Newhouse Reacts to Proposed USDA Budget

In his recent proposed budget, President Trump suggested a 21%, or $4.7 billion, cut for USDA.

"It’s a beginning point, so I don’t want to cause alarm in ag country that these are going to be the final numbers by any means," said Representative Dan Newhouse.  "It’s a starting point and there will be an awful lot of debate and discussion prior to adopting any final numbers”

Newhouse noted he is concerned that the USDA Water and Waste Disposal Program will be zeroed out.  He added the reductions for WIC are relatively small.  But on the positive side the he’s encouraged by the proposed spending for the Forest Service.

“The Fire Suppression Fund actually is slated to be fully funded which is a great thing, it’s something we’ve been working towards but it comes at a cost to other Forest Service programs that are less essential.”

Newhouse added there was a statement of general support for the Agricultural Research Service.

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