Bill protecting Wisconsin farmers from economic loss introduced at capitol

MADISON, Wis (CIVIC MEDIA) – A bill that seeks to protect Wisconsin farmers from trade disruptions and bolster food security was introduced by legislators Thursday.

According to a Wisconsin Legislature news release, bill LRB-3414 aims to establish a $30 million Agricultural Purchase Program (APP) within the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). The proposal come after the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) redacted and delayed a report vital to predicting future economic conditions.

The APP would serve to provide demand for local food producers and reduce costs for Wisconsin families.

The bill was presented by Democratic Senator Brad Pfaff of Onalaska and Democratic Representative Jenna Jacobson of Oregon, respectively.

“At a time when Wisconsin’s farmers and their families are facing unprecedented economic uncertainty, our state cannot afford to stick its head in the sand and pretend that it’s business as usual for our $116 billion agricultural industry,” said Senator Pfaff in a statement.

“We must act now to provide critical support to Wisconsin’s essential agricultural sector and ensure food security for our most vulnerable families,” added Representative Jenna Jacobson.