The warmer weather rolling through the state this week was a friendly reminder that spring is, indeed, right around the corner. This Sunday marks the beginning of National Agriculture Week, and grants us the opportunity to really consider how important the agricultural industry is to our community. Farmers’ rights, pro-agriculture policies, and agricultural education are all platforms I support as an assemblyman.

The only way for an industry to survive the test of time is to innovate and improve. I support Sen. Ritchie and the Senate Minority’ plan to further strengthen the agricultural communities throughout this state. Lowering estate taxes and restoring funding cuts to farms will help strengthen farmers’ bottom lines; while raising personal tax exemption brackets will increase the number of small family farms eligible for benefits from the state.

We must also continue to invest in the next generation of farmers. Providing scholarships to students pursuing degrees in agricultural studies will encourage innovation, invention, and allow a new crop of farm owners to emerge. Once these students reach higher education, we must cultivate their talent by ensuring that colleges which offer agricultural studies programs are properly funded. Agriculture is so important to this state and we must continue to support it.

While these policies seek to set up the next generation of farm owners for success, New York City politicians can’t help but further force their politically driven agenda upon us. An increase of the minimum wage to $15 an hour would decimate our farming communities. Not only will farms be forced to cut staff, but those lucky enough to still be employed will be forced to work longer hours to keep production levels somewhat equivalent. For communities centered around agriculture, unemployment will only increase.

While we can agree that the proposal of a $15 minimum wage is well intended, you don’t need a degree in economics to understand the consequences would be catastrophic. Milk, eggs and other essential items will rise in price – to the point where families won’t be able to budget for their weekly grocery trip. The governor is burning the candle at both ends and with so many people already fighting to just get by, this would surely put them under. While the governor opens his arms for praise, New York State farmers will close the doors on their businesses.

The North Country and Mohawk Valley are home to some of the best farms in the country. I’m thankful to have such hardworking individuals to call my neighbors, and I take both your compliments and concerns with me to work each week. I look forward to continuing this fight for farmers and making agriculture in this state thrive.

I welcome your thoughts on agriculture or any other legislative matter. Please contact me by emailing blankenbushk@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling my office at 493-3909.