For Immediate Release
February 18, 2009
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Brubaker Updates Crop Producers on State Agricultural Issues

HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania's number one industry was the focus of discussion yesterday as Senator Mike Brubaker (R-Lancaster) spoke to attendees at the 2nd Annual Professional Crop Producers' Conference at the Penn Stater Conference Center in State College.

Brubaker, who chairs the Senate Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee, gave participants an update on the governor's proposed agriculture budget for 2009-2010, and how the current economic crisis could impact spending on programs that are critical to farmers, members of agri-business and extension educators.

"Pennsylvania is facing a huge revenue shortfall, and every state program and service will be looked at carefully to determine how funding is allocated," Brubaker said. "It is crucial that we support our farmers, and agri-business, because they have such a direct link to job-creation and our economy. In the months ahead, we need to get the message out that agriculture plays a key role in this state's future, and is a wise investment in these tough economic times."

Brubaker availed himself to participants who wanted to offer direct input or questions regarding the effects of the General Fund Budget on agriculture in Pennsylvania.

He said there are major concerns about funding cuts proposed for agriculture in the state budget, particularly reductions in crop insurance and Conservation Districts. "All these programs are vital to our farming community and we need to do all that we can to ensure that appropriate consideration is given to these line items," Brubaker said.

"Agricultural issues are going to be in the forefront in the months ahead, particularly as we work to develop a balanced state budget by the end of June," Brubaker said. "I'm pleased that we have conferences such as this to talk about the issues, gain input from those in the agricultural industry and work together to support the programs and services that are such a great resource for our farmers."

CONTACT:

Kristin Crawford
(717)787-4420