Issue Position: Agriculture

Issue Position

Agriculture is a major economic driver in Upstate New York. Farming is not only a job creator - it is part of our community's heritage and future. As the co-chair of the Northeast Agriculture Caucus, the co-chair of the Congressional Organic Caucus, and a member of the Congressional Dairy Caucus, I am working to protect and create farm jobs in New York.

I partnered with Rep. Bill Owens (D-NY) to co-sponsor H.R. 874, the Agricultural Credit Expansion Act. The bill is supported by the New York Farm Bureau and expands eligibility for Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans, making more family farmers able to access credit. This bill does not create a new program or increase spending but simply modernizes the FSA loan program to keep pace with the modern business practices of many farmers.

I am also standing strong against federal policies that would harm New York agriculture. I voted to support the bipartisan Energy Tax Prevention Act. This bill prevents the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating greenhouse gases and implementing a cap-and-trade tax. Cap-and-trade would have a uniquely negative impact on New York and increase costs for farmers.

I am also working to make sure that farms in Upstate have access to a legal, reliable labor supply. Family farmers in New York are hardworking folks who want to continue producing quality products for our families and markets abroad while creating jobs in the process. I will continue to support them in that effort.

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