Scrapie Action Update Governor's Response

Dear VICFA members and supporters,
 
On September 23, Governor Kaine sent an email response (posted below) to those who wrote about the scrapie regs.  Evidently, from his email, the Governor is not receiving correct information nor information from both sides.  It is important that he hear the facts and that he hear from both sides.  VICFA is again requesting an audience with the Governor.  We need everyone to write and call supporting this request. 

We are having an effect, but it's not over. They could still sweep us under the rug so we must stay with this.  Please continue with the same passion you have had throughout this entire business.  It's working!
 
ACTION:  Please CALL and EMAIL Governor Kaine and request that he meet with representatives of VICFA about 2VAC5-206, Regulation for Scrapie Eradication. 

Governor Tim Kaine:
Email (form)
http://www.governor.virginia.gov/AboutTheGovernor/contactGovernor.cfm
Phone: (804) 786-2211
Fax: (804) 371-6351
NOTE: On the email form please include your address and phone number so they know you are in VIrginia!

Questions: Contact Christine Solem 434.973.6505

Yours for food freedom,
Deborah Stockton, Editor
VICFA Voice
[email protected]
http://www.VICFA.net

Virginia Independent Consumers and Farmers Association Our purpose is to promote and preserve unregulated direct farmer-to-consumer trade that fosters availability of locally grown or home-produced food products.

Email response from Gov. Kaine on the scrapie regs:
Dear ---------:
 
Thank you for your email regarding the Virginia Department of Agriculture
and Consumer Services regulation on the eradication of scrapie.  This
regulation is designed to meet the minimum requirements established by
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations on scrapie
eradication.  The USDA has allowed Virginia to maintain a compliant status
contingent upon the final adoption of this regulation.
 
It is my understanding that VDACS officials are consulting with USDA to
determine if any changes can be made to satisfy the concerns that were
voiced at the Joint Commission's hearing.  Any changes made in this
regulation will be contingent on whether or not USDA finds Virginia to be in
compliance with federal requirements.  Without this designation, thousands
of Virginia farmers will not be able to continue their sheep and goat
operations because of interstate import and export restrictions.
 
Again, I appreciate your input. Please do not hesitate to contact my office
in the future.
 
Sincerely,
Governor Timothy M. Kaine