“The signing of the first-ever Iowa Farm Act is an important step forward for Iowa agriculture. I appreciate the strong support this legislation received from both Republicans and Democrats in the Iowa Legislature, as well as the leadership of Gov. Reynolds in getting this comprehensive bill across the finish line," said Secretary Naig. "The Iowa Farm Act reflects the priorities and feedback I’ve heard directly from farmers and rural communities across the state. It expands opportunities for Iowa agriculture, reduces unnecessary regulatory burdens, and helps strengthen the long-term vitality of rural Iowa. This legislation positions Iowa agriculture for continued growth and success while ensuring farmers have greater certainty and tools to plan for the future.”
About the Iowa Farm Act:
The Iowa Farm Act is the first-ever comprehensive agriculture policy package advanced by Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. The bipartisan legislation supports Iowa farmers, expands economic opportunities, strengthens rural communities, modernizes state government operations, and improves Iowa’s preparedness for animal disease outbreaks.
Key provisions in the final legislation include:
Expanding Economic Opportunities for Iowa Farmers
- Modernizes Iowa’s farm zoning exemptions to clarify that value-added processing, direct-to-consumer marketing, agritourism activities and events, and other farm-supporting operations are included under Iowa’s farm exemption.
- Strengthens Iowa’s agritourism framework by updating the definition of an agricultural experience to reduce regulatory barriers and encourage farms to welcome more visitors, customers, and educational opportunities.
Source : iowaagriculture.gov