Tom Knox Releases First Agricultural Policy Paper of 2010 Gubernatorial Election

By KNOX FOR GOVERNOR

PENNSYLVANIA-January 06, 2010, Democratic Gubernatorial Candidate Tom Knox became the first candidate to issue a detailed policy position paper describing agriculture priorities for his administration. “Pennsylvania is a world leader in the production, processing and distribution of agricultural products, and it is the family farmer that is the main component in this economic engine,” observed Knox.

“Pennsylvania agriculture is not just an important economic engine; it is also a “way of life” for many farming families in the state. The family farm remains a central part of many state communities. Farming, as a way of life, permits families to spend time working together and underscores the importance and value of planning, hard work, character, and caretaking.”

“As Governor, I intend to pursue policies to protect the economic viability of family farms by providing affordable risk management tools, technical and educational support, animal husbandry assistance, and practical solutions to “pocket-book” issues that increase farming costs. It is my belief that state government can be particularly effective in promoting the market development of Pennsylvania’s agricultural products”

“As Governor, in consultation with the Center for Dairy Excellence and the Pennsylvania Dairy Task Force, I will initiate an administrative review of the decisions of the Milk Marketing Board, including without limitation, a study of the allocation and distribution of dairy revenue and develop recommendations for policy and legislative changes intended to ensure state policy reflects a strong commitment to the economic viability of dairy farms”

“As Governor, I would support increasing the Commonwealth’s commitment to crop insurance assistance by $2 million over the next three years – with the goal of providing a total funding level of $2.6 million”

Tom Knox has also called for:

* Expansion of the Farm-to-School Initiative which pairs local food producers with public schools to provide fresh locally grown fruits, vegetables and dairy products for school lunch programs.

* Expanding community college agriculture career training opportunities by directing state resources to community colleges that provide a 2 year associates degree program in production agriculture management, horticulture and agriculture related vocations, such as vet-assistants and technicians.

* Promotion of policies and initiatives to benefit rural electric cooperatives and provide for sustaining electric rate reductions to ensure family farmers are able to afford electric costs associated with farming operations.

To read the complete agricultural policy paper please click the link below

Agriculture Policy Paper

###

pa2010.com publishes press releases, statements and other information from campaigns and political committees. We also publish legislative releases from candidates considering higher office in 2010 and from incumbents holding those offices. E-mail releases to press@pa2010.com.