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Cattlemen on Affordable Food and Fuel for America Act

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[5]Gary Voogt, NCBA President
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association [6]

“The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) commends Representatives Joseph Crowley (D-NY) and Mary Bono Mack (R-CA) for introducing critical legislation to level the playing field for corn supplies. “The Affordable Food and Fuel for America Act will phase out government support for corn-based ethanol over five years and encourage the commercial development of second generation biofuels.

“After 30 years of support, corn-based ethanol is still reliant on government support to be commercially viable.  It is time to allow it to compete on a level playing field, and to stop propping up one industry at the expense of another.

“Since January of 2008, cattle feeders have lost a record $5.2 billion in equity due to high feed costs and economic factors which have negatively affected beef demand. According to the United States Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service, in 2008, feed costs for livestock, poultry and dairy reached a record high of $45.2 billion – an increase of more than $7 billion over 2007 costs. Yet farm gate cattle and calf receipts have essentially remained flat, at between $49 and $50.2 billion during the past five years.

“Soaring feed costs and government payments to the ethanol industry are hurting small businesses and family ranches. Cattle producers don’t ask for subsidies, just equal footing.

“The legislation introduced by Representatives Crowley and Mack allows for a market-based approach to our nation’s competing demands for corn, and helps us meet both our food and fuel needs.”

Gary Voogt is a rancher from Marne, Mich. and President of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

### The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has represented America’s cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy.  As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef.  Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or [email protected].