On Tuesday, the Iowa Senate passed the Iowa Farm Act by a vote of 47-0. An amendment, addressing economic development goals and authority, workforce development and the housing renewal program, was added to the bill and sent back to the House for debate. Earlier this month, the Iowa House of Representatives showed strong bi-partisan support for the legislation, passing the bill 81 to 8.
“I appreciate members of the Iowa Senate for their support in advancing the Iowa Farm Act with a strong bi-partisan vote," said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. "Thank you to Sen. Annette Sweeney and Sen. Tom Shipley for managing the bill through the process, Sen. Dawn Driscoll for her leadership of the Agriculture Committee, and Senate Majority Leader Mike Klimesh for his work to move this legislation forward. This comprehensive legislation reflects input from farmers and stakeholders across the state and includes real steps to strengthen Iowa’s agricultural economy and support rural communities. I’m encouraged to see the bill continue to move forward through the legislative process, and we hope to get a unified version to Gov. Reynolds for her signature soon.”
In January, Naig announced plans to introduce the Iowa Farm Act, a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive legislative package designed to support Iowa farmers, strengthen rural communities and position Iowa agriculture for long-term success. The legislation expands economic opportunities by supporting value-added agriculture, agritourism and new market access. It also provides targeted tax relief and regulatory clarity to reduce costs, promote fairness and support farm succession. The package invests in the next generation of agriculture by prioritizing beginning farmers and strengthening the rural veterinary workforce. Additionally, it enhances Iowa’s biosecurity and foreign animal disease preparedness while protecting farmer confidentiality during emergencies. Finally, the Iowa Farm Act modernizes state operations and improves efficiency to better serve farmers, agribusinesses, and rural communities.
The legislation, which reflects priorities raised directly by farmers, agribusinesses and stakeholders, is intended to provide practical, workable solutions across Iowa agriculture. Several state livestock associations have applauded the department's efforts, including the Iowa Pork Producers Association.
“The Iowa Farm Act strengthens Iowa’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to a foreign or major animal disease outbreak by improving coordination, expediting the deployment of equipment, and protecting producer confidentiality,” said Aaron Juergens, past president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association and a farmer from Carroll. “Iowa’s pig farmers are grateful for Secretary Naig’s leadership and appreciate the department’s commitment to building long-term resilience in agriculture by investing in the next generation of farmers and rural veterinarians through this legislation.”
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