Increase in Plant Genome Funding Approved by Senate Committee, NCGA Notes (7-18-06)

The plant genome initiative got a boost in funding through Senate Appropriations Committee approval last week of the Senate Commerce, Justice, and Science (CJS) appropriations bill for fiscal year (FY) 2007. The plant genome initiative is the leading source of funding for the effort to sequence the corn genome and applications of the research. The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) notes this is a significant step forward in providing new products valuable to corn growers.

The Senate Appropriations Committee approved $51.2 billion for the CJS appropriations bill for FY 2007. Of that, the National Science Foundation receives $5.99 billion – $410 million above the FY 2006 enacted level.

The committee recommended $101 million for the plant genome research program, an increase of $2 million.
 
“We are extremely pleased that the Senate Appropriations Committee has recognized the importance of continuing the plant genome initiative and increased the funding levels,” said Pam Johnson, NCGA Research and Business Development Action Team. “Sequencing and continued research into corn genetics will inevitably pave the way for improved traits, and the understanding of traits that will enhance corn’s position as the ideal crop for food, feed, fuel and other use.”

Johnson added that improved traits will benefit corn growers and the global marketplace.
 
The House Appropriations Committee approved its version of the FY 2007 CJS bill in June; however, the bill did not designate funding amounts for specific research initiatives.

The appropriations bill awaits full Senate action.