Jeff Bingaman: “I plan to vote for the conference report. Mr. President, I am pleased with the numerous provisions in this bill that…”

“I plan to vote for the conference report. Mr. President, I am pleased with the numerous provisions in this bill that help promote specialty crops like chile and pecans, conserve natural resources, invest in food and nutrition for children, increase production of advanced biofuels, promote broadband service in rural areas and provide fresh fruits and vegetables for schools. The bill includes the consensus language I support on country-of-origin labeling of meat and vegetables. I also appreciate the conferees including a provision authorizing a new Southwest Border Regional Commission. I originally introduced the Southwest Border Authority bill, which created this Commission, in 2002. I have been working since then with Senators Boxer, Feinstein, and Hutchison toward its passage. The new commission will give the Southwest border region the ability to coordinate economic activity and innovation.”