PAC Progress

PAC Progress:

STORIES TOLD ARE BUILDING A FOUNDATION

GreenStone’s outreach to legislators and partnering with other similarly minded agricultural organizations on legislative matters continues to bring focus on ensuring that the future of rural communities and agriculture, and the Farm Credit System is bright. Communicating this is an important responsibility of all members and it is built through the ongoing, positive and open conversations.

At the state level, in Michigan and Wisconsin, over 35 meetings have taken place with state Senators and Representatives at the capitol or out in the districts. Disbursements are also being completed to provide support to GreenStone customers running for the legislature this year. The majority of the meetings have focused on reconnecting GreenStone members and employees to the elected officials. In addition, the depth of expertise and care of Farm Credit members and lenders has been demonstrated. The Farm Credit PAC continues to support federal elected legislators both in Michigan and Wisconsin. Over 20 meetings have taken place with Senators and Representatives this year, both in state and in Washington, D.C. The discussion has centered around beginning the Farm Bill conversation and the need for it to provide a level of certainty for farmers and ranchers. Legislators recognize the importance of having a current Farm Bill because it could hamper the economic engine of agriculture. The House Agriculture Committee ranking member GT Thompson has also made a stop in Michigan and demonstrated he knows that the lack of a Farm Bill next year would likely result in rippling effects beyond rural communities. For GreenStone, we know the significant impact, and that is why we have engaged both urban and rural legislators to understand the issues of agricultural and rural communities. Our elected officials continue to express deep appreciation for support and recognize the great responsibility of representing rural communities and agriculture. They trust the relationships being built, and know that GreenStone can and will provide reliable grassroots information and resources. None of this could be done successfully without active engagement and your involvement is welcome. Thank you for helping build the voice of rural communities and agriculture! ■