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News
from Assemblyman 123th Assembly District Gary D. Finch
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE APRIL 18, 2007 CONTACT: (518) 455-5981 JOSHUA REAP
Finch Fights for Farming Legislation
As a member of the Agricultural Committee, Assemblyman Gary D. Finch (R,C –Springport) supported efforts to bring stalled legislation out of committee and to the Assembly floor for a vote. This legislation, called the Farmer Recruitment and Retention Act of 2007, provides measures that would maintain New York State’s number one industry – agriculture – through incentives for young farmers and researching methods to reduce taxation on the industry.
Assemblyman Finch has long supported efforts to assist the farming community, claiming that they are “the hardest working and most dedicated in our state.” Finch stated that this legislation would provide support for farmers by increasing interest in agriculture and assist young farmers who are just starting out.
The legislation includes measures that would: identify programs that encourage entry into the agricultural production business; provide educational assistance for individuals to learn new technologies and minimize operational costs; establish scholarships for students who agree to farm in the state for five years after graduation; and look for ways to reduce taxation on land used for farming.
Although Assembly Democrats blocked the procedure used to bring the bill to the floor (called a motion to discharge), Finch remains committed to providing help to farmers in the 123rd Assembly District and around the state.
“Farmers provide bountiful and safe foods for New Yorkers and people around the world,” Finch stated. “I believe it’s possible for the state to help grow the agricultural industry and ultimately the economy through assistance to farmers.”
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