By SPA
Washington : U.S, President George W. Bush warned Wednesday that he would veto any farm bill that raises taxes or does not include reforms of some agricultural programs.
Bush spoke at the Agriculture Department, which is in the midst of contentious negotiations with Congress on a five-year $286 billion bill passed by both chambers of the legislature. In veto threats issued last year, Bush administration officials argued the bill lacks reforms, spends too much money, and raises taxes.
“Ed (Schafer) is going to work with members of both [political] parties on a bill that spends the people’s money wisely, doesn’t raise taxes, reforms and tightens subsidy payments—a farm bill that will benefit the entire economy,” Bush said at the swearing-in ceremony for former North Dakota Governor Ed Schafer, who is taking over the department.
“I’m confident we can come together to get a good farm bill, but if Congress sends me legislation that raises taxes or does not make needed reforms, I’m going to veto it,” the U.S. president said.
Bush nominated Schafer in October to replace Mike Johanns, who left the agriculture post to run for the Senate.