Congratulating Growmark's Chuck Spencer on His Retirement

Floor Speech

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Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Chuck Spencer on the occasion of his retirement following more than 40 years of distinguished service to Illinois agriculture through the Illinois Farm Bureau and the GROWMARK Cooperative System.

During his tenure with the Illinois Farm Bureau, Chuck served as Associate Director of State Legislation, where he contributed to the successful passage of the Illinois Livestock Management Facilities Act. He later served as Director of National Legislation and Policy Development, where he led negotiations supporting passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and the implementation of the Renewable Fuel Standard.

At GROWMARK, Chuck continued his tireless advocacy on behalf of agricultural cooperatives and farmer-owners. He worked with a team that successfully made Section 199A of the federal tax code permanent, protecting the ability of cooperatives to return patronage benefits to farmer-owners without facing an unfair tax increase.

Chuck also served on the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives Government Affairs Committee, including as its chairman. Additionally, he contributed to legislative committees for the American Seed Trade Association, CropLife America, the Agricultural Retailers Association, The Fertilizer Institute, Fertilizer Canada, and the Ontario Agri Business Association.

Chuck's leadership, policy expertise, and commitment to agriculture have made a lasting impact on farmers, cooperatives, and rural communities throughout Illinois and across the country. I congratulate Chuck on his well-earned retirement and wish him and his family all the best in the years ahead.

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