Broadcast Newsline: February 29, 2012
As part of a continuing effort to build a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that meets the evolving needs of a 21st century agricultural economy, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack informed Congress that in 90 days he plans to approve consolidation of 131 Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices with other USDA service centers, consistent with provisions of the 2008 Farm Bill.
This week's Cotton Newsline is 4 cuts.All cuts are Robbie Minnich, Senior Government Relations Representative for the National Cotton Council.
Suggested Introduction 1
As part of a continuing effort to build a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that meets the evolving needs of a 21st century agricultural economy, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack informed Congress that in 90 days he plans to approve consolidation of 131 Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices with other USDA service centers, consistent with provisions of the 2008 Farm Bill. Robbie Minnich, Senior Government Relations Representative for the National Cotton Council, says under the Blueprint for Stronger Service announced on January 9, Vilsack laid out USDA's plans to modernize and accelerate service delivery while improving the customer experience through use of innovative technologies and business solutions.
Suggested Introduction 2
Minnich says USDA followed two steps in identifying FSA offices to propose for closure.
Suggested Introduction 3
Minnich says FSA is striving to balance budget reductions, staff reductions, and increasing workloads while focusing the efforts of staff on continuing to provide high quality service from the remaining 2,113 office locations.
Suggested Introduction 4
Minnich points out that when fully implemented, these office consolidation actions, along with other recommended changes, will provide efficiencies valued at about $150 million annually.
