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offers a continued commitment of time and efforts by the seed industry to meet its mandate of 

 providing new and improved seed varieties. 



As a final note, Mr. Chairman, ASTA is mindful that the Senate conducted a similar 

 hearing last September and appears to be moving forward with its own measure, S. 1406. Since 

 September, however, a number of changes have occurred, and Senator Kerrey, by way of a 

 substitute measure has consolidated a number of additions and clarifications which came about 

 by way of continuing negotiations and dialogues with all affected parties. At this time, I would 

 respectfully urge you and the members of the full committee to carefully review the substitute 

 language and incorporate those changes into the final package. They reflect a good deal of hard 

 work and honest discussions with affected parties. 



Thank you very much for this opportunity to be with you today. The ASTA remains 

 committed to offering insight and technical expertise to the Congress on measures that affect 

 American agriculture and, in particular, the seed industry. Our mission as an Association is to 

 foster relationships and to represent to the very best of our ability the intentions and historical 

 success of seed companies belonging to the ASTA. Our contributions collectively have been 

 many, and with the passage of S. 1406 and H.R. 2927, I believe our ability to serve American 

 agriculture will be greatly enhanced. Our ability to continue this mission is made easier because 

 the Administration and Congress believe in intellectual property rights and believe that American 

 agriculture and U.S. policy, in general, is served well by the principles found in H.R. 2927 and 

 the 1991 UPOV Convention. 



I look forward to answering any questions that you and the subcommittee may care to 

 pose. 



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