Stay up-to-date on what bills Wisconsin Farm Bureau is watching on the state and federal level.
State Issues
This legislation authorizes DATCP to establish a hemp pilot program to study the growth, cultivation and marketing of industrial hemp. Visit the DATCP site to learn more about the emergency rules and how to access grower and processor applications.
These are new rules that aim to protect groundwater in sensitive areas, specifically areas that have Silurian bedrock. These rules place new restrictions on manure spreading in the areas identified as having porous bedrock that makes surface waters vulnerable to runoff pollution from manure.
This wetland reform measure will make it more practicable to develop property that may be adjacent to wetlands that aren’t designated as rare or high quality. In particular, it impacts farmers that may need to fill or move artificial, or man-made, wetlands surrounding their buildings or driveways.
Federal Issues
The farm bill is a multi-year piece of legislation that governs a variety of agricultural and food programs. These programs range from commodity price support to agricultural conservation to food aid and nutrition assistance.
Farmers need a reliable, skilled workforce. Congress needs to pass responsible immigration reform that addresses the current workforce and provides flexibility in a new guest worker program.
Trade is essential to the success of American farmers. Farm Bureau supports strengthening and establishing fair trade agreements with counties around the globe. Any negations should protect agricultural trade and work while removing burdensome barriers.
