News

Legislation to give farmers a voice in regulations

Bipartisan legislation has been introduced that would make sure U.S. farmers are represented in the decision making process for environmental policies and regulations that could impact U.S. agriculture.

The Representation for Farmers Act, introduced by Indiana Senator Richard Lugar and Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar would give the Secretary of Agriculture the authority to appoint up to three members with agricultural backgrounds to the EPA’s Science Advisory Board.

“Regulatory actions taken by the EPA can have significant impacts on farmers of all sizes. The ability of our nation’s farms to continue to safely produce an abundant food supply is imperative, and I believe this bill will improve the regulatory decision-making process,” Lugar said.

Indiana Congressman Marlin Stutzman and Iowa Congressman Bruce Braley have introduced the companion bill in the U.S. House.

The legislation has been endorsed by the National Farmers Union, American Farm Bureau, National Corn Growers Association, National Wheat Growers Association, National Milk Producers Federation, and National Council of Farmer Cooperatives.