Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,I,C-Batavia) recently voted in favor of a budget bill to increase funding for critical agricultural programs as well as the creation of a new initiative to enhance farming statewide. Hawley lauded New York State’s commitment to the economic and societal values of agriculture.

“Our family farms and agricultural industries have been hallmarks of both Western New York’s identity and economy for generations, and they are deserving of the support contained in this year’s budget,” said Hawley. “State government has strengthened existing agricultural initiatives and created an economic development program to expand the impact farming has on the state’s economy. I commend Governor Cuomo and my colleagues in the Legislature for joining me in support of New York’s agricultural heritage and farming industry.”

In addition to the creation of the Agricultural Economic Development Program for farm- viability projects, the 2012-13 state budget includes increased or sustained support for:

• The Farm Viability Institute;
• Pro-Dairy;
• Northern New York Agricultural Development; and
• FarmNet