FORT WORTH, Texas, Aug. 7, 2008 -- Statement by TSCRA President Jon Means, Van Horn, Texas

"We are extremely disappointed with EPA’s decision today to deny the request by Governor Perry to waive a portion of the renewable fuel standard (RFS).

"This decision by EPA clearly demonstrates a lack of understanding of how the RFS contributes to high grain costs, which are severely impacting our industry in a negative way.  It also shows that the federal government is willing to continue putting food and fuel in competition with one another, which is a dangerous gamble.

"TSCRA appreciates the leadership that Governor Perry showed in trying to provide relief to the livestock industry across the nation.

"We look forward to working on the passage of federal legislation that will correct these artificial market supports and put cattle raisers back on a level playing field."

Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association is a 131-year-old trade organization whose 15,000 members manage approximately 4 million cattle on 51.5 million acres of range and pasture land, primarily in Texas and Oklahoma. TSCRA provides law enforcement services, livestock inspection, legislative and regulatory advocacy, and education opportunities for its members.