Recently, Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) was named to the New York Farm Bureau’s “Circle of Friends,” his 10th such designation in as many years.

“Being recognized by the New York Farm Bureau is an honor and a privilege. I appreciate their commitment to sustaining and promoting agriculture in New York state, and I’m glad they consider me a friend,” said Palmesano.

According to the Farm Bureau, the honor is “based upon each legislator’s voting record on issues of agricultural importance as well as other evidence of legislative support, including sponsorship of bills that New York Farm Bureau has either supported or opposed during the most recent legislative session.”

Palmesano staunchly opposed costly, job-killing labor regulations that threaten family farms during the 2019 session. He played an integral, impassioned role in the Minority’s floor debate against the harmful Farm Labor Bill, a sprawling legislative package that will impose hundreds of millions of dollars in new costs on hardworking farm families who are already struggling to stay afloat.

“New York Farm Bureau’s Circle of Friends recognizes Assembly Member Phil Palmesano for his legislative work on agricultural issues that matter to our members. We appreciate his support of bills and budget items that benefit farm families in his district, and we look to continue the partnership that benefits all of agriculture,” said David Fisher, President of New York Farm Bureau.

“I won’t stop fighting,” said Palmesano. “96% of the farms in New York state are family-owned farms. We need bold and aggressive solutions to protect our family farms in New York. It starts with tax and regulatory relief. It means helping our farmers access affordable, reliable energy and dynamic new markets. It means investing in safe, local infrastructure so they can ship their world-class products to satisfied customers. It means embracing the realities of their industry, listening to their input and concerns and understanding a simple mantra- "no farms, no farm labor. No farms, no food,” said Palmesano.

“This administration has failed our agricultural community. Net farm income has plummeted 50% in recent years. Nationally, labor costs account for 36% of net farm income. In New York state, it’s 63%. So New York state farmers are already at a competitive disadvantage to their neighbors. I will continue to stand up and fight for policies that decrease costs for our family farms so they can survive and breathe again,” said Palmesano.