Issue Position: Agriculture

Issue Position

"Vermont's agrarian way of life has been central to the state's identity since its founding. As family farmers face unprecedented challenges, it is vital to our economy, our landscape, our sense of place and our culture that we do all we can to help them succeed. I will continue to fight for fair milk prices to help struggling dairy farmers compete, nutrition programs that keep children healthy while supporting local food production and renewable energy innovations that will bring new revenue to farms. "

Congressman Welch:

*Worked with Senators Leahy and Sanders to increase emergency Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) support for Vermont's family farmers at the height of the 2009 price crisis.

*Introduced the Dairy Price Stabilization Program Act (H.R. 5288), a long-term plan to reduce price volatility in the dairy industry and ensure the survival of Vermont's farms.

*In July 2009, co-founded the Congressional Dairy Farmer Caucus, which has grown to 100 members and become a leading voice for dairy farmers.

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