The USDA hasn't changed the organizational structure of its trade-related office since 1978, the groups said in a letter sent last week to Reps. Frank Lucas (R-Oklahoma) and Collin Peterson (D-Minnesota), the chairman and ranking member, respectively, of the House Agriculture Committee.
Among the groups besides AFFI are the American Soybean Association and the National Chicken Council. They are suggesting Lucas and Peterson attach an amendment to the 2012 Farm Bill that would require a reorganization of "the trade-related agencies, programs and activities at USDA" and the establishment of an "under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs."
