Senate Passes Bill to Connect Local Farmers with More Economic Resources

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, (R-C-I, Elma) says the State Senate has passed legislation to help provide additional economic development resources so that more New York farmers can succeed and create jobs. The bill (S2250), co-sponsored by Senator Gallivan, allows Industrial Development Agencies (IDAs) to expand their support of New York’s agricultural economy by making technical and financial assistance available to farmers.

“We need to do all we can to support business in New York State, including our farmers,” Gallivan said.  “IDA’s have an opportunity to provide farmers and those directly associated with growing the food we depend on with the support they need to succeed.” 

Under current law, IDAs can issue loans and provide technical support to manufacturers, processors, and those that warehouse agricultural products but not to those businesses that directly grow, harvest, or collect agricultural products.

Expanding the authorization of already existing IDAs - many of which are located in rural areas of Western New York - will help promote job growth in industries such as fruit cultivation, raising of beef and other animals, and additional agricultural pursuits.

This legislation continues the Senate’s commitment to keeping New York’s agriculture industry thriving. Earlier this month, Senator Gallivan and his colleagues unveiled their 2016 ‘Planting Seeds’ initiative which builds upon key elements of the successful Young Farmers and Grown in New York programs. It would: restore funding to 40 agricultural programs that were cut in the 2016-17 Executive Budget; provide research, education, and marketing assistance; create new tax and regulatory relief; advance initiatives to expand markets, promote quality, and increase food safety; and create job opportunities for veterans and others interested in farming.

The bill will be sent to the Assembly.

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