The Department of Labor received thousands of comments raising concern about the proposed rule regarding youth in agriculture – and the decision to withdraw that rule receives applause from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, House Ag Chair Frank Lucas, Senator Mike Johanns of Nebraska and Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa. Grassley and Johanns say the Obama Administration and the Labor Department came to their senses in rethinking regulations they say would have been devastating to farm families across the country. NCBA President J.D. Alexander agrees – saying the rule would have prevented the next generation of farmers and ranchers from acquiring skills and passion for a noble profession and restricted urban kids from acquiring a solid work ethic and enthusiasm for agriculture. Alexander says the withdrawal is a victory for farm and ranch families throughout the country. AFBF appreciates the announcement – which President Bob Stallman says shows the strength of American agriculture and grassroots action. The National Farmers Union did support elements of the rule – but says education is a positive approach to this issue.