THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF PENNSYLVANIA

HOUSE RESOLUTION

INTRODUCED BY MAHER, HANNA, M. KELLER, METZGAR, BROOKS, DENLINGER, HICKERNELL, MILLARD, PICKETT, RAPP AND S. H. SMITH, MAY 6, 2009

INTRODUCED AS NONCONTROVERSIAL RESOLUTION UNDER RULE 35, MAY 6, 2009  

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing the month of May 2009 as "Beef Month" in

Pennsylvania.

WHEREAS, The beef industry in Pennsylvania contributes $2

billion to the economy each year and is an integral part of our

leading industry, agriculture; and

WHEREAS, Beef producers in this Commonwealth are helping to

ensure a quality food supply for consumers through voluntary

quality assurance programs that help to ensure safe, nutritious

meat products; and

WHEREAS, This segment of the farm community plays a vital

role in keeping agricultural land in production by adopting

environmental practices that enhance the land and preserve its

viability for future generations; and

WHEREAS, Two of the largest United States beef packers are

located in this Commonwealth, accounting for more than 1 million

head of cattle, beef and dairy origin, harvested annually; and 

WHEREAS, Consumer demand for beef has been increasing

steadily in recent years due to the promotion, research and

education efforts paid for by beef producers through a $1

checkoff program for each animal sold; and

WHEREAS, Beef continues to be a safe, wholesome part of the

dinner and lunch menus in homes and restaurants across this

Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Pennsylvania's cattle industry is agile, committed

and responsive to animal and human health issues, assuring

producers and consumers alike that issues concerning food safety

and illness can be addressed promptly, professionally and

thoroughly; and 

WHEREAS, All beef produced under the PA Preferred Program is

certified by the Pennsylvania Beef Quality Assurance Program;

therefore be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the

month of May 2009 as "Beef Month" in Pennsylvania.