Senate OKs $125 Billion USDA, FDA Budget

WASHINGTONThe U.S. Senate approved a $125 billion budget for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to increase funds for farm subsidies and food safety.

As reported by Bloomberg News, FDA spending would increase by 15 percent to $2.35 billion. Combined, the funds allotted for both agencies would increase 11 percent from the current fiscal year. The measure resembles the $123.8 billion bill passed by the House of Representatives on July 9. The Senate version outlines conditions under which a ban on cooked chicken imported from China may be lifted; the House legislation continues the ban.

The two versions of the budget will be reconciled by a House-Senate negotiating panel before a final plan can be submitted for another vote.