New York Farm Bureau News Bytes: Episode #1 Summary

Title: Interview with Jeff Williams on NYFB's 2024 Priority Issues
Host: Steve Ammerman, Director of Communications, New York Farm Bureau
Guest: Jeff Williams, Director of Public Policy, New York Farm Bureau
Release Date: February 1, 2024

Introduction

In the inaugural episode of the new season of News Bytes, host Steve Ammerman engages in a comprehensive discussion with Jeff Williams, the Director of Public Policy at the New York Farm Bureau (NYFB). The conversation centers around NYFB's legislative priorities for 2024, the development process of these priorities, and their significance to New York's diverse agricultural community.

Setting the Stage: Legislative Priorities

Developing Member-Driven Priorities

Jeff Williams emphasizes that NYFB’s policy priorities are "100%" member-driven (00:51). These priorities reflect the collective interests and needs of New York farmers, ensuring that the Bureau's advocacy aligns with the real-world challenges faced in the field. The priorities are distilled into a focused list each year, typically ranging from five to ten key issues that serve as the backbone of NYFB’s public policy efforts.

Broad and Inclusive Agenda

Given the diversity within New York’s agricultural sector, the priorities must be broad in nature to encompass various sub-industries such as transportation, labor, and environmental concerns. Jeff notes, "We're a diverse industry, so they have to be. Absolutely." (01:44), highlighting the interconnectedness of farming issues across different domains.

Public Support for Agriculture

Positive Public Perception

A recent poll conducted in collaboration with Marist Poll revealed strong statewide support for agriculture. Jeff Williams shares, "80% of people in New York City think agriculture is important. We need to protect it." (02:20). This widespread appreciation across both rural and urban areas underscores the critical role of agriculture in New York's economy and community well-being.

Leveraging Poll Results

NYFB plans to utilize these poll results to advocate for agricultural protection at the legislative level, demonstrating that support for farming transcends geographic and demographic boundaries within the state.

Priority Issue #1: State Budget

Governor’s Budget Proposal

The top priority for NYFB in 2024 is the state budget, with particular attention to the governor's recent proposal. Jeff Williams describes the governor’s budget as the most substantial allocation for agriculture since his tenure at NYFB (03:23). Key allocations include:

• Promotion of Agricultural Products: Funding for marketing initiatives to boost New York’s agricultural visibility.
• Research and Development: Investments in animal health, vegetable research, maple research, and other scientific advancements to keep the industry competitive.
• Economic Development: Support for initiatives that foster growth and sustainability within the agricultural sector.

Environmental Protection Fund (EPF)

NYFB is a strong advocate for the Environmental Protection Fund, collaborating with environmental organizations to enhance water quality, farmland protection, and climate change mitigation. Jeff states, "They are boots on the ground to help farmers on a day in day out basis." (04:26).

Nourish New York and Healthy School Meals

Two significant budget items discussed are Nourish New York and Healthy School Meals for All:

• Nourish New York: Continuation of support for food banks to purchase state-produced agricultural products, addressing food insecurity while providing farmers with essential market outlets.
• Healthy School Meals: Expansion of New York-sourced products in school meals, ensuring that children receive nutritious food while supporting local agriculture.

Expanding Market Opportunities for Craft Beverage Makers

Current Challenges

NYFB is advocating for regulatory changes to allow farm breweries, cideries, and distilleries to ship directly to customers, a privilege currently afforded only to wineries. Jeff Williams explains the disparity, noting that while wineries can ship out of state, other craft beverage makers face significant "pushback from liquor stores and wholesalers" (06:13).

Legislative Efforts

The Bureau is actively working with Assembly Chair Donna Lepardo to amend laws that prevent craft beverage makers from shipping directly, aiming to create a level playing field and support small businesses within the agricultural sector.

Emerging Legislative Concerns

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act

The Extended Producer Responsibility Act poses potential disruptions to New York’s recycling system. Jeff Williams expresses relief that the governor did not include this in the current budget, citing concerns over:

• Involvement of Farmers and Small Producers: The bill would inadvertently include agricultural producers like dairy processors, increasing regulatory burdens.
• Practical Challenges: Implementing EPR on a statewide level could complicate existing recycling frameworks, disproportionately affecting non-major players in the industry.

Electrification and Climate Goals

The push for electrification to meet climate action goals is a significant concern for farmers. Jeff articulates the challenges, stating:

• Infrastructure Limitations: "We don't have the ability to transport enough renewable energy right now over the transmission lines to all these places," (09:35).
• Practicality of Implementation: Electrifying heavy machinery and ensuring reliable power sources during critical farming periods, such as harvest season, remains impractical with current technology and infrastructure.

Jeff emphasizes that the state’s deadlines for electrification are unrealistic, highlighting the need for more pragmatic and achievable goals that consider the logistical realities of farming operations.

Advocacy and Relationship Building

Continuous Advocacy Efforts

NYFB’s strategy involves constant presence and active engagement in legislative sessions. Jeff Williams outlines various activities:

• Lobby Days: Coordinated visits to Albany and Washington D.C. to meet with legislators and advocate for agricultural interests.
• Collaborative Events: Hosting receptions and legislative briefings to facilitate dialogue between farmers and policymakers.
• Urban Outreach: Trips to New York City to engage with urban legislators and discuss food security and local food initiatives.

Importance of Member Involvement

Jeff underscores the critical role of member participation in advocacy efforts. He asserts, "Legislators perk up so much when an actual farmer is in the room talking about what matters the most to them." (13:54). Direct testimonies from farmers reinforce the authenticity and urgency of NYFB’s policy positions.

Upcoming Events and Calls to Action

The episode highlights upcoming events, such as Lobby Day in Albany on March 4th and 5th, and a legislative reception in Washington D.C. for Senator Gillibrand. Members are encouraged to participate by registering through the NYFB website or contacting their county Farm Bureau representatives for more information.

Conclusion

The first episode of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes effectively sets the tone for the season by delving into the organization's legislative priorities and the strategic efforts to support and protect New York's agricultural community. With strong public support and a clear, member-driven agenda, NYFB aims to navigate the complex legislative landscape to secure a prosperous future for farmers across the state.

Key Takeaways:

• State Budget as Top Priority: Significant focus on securing and optimizing budget allocations for agriculture.
• Environmental and Market Initiatives: Advocacy for EPF funding, Nourish New York, and expanding market opportunities for craft beverage makers.
• Emerging Challenges: Addressing potential impacts of the EPR Act and the feasibility of electrification in farming.
• Active Advocacy: Emphasis on continuous engagement with legislators and encouraging member participation in advocacy events.

Stay Informed and Get Involved:

Listeners are encouraged to visit the NYFB website at nyfb.org under the Events section to register for Lobby Day or to utilize the Elobby feature to contact lawmakers directly. Active participation and vocal support from members are pivotal in advancing the priorities that sustain New York’s agricultural landscape.

Thank you for tuning into the first episode of New York Farm Bureau's News Bytes. Stay connected for future episodes where we continue to explore the vital issues shaping New York agriculture.