The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA), one of the most effective, longest-standing agricultural associations in the country, released today its final list of state and federal policy priorities for the upcoming year.
“The single most important thing we can do for our members is to support sound policy development,” said ICGA President Mark Recker, a farmer from Arlington. “Our dedicated members engage in policy development through member surveys, roundtable meetings, and our annual Grassroots Summit in establishing goals and guiding our priorities each year to aid in the success of the corn industry. I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish in the coming year.”
2018 ICGA state priorities, listed in alphabetical order:
- Conservation/Water Quality: Long term, increased funding for Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy
- Ethanol: Obtain funding for Iowa’s Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP)
- Reducing Regulation: Reduce regulatory barriers where possible
- Taxes: Full state coupling of the federal Section 179 small business expensing provision
- Taxes: Protect agriculture in comprehensive tax reform
2018 ICGA federal priorities, listed in alphabetical order:
- Ethanol: Retain the Renewable Fuel Standard
- Safety Net: Protect crop insurance funding as part of the 2018 Farm Bill
- Taxes: Protect agriculture in comprehensive tax reform
- Trade: Protect/expand funding for Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) as part of the 2018 Farm Bill
- Trade: Expand bilateral and multi-lateral trade agreements
“I encourage all members to join us at a ICGA Day on the Hill on January 16, March 21, or visit with your local legislators to have your voice heard and to share your priorities with state policy makers,” stated Recker. “Finally, if you are not a member of ICGA, I encourage you to join us today and get engaged on issues impacting your farm.”