Statement by Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman  on the Republican Budget
Proposal -- March 29, 1999
                                
                                
                                
                                           Release No.  0138.99
                                
Statement
                               by
             Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman 
      on the Republican Budget Proposal -- March 29, 1999
                                   

     "The Republican majority in Congress has proposed a budget that would
move America backward, not forward, as we approach the new millennium.  

     "Their plan threatens the safety of the nation's food supply by forcing
the lay off or furlough of 1,000 meat and poultry inspectors.  Their plan
jeopardizes the health of more than 1.2 million low-income women, infants, and
children, who would lose WIC nutrition assistance.  Unwise Republican budget
cuts could deny access for 186,000 low-income rural residents to safe and
dependable water and sewer systems.  Their plan threatens vital new or
repaired housing for nearly 18,000 low-income rural family members.  And their
plan would force significant cuts in key environmental restoration projects
and recreational opportunities in America's treasured national forests.

     "Perhaps most troubling to me is the impact of this budget proposal on
USDA's ability to assist American farmers during a time of great need.  The
Republican plan would reduce by 16 percent the local USDA staff who help
farmers obtain the loans often needed simply to survive.  

     "I urge Congress to heed President Clinton's warnings and reconsider
this dangerous budget plan.  Americans deserve better."  

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