ICGA Releases Top State and Federal Policy Priorities for 2019
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.
“Each year, ICGA members set a list of legislative priorities on both the state and federal levels by completing a policy survey, discussion at the roundtables, and adopting policy at the Grassroots Summit,” said ICGA President Curt Mether, a farmer from Logan. “ICGA provides several opportunities throughout the year to get engaged and voice your opinion on different issues.”
2019 ICGA state priorities, listed in alphabetical order:
- Conservation/Water Quality: Maintain legislative funding stream for Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy
- Ethanol: Obtain funding for renewable infrastructure cost-share program (RFIP)
- Livestock: Support existing regulatory framework for the livestock industry
- Research: Ag Extension and Diagnostic Lab funding
- Taxes: Protect critical tax credits (Section 179 and biofuels)
2019 ICGA federal priorities, listed in alphabetical order:
- Ethanol: Retain the Renewable Fuel Standard and reduce regulatory barriers for higher blends
- Risk Management: Protect crop insurance funding during the implementation and duration of the Farm Bill
- Trade: Expand new and protect existing bilateral and multilateral trade agreements
- Trade: Protect/expand funding for Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) during the implementation and duration of the Farm Bill
- Transportation Infrastructure: Maintenance and upgrades to our inland waterways system
“I urge all members to attend ICGA's Day on the Hill on January 22 and March 27 or visit with your local legislators to have your voice heard and to share your priorities with state policy makers,” stated Mether. “Finally, I encourage you to invite your family and neighbors to join ICGA, so we can continue to fight together for agriculture and reach our goal of 10,000 members. Your engagement and voice matter as that determines all our success.”
The complete 2019 ICGA policy resolution book is available at www.iowacorn.org/policybook or in hard copy for free upon request by emailing corninfo@iowacorn.org or calling 515-225-9242.
For More Information:
Brandi Snyder, Public Relations Manager, bsnyder@iowacorn.org, 515-225-9242