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Staying engaged in policy issues impacting the ag industry

A leader with Agricultural Retailers Association is encouraging members to remain engaged in policy issues that could have a ripple effect through the industry.

Richard Gupton is the senior vice president of public policy and counsel.

“There’s a lot of things going on that the industry needs to be aware of and actively engaged in. If you’re not actively involved with the administration or with your state, local, and federal officials then they’re going to have a lot of changes impacting your business operations and your customers without much of your input,” he says. “We encourage our members to get engaged. Those that are sitting on the sidelines are still going to be impacted and they need to get involved as well.”

He uses the example of recent action the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency took in granting two waivers in California for regulations relating to heavy duty vehicles and engines. This could clear the way for the state to carry out its plan to phase out diesel-powered trucks by 2035.    

“This is concerning because California is a large state, and it can have a cascading effect and impact other states. We think that those types of waivers that have an adverse impact on the nation and economy is the wrong way to go because the technology is not there for diesel trucks or farm equipment,” he says.

Gupton says the 2023 Farm Bill will also continue to be a big topic of interest.    

The Agricultural Retailers Association advocates, influences, educates and provides services to support sellers of seeds, nutrients, crop protection products, farm equipment, precision technology, and agronomic services.