The budget deficit is taking its toll on agriculture programs.

The House Appropriations Committee approved a spending bill last night that includes major cuts to food safety and nutrition programs, as well as an amendment that would end direct farm payments for those with adjusted gross income over $250,000 per year.

The appropriations bill also includes cuts in research, food aid, conservation and renewable energy programs. While the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) received $1.3 million, the Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP) was eliminated from the fiscal year 2012 appropriations bill, despite pleas from a variety of agriculture, biofuels and even environmental organizations.

Other funding cuts in the bill made some agricultural producers happy. Several livestock organizations, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and the National Turkey Federation (NTF), are pleased with the appropriations bill because it prevents USDA from implementing its controversial Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) proposal to regulate livestock and poultry marketing.

“This is the first step in preventing an unprecedented government invasion into the private marketplace. Big government has invaded banking, healthcare and more. The last thing we need is the federal government setting up shop on cattle ranches throughout the country,” said NCBA President Bill Donald of Montana.

The bill now goes to the full House for a vote but is likely to change substantially in the Senate.