Farming is the bedrock of Missouri’s economic stability and security. Our state is blessed with vibrant farmland that provides food for our families and fuel for our economy. Because the agriculture industry is among our greatest assets, each of us has a responsibility to protect this essential engine of our state’s economy.
Soon Missouri voters will have the opportunity to vote on Amendment 1, which protects the Right to Farm. The amendment would preserve, protect and encourage growth of our state’s agriculture sector, and give farmers and ranchers long-term protection against unnecessary regulations that would restrict their ability to provide for our families and fuel our economy.
Additionally, Amendment 1 protects the best practices used by farms and ranches in terms of how they grow food, provide energy and support health resources. Granting Missourians greater choices and enhancing the quality of life are the direct benefits of passing this amendment.
The Farming Rights Amendment ballot language is straightforward and without legal ambiguity. It reads simply that “the right of farmers and ranchers to engage in farming and ranching practices shall be forever guaranteed in this state.”
Amendment 1 would provide regulatory certainty and protect all farmers and ranchers – particularly small family farms – against special interest groups who seek to restrict their ability to operate freely in communities throughout our state.
While serving in the State Senate and as Chairman of the Senate Economic Development Committee, I have fought for job-creating policies on behalf of Missouri tax-payers including our farmers and ranchers. Coming from a family of farmers and small business owners, I understand the need to support initiatives like Amendment 1 that help create jobs, advocate for tax-payers and promote fiscal responsibility.
I am proud to join Missouri Farmers Care along with its 20 member agriculture organizations in support of Amendment 1.
Agriculture is vital to Missouri’s economy and this amendment is vital to family farmers across our state. That is why I am supporting Amendment 1 and urge Missouri voters to vote yes on August 5.
