Three Ag Bills Re-Introduced

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Congressman Bill Owens

A northern New York Congressman is re-introducing three farming related bills that had been proposed in the previous session of Congress. The bills were part of the 2012 Farm Bill, which has yet to be passed by the U.S. House.

Democratic Congressman Bill Owens is submitting the legislation as free-standing bills. They would exempt bulk shipments of apples to Canada from inspection under the Apple Export Act, enhance research, promotion and sustainability of the maple industry and extend loan qualifications through the Farm Service Agency.

The New York Farm Bureau has supported all three measures. Spokesman Steve Ammerman explains they would provide needed resources to the state’s agricultural community.

Steve Ammerman explains that the Agricultural Credit Expansion proposal would allow the Farm Service Agency to keep pace with modern farm business models.

Congressman Owens is introducing the bills to assure they are part of 2013 Farm Bill discussions.

Congressman Owens says the three proposals would result in no, or minimal, taxpayer costs.