Agriculture is the No. 1 industry in Pennsylvania. With over 49,000 farm families and more than 7.3 million acres of farmland, agriculture has helped create jobs, grow businesses, and provide food, fuel and fiber for the U.S. and countries around the world. Agriculture contributes $132.5 billion annually to Pennsylvania’s economy, supporting more than 593,000 jobs and paying wages of $32.8 billion.
Recognizing the importance of agriculture in Pennsylvania, this year’s state budget continued to fund key ag-related programs, including $34 million for agriculture preparedness and response to address costs related to the avian influenza outbreak or other crises affecting farms.
Funding for the “agricultural excellence” line item increased to $4.1 million with a portion directed toward the beef industry. The budget directed more than $26.6 million to the State Food Purchase Program, which helps counties purchase and distribute food to low-income individuals and families.
However, it is disheartening to note that Rep. Leslie Rossi, after voting no on this bill, announced and praised the bill in her recent newsletter; duplicity at its finest. She also voted no on the Agricultural Innovation legislation HB 2310 that was signed by the governor. We need representatives who genuinely advocate for our farmers, not those who just take credit for bills they did not support.
Vote for Margie Zelenak for House District 59. She will truly stand by the constituents of the district.
Jeanne Smith
Greensburg