01/28/09 PETA'S proposition

A new administration will be running our nation and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is making sure its voice is heard early. I'm Jeff Keane; I'll be right back to tell you about it. The new administration has selected former Governor Tom Vilsack to be the next Secretary of Agriculture. Mr. Vilsack had his confirmation hearing with the Senate Ag Committee. But, even before that hearing People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and the Humane Society of the U.S. along with 113 other animal rights and vegan groups sent a letter to the nominee outlining their ideas. One of their propositions is to end the federal government's role in wildlife conflict management, disease prevention, and protection of livestock through the USDA's Wildlife Services. The letter read, "Halting the agency's 'lethal control' programs should be one of the nominee's first steps once he is confirmed as Secretary of Agriculture." I believe these groups are not so much worried about harm to wildlife as much as they would like to see animal agriculture suffer any extra losses that could be channeled its way. I also think the Secretary of Agriculture has a few more pressing issues to contemplate other than wildlife control procedures. PETA would also like for the new transition team to create National Food Policy Council and take away the USDA's control of the School Lunch Program and the Women's, Infants and Children program. We can only hope the new administration does not follow recommendations from radical groups. I'm Jeff Keane. ASI, 1/9 US Ag Net, 12/23/2008