The Assembly Committee on Agriculture has advanced multiple pieces of legislation. They address land ownership, agricultural innovation, farmer protections, and food and feed standards.
On Jan. 8 and 14, the committee held executive sessions and voted to advance several bills. These measures, which are now available for scheduling on the Assembly floor, include:
- AB 30, prohibiting foreign adversaries from acquiring agricultural or forestry land in Wisconsin, strengthening food security, and protecting vital state resources.
- AB 31, relating to the repair and replacement of implements of husbandry under warranty to ensure clarity and fairness for farmers and equipment owners.
- AB 93, updating the distribution and labeling requirements for fertilizers and soil or plant additives produced from manure.
- AB 411, creating a farmland link program to connect landowners with beginning farmers and support farm transitions.
On Jan. 14, the committee also held a public hearing on:
- AB 664, relating to serving margarine as a substitute for butter in certain circumstances.
- AB 363, establishing a dairy cattle innovation program to support research, modernization, and competitiveness in Wisconsin’s dairy industry.
- AB 218, addressing limitations on the ownership of real property in Wisconsin by foreign persons.
Some may be scheduled for executive votes in the coming weeks.
“The Assembly Agriculture Committee continues to work in a bipartisan manner to address the needs of Wisconsin agriculture,” says Chair Rep. Travis Tranel.
Stakeholders are encouraged to remain engaged in the process. Those with questions or insights into agricultural issues are welcome to reach out with ideas the committee should consider as work continues: https://legis.wisconsin.gov/assembly/49/tranel/.
“The agricultural community has a strong voice in Wisconsin, and it is very important that farmers stay engaged,” Tranel adds.
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