Congressman Leonard Boswell, Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy and Poultry, held a hearing on September 25 to review advances in animal health, particularly the use of antimicrobials in the livestock industry.
The subcommittee heard testimony from Federal agency representatives responsible for animal and human health as well as representatives from animal health groups, the animal agriculture industry and academia. Testimony focused on how antimicrobials are used in animal agriculture and best management practices that help producers responsibly manage their use.
"It is clear from today’s hearing and the testimony of producers and veterinarians in the field, that antimicrobial use decreases mortality of animals, decreases disease, reduces cost of food and increases food safety," Chairman Boswell said. "I believe in science-based research. Healthy animals bring us healthy food, and science plays a huge role in that."
"Today, the subcommittee heard undeniable evidence supporting the judicious use of antimicrobials in animal agriculture. I hope that careful consideration is given to this record by those groups and individuals who are advocating arbitrary limitations on these vital animal health tools," said Subcommittee Ranking Member Robin Hayes.
Witness testimony is available on the Committee website: http://agriculture.house.gov/hearings/index.html. A full transcript of the hearing will be posted on the Committee website in 4-6 weeks.
Source: House Agriculture Committee Press Release