Kelly, Thompson Lead Introduction of The Supporting Innovation in Agriculture Act
The agriculture industry is taking a significant step forward with the introduction of the bipartisan Supporting Innovation in Agriculture Act (H.R. 9263). This legislation, introduced by U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Mike Thompson (D-CA), and a bipartisan group of colleagues, aims to boost innovation in farming by providing tax incentives to specialty crop producers. …
The agriculture industry is taking a significant step forward with the introduction of the bipartisan Supporting Innovation in Agriculture Act (H.R. 9263). This legislation, introduced by U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Mike Thompson (D-CA), and a bipartisan group of colleagues, aims to boost innovation in farming by providing tax incentives to specialty crop producers. The bill is designed to help farmers adopt cutting-edge technologies, enhancing both productivity and sustainability in U.S. agriculture.
Key Benefits of the Act
As agriculture remains a critical economic driver in states like Pennsylvania and California, the Supporting Innovation in Agriculture Act focuses on the long-term success of specialty crop producers. By offering a 10-year investment tax credit, the bill helps alleviate the high upfront costs associated with implementing precision agriculture and controlled environment agriculture technologies. These innovations can increase the domestic production of fruits, vegetables, and other specialty crops, while improving supply chain resilience, environmental sustainability, and food affordability for consumers.
Rep. Kelly emphasized the importance of the bill for Pennsylvania’s agricultural economy, which supports one out of every ten jobs in the state. “The Supporting Innovation in Agriculture Act will allow for farmers and agricultural leaders to not only succeed today but also to harness innovative technologies to ensure future success,” Kelly said.
Rep. Thompson echoed this sentiment, noting the crucial role specialty crop producers play in California’s economy. “These tax incentives will help bolster our specialty crop industry, keeping our farmers competitive on the world stage,” he stated.
A Bipartisan Effort to Strengthen the Food Supply
The bill has drawn widespread support from various industry leaders and organizations. Tom Stenzel, Executive Director of the CEA Alliance, praised the legislation for filling a critical policy gap. “It ensures that producers can leverage innovative technologies to grow more with less,” he remarked. Ted McKinney, CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, added that the bill will help strengthen fresh food supply chains by enabling producers to grow more food with fewer resources.
This new legislation comes at a time when the U.S. food supply faces mounting challenges, including supply chain disruptions, extreme weather conditions, and rising import pressures. By encouraging the use of advanced farming technologies, the Supporting Innovation in Agriculture Act aims to safeguard domestic food production, improve sustainability, and reduce reliance on imports.
Broad Support Across the Industry
The Supporting Innovation in Agriculture Act has gained the backing of over 50 national and state organizations, including the International Fresh Produce Association and the Agricultural Retailers Association. It is also supported by agriculture secretaries and commissioners from more than 20 states, highlighting the broad recognition of the need for innovation in agriculture.
As this legislation moves forward, it promises to play a vital role in enhancing the resilience of America’s fresh food supply and helping farmers thrive in an increasingly competitive global market.
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