Iowa Poultry Association leaders are keeping a close eye on federal lawmakers as they consider USDA spending cuts. One proposal would chop $500 million from the budget, which could take away funding for Avian Influenza. Iowa State Poultry Association Executive Director Randy Olson says A-I has been devastating in the state and Congress needs to continue to provide the support needed to battle the disease.

Olson says both Iowa’s Congressional delegation and the Governor have been very supportive to the state’s poultry industry during this disaster.

Iowa officials are also waiting on the feds after Governor Terry Branstad requested a disaster declaration due to the bird flu.