS Wildlife Services. USCA opposes any riders or language within the FY 2015 Appropriation legislation which strips any funding allocated to addressing clarification within the GIPSA rule or that repeals or weakens the current COOL program.USCA opposes the inclusion of language within the House Committee on Appropriations-passed FY 2015 Agriculture Appropriations bill which addresses further restrictions regarding the USDA's ability to address necessary reforms to provisions increasing transparency and fairness in the livestock market. USCA opposes language included within Section 730 which would further restrict the USDA-GIPSA from clarifying aspects within the Packers & Stockyards Act. USCA opposes the report language issued alongside the House Committee on Appropriations-passed FY 2015 Agriculture Appropriations bill which addresses Country-of-Origin-Labeling (COOL). USCA opposes the report language which would immediately direct the USDA to repeal the current COOL program depending on the upcoming WTO ruling. USCA opposes any Congressional action on the issue of COOL within the FY 2015 Appropriations process. USCA opposes the continued inclusion of language which restricts funding to inspectors allocated to horse processing facilities. USCA supports the directive of allowing for horse processing to occur on tribal land.

USCA worked with Congress, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the USDA to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level. USCA supports the final rule issued by USDA regarding COOL.USCA supports those trade agreements which adequately address and ensure that appropriate safeguards concerning agricultural products are maintained; USCA is monitoring the Trans-Pacific Partnership Free Trade Agreement and ongoing U.S.-EU FTA discussions to ensure such safeguards are in place and fair market access is assured. USCA supports the final rule as issued by USDA regarding modifications to COOL which bring the program into compliance with the WTO ruling. USCA supports the implementation of this final rule as it was issued on November 23, 2013. USCA supports the USTR and Administration as they continue to defend COOL at the WTO level. USCA opposes the notice issued by the USDA-APHIS regarding the classification of those regions within Argentina known as Patagonia South and Patagonia North as FMD-free. USCA opposes the proposed rule issued by the USDA-APHIS regarding the initiation of trade in fresh (chilled or frozen) maturated deboned beef from 14 states within Brazil. USCA opposes the opening of trade regarding meat products with those regions known to have FMD.

USCA supports increased access to broadband and high speed internet services throughout Rural America. USCA opposes any loss of Low Powered Television within rural America as a result of the spectrum auction within the FCC. USCA supports the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act (STELA) Reauthorization Act of 2014; H.R. 4572/S. 2454 as it provides rural regions with continued access to local news, weather and emergency alerts

USCA opposes legislative efforts that designate any area as a "monument" without appropriate public notice, ability to submit comments and any associated environmental and/or social impact study conducted before such a declaration can be made. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implementing a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S., as introduced by Sen. Landrieu (D-LA) and Sen. Graham (R-SC); Rep. Meehan (R-PA) and Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL) USCA opposes any language within both House and Senate FY 2015 Appropriation legislation that restricts any funding to be allocated to federal inspectors at domestic horse processing facilities. USCA opposes the limiting and decreasing of livestock numbers on public land as to allow for increased herd sizes of wild horses and burros. USCA supports the best management practices of the nation's natural resources that allows for the continued allocation of livestock on public lands and that in no way decreases those numbers to allow for greater herd sizes of wild horses and burros.

SRM supports the Bureau of Land Management in establishing a more aggressive and effective management plan that will maintain the continued existence of a thriving natural ecological balance between the country's rangelands and the wild horses and burros that they support. SRM supports the Natural Resources Conservation Service and their directive to address soil health, the Soil Health Initiative.SRM participated in the recent BLM Adivsory Board meeting which took place in Wyoming, August 2014 and focused on the issue of wild horse and burros. An SRM member was selected to speak and present to the Board and attendees regarding range health as it pertains to the issue. SRM's involvement in the meeting focused on providing the best science available as it pertains to the issue and the ongoing impact of the wild horse and burros population to the nation's rangelands. SRM opposes the Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act H.R. 126 that passed the House and will now be considered in the Senate as it directs mandatory management of "wild horses and burros" on national refuge land which will impact current ecological stability of the area. SRM opposes any halt by the BLM in the gathers of wild, free roaming horses and burros. SRM supports the Healthy Forest Management and Wildfire Prevention Act H.R. 818 which allocates additional directive for action and decision on the local level when it comes to managing a national forest area. SRM supports addressing this issue within the Senate. SRM supposts the USCA-NRCS as they look to broaden the scope of the Soil Health Initiative in order to include Range Health.

SRM supports the sufficient appropriation of funds within the FY 2015 Appropriations bill to those programs authorized within the 2014 Farm Bill which support conservation and working lands provisions. SRM supports a comprehensive FY 2015 Interior Appropriations bill which supports active and best management practices on the country's rangelands and supporting ecosystems.SRM supports agency budgets that allow for proactive range management practices to be implemented at the state level. SRM supports agency budgets that allow for employee travel to professional society meetings and trainings SRM supports the USDA-APHIS/Wildlife Services (WS) program and supports sufficient funding for this critical program and is in opposition to any effort to restrict or eliminate WS funding; SRM supports funding of this program within the FY 2015 Appropriations process. SRM supports Conservation Technical Assistance within House Agriculture Appropriations Bill FY 2015 as it allows for active and best management practices on nation's rangelands. SRM supports the passage of a comprehensive FY 2015 budget.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida. USCA supports the USDA in their efforts to work with states to offer Certainty to farmer and ranchers who comply with CAW provisions.USCA is currently reviewing the proposed rule "Definitation of "Waters of the United States" Under the Clean Water Act" as released by the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers. USCA opposes any changes made to definitions within the Clean Water Act which would broaden the scope of the agency's reach and would potentially place undue harm on agricultural producers. USCA remains concerned regarding any changes made to "significant nexus" and "connectivity". USCA is opposed to any changes in the reach of those waters under "jurisdiction" by the EPA. USCA supports the notice which officially extends the comment period regarding the proposed rule. USCA opposes the release of information from EPA to environmental groups as requested through a FOIA. The information released contains sensitive information regarding the addresses and contact information of many small farms and ranches. USCA supports efforts that will restrict such releases from occurring in the future. USCA supports the efforts made by the EPA in reaching out to agriculture groups to relay misconceptions/misunderstandings that are portrayed by both ends through media, second-hand reports. USCA supports the ongoing communication between the agency and agriculture groups to continue in providing transparency to issues regarding agriculture and the environment. USCA supports efforts to address increasing fuel storage quantities allowed on agricultural operations. USCA supports increasing the capacity at which oversight and monitoting from federal agencies must occur regarding this storage. The need for access to fuel by farmers and ranchers in order to run tractors, trucks, etc. garners an increase in that amount which is allowed to be stored on their operations; the proximity to fueling stations makes this increase in size allowed even more pertinent.

USCA supports the continued funding, at sufficient levels, for the USDA-APHIS Wildlife Services. USCA opposes any riders or language within the FY 2015 Appropriation legislation which strips any funding allocated to addressing clarification within the GIPSA rule or that repeals or weakens the current COOL program.USCA opposes the inclusion of language within the House Committee on Appropriations-passed FY 2015 Agriculture Appropriations bill which addresses further restrictions regarding the USDA's ability to address necessary reforms to provisions increasing transparency and fairness in the livestock market. USCA opposes language included within Section 730 which would further restrict the USDA-GIPSA from clarifying aspects within the Packers & Stockyards Act. USCA opposes the report language issued alongside the House Committee on Appropriations-passed FY 2015 Agriculture Appropriations bill which addresses Country-of-Origin-Labeling (COOL). USCA opposes the report language which would immediately direct the USDA to repeal the current COOL program depending on the upcoming WTO ruling. USCA opposes any Congressional action on the issue of COOL within the FY 2015 Appropriations process. USCA opposes the continued inclusion of language which restricts funding to inspectors allocated to horse processing facilities. USCA supports the directive of allowing for horse processing to occur on tribal land.

USCA worked with Congress, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the USDA to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level. USCA supports the final rule issued by USDA regarding COOL. USCA supports the USTR in their work to address concerns held by Japan and other trading partners regarding overall food safety health in the U.S.USCA supports those trade agreements which adequately address and ensure that appropriate safeguards concerning agricultural products are maintained; USCA is monitoring the Trans-Pacific Partnership Free Trade Agreement and ongoing U.S.-EU FTA discussions. USCA supports the final rule as issued by USDA regarding modifications to COOL which bring the program into compliance with the WTO ruling. USCA supports the implementation of this final rule as it was issued on November 23, 2013. USCA supports the USTR and Administration as they continue to defend COOL at the WTO level.

USCA supports the estate tax rate reached through the 2013 Fiscal Cliff negotiations; $5 million exemption per individual, 40% rate assessed thereafter. USCA opposes any reduction of the exemption of increase in the rate assessed. USCA supports reform to current tax code that addresses a reduced Capital Gains rate for sellers of land to beginning Farmers and RanchersUSCA Supports S. 1280/H.R. 2671 Charitable Agricultural Research Act as it allows for tax deductions for a charitable contribution to an agricultural research organization

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics. USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S.USCA opposes H.R. 1150/S. 1256 "Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2013" as it restricts delivery of potentially needed antibiotics within the industry. USCA opposes the regionalization of Brazil for the purpose of importing meat, as it will allow for the potential introduction of Foot and Mouth Disease within the United States. USCA opposes the proposed notice by the USDA-APHIS that would allow for trade into the US from 14 states within Brazil. USCA opposes the proposed change as offered by USDA-APHIS that specifies a change in classification regading FMD to regions within Argentina, Patagonia A and Patagonia B.

USCA opposes legislative efforts that designate any area as a "monument" without appropriate public notice, ability to submit comments and any associated environmental and/or social impact study conducted before such a declaration can be made. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S., as introduced by Sen. Landrieu (D-LA) and Sen. Graham (R-SC); Rep. Meehan (R-PA) and Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL) USCA opposes any language within both House and Senate FY 2015 Appropriation legislation that restricts any funding to be allocated to federal inspectors at domestic horse processing facilities. USCA opposes the limiting and decreasing of livestock numbers on public land as to allow for increased herd sizes of wild horses and burros. USCA supports the best management practices of the nation's natural resources that allows for the continued allocation of livestock on public lands and that in no way decreases those numbers to allow for greater herd sizes of wild horses and burros.

USCA supports increased access to broadband and high speed internet services throughout Rural America. USCA opposes any loss of Low Powered Television within rural America as a result of the spectrum auction within the FCC. USCA supports the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act (STELA) Reauthorization Act of 2014; H.R. 4572/S. 2454 as it provides rural regions with continued access to local news, weather and emergency alerts

SRM supports the sufficient appropriation of funds within the FY 2015 Appropriations bill to those programs authorized within the 2014 Farm Bill which support conservation and working lands provisions. SRM supports a comprehensive FY 2015 Interior Appropriations bill which supports active and best management practices on the country's rangelands and supporting ecosystems.SRM supports agency budgets that allow for proactive range management practices to be implemented at the state level. SRM supports agency budgets that allow for employee travel to professional society meetings and trainings SRM supports the USDA-APHIS/Wildlife Services (WS) program and supports sufficient funding for this critical program and is in opposition to any effort to restrict or eliminate WS funding; SRM supports funding of this program within the FY 2015 Appropriations process. SRM supports Conservation Technical Assistance within House Agriculture Appropriations Bill FY 2015 as it allows for active and best management practices on nation's rangelands. SRM supports the passage of a comprehensive FY 2015 budget.

SRM supports the Keep the Forest and Farm in the Family Act which would allow for the extension of the estate exemption levels and rates to those land owners who possess timber on their property. SRM supports the active management of rangelands located within the country's forests.

SRM Supports the implementation of the 2014 Farm Bill and those programs within the conservation title which support best-management practices on the country's rangelands. SRM supports the Grazing Improvement Act H.R. 657 as it provides needed certainty to those leasing public lands in face of current backlog of NEPA reviews.SRM supports the utilization of technical assistance when implementing conservation and working lands programs as authorized within the 2014 Farm Bill. SRM supports directives from the agencies and the Administration that urges for federal employees to receive necessary trainings and access to professional societies specific to their field. SRM supports directives from the agencies and Administration which urge their respective employees to attend professional conferences and to participate in continuing education opportunities.

SRM supports the Bureau of Land Management in establishing a more aggressive and effective management plan that will maintain the continued existence of a thriving natural ecological balance between the country's rangelands and the wild horses and burros that they support. SRM supports the Natural Resources Conservation Service and their directive to address soil health, the Soil Health InitiativeSRM referenced its official comments submitted regarding the Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board Meeting held by BLM in Washington, D.C. regarding the National Academies of Sciences report that was commissioned by the agency in urging for Congress to take action in aiding the BLM on this issue. SRM opposes the Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act H.R. 126 that passed the House and will now be considered in the Senate as it directs mandatory management of "wild horses and burros" on national refuge land which will impact current ecological stability of the area. SRM opposes any halt by the BLM in the gathers of wild, free roaming horses and burros. SRM supports the Healthy Forest Management and Wildfire Prevention Act H.R. 818 which allocates additional directive for action and decision on the local level when it comes to managing a national forest area. SRM supports addressing this issue within the Senate.

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics. USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S.USCA opposes H.R. 1150/S. 1256 "Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2013" as it restricts delivery of potentially needed antibiotics within the industry. USCA supports efforts by the industry to label products in terms of any processing or handling that is utilized to ensure meat products are safe. USCA has been monitoring the issues surrounding Zilmax and associated growth hormones that have restricted access of U.S. beef to international trading partners. USCA supports the Administration in addressing these issues and ensuring the safety of our product that is sent abroad. USCA is opposes the regionalization of Brazil for the purpose of importing meat, as it will allow for the potential introduction of Foot and Mouth Disease within the United States. USCA opposes the proposed notice by the USDA-APHIS that would allow for trade into the US from 14 states within Brazil. USCA opposes the proposed change as offered by USDA-APHIS that specifies a change in classification regading FMD to regions within Argentina, Patagonia A and Patagonia B.

USCA worked with Congress, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the USDA to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level. USCA supports the final rule issued by USDA regarding COOL. USCA supports the USTR in their work to address concerns held by Japan and other trading partners regarding overall food safety health in the U.S.USCA supports those trade agreements which adequately address and ensure that appropriate safeguards concerning agricultural products are maintained; USCA is monitoring the Trans-Pacific Partnership Free Trade Agreement and ongoing U.S.-EU FTA discussions. USCA supports ongoing work by USTR and USDA that will address the current ban on U.S. beef exports into Russia as it relates to ractopamine and possible exemptions acheived through labeling. USCA supports ongoing work by USTR and USDA to address concerns that have related to the presence of Zilmax and the associated reports in terms of its affect on all U.S. beef exports to international trading partners. USCA supports the final rule as issued by USDA regarding modifications to COOL which bring the program into compliance with the WTO ruling. USCA supports the implementation of this final rule as it was issued on November 23, 2013. USCA supports the USTR and Administration as they continue to defend COOL at the WTO level.

USCA opposes legislative efforts that designate any area as a "monument" without appropriate public notice, ability to submit comments and any associated environmental and/or social impact study conducted before such a declaration can be made. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S., as introduced by Sen. Landrieu (D-LA) and Sen. Graham (R-SC); Rep. Meehan (R-PA) and Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL) USCA opposes any language within both House and Senate FY 2015 Appropriation legislation that restricts any funding to be allocated to federal inspectors at domestic horse processing facilities. USCA opposes the limiting and decreasing of livestock numbers on public land as to allow for increased herd sizes of wild horses and burros. USCA supports the best management practices of the nation's natural resources that allows for the continued allocation of livestock on public lands and that in no way decreases those numbers to allow for greater herd sizes of wild horses and burros.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida. USCA supports the USDA in their efforts to work with states to offer Certainty to farmer and ranchers who comply with CAW provisions.USCA is currently reviewing the proposed rule "Definitation of "Waters of the United States" Under the Clean Water Act" as released by the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers. USCA opposes any changes made to definitions within the Clean Water Act which would broaden the scope of the agency's reach and would potentially place undue harm on agricultural producers. USCA remains concerned regarding any changes made to "significant nexus" and "connectivity". USCA is opposed to any changes in the reach of those waters under "jurisdiction" by the EPA. USCA opposes the release of information from EPA to environmental groups as requested through a FOIA. The information released contains sensitive information regarding the addresses and contact information of many small farms and ranches. USCA supports efforts that will restrict such releases from occurring in the future. USCA supports the efforts made by the EPA in reaching out to agriculture groups to relay misconceptions/misunderstandings that are portrayed by both ends through media, second-hand reports. USCA supports the ongoing communication between the agency and agriculture groups to continue in providing transparency to issues regarding agriculture and the environment. USCA supports efforts to address increasing fuel storage quantities allowed on agricultural operations. USCA supports increasing the capacity at which oversight and monitoting from federal agencies must occur regarding this storage. The need for access to fuel by farmers and ranchers in order to run tractors, trucks, etc. garners an increase in that amount which is allowed to be stored on their operations; the proximity to fueling stations makes this increase in size allowed even more pertinent.

USCA supports increased access to broadband and high speed internet services throughout Rural America. USCA opposes any loss of Low Powered Television within rural America as a result of the spectrum auction within the FCC.

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supports the passage of the 2014 Farm Bill and its implementation.USCA supports the absence of Congressional action within the Farm Bill to impose any restrictions to either the Country-of-Origin-Labeling program or to necessary reforms to be made by GIPSA. USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed animal disease traceability program and supports the Administration as the program continues to be officially implemented across the country. USCA will continue to work with and provide input to the USDA as they develop the animal ID rule to address cattle 18 months and younger. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding the need to enhance and strengthen the Beef Checkoff Act and Order. USCA continues to assist in efforts with industry groups to address needed changes in the Checkoff. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supports the U.S. Department of Agriculture in addressing necessary changes as to increase fairness of livestock marketing. USCA opposes any efforts that strip funding for the Department's proposed rule to increase fairness in the livestock marketplace through the Appropriations process. USCA opposes any riders or language within the upcoming FY 2015 Appropriations bill which would restrict revisions necessary to the P&S Act of 1921 or the current COOL program. USCA supports the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative in continuing to uphold the right of U.S. cattle producers to label their own product at the World Trade Organization. USCA supports the implementation of the final rule offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding Country of Origin Labeling and the terms by which it will bring the U.S. into compliance with WTO standards. USCA Supports S. 1280/H.R. 2671 Charitable Agricultural Research Act as it allows for tax deductions for a charitable contribution to an agricultural research organization

SRM supports a budget that allocates sufficient funds to conservation-based programs within the upcoming FY 2014 and Farm Bill. SRM supports agency budgets that allow for proactive range management practices to be implemented at the state level. SRM supports agency budgets that allow for employee travel to professional society meetings and trainingsSRM supports the USDA-APHIS/Wildlife Services (WS) program and supports sufficient funding for this critical program and is in opposition to any effort to restrict or eliminate WS funding; SRM supports funding of this program within the FY 2014 Appropriations process. SRM supports Conservation Technical Assistance within House Agriculture Appropriations Bill FY 2014 as it allows for active and best management practices on nation's rangelands. SRM opposes cuts within President's FY 2014 Budget to both the BLM and USFS. 15% cut to Range Budget within BLM and 36% cut to Range Budget within USFS both hamper ongoing backlogs of NEPA and subsequent active management of rangelands. SRM supports the passage of a comprehensive budget which will allow for the government to resume operation at full-capacity; the current government shutdown affects those on the ground and restricts active management across the nation's rangelands.

SRM supports the Bureau of Land Management in establishing a more aggressive and effective management plan that will maintain the continued existence of a thriving natural ecological balance between the country's rangelands and the wild horses and burros that they support. SRM supports the Natural Resources Conservation Service and their directive to address soil health, the Soil Health InitiativeSRM referenced its official comments submitted regarding the Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board Meeting held by BLM in Washington, D.C. regarding the National Academies of Sciences report that was commissioned by the agency in urging for Congress to take action in aiding the BLM on this issue. SRM opposes the Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act H.R. 126 that passed the House and will now be considered in the Senate as it directs mandatory management of "wild horses and burros" on national refuge land which will impact current ecological stability of the area. SRM supports the Healthy Forest Management and Wildfire Prevention Act H.R. 818 which allocates additional directive for action and decision on the local level when it comes to managing a national forest area. SRM supports addressing this issue within the Senate.

USCA opposes legislative efforts that designate any area as a "monument" without appropriate public notice, ability to submit comments and any associated environmental and/or social impact study conducted before such a declaration can be made. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S., as introduced by Sen. Landrieu (D-LA) and Sen. Graham (R-SC); Rep. Meehan (R-PA) and Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL) USCA opposes current language within both House and Senate FY 2014 Appropriation legislation that restricts any funding to be allocated to federal inspectors at domestic horse processing facilities. USCA opposes the limiting and decreasing of livestock numbers on public land as to allow for increased herd sizes of wild horses and burros. USCA supports the best management practices of the nation's natural resources that allows for the continued allocation of livestock on public lands and that in no way decreases those numbers to allow for greater herd sizes of wild horses and burros.

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics. USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S.USCA opposes H.R. 1150/S. 1256 "Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2013" as it restricts delivery of potentially needed antibiotics within the industry. USCA supports efforts by the industry to label products in terms of any processing or handling that is utilized to ensure meat products are safe. USCA has been monitoring the issues surrounding Zilmax and associated growth hormones that have restricted access of U.S. beef to international trading partners. USCA supports the Administration in addressing these issues and ensuring the safety of our product that is sent abroad. USCA has concerns regarding the regionalization of Brazil for the purpose of importing meat, as it will allow for the potential introduction of Foot and Mouth Disease within the United States. USCA is evaluating this proposed rule and will be submitting comments.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida. USCA supports the USDA in their efforts to work with states to offer Certainty to farmer and ranchers who comply with CAW provisions.USCA opposed the Proposed Guidance issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers, Guidance Regarding Identification of Waters protected by the Clean Water Act, guidelines which interprets the term waters of the United States within the Clean Water Act. USCA opposes any changes made to the definitions of "navigable" and "connectivity" as would broaden the scope of their reach and potentially place undue harm on agricultural producers. USCA opposes the release of information from EPA to environmental groups as requested through a FOIA. The information released contains sensitive information regarding the addresses and contact information of many small farms and ranches. USCA supports efforts that will restrict such releases from occurring in the future. USCA supports the efforts made by the EPA in reaching out to agriculture groups to relay misconceptions/misunderstandings that are portrayed by both ends through media, second-hand reports. USCA supports the ongoing communication between the agency and agriculture groups to continue in providing transparency to issues regarding agriculture and the environment. USCA supports efforts to address increasing fuel storage quantities allowed on agricultural operations within the Farm Bill. USCA supports increasing the capacity at which oversight and monitoting from federal agencies must occur regarding this storage. The need for access to fuel by farmers and ranchers in order to run tractors, trucks, etc. garners an increase in that amount which is allowed to be stored on their operations; the proximity to fueling stations makes this increase in size allowed even more pertinent.

USCA supports increased access to broadband and high speed internet services throughout Rural America. USCA opposes any loss of Low Powered Television within rural America as a result of the spectrum auction within the FCC.

USCA worked with Congress, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the USDA to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level. USCA supports the final rule issued by USDA regarding COOL. USCA supports the USTR in their work to address concerns held by Japan and other trading partners regarding overall food safety health in the U.S.USCA supports those trade agreements which adequately address and ensure that appropriate safeguards concerning agricultural products are maintained; USCA is monitoring the Trans-Pacific Partnership Free Trade Agreement and ongoing U.S.-EU FTA discussions. USCA supports ongoing work by USTR and USDA that will address the current ban on U.S. beef exports into Russia as it relates to ractopamine and possible exemptions acheived through labeling. USCA supports ongoing work by USTR and USDA to address concerns that have related to the presence of Zilmax and the associated reports in terms of its affect on all U.S. beef exports to international trading partners. USCA supports the final rule as issued by USDA regarding modifications to COOL which bring the program into compliance with the WTO ruling. USCA supports the implementation of this final rule as it was issued on November 23. USCA supports the USTR and Administration as they continue to defend COOL at the WTO level.

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supports the 2013 Farm Bill; USCA supports the inclusion of a Livestock Title within the 2013 Farm Bill.USCA Supports the passage of a comprehensive 5-year Farm Bill. USCA supports the passage of a complete 5-year bill over an extension as needed certainty to producers under livestock disaster programs is necessary; an extension does not allow for the dispersal of such funds. USCA Supports the passage of a "clean" Farm Bill; one that does not include any altering of current Country of Origin Labeling programs or that restricts any action on reforming GIPSA. USCA does not support tying conservation compliance to crop insurance within the Farm Bill. USCA does not support tying Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and associated means testing to crop insurance. USCA Supports S. 954/H.R. 1947 "Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act of 2013"/"Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act (FARRM); USCA supports passage of a comprehensive 5-year bill, not a piecemeal approach as represented through a split of the bill into specific issue areas. USCA Supports S. 141 the Extension of Agriculture Disaster Assistance Programs for 2012, 2013 as introduced by Sen. Baucus (D-MT), Sen. Stabenow (D-MI) and Sen. Blunt (R-MO) USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed animal disease traceability program and supports the Administration as the program is officially implemented across the country. USCA will continue to work with and provide input to the USDA as they develop the animal ID rule to address cattle 18 months and younger. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding the need to enhance and strengthen the Beef Checkoff Act and Order. USCA continues to assist in efforts with industry groups to address needed changes in the Checkoff. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supports the U.S. Department of Agriculture in addressing necessary changes as to increase fairness of livestock marketing. USCA opposes any efforts that strip funding for the Department's proposed rule to increase fairness in the livestock marketplace through the Appropriations process. USCA supported Amendment 0075 to S.444/HR Res. 99: Amendment to FY 2013 CR, would strip any riders that rescind funding allocated to USDA-GIPSA USCA supports the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative in continuing to uphold the right of U.S. cattle producers to label their own product at the World Trade Organization. USCA supports the implementation of the final rule offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding Country of Origin Labeling and the terms by which it will bring the U.S. into compliance with WTO standards. USCA supports working lands and certain conservation programs within the 2013 Farm Bill. USCA does not support tying conservation compliance to crop insurance. USCA supports a comprehensive livestock disaster package within the farm bill to address through future and retroactive payments the 2012 drought, Winter Storm Atlas, ongoing drought and lingering weather extremes. USCA Supports S. 1280/H.R. 2671 Charitable Agricultural Research Act as it allows for tax deductions for a charitable contribution to an agricultural research organization

SRM supports the Bureau of Land Management in establishing a more aggressive and effective management plan that will maintain the continued existence of a thriving natural ecological balance between the country's rangelands and the wild horses and burros that they support. SRM supports the Natural Resources Conservation Service and their directive to address soil health, the Soil Health InitiativeSRM submitted official comments regarding the Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board Meeting held by BLM in Washington, D.C. regarding the National Academies of Sciences report that was commissioned by the agency. SRM opposes the Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act H.R. 126 that passed the House and will now be considered in the Senate as it directs mandatory management of "wild horses and burros" on national refuge land which will impact current ecological stability of the area. SRM supports the Healthy Forest Management and Wildfire Prevention Act H.R. 818 which allocates additional directive for action and decision on the local level when it comes to managing a national forest area. SRM supports addressing this issue within the Senate.

SRM supports a budget that allocates sufficient funds to conservation-based programs within the upcoming FY 2014 and Farm Bill. SRM supports agency budgets that allow for proactive range management practices to be implemented at the state level. SRM supports agency budgets that allow for employee travel to professional society meetings and trainingsSRM supports the USDA-APHIS/Wildlife Services (WS) program and supports sufficient funding for this critical program and is in opposition to any effort to restrict or eliminate WS funding; SRM supports funding of this program within the FY 2014 Appropriations process. SRM supports Conservation Technical Assistance within House Agriculture Appropriations Bill FY 2014 as it allows for active and best management practices on nation's rangelands. SRM opposes cuts within President's FY 2014 Budget to both the BLM and USFS. 15% cut to Range Budget within BLM and 36% cut to Range Budget within USFS both hamper ongoing backlogs of NEPA and subsequent active management of rangelands. SRM supports the passage of a comprehensive budget which will allow for the government to resume operation at full-capacity; the current government shutdown affects those on the ground and restricts active management across the nation's rangelands.

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics. USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S.USCA opposes H.R. 1150/S. 1256 "Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2013" as it restricts delivery of potentially needed antibiotics within the industry.

USCA supports increased access to broadband and high speed internet services throughout Rural America. USCA opposes any loss of Low Powered Television within rural America as a result of the spectrum auction within the FCC.

USCA supports the estate tax rate reached through the Fiscal Cliff negotiations; $5 million exemption per individual, 40% rate assessed thereafter. USCA opposes any reduction of the exemption of increase in the rate assessed. USCA supports reform to current tax code that addresses a reduced Capital Gains rate for sellers of land to beginning Farmers and Ranchers.USCA Supports S. 1280/H.R. 2671 Charitable Agricultural Research Act as it allows for tax deductions for a charitable contribution to an agricultural research organization

USCA supports the continued funding, at sufficient levels, for the USDA-APHIS Wildlife Services. USCA opposes the current rider within the FY 2013 Continuing Resolution which strips any funding allocated to addressing clarification within the GIPSA rule.USCA Opposes the following amendments within the House Appropriations Committee FY 2014 Agriculture Appropriations Bill: Rep. Womacks Amendment which prohibits funding for USDA-GIPSA to take any further action on the agencys proposed rule; USCA opposes the inclusion of a request to USDA to delay implementation of the COOL rule. USCA opposes inclusion of language which restricts any allocation of funds to federal inspectors of domestic horse processing facilities.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida. USCA supports the USDA in their efforts to work with states to offer Certainty to farmer and ranchers who comply with CAW provisions.USCA opposed the Proposed Guidance issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers, Guidance Regarding Identification of Waters protected by the Clean Water Act, guidelines which interprets the term waters of the United States within the Clean Water Act. USCA opposes the release of information from EPA to environmental groups as requested through a FOIA. The information released contains sensitive information regarding the addresses and contact information of many small farms and ranches. USCA supports efforts that will restrict such releases from occurring in the future. USCA supports the efforts made by the EPA in reaching out to agriculture groups to relay misconceptions/misunderstandings that are portrayed by both ends through media, second-hand reports. USCA supports the ongoing communication between the agency and agriculture groups to continue in providing transparency to issues regarding agriculture and the environment. USCA supports efforts to address increasing fuel storage quantities allowed on agricultural operations within the Farm Bill. USCA supports increasing the capacity at which oversight and monitoting from federal agencies must occur regarding this storage. The need for access to fuel by farmers and ranchers in order to run tractors, trucks, etc. garners an increase in that amount which is allowed to be stored on their operations; the proximity to fueling stations makes this increase in size allowed even more pertinent.

USCA opposes legislative efforts that designate any area as a "monument" without appropriate public notice, ability to submit comments and any associated environmental and/or social impact study conducted before such a declaration can be made. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S., as introduced by Sen. Landrieu (D-LA) and Sen. Graham (R-SC); Rep. Meehan (R-PA) and Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL) USCA opposes current language within both House and Senate FY 2014 Appropriation legislation that restricts any funding to be allocated to federal inspectors at domestic horse processing facilities.

SRM supports the Bureau of Land Management in establishing a more aggressive and effective management plan that will maintain the continued existence of a thriving natural ecological balance between the country's rangelands and the wild horses and burros that they support. SRM supports the Natural Resources Conservation Service and their directive to address soil health, the Soil Health InitiativeSRM opposes the Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act H.R. 126 that passed the House and will now be considered in the Senate as it directs mandatory management of "wild horses and burros" on national refuge land which will impact current ecological stability of the area. SRM supports the Healthy Forest Management and Wildfire Prevention Act H.R. 818 which allocates additional directive for action and decision on the local level when it comes to managing a national forest area.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida. USCA supports the USDA in their efforts to work with states to offer Certainty to farmer and ranchers who comply with CAW provisions.USCA opposed the Proposed Guidance issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers, Guidance Regarding Identification of Waters protected by the Clean Water Act, guidelines which interprets the term waters of the United States within the Clean Water Act. USCA opposes the release of information from EPA to environmental groups as requested through a FOIA. The information released contains sensitive information regarding the addresses and contact information of many small farms and ranches. USCA supports efforts that will restrict such releases from occurring in the future.

USCA opposes legislative efforts that designate any area as a "monument" without appropriate public notice, ability to submit comments and any associated environmental and/or social impact study conducted before such a declaration can be made. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S., as introduced by Sen. Landrieu (D-LA) and Sen. Graham (R-SC); Rep. Meehan (R-PA) and Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL) USCA opposes current language within both House and Senate FY 2014 Appropriation legislation that restricts any funding to be allocated to federal inspectors at domestic horse processing facilities.

USCA supports reform to current tax code that addresses a reduced Capital Gains rate for sellers of land to beginning Farmers and Ranchers.USCA Supports S. 1280/H.R. 2671 Charitable Agricultural Research Act as it allows for tax deductions for a charitable contribution to an agricultural research organization

USCA supports increased access to broadband and high speed internet services throughout Rural America. USCA opposes any loss of Low Powered Television within rural America as a result of the spectrum auction within the FCC.

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supports the 2013 Farm Bill; USCA supports the inclusion of a Livestock Title within the 2013 Farm Bill.USCA Supports S. 954/H.R. 1947 "Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act of 2013"/"Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act (FARRM); USCA supports passage of a comprehensive 5-year bill, not a piecemeal approach as reprented through a split of the bill into specific issue areas. USCA Supports S. 141 the Extension of Agriculture Disaster Assistance Programs for 2012, 2013 as introduced by Sen. Baucus (D-MT), Sen. Stabenow (D-MI) and Sen. Blunt (R-MO) USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed animal disease traceability program and supports the Administration as the program is officially implemented across the country. USCA will continue to work with and provide input to the USDA as they develop the animal ID rule to address cattle 18 months and younger. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding the need to enhance and strengthen the Beef Checkoff Act and Order. USCA continues to assist in efforts with industry groups to address needed changes in the Checkoff. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supported the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to increase fairness of livestock marketing. USCA opposes any efforts that strip funding for the Department's proposed rule to increase fairness in the livestock marketplace through the Appropriations process. USCA supported Amendment 0075 to S.444/HR Res. 99: Amendment to FY 2013 CR, would strip any riders that rescind funding allocated to USDA-GIPSA USCA supports the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative in continuing to uphold the right of U.S. cattle producers to label their own product at the World Trade Organization. USCA supports the proposed rule offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding Country of Origin Labeling and the terms by which it will bring the U.S. into compliance with WTO standards. USCA supports working lands and certain conservation programs within the 2013 Farm Bill. USCA does not support tying conservation compliance to crop insurance. USCA supports a comprehensive livestock disaster package within the farm bill to address the 2012 drought and lingering weather extremes. USCA Supports S. 1280/H.R. 2671 Charitable Agricultural Research Act as it allows for tax deductions for a charitable contribution to an agricultural research organization

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics. USCA Opposes S. 541/HR 1094 Safeguard American Food Exports Act- A bill to prevent health threats posed by the consumption of equines raised in the U.S.USCA opposes H.R. 1150/S. 1256 "Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2013" as it restricts delivery of potentially needed antibiotics within the industry.

USCA supports estate tax relief and the permanent reform of the estate and gift tax provisions of the IRS code.

USCA supports the continued funding, at sufficient levels, for the USDA-APHIS Wildlife Services. USCA opposes cuts within the sequester which would furlough meat inspectors from packing plants, USCA supports allocating sufficient funding to maintain these positions without disruption.

USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level. USCA supports the USTR in their work to address concerns held by Japan and other trading partners regarding overall food safety health in the U.S.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida. USCA supports the USDA in their efforts to work with states to offer Certainty to farmer and ranchers who comply with CAW provisions.USCA opposed the Proposed Guidance issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers, Guidance Regarding Identification of Waters protected by the Clean Water Act, guidelines which interprets the term waters of the United States within the Clean Water Act. USCA supports efforts to waive the Renewable Fuels Standard for 2013. Based on the rising cost of feed for livestock producers, USCA supports efforts to waive the ethanol mandate for the full year or for a partial waiver of 2013. USCA supports efforts to review the ethanol mandate each year thereafter based on the current economic climate and costs of feed.

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supports the 2012 Farm Bill; USCA supports the inclusion of a Livestock Title within the 2012 Farm Bill.USCA Supports S. 10, the Agriculture Reform, Food, and Jobs Act of 2013. USCA Supports S. 141 the Extension of Agriculture Disaster Assistance Programs for 2012, 2013 as introduced by Sen. Baucus (D-MT), Sen. Stabenow (D-MI) and Sen. Blunt (R-MO) USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed animal disease traceability program and supports the Administration as the program is officially implemented across the country. USCA will continue to work with and provide input to the USDA as they develop the animal ID rule to address cattle 18 months and younger. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding the need to enhance and strengthen the Beef Checkoff Act and Order. USCA continues to assist in efforts with industry groups to address needed changes in the Checkoff. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supported the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to increase fairness of livestock marketing. USCA opposes any efforts that strip funding for the Department's proposed rule to increase fairness in the livestock marketplace through the Appropriations process. USCA supported Amendment 0075 to S.444/HR Res. 99: Amendment to FY 2013 CR, would strip any riders that rescind funding allocated to USDA-GIPSA USCA supports the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative in continuing to uphold the right of U.S. cattle producers to label their own product at the World Trade Organization. USCA supports the proposed rule offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding Country of Origin Labeling and the terms by which it will bring the U.S. into compliance with WTO standards. USCA supports working lands and certain conservation programs within the 2012 Farm Bill. USCA does not support tying conservation compliance to crop insurance. USCA supports a comprehensive livestock disaster package within the farm bill to address the 2012 drought and lingering weather extremes.

SRM supports a budget that allocates sufficient funds to conservation-based programs within both the Fiscal Year 2013 and the 2012 Farm Bill. SRM supports agency budgets that allow for proactive range management practices to be implemented at the state level. SRM supports agency budgets that allow for employee travel to professional society meetings and trainingsSRM supports the USDA-APHIS/Wildlife Services (WS) program and supports sufficient funding for this critical program and is in opposition to any effort to restrict or eliminate WS funding

SRM supports the Keep the Forest and Farm in the Family Act which would allow for the extension of the estate exemption levels and rates to those land owners who possess timber on their property.

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supports the 2012 Farm Bill; USCA supports the inclusion of a Livestock Title within the 2012 Farm Bill. USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed animal disease traceability program. USCA encouraged USDA to develop an animal disease trace back system that is adequately funded and meets the needs of animal health officials at the state and tribal level without burdening producers with additional costs or subjecting them to an unworkable system. USCA continues to work within the framework of the Animal ID rule released by USDA in December 2012. USCA will continue to work with and provide input to the USDA as they develop the animal ID rule to address cattle 18 months and younger. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding the need to enhance and strengthen the Beef Checkoff Act and Order. USCA continues to assist in efforts with industry groups to address needed changes in the Checkoff. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supported the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to increase fairness of livestock marketing. USCA supported the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative in upholding the right of U.S. cattle producers to label their own product. USCA supports working lands and certain conservation programs within the 2012 Farm Bill. USCA does not support tying conservation compliance to crop insurance. USCA supports a comprehensive livestock disaster package within the farm bill to address the 2012 drought and lingering weather extremes.

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics.

USCA supports H.R. 2959/S. 1561: The Charitable Research Act would expand the tax code to allow for private donors to allocate specific funds on a tax-deductible basis to agriculture research. USCA supports estate tax relief and the permanent reform of the estate and gift tax provisions of the IRS code. USCA supports S. 2274: The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research Act would establish a nonprofit corporation that would allow for specific allocation of private donations to be directed to agriculture programs USCA supports the Death Tax Repeal Permanency Act: S. 2242/H.R. 1259 which would repeal the federal estate tax, repeal the generation skipping transfer (GST) tax, make permanent the maximum 35 percent gift tax rate and a $5 million lifetime gift tax exemption, and maintain the stepped-up basis provisions important to family farms and businesses USCA supports addressing the estate tax within the year-end "fiscal cliff" package. USCA supports at the very least maintaing the current estate tax levels.

USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level. USCA supports the USTR in their work to address concerns held by Japan and other trading partners regarding overall food safety health in the U.S.

USCA Supported H.R. 1996/S. 1061 the Government Litigation Savings Act, a bill that brings the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA) back in line with its original intent. USCA asked Congress to reform EAJA so that it cannot be used for frivolous suits, or to advance a political agenda.

USCA supported H.R. 509 / S. 249 - A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to provide that Act shall not apply to any gray wolf. USCA supported H.R. 758 / S. 407- A bill to amend the Antiquities Act of 1906 to require certain procedures for designating national monuments, and other purposes. USCA supported Congress blocking federal funds from being used to implement, administer or enforce the Department of the Interiors Wild Lands Order, Secretarial Order 3310. The funding prohibition was included in the continuing resolution to fund the federal government through Sept. 30, 2011. USCA supported S. 1129 the Grazing Improvement Act of 2011, a bill which clarifies existing protocols within the renewal and application of livestock grazing permits held by ranchers on public lands. USCA supported S. 2087 the Wilderness and Roadless Area Release Act of 2011, a bill which seeks to address the status of lands deemed non-wilderness areas in 1976 yet have remained under a wilderness management practice since then. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.

SRM supports the Keep the Forest and Farm in the Family Act which would allow for the extension of the estate exemption levels and rates to those land owners who possess timber on their property.

USCA supports H.R. 2959/S. 1561: The Charitable Research Act would expand the tax code to allow for private donors to allocate specific funds on a tax-deductible basis to agriculture research. USCA supports estate tax relief and the permanent reform of the estate and gift tax provisions of the IRS code. USCA supports S. 2274: The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research Act would establish a nonprofit corporation that would allow for specific allocation of private donations to be directed to agriculture programs USCA supports the Death Tax Repeal Permanency Act: S. 2242/H.R. 1259 which would repeal the federal estate tax, repeal the generation skipping transfer (GST) tax, make permanent the maximum 35 percent gift tax rate and a $5 million lifetime gift tax exemption, and maintain the stepped-up basis provisions important to family farms and businesses

USCA supported H.R. 509 / S. 249 - A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to provide that Act shall not apply to any gray wolf. USCA supported H.R. 758 / S. 407- A bill to amend the Antiquities Act of 1906 to require certain procedures for designating national monuments, and other purposes. USCA supported Congress blocking federal funds from being used to implement, administer or enforce the Department of the Interiors Wild Lands Order, Secretarial Order 3310. The funding prohibition was included in the continuing resolution to fund the federal government through Sept. 30, 2011. USCA supported S. 1129 the Grazing Improvement Act of 2011, a bill which clarifies existing protocols within the renewal and application of livestock grazing permits held by ranchers on public lands. USCA supported S. 2087 the Wilderness and Roadless Area Release Act of 2011, a bill which seeks to address the status of lands deemed non-wilderness areas in 1976 yet have remained under a wilderness management practice since then. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.

USCA Supported H.R. 1996/S. 1061 the Government Litigation Savings Act, a bill that brings the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA) back in line with its original intent. USCA asked Congress to reform EAJA so that it cannot be used for frivolous suits, or to advance a political agenda.

USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level.

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics.

USCA supports H.R. 4157/ S. 2221: The Preserving Americas Family Farms Act would keep the Department of Labor from issuing their proposed rule concerning adjusting the age and guiding criteria in regards to youth labor on agriculture operations

USCA supported H.R. 509 / S. 249 - A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to provide that Act shall not apply to any gray wolf. USCA supported H.R. 758 / S. 407- A bill to amend the Antiquities Act of 1906 to require certain procedures for designating national monuments, and other purposes. USCA supported Congress blocking federal funds from being used to implement, administer or enforce the Department of the Interiors Wild Lands Order, Secretarial Order 3310. The funding prohibition was included in the continuing resolution to fund the federal government through Sept. 30, 2011. USCA supported S. 1129 the Grazing Improvement Act of 2011, a bill which clarifies existing protocols within the renewal and application of livestock grazing permits held by ranchers on public lands. USCA supported S. 2087 the Wilderness and Roadless Area Release Act of 2011, a bill which seeks to address the status of lands deemed non-wilderness areas in 1976 yet have remained under a wilderness management practice since then. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.

USCA Supported H.R. 1996/S. 1061 the Government Litigation Savings Act, a bill that brings the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA) back in line with its original intent. USCA asked Congress to reform EAJA so that it cannot be used for frivolous suits, or to advance a political agenda.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida. USCA supported H.R. 2018-Clean Water Cooperative Federalism Act of 2011, a bill that amends the Federal Water Pollution Act to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from taking such actions that supersede a states authority over issues pertaining to water quality standards and pollutant discharge mandates. USCA opposed the Proposed Guidance issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers, Guidance Regarding Identification of Waters protected by the Clean Water Act, guidelines which interprets the term waters of the United States within the Clean Water Act.

USCA supports H.R. 2959/S. 1561: The Charitable Research Act would expand the tax code to allow for private donors to allocate specific funds on a tax-deductible basis to agriculture research. USCA supports estate tax relief and the permanent reform of the estate and gift tax provisions of the IRS code. USCA supports S. 2274: The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research Act would establish a nonprofit corporation that would allow for specific allocation of private donations to be directed to agriculture programs USCA supports the Death Tax Repeal Permanency Act: S. 2242/H.R. 1259 which would repeal the federal estate tax, repeal the generation skipping transfer (GST) tax, make permanent the maximum 35 percent gift tax rate and a $5 million lifetime gift tax exemption, and maintain the stepped-up basis provisions important to family farms and businesses

USCA supports H.R. 2959/S. 1561: The Charitable Research Act would expand the tax code to allow for private donors to allocate specific funds on a tax-deductible basis to agriculture research. USCA supports estate tax relief and the permanent reform of the estate and gift tax provisions of the IRS code. USCA supports S. 2274: The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research Act would establish a nonprofit corporation that would allow for specific allocation of private donations to be directed to agriculture programs USCA supports the Death Tax Repeal Permanency Act: S. 2242/H.R. 1259 which would repeal the federal estate tax, repeal the generation skipping transfer (GST) tax, make permanent the maximum 35 percent gift tax rate and a $5 million lifetime gift tax exemption, and maintain the stepped-up basis provisions important to family farms and businesses

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supports the 2012 Farm Bill; USCA supports the inclusion of a Livestock Title within the 2012 Farm Bill. USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed animal disease traceability program. USCA encouraged USDA to develop an animal disease trace back system that is adequately funded and meets the needs of animal health officials at the state and tribal level without burdening producers with additional costs or subjecting them to an unworkable system. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding the need to enhance and strengthen the Beef Checkoff Act and Order. USCA supported the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to increase fairness of livestock marketing. USCA supports working lands and certain conservation programs within the 2012 Farm Bill.

USCA supported H.R. 509 / S. 249 - A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to provide that Act shall not apply to any gray wolf. USCA supported H.R. 758 / S. 407- A bill to amend the Antiquities Act of 1906 to require certain procedures for designating national monuments, and other purposes. USCA supported S. 1129 the Grazing Improvement Act of 2011, a bill which clarifies existing protocols within the renewal and application of livestock grazing permits held by ranchers on public lands. USCA supported S. 2087 the Wilderness and Roadless Area Release Act of 2011, a bill which seeks to address the status of lands deemed non-wilderness areas in 1976 yet have remained under a wilderness management practice since then. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.

USCA Supported H.R. 1996/S. 1061 the Government Litigation Savings Act, a bill that brings the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA) back in line with its original intent. USCA asked Congress to reform EAJA so that it cannot be used for frivolous suits, or to advance a political agenda.

USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics.

USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level.

USCA supports H.R. 2959/S. 1561: The Charitable Research Act would expand the tax code to allow for private donors to allocate specific funds on a tax-deductible basis to agriculture research. USCA supports estate tax relief and the permanent reform of the estate and gift tax provisions of the IRS code.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida. USCA supported H.R. 2018-Clean Water Cooperative Federalism Act of 2011, a bill that amends the Federal Water Pollution Act to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from taking such actions that supersede a states authority over issues pertaining to water quality standards and pollutant discharge mandates. USCA opposed the Proposed Guidance issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers, Guidance Regarding Identification of Waters protected by the Clean Water Act, guidelines which interprets the term waters of the United States within the Clean Water Act. USCA requested a 60-Day Extension to the Comment Period for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) Reporting Rule as was proposed by the EPA.

USCA Supported H.R. 1996/S. 1061 the Government Litigation Savings Act, a bill that brings the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA) back in line with its original intent. USCA asked Congress to reform EAJA so that it cannot be used for frivolous suits, or to advance a political agenda.

USCA supported H.R. 509 / S. 249 - A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to provide that Act shall not apply to any gray wolf. USCA supported H.R. 758 / S. 407- A bill to amend the Antiquities Act of 1906 to require certain procedures for designating national monuments, and other purposes. USCA supported Congress blocking federal funds from being used to implement, administer or enforce the Department of the Interiors Wild Lands Order, Secretarial Order 3310. The funding prohibition was included in the continuing resolution to fund the federal government through Sept. 30, 2011. USCA supported S. 1129 the Grazing Improvement Act of 2011, a bill which clarifies existing protocols within the renewal and application of livestock grazing permits held by ranchers on public lands. USCA supported S. 2087 the Wilderness and Roadless Area Release Act of 2011, a bill which seeks to address the status of lands deemed non-wilderness areas in 1976 yet have remained under a wilderness management practice since then. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed animal disease traceability program. USCA encouraged USDA to develop an animal disease trace back system that is adequately funded and meets the needs of animal health officials at the state and tribal level without burdening producers with additional costs or subjecting them to an unworkable system. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding the need to enhance and strengthen the Beef Checkoff Act and Order. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supported the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to increase fairness of livestock marketing.

USCA supported H.R. 509 / S. 249 - A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to provide that Act shall not apply to any gray wolf. USCA supported H.R. 758 / S. 407- A bill to amend the Antiquities Act of 1906 to require certain procedures for designating national monuments, and other purposes. USCA supported Congress blocking federal funds from being used to implement, administer or enforce the Department of the Interiors Wild Lands Order, Secretarial Order 3310. The funding prohibition was included in the continuing resolution to fund the federal government through Sept. 30, 2011. USCA supported S. 1129 the Grazing Improvement Act of 2011, a bill which clarifies existing protocols within the renewal and application of livestock grazing permits held by ranchers on public lands. USCA supported S. 2087 the Wilderness and Roadless Area Release Act of 2011, a bill which seeks to address the status of lands deemed non-wilderness areas in 1976 yet have remained under a wilderness management practice since then. USCA supports the humane treatment of horses and implemented a plan regarding the wild horse and burro population that involves the processing of horses in the U.S.

U.S. - Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. USCA opposed U.S.- Korea Free Trade Agreement. USCA supported USDA's plan to increase beef trade with countries known to have FMD- USCA opposed USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level.

USCA supports H.R. 2959/S. 1561: The Charitable Research Act would expand the tax code to allow for private donors to allocate specific funds on a tax-deductible basis to agriculture research. USCA supports estate tax relief and the permanent reform of the estate and gift tax provisions of the IRS code.

USCA Supported H.R. 1996/S. 1061 the Government Litigation Savings Act, a bill that brings the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA) back in line with its original intent. USCA asked Congress to reform EAJA so that it cannot be used for frivolous suits, or to advance a political agenda.

USCA opposed H.R. 965. The improperly titled "Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2011. This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to deny an application for a new animal drug that is a critical antimicrobial animal drug unless the applicant demonstrates that there is a reasonably certainty of no harm to human health due to the development of antimicrobial resistance attributable to the nontherapeutic use of the drug. USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida. USCA supported H.R. 2018-Clean Water Cooperative Federalism Act of 2011, a bill that amends the Federal Water Pollution Act to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from taking such actions that supersede a states authority over issues pertaining to water quality standards and pollutant discharge mandates. USCA opposed the Proposed Guidance issued by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers, Guidance Regarding Identification of Waters protected by the Clean Water Act, guidelines which interprets the term waters of the United States within the Clean Water Act.

USCA suppported policies and plans that will lead to increased access to high-speed Internet in rural areas and small towns.

USCA opposed H.R. 965. The improperly titled "Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2011. This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to deny an application for a new animal drug that is a critical antimicrobial animal drug unless the applicant demonstrates that there is a reasonably certainty of no harm to human health due to the development of antimicrobial resistance attributable to the nontherapeutic use of the drug. USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics.

USCA Supported H.R. 1996/S. 1061 the Government Litigation Savings Act, a bill that brings the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA) back in line with its original intent. USCA asked Congress to reform EAJA so that it cannot be used for frivolous suits, or to advance a political agenda.

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed animal disease traceability program. USCA encouraged USDA to develop an animal disease trace back system that is adequately funded and meets the needs of animal health officials at the state and tribal level without burdening producers with additional costs or subjecting them to an unworkable system. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding the need to enhance and strengthen the Beef Checkoff Act and Order. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supported the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to increase fairness of livestock marketing.

U.S. - Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. USCA opposed U.S.- Korea Free Trade Agreement. USCA supported USDA's plan to increase beef trade with countries known to have FMD- USCA opposed USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level.

USCA Supported H.R. 1996/S. 1061 the Government Litigation Savings Act, a bill that brings the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA) back in line with its original intent. USCA asked Congress to reform EAJA so that it cannot be used for frivolous suits, or to advance a political agenda.

U.S. - Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. USCA opposed U.S.- Korea Free Trade Agreement. USCA supported USDA's plan to increase beef trade with countries known to have FMD- USCA opposed USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level.

USCA opposed H.R. 965. The improperly titled "Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2011. This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to deny an application for a new animal drug that is a critical antimicrobial animal drug unless the applicant demonstrates that there is a reasonably certainty of no harm to human health due to the development of antimicrobial resistance attributable to the nontherapeutic use of the drug. USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics.

USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed animal disease traceability program. USCA encouraged USDA to develop an animal disease trace back system that is adequately funded and meets the needs of animal health officials at the state and tribal level without burdening producers with additional costs or subjecting them to an unworkable system. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding the need to enhance and strengthen the Beef Checkoff Act and Order. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supported the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to increase fairness of livestock marketing.

USCA opposed the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan to implement its Total Maximum Daily Load rule for the Chesapeake Bay and its numeric nutrient criteria rule for the state of Florida.

USCA opposed H.R. 965. The improperly titled "Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2011. This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to deny an application for a new animal drug that is a critical antimicrobial animal drug unless the applicant demonstrates that there is a reasonably certainty of no harm to human health due to the development of antimicrobial resistance attributable to the nontherapeutic use of the drug. USCA continues to support the freedom to utilize valuable and proven medicines that ranchers rely on to keep livestock herds healthy. USCA supports the responsible use of antibiotics.

U.S. - Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. USCA opposed U.S.- Korea Free Trade Agreement. USCA supported USDA's plan to increase beef trade with countries known to have FMD- USCA opposed USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level.

USCA requested that Congress bring the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA) back in line with its original intent. USCA asked Congress to reform EAJA so that it cannot be used for frivolous suits, or to advance a political agenda.

USCA monitored H.R.2454 the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 and S.1733 the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act. USCA monitored work being done by the Senate to update S.1733 USCA monitored several EPA initiatives and plans for regulating agriculture impact and emissions

USCA opposed S.1816 The Chesapeake Clean Water and Ecosystem Restoration Act (S.1816): USCA opposed this bill because it would have granted EPA broader oversight regulatory power over nutrient managment data in the states. USCA opposed S.787 -the Clean Water Restoration Act- this will likely result of a change in statute for producers and create a considerably greater exposure to regulatory pressure with little corresponding resource or social benefit. USCA supported S.J.Res.26 and H.J.76 - A joint resolution disapproving a rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to their endangerment finding and the cause or contribute findings for greenhouse gases under section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act.

USCA supported a permanent estate tax reform establishing the unified credit at $5,000,000, reducing the maximum estate tax rate to 35%, and increasing the valuation discount available under IRS code section 2032A (special use valuation) to $2,000,000. Also, USCA opposed preferential estate tax treatment for farms with environmental easements unless those easements were donated.

USCA opposed H.R. 1549/S. 619 - the Preservation of Antbiotics for Medical Treatment Act bill removes valuable and proven medicines that farmers and ranchers rely on to keep their herds healthy. USCA monitored H.R. 1331/S.510 the Food Safety Modernization Act. This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) in various ways

USCA supported the removal of Brucella Abortus from the Toxic Substances and Disease Control and Prevention Select Agent List USCA supported the removal of Brucella Abortus from the Toxic Substances and Disease Control and Prevention Select Agent List USCA opposed S.727/H.R.503. 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 supported S.1062 - 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 supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supported S.1086- the Livestock Marketing Fairness Act amends Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921, to prohibit the use of certain anti-competitive forward contracts. USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed animal disease traceability program. USCA supported existing updating existing animal identification systems. USCA's opposed a national, privatized, mandatory animal identification system. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding a Beef Checkoff contractor USCA opposed S.3263/H.R. 5105. This bill establishes a Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) in the Department of Homeland Security. USCA opposed this bill because it creates a duplicative position of CVO. This is completely unwarranted and would lead to confusion within the U.S. Agriculture industry, among our trading partners and the international animal health community. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supported the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to increase fairness of livestock marketing. USCA worked with the House, Senate, and USDA on the price reporting law.

U.S. - Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. USCA opposed U.S.- Korea Free Trade Agreement. USCA supported USDA's annoucement of to increase beef trade with Santa Catarina, Brazil- USCA opposed USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level.

USCA monitored H.R.2454 the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 and S.1733 the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act. USCA monitored work being done by the Senate to update S.1733 USCA monitored several EPA initiatives and plans for regulating agriculture impact and emissions

USCA opposed H.R. 1549/S. 619 - the Preservation of Antbiotics for Medical Treatment Act bill removes valuable and proven medicines that farmers and ranchers rely on to keep their herds healthy. USCA monitored H.R. 1331/S.510 the Food Safety Modernization Act. This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) in various ways

USCA opposed USDA's proposed plan to implement a rule to allow additional imports of meat from Brazil, despite Brazil's problem with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) USCA supported the removal of Brucella Abortus from the Toxic Substances and Disease Control and Prevention Select Agent List USCA opposed S.727/H.R.503. 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 supported S.1062 - 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 supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supported S.1086- the Livestock Marketing Fairness Act amends Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921, to prohibit the use of certain anti-competitive forward contracts. USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed nimal disease traceability program. USCA supported existing updating existing animal identification systems. USCA's opposed a national, privatized, mandatory animal identification system. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding a Beef Checkoff contractor USCA opposed S.3263/H.R. 5105. This bill establishes a Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) in the Department of Homeland Security. USCA opposed this bill because it creates a duplicative position of CVO. This is completely unwarranted and would lead to confusion within the U.S. Agriculture industry, among our trading partners and the international animal health community. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supported the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to increase fairness of livestock marketing. USCA worked with the House, Senate, and USDA to reauthorize the price reporting law.

USCA supported a permanent estate tax reform establishing the unified credit at $5,000,000, reducing the maximum estate tax rate to 35%, and increasing the valuation discount available under IRS code section 2032A (special use valuation) to $2,000,000. Also, USCA opposed preferential estate tax treatment for farms with environmental easements unless those easements were donated.

USCA opposed S.787 -the Clean Water Restoration Act- this will likely result of a change in statute for producers and create a considerably greater exposure to regulatory pressure with little corresponding resource or social benefit. USCA supported S.J.Res.26 and H.J.76 - A joint resolution disapproving a rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to their endangerment finding and the cause or contribute findings for greenhouse gases under section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act.

U.S. - Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. USCA opposed U.S. - Korea Free Trade Agreement. USCA supported USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level.

USCA opposed S.1579/H.R.1018- an amendment to the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. This amendment will lead to the expansion of the wild horse and burro populations at the expense of our natural resources and the ecological balance on both public and private lands, plus it will increase wasteful spending on tracking and monitoring programs that are not needed.

USCA opposed USDA's proposed plan to implement a rule to allow additional imports of meat from Brazil, despite Brazil's problem with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) USCA supported the removal of Brucella Abortus from the Toxic Substances and Disease Control and Prevention Select Agent List USCA opposed S.727/H.R.503. 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 supported S.1062 - 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 supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supported S.1086- the Livestock Marketing Fairness Act amends Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921, to prohibit the use of certain anti-competitive forward contracts. USCA worked on USDA's newly proposed nimal disease traceability program. USCA supported existing updating existing animal identification systems. USCA's opposed a national, privatized, mandatory animal identification system. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding a Beef Checkoff contractor USCA opposed S.3263/H.R. 5105. This bill establishes a Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) in the Department of Homeland Security. USCA opposed this bill because it creates a duplicative position of CVO. This is completely unwarranted and would lead to confusion within the U.S. Agriculture industry, among our trading partners and the international animal health community. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supported the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed rule to increase fairness of livestock marketing. USCA worked with the House, Senate, and USDA to reauthorize the price reporting law.

USCA monitored H.R.2454 the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 and S.1733 the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act. USCA monitored work being done by the Senate to update S.1733

USCA supported S.RES.452/ H.Res.1196- A resolution supporting increased market access for exports of United States beef and beef products to Japan. USCA monitored and provided information on S. Res.544. This resolution supported increased market access for exports of United States beef and beef products. U.S. - Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. USCA opposed U.S. - Korea Free Trade Agreement. USCA supported USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level.

USCA supported a permanent estate tax reform establishing the unified credit at $5,000,000, reducing the maximum estate tax rate to 35%, and increasing the valuation discount available under IRS code section 2032A (special use valuation) to $2,000,000. Also, USCA opposed preferential estate tax treatment for farms with environmental easements unless those easements were donated.

USCA opposed H.R. 1549/S. 619 - the Preservation of Antbiotics for Medical Treatment Act bill removes valuable and proven medicines that farmers and ranchers rely on to keep their herds healthy.

USCA opposed S.1579/H.R.1018- an amendment to the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. This amendment will lead to the expansion of the wild horse and burro populations at the expense of our natural resources and the ecological balance on both public and private lands, plus it will increase wasteful spending on tracking and monitoring programs that are not needed.

USCA opposed S.787 -the Clean Water Restoration Act- this will likely result of a change in statute for producers and create a considerably greater exposure to regulatory pressure with little corresponding resource or social benefit. USCA supported S.J.Res.26 and H.J.76 - A joint resolution disapproving a rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to their endangerment finding and the cause or contribute findings for greenhouse gases under section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act.

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 S.337/H.R.1226 - the Foot and Mouth Prevention Act of 2009 prevents the USDA from implementing its proposed rule to incease meat imports from Argentina. USCA opposed S.727/H.R.503. 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 supported S.1062 - 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 provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Congress regarding a Beef Checkoff contractor USCA supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supported S.1086- the Livestock Marketing Fairness Act amends Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921, to prohibit the use of certain anti-competitive forward contracts. USDA's National Animal Identification System (NAIS). USCA supported existing updating existing animal identification systems. USCA's opposed a national, privatized, animal identification system. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws. USCA supported the removal of Brucella Abortus from the Toxic Substances and Disease Control and Prevention Select Agent List USCA engaged in dialogue with Congress, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative regarding plans to create a foot and mouth disease (FMD) free zone within Brazil

USCA opposed H.R. 1549/S. 619 - the Preservation of Antbiotics for Medical Treatment Act bill removes valuable and proven medicines that farmers and ranchers rely on to keep their herds healthy. S.510 - amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act - USCA worked to ensure livestock operations were not unfairly disadvantaged within this bill.

USCA opposed S.1579/H.R.1018- an amendment to the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. This amendment will lead to the expansion of the wild horse and burro populations at the expense of our natural resources and the ecological balance on both public and private lands, plus it will increase wasteful spending on tracking and monitoring programs that are not needed.

USCA provided comments and testified before the U.S. International Trade Commission regarding an investigation into a U.S.- Trans-Pacific Partnership Free Trade Agreement USCA supported S.RES.452/ H.Res.1196- A resolution supporting increased market access for exports of United States beef and beef products to Japan. U.S. - Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. USCA opposed U.S. - Korea Free Trade Agreement. USCA supported USCA worked with Congress, office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide information that supports country of origin labeling at the World Trade Organization level.

USCA monitored H.R. 875. USCA was concerned about this bill's impact on U.S. farmers and ranchers. Certain provisions of this bill could impose undue government restrictions upon U.S. farmers and ranchers. USCA opposed H.R. 1549/S. 619 - the Preservation of Antbiotics for Medical Treatment Act bill removes valuable and proven medicines that farmers and ranchers rely on to keep their herds healthy. H.R.2749 - amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act - USCA monitored this bill to ensure FDA's role in livestock operations was not increased S.510 - amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act - USCA monitored this bill to ensure FDA's role in livestock operations was not increased

H.R.2892 - FY2010 Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill- USCA worked to prevent unsafe research from being conducted at the new National Bio- and Agro-defense Facility H.R.2997 - FY2010 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies - USCA worked to decrease funding for the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) H.R.2996 - FY2010 Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies - USCA supported exempting livestock operations from EPA methane emissions regulations.

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 S.337/H.R.1226 - the Foot and Mouth Prevention Act of 2009 prevents the USDA from implementing its proposed rule to incease meat imports from Argentina. USCA opposed S.727/H.R.503. 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 supported S.1062 - 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 supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supported S.1086- the Livestock Marketing Fairness Act amends Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921, to prohibit the use of certain anti-competitive forward contracts. USDA's National Animal Identification System (NAIS). USCA supported existing updating existing animal identification systems. USCA's opposed a national, privatized, animal identification system. USCA worked with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to update and upgrade management plans dealing with bovine tuberculosis, bovine brucellosis, and fever tick eradication. USCA provided information to the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding competition in the beef/cattle marketplace and strengthening antitrust laws.

USCA opposed H.R.1018- an amendment to the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. This amendment will lead to the expansion of the wild horse and burro populations at the expense of our natural resources and the ecological balance on both public and private lands, plus it will increase wasteful spending on tracking and monitoring programs that are not needed.

U.S. - Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. USCA opposed U.S. - Korea Free Trade Agreement. USCA supported

H.R.2892 - FY2010 Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill- USCA worked to prevent unsafe research from being conducted at the new National Bio- and Agro-defense Facility H.R.2997 - FY2010 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies - USCA worked to decrease funding for the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) H.R.2996 - FY2010 Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies - USCA supported exempting livestock operations from EPA methane emissions regulations.

USCA opposed H.R.1018- an amendment to the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. This amendment will lead to the expansion of the wild horse and burro populations at the expense of our natural resources and the ecological balance on both public and private lands, plus it will increase wasteful spending on tracking and monitoring programs that are not needed.

USCA monitored H.R. 2454 the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 and S. 1733 the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act

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 S.337/H.R.1226 - the Foot and Mouth Prevention Act of 2009 prevents the USDA from implementing its proposed rule to incease meat imports from Argentina. USCA opposed S.727/H.R.503. 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 supported S.1062 - 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 supported strengthening antitrust laws and ensuring fair market competition. Congress needs to increase market transparency by addressing captive supply contracts, mandatory price reporting, and packer ownership of cattle. USCA supported S.1086- the Livestock Marketing Fairness Act amends Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921, to prohibit the use of certain anti-competitive forward contracts. USDA's National Animal Identification System (NAIS). USCA supported existing updating existing animal identification systems. USCA's opposed a national, privatized, animal identification system.

USCA opposed H.R.1018- an amendment to the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. This amendment will lead to the expansion of the wild horse and burro populations at the expense of our natural resources and the ecological balance on both public and private lands, plus it will increase wasteful spending on tracking and monitoring programs that are not needed.

USCA supported the reintroduction of the Judgment Evading Foreign States Accountability Act (JEFSA). The legislation encourages economic accountability for nations to deal fairly with creditors.

USCA opposed S. 787 -the Clean Water Restoration Act- this will likely result of a change in statute for producers and create a considerably greater exposure to regulatory pressure with little corresponding resource or social benefit. USCA supported S.527/H.R. 1426- this amends the Clean Air act to prohibit the issuance of permits under title V of that Act for certain emissions from agricultural production USCA monitored the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009

USCA expressed concern for the protocol for which the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) efforts to register emissions from confinded feeding opertions. USCA was also concerned with the EPA's plan to regulate air quality specifically coarse air particulates.

USCA monitored H.R. 875. USCA was concerned about this bill's impact on U.S. farmers and ranchers. Certain provisions of this bill could impose undue government restrictions upon U.S. farmers and ranchers. USCA opposed H.R. 1549/S. 619 - the Preservation of Antbiotics for Medical Treatment Act bill removes valuable and proven medicines that farmers and ranchers rely on to keep their herds healthy.

U.S. - Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. USCA opposed U.S. - Korea Free Trade Agreement. USCA supported

USCA supported increased funding to upgrade the Plum Island Animal Disease Center. USCA opposed the proposed National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NABF) in Manahattan, Kansas.