|
May 7, 1999 Newly Created family Farm Caucus Sets Priorities A bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Speaker Pro Tem Jim Kreider, D-Nixa, and Speaker Steve Gaw, D-Moberly, has joined forces to form the Missouri Family Farm Caucus. The 68 member caucus will focus its attention helping Missouri`s small farmers and promoting various agricultural issues. The caucus is compromised of 68 House members and is co-chaired by Rep. David Klindt, R-Bethany, and Rep. Maurice Lawson, D-St.Joseph. "I am proud to be a founding member and a sponsor of two of the leading farm bills this session," stated Rep. Kreider. "I believe now is the time to step in and give some much needed assistance to family farmers. After all, they are the backbone of our economy." The caucus` legislative priorities include legislation authorizing a New Generation Co-op Program (HB 888) and a bill that enables Missouri to join the Southern Dairy Compact (HB 541). The New Generation Co-op Program will provide tax incentives for agricultural producers in order to increase the value of the products sold. In addition, the legislation contains a provision requiring meat packers to report the prices they pay to livestock producers. The Southern Dairy Compact legislation is designed to stabilize milk prices for Missouri`s dairy industry. "Consumers, as well as farm families, will suffer if something isn`t done to address these monopolistic markets," said Rep. Kreider. "The monopolies have created the lowest prices since the Great Depression." Both pieces of legislation are awaiting approval from the Missouri Senate. | |||||
Paid for by Kreider for Senator.
Bobby Neal Jr., Treasurer. Not at taxpayer's expense.
Back To Main Press Release Menu