11.20.2005

Wasn't there a big stink earlier in the year about quid-pro-quo being against the law?

WASHINGTON — An effort by Republican lawmakers to rein in spending on entitlement programs may bring new life to a federal subsidy program for dairy farmers.

Controversial cuts in social programs that the House approved 217-215 in the wee hours Friday morning do not address the dairy subsidy that expired Sept. 30.

But House Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Ill., promised moderate Republicans he would support its inclusion in upcoming negotiations with the Senate.

Rep. Thomas Petri, R-Fond du Lac, said he supported the bill only because of several changes, including Hastert's pledge to support reinstatement of the Milk Income Loss Contract Program.

Something to remember:

Rep. Mark Green, R-Hobart, also took credit, although he is a member of the Republican Study Committee that had sought even deeper spending cuts. Green is seeking his party's nomination for governor in Wisconsin.

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