Senate Passes Two Farming Bills Co-Sponsored by Senator Bonacic

The New York State Senate yesterday passed two bills co-sponsored by Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I- Mt. Hope) that will provide economic relief and assistance to New York State farmers.                                   

The first bill passed, the “Repower New York Farms Act,” provides relief for farmers from the increasing costs of energy.  The bill (S3806B) reduces energy costs for farmers to promote a generation of independent farms powered by renewable energy.  The legislation lowers farmers’ utility bills and expands New York’s agricultural economy by reducing fees for farms that install renewable energy.  

“New York State is an agricultural leader.  Our local towns and businesses rely on our farmers.  We need to provide farmers economic relief so they can continue to invest in farming, reach our markets, and reinvest in our state.  This legislation helps farms be more energy independent, and cuts costs for farms who need that money for growth,” said Senator Bonacic.

In addition, Senator Bonacic co-sponsored legislation that passed in the New York State Senate yesterday that authorizes industrial development agencies (IDAs) to provide assistance to agricultural producers for products, grown, harvested or produced within the state.   The bill (S947) permits IDAs to issue loans and provide technical support to businesses that directly grow, harvest or collect agricultural products.  Under the current law, IDAs can only issue loans and provide technical support to manufacturers, processors and warehouses of agricultural products, but not directly to the growers.

“One of the hardest occupations is farming, and it is difficult for farmers to keep going.  It is important for us to keep this industry alive.  A stronger farming economy makes a stronger New York,” Senator Bonacic concluded.