The New York Farm Bureau unveiled its 2025 state legislative agenda during a press call on Tuesday, outlining a comprehensive set of goals to address challenges facing the state’s agricultural sector.
NYFB President David Fisher and Senior Associate Director of Public Policy Renée St. Jacques highlighted critical areas such as budget funding, workforce issues, energy policy, and regulatory concerns. The priorities reflect member-approved policy positions and aim to support farmers in navigating economic pressures and evolving industry needs.
The organization is calling for increased investment in agricultural programs, including funding for the Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and its associated research facilities. NYFB also emphasized the importance of supporting the New York State Veterinary Diagnostic Center and expanding the Farmworker Housing Program, raising the per-project funding cap from $200,000 to $400,000.
“Investments in education, research, and housing are vital to sustaining New York’s agricultural community,” Fisher said. “We need policies that foster innovation while addressing practical challenges on the ground.”
Tax credits and exemptions also featured prominently in the bureau’s agenda. NYFB supports extending the state’s farm workforce retention credit and broadening the 10-year real property tax exemption for farm buildings to include facilities used for processing and marketing agricultural products.
Energy and transportation policies are another key focus. The group advocates for renewable energy adoption plans that account for grid capacity limitations and practical challenges, along with legislation to establish a Low Carbon Fuel Standard. It also seeks solutions to transportation issues that hinder the shipment of food and farm equipment.
In addition, NYFB voiced its opposition to the Extended Producer Responsibility Act, which it argued unfairly burdens food and beverage manufacturers without addressing consumer responsibility for packaging waste. The bureau also expressed concern about pesticide regulations, urging science-based decisions by the Department of Environmental Conservation.
Other priorities include legislation to promote agribusiness, allowing farm breweries and cideries to sell products at roadside markets, and the establishment of a New York State Equine Advisory Board to support the horse industry.
“Our priorities are driven by the needs of our members,” St. Jacques said. “From farmworker housing to renewable energy and equine promotion, these initiatives aim to strengthen agriculture across the state.”
The Farm Bureau’s legislative agenda will guide its advocacy efforts during the 2025 legislative session, as it works to ensure the sustainability of New York’s farming community.
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