For Third Year, Ritchie Is Named 'Friend' of N.y. Farmers

For the third year in a row, New York Farm Bureau has named State Senator Patty Ritchie to its “Circle of Friends,” a recognition given to legislators who are strong supporters of the agricultural industry in New York State.
 
“New York Farm Bureau is the voice of family farms across the Empire State. Being named one of their ‘Circle of Friends’ is a great honor for me,” said Senator Ritchie.
 
“I grew up on a farm. I know how important agriculture is to New York State’s economy. That’s why I have worked closely with Farm Bureau and farmers across Central and Northern New York to make Albany aware of what we need to do keep farms and agribusinesses growing.”
 
As Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee,  Senator Ritchie has championed efforts to repeal costly mandates affecting farmers, restore budget cuts to programs used by farmers, worked to preserve farm-saving programs, cut red tape and helped grow family farming in New York State.
 
In 2013, Senator Ritchie unveiled her comprehensive Grown in New York legislative program, increased funding for key agricultural programs and sponsored a two percent tax cap for farmland (S.1952) which passed both houses and awaits action by the Governor.
 
The award is presented to state legislators who “demonstrated that they understand the importance of agriculture to the people of their legislative district and how farming significantly impacts the economy of this great state,” said Dean Norton, President of New York Farm Bureau.  
 
Farm Bureau presents the awards each year based on legislators’ records showing their support of New York’s  family farms. Those who receive the recognition have demonstrated an understanding of the importance of agriculture in their legislative district, and how the industry impacts the economy and the future of New York State.