JOHN KRAN

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the 2025 Farm Bill to be completed on time. Our priorities for the bill include: Increase baseline funding commitments to farm programs (reference price increase, commodity loan rates) as they have not kept up with inflation Maintain a unified, bipartisan farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together Prioritize funding for risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs (ARC, PLC, DMC) Ensure adequate USDA staffing capacity and technical assistance Maintain funding for voluntary, working lands conservation programs. Support trade promotion programs like Foreign Market Development (FMD) and Market Assistance Program (MAP) Ensuring adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing & promotion, and pest management programs Funding for ag research and education Support addressing interstate commerce issues impacting the livestock and poultry industry

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for new trade opportunities that would allow for U.S. farmers to find and grow markets across the globe, including a FTA with the United Kingdom. In addition, we seek a fair and level playing field for farmers that face pressure from unfair, foreign competition - especially our specialty crop sector. We continue to advocate for options for farmers to tools in place for these industries to take cases against foreign countries when we believe they are not playing by the rules. Our trade negotiation objectives include: All agricultural products and policies in the negotiations Eliminate non-tariff trade barriers Ensure market access for biotechnology products Address issues concerning import-sensitive products Oppose the Precautionary Principle Oppose the use of geographic indicators

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated to Congress for reforms to the regulatory system, specifically updates to how agricultural chemistries are reviewed and approved. Farmers need a regulatory system that is fair, transparent, adheres to the will of Congress, takes economic impact into account, and respects our freedoms Crop protection tools go through a rigorous process to get to market and are regularly reviewed by the manufacturers and government agencies Farmers now face additional uncertainty due to EPA's new requirements to do more to prevent endangered species impacts from pesticides Farm Bureau policy supports: Use of sound science in rulemaking Coordination between USDA and EPA on regulations affecting agriculture Estimating the cost and benefits of regulations Ensuring transparency in the rulemaking process Vigorous congressional oversight Litigation reform Funding for IR4 bio-pesticide research program for minor crops MFB supported the Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act. The bill would reaffirm FIFRAs standard that the EPA is the single authority on pesticide labeling and packaging requirements. The bill ensures the EPA doesnt take any action, including approving label requirements, contradictory to the agencys science-based views. The Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act will provide certainty to producers and consumers, ensuring the tools supporting the agriculture industry and food supply chain remain safe and available. The bill would preempt states from imposing their own labeling requirements.

Michigan Farm Bureau is urging Congress to extend and make permanent the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the 2025 Farm Bill to be completed on time. Our priorities for the bill include: Increase baseline funding commitments to farm programs (reference price increase, commodity loan rates) as they have not kept up with inflation Maintain a unified, bipartisan farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together Prioritize funding for risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs (ARC, PLC, DMC) Ensure adequate USDA staffing capacity and technical assistance Maintain funding for voluntary, working lands conservation programs. Support trade promotion programs like Foreign Market Development (FMD) and Market Assistance Program (MAP) Ensuring adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing & promotion, and pest management programs Funding for ag research and education Support addressing interstate commerce issues impacting the livestock and poultry industry

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated to Congress for reforms to the regulatory system, specifically updates to how agricultural chemistries are reviewed and approved. Farmers need a regulatory system that is fair, transparent, adheres to the will of Congress, takes economic impact into account, and respects our freedoms Crop protection tools go through a rigorous process to get to market and are regularly reviewed by the manufacturers and government agencies Farmers now face additional uncertainty due to EPA's new requirements to do more to prevent endangered species impacts from pesticides Farm Bureau policy supports: Use of sound science in rulemaking Coordination between USDA and EPA on regulations affecting agriculture Estimating the cost and benefits of regulations Ensuring transparency in the rulemaking process Vigorous congressional oversight Litigation reform Funding for IR4 bio-pesticide research program for minor crops MFB supported the Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act, H.R. 4288. The bill would reaffirm FIFRAs standard that the EPA is the single authority on pesticide labeling and packaging requirements. The bill ensures the EPA doesnt take any action, including approving label requirements, contradictory to the agencys science-based views. The Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act will provide certainty to producers and consumers, ensuring the tools supporting the agriculture industry and food supply chain remain safe and available. The bill would preempt states from imposing their own labeling requirements.

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for a long-term solution to our agricultural workforce needs. We continue to communicate to Congress on the out-of-control growth in the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) and challenges with the H-2A visa program. We are also concerned with a few recent rules from the Biden Administration and shared those concerns with Congress. Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with Congress in opposition to the Department of Labors rule regarding the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) methodology for the Temporary Employment of H-2A Nonimmigrants (Employment and Training Administration, Department of Labor, Docket Number ETA-2021-0006). MFB is supporting a Congressional Resolution of Disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) in opposition to the final AEWR rule and is encouraging Members of Congress to support it. The rule neglects to account for the fact that farm job descriptions often include many different responsibilities not just one role as the rule assumes. H.J.Res. 59 and S.J.Res. 25. MFB is also supporting S. 874 and H.R. 3308, the Farm Operations Support Act. The bill would require that the AEWR that was in effect on December 1, 2022, remains the AEWR through December 21, 2023. MFB is also supporting H.R. 3516, a bill which would waive the visa interview requirement for returning H-2A guestworkers. MFB also communicated with Congress on the USCIS proposed rule to increase fees for the H-2A and H-2B visa programs. Specifically, USCIS proposes to raise filing fees for H-2A and H-2B petitions by 137% and 135%, respectively. In addition, USCIS proposes an additional $600 asylum fee per petition. Furthermore, by capping each petition at 25 workers, employers with a larger guest worker need, will incur these costs potentially multiple times over. MFB is very concerned with these proposed charges to farmers and has asked Congress to weigh in. MFB opposed H.R. 2 the Secure the Border Act of 2023 due to the bill containing mandatory E-verify. Farm Bureau cannot support mandatory E-verify unless it moves in tandem with legislation to improve the stability of our agricultural workforce. MFB also supported including language in the House Appropriations bill for FY2024 that would include an H-2B returning worker cap exemption. H-2B is an important guestworker program for agricultural processors and others that rely on seasonal workers. MFB also supported language in the House FY2024 DHS Appropriations bill that would have removed the seasonal requirement for the H-2A visa program.

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for new trade opportunities that would allow for U.S. farmers to find and grow markets across the globe, including a FTA with the United Kingdom. In addition, we seek a fair and level playing field for farmers that face pressure from unfair, foreign competition - especially our specialty crop sector. We continue to advocate for options for farmers to tools in place for these industries to take cases against foreign countries when we believe they are not playing by the rules. Our trade negotiation objectives include: All agricultural products and policies in the negotiations Eliminate non-tariff trade barriers Ensure market access for biotechnology products Address issues concerning import-sensitive products Oppose the Precautionary Principle Oppose the use of geographic indicators MFB urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to end the current U.S.-Mexico Tomato Suspension Agreement. Michigan Farm Bureau has strong policy on this topic and has growers negatively impacted by unfair trade.

Michigan Farm Bureau joined the National Association of Manufactures and other partners in sending a letter to House and Senate Leadership on tax policy. Specifically, the letter called for Congress to take immediate action on R&D expensing, a pro-growth interest deductibility standard and full expensing.

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the 2023 Farm Bill to be completed on time. Our priorities for the bill include: Increase baseline funding commitments to farm programs (reference price increase, commodity loan rates) as they have not kept up with inflation Maintain a unified, bipartisan farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together Prioritize funding for risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs (ARC, PLC, DMC) Ensure adequate USDA staffing capacity and technical assistance Maintain funding for voluntary, working lands conservation programs. Support trade promotion programs like Foreign Market Development (FMD) and Market Assistance Program (MAP) Ensuring adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing & promotion, and pest management programs Funding for ag research and education MFB Supported H.R. 1480 and S. 759, the Beagle Brigade Act would provide permanent authorization for the National Detector Dog Training Center, which trains detector dogs, mostly beagles, and their U.S. Customs and Border Protection handlers to sniff out prohibited agricultural items that could carry foreign plant pests or animal diseases into America. MFB also supported the Dairy Farm Resiliency Act, a bill to strengthen the Dairy Margin Coverage program in the next Farm Bill. MFB supported the following bills: H.R. 4838, the Specialty Crop Security Act and H.R. 5199, the Specialty Crop Research Act, bills to increase funding of the specialty crop research in the Farm Bill. H.R. 4059 - a bill to include phosphate and potash on the final list of critical minerals of the Department of the Interior. We support this legislation as these minerals are critical for food production. H.R. 4739 and S.26 82 Protecting Americas Orchardists and Nursery Tree Growers Act. The bill would make improvements to the USDA Tree Assistance Program. S. 322 Spotted Wing Abatement Trust (SWAT) Act - the bill would direct USDA APHIS to establish a fund for research and activities related to mitigating the effects of spotted wing drosophila, an insect hurting the specialty crop industry.

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated to Congress for reforms to the regulatory system, specifically updates to how agricultural chemistries are reviewed and approved. Farmers need a regulatory system that is fair, transparent, adheres to the will of Congress, takes economic impact into account, and respects our freedoms Crop protection tools go through a rigorous process to get to market and are regularly reviewed by the manufacturers and government agencies Farmers now face additional uncertainty due to EPA's new requirements to do more to prevent endangered species impacts from pesticides Farm Bureau policy supports: Use of sound science in rulemaking Coordination between USDA and EPA on regulations affecting agriculture Estimating the cost and benefits of regulations Ensuring transparency in the rulemaking process Vigorous congressional oversight Litigation reform Funding for IR4 bio-pesticide research program for minor crops MFB supported the Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act, H.R. 4288. The bill would reaffirm FIFRAs standard that the EPA is the single authority on pesticide labeling and packaging requirements. The bill ensures the EPA doesnt take any action, including approving label requirements, contradictory to the agencys science-based views. The Agricultural Labeling Uniformity Act will provide certainty to producers and consumers, ensuring the tools supporting the agriculture industry and food supply chain remain safe and available. The bill would preempt states from imposing their own labeling requirements.

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for new trade opportunities that would allow for U.S. farmers to find and grow markets across the globe, including a FTA with the United Kingdom. In addition, we seek a fair and level playing field for farmers that face pressure from unfair, foreign competition - especially our specialty crop sector. We continue to advocate for options for farmers to tools in place for these industries to take cases against foreign countries when we believe they are not playing by the rules. Our trade negotiation objectives include: All agricultural products and policies in the negotiations Eliminate non-tariff trade barriers Ensure market access for biotechnology products Address issues concerning import-sensitive products Oppose the Precautionary Principle Oppose the use of geographic indicators MFB urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to end the current U.S.-Mexico Tomato Suspension Agreement. Michigan Farm Bureau has strong policy on this topic and has growers negatively impacted by unfair trade.

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for a long-term solution to our agricultural workforce needs. We continue to communicate to Congress on the out-of-control growth in the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) and challenges with the H-2A visa program. We are also concerned with a few recent rules from the Biden Administration and shared those concerns with Congress. Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with Congress in opposition to the Department of Labors rule regarding the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) methodology for the Temporary Employment of H-2A Nonimmigrants (Employment and Training Administration, Department of Labor, Docket Number ETA-2021-0006). MFB is supporting a Congressional Resolution of Disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) in opposition to the final AEWR rule and is encouraging Members of Congress to support it. The rule neglects to account for the fact that farm job descriptions often include many different responsibilities not just one role as the rule assumes. H.J.Res. 59 and S.J.Res. 25. MFB is also supporting S. 874 and H.R. 3308, the Farm Operations Support Act. The bill would require that the AEWR that was in effect on December 1, 2022, remains the AEWR through December 21, 2023. MFB is also supporting H.R. 3516, a bill which would waive the visa interview requirement for returning H-2A guestworkers. MFB also communicated with Congress on the USCIS proposed rule to increase fees for the H-2A and H-2B visa programs. Specifically, USCIS proposes to raise filing fees for H-2A and H-2B petitions by 137% and 135%, respectively. In addition, USCIS proposes an additional $600 asylum fee per petition. Furthermore, by capping each petition at 25 workers, employers with a larger guest worker need, will incur these costs potentially multiple times over. MFB is very concerned with these proposed charges to farmers and has asked Congress to weigh in. MFB opposed H.R. 2 the Secure the Border Act of 2023 due to the bill containing mandatory E-verify. Farm Bureau cannot support mandatory E-verify unless it moves in tandem with legislation to improve the stability of our agricultural workforce. MFB also supported including language in the House Appropriations bill for FY2024 that would include an H-2B returning worker cap exemption. H-2B is an important guestworker program for agricultural processors and others that rely on seasonal workers.

MFB Supported H.J. Res. 27 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers, Department of Defense and the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Revised Definition of 'Waters of the United States'"

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the 2023 Farm Bill to be completed on time. Our priorities for the bill include: Increase baseline funding commitments to farm programs (reference price increase, commodity loan rates) as they have not kept up with inflation Maintain a unified, bipartisan farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together Prioritize funding for risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs (ARC, PLC, DMC) Ensure adequate USDA staffing capacity and technical assistance Maintain funding for voluntary, working lands conservation programs. Support trade promotion programs like Foreign Market Development (FMD) and Market Assistance Program (MAP) Ensuring adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing & promotion, and pest management programs Funding for ag research and education MFB Supported H.R. 1480 and S. 759, the Beagle Brigade Act would provide permanent authorization for the National Detector Dog Training Center, which trains detector dogs, mostly beagles, and their U.S. Customs and Border Protection handlers to sniff out prohibited agricultural items that could carry foreign plant pests or animal diseases into America. MFB also supported the Dairy Farm Resiliency Act, a bill to strengthen the Dairy Margin Coverage program in the next Farm Bill.

MFB Supported H.J. Res. 27 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers, Department of Defense and the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Revised Definition of 'Waters of the United States'"

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for new trade opportunities that would allow for U.S. farmers to find and grow markets across the globe, including a FTA with the United Kingdom. In addition, we seek a fair and level playing field for farmers that face pressure from unfair, foreign competition - especially our specialty crop sector. We continue to advocate for options for farmers to tools in place for these industries to take cases against foreign countries when we believe they are not playing by the rules. Our trade negotiation objectives include: All agricultural products and policies in the negotiations Eliminate non-tariff trade barriers Ensure market access for biotechnology products Address issues concerning import-sensitive products Oppose the Precautionary Principle Oppose the use of geographic indicators

MFB signed a letter with other national and state level groups to House and Senate Budget Committees urging sufficient budgetary resources for the 2023 Farm Bill. Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with Congress on several appropriations related topics, including: Senator Gary Peters SWAT Act requesting funding for APHIS, including specialty crop pest program. In order to sustain specialty crop production and provide continued domestic food security, robust investment must be maintained in order to mitigate the harmful effects caused by these invasive pests, such as the spotted wing drosophila (SWD). SWD is an invasive pest from East Asia that lays eggs in soft-skinned specialty fruit crops, including cherries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. MFB also communicated with House offices specially requesting ways that the H-2A visa program could be address through the Appropriations process Agricultural Research: USDAs Agricultural Research Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, including the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative, Economic Research Service, and National Agricultural Statistics Service which provide research, data, and statistical analysis critical for addressing challenges faced by the agriculture community. Crop Protection: Office of Pesticide Management Policy, which promotes the development of new pest management approaches and is critical for crop protection. USDAs Minor Crop Pest Management Program (IR-4) ensures safe and effective agrichemicals and biopesticides are available for small, specialty crop markets. Farm Programs: Farm Bureau urges the committee to protect programs that ensure U.S. farmers and ranchers are able to continue to produce food, fiber and fuel as they battle high input prices, labor challenges, and natural disasters. Farm Bureau supports increased funding for risk management tools, which include federal crop insurance and commodity programs, as well as federal conservation programs, which preserve environmental benefits. Farm Bureau supports prioritizing working lands conservation programs over retirement land programs. Additionally, increased funding for the Farm Service Agency (FSA) loan guarantee programs will ensure availability to eligible under current authorities and the FSA Agricultural Mediation Program. In addition, adequate funding should be provided for personnel and technology upgrades to effectively serve farmers and ranchers utilizing these programs. Food Safety: Increase funding for food protection at the Food and Drug Administration and Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) directed to increase education and training of inspectors and other relevant staff. International Programs: The Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program to increase demand for U.S. agriculture and food products in foreign markets. The McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program, which effectively delivers both food aid and educational assistance. P.L. 480 programs, which provide foreign food aid by purchasing U.S. commodities. Farm Bureau supports funding the following programs at the authorized spending level: Agriculture Advanced Research and Development Authority (AgARDA): This pilot program was authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill to leverage successful public-private partnerships to improve efficiency and accelerate research and development in pursuit of overcoming long-term and high-risk agricultural and food-related research and development challenges. Animal Health Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Antimicrobial Resistance Action Plan. The Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program and the Veterinary Services Grant Program, which allow veterinarians to ensure animal health and welfare while protecting the nations food supply. The National Animal Health Laboratory Network, which provides an early warning system for emerging animal diseases. Section 1433 Continuing Animal Health and Disease, Food Security, and Stewardship Research, Education and Extension Programs to address critical priorities in food security, zoonotic disease and stewardship. The FDAs Center for Veterinary Medicine, which oversees the safety of animal drugs, feed, and biotechnology-derived products. The availability of foot-and-mouth disease vaccines to meet emergency response requirements. Biotechnology Promotion: APHIS Biotechnology Regulatory Services, if there are appropriate levels of congressional oversight, to ensure APHIS regulatory considerations are science- and risk-based, transparent and predictable, while promoting innovation in plant breeding and facilitating trade. Expanding International Markets and Safeguarding U.S. Agriculture: The Foreign Agricultural Service, Emerging Markets Program and Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops Program, all of which increase demand for U.S. agriculture and food products abroad. APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine personnel and facilities. APHIS trade issues resolution and management activities that are essential for an effective response when other countries raise sanitary and phytosanitary measures related to American products. The U.S. Codex Office, which is essential to improving the harmonization of international science-based standards for the safety of food and agriculture products. Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN): The Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network provides stress assistance programs that address the increasing financial and mental stress impacting farmers and ranchers. Food Safety and Protection Funding for the Food & Drug Administration in the following areas: Implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act; Additional science-based inspection, targeted according to risk; Effective inspection of imported food and feed products; Research and development of scientifically based rapid-testing procedures and tools; Accurate and timely response to outbreaks that identify contaminated products, remove them from the market and minimize disruption to producers; and Indemnification for producers who suffer marketing losses due to inaccurate government- advised recalls or warnings. Funding for USDA food protection programs in the following areas: The National Antimicrobial Residue Monitoring System to detect trends in antibiotic resistance in foodborne bacteria. The Food Animal Residue Avoidance Databank, through which veterinarians establish science-based recommendations for drug withdrawal intervals. Renewable Energy Renewable Energy for America Program, which offers a combination of grants and guaranteed loans for farmers to purchase renewable energy systems. USDAs energy programs that improve the nations energy security and economic development including: the Biobased Markets Program, Biorefinery Assistance Program, Biomass Crop Assistance Program, Biomass Research & Development Initiative, Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels, Biodiesel Fuel Education Program, and Carbon Utilization and Biogas Education Program. Strengthening Rural Communities Rural Utilities Service telecommunications programs, including the ReConnect Loan and Grant Program the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program, and Community Connect Program which seek to bring broadband to rural communities and improve access to distance learning and telemedicine opportunities for rural residents. Business and Industry Loan Program, Value-Added Producer Grant Program, and the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy Program which support business creation and growth in rural communities. Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program and Community Facilities Loan Guarantee Program, which fund the construction or improvement of essential community facilities. Agriculture in the Classroom which helps students gain greater awareness of the role agriculture plays in the economy and society. Wildlife Services: Wildlife Services programs that prevent and minimize wildlife damage, while protecting human health and safety from conflicts with wildlife.

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for a long-term solution to our agricultural workforce needs. We continue to communicate to Congress on the out-of-control growth in the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) and challenges with the H-2A visa program. We are also concerned with a few recent rules from the Biden Administration and shared those concerns with Congress. Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with Congress in opposition to the Department of Labors rule regarding the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) methodology for the Temporary Employment of H-2A Nonimmigrants (Employment and Training Administration, Department of Labor, Docket Number ETA-2021-0006). MFB is supporting a Congressional Resolution of Disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) in opposition to the final AEWR rule and is encouraging Members of Congress to support it. The rule neglects to account for the fact that farm job descriptions often include many different responsibilities not just one role as the rule assumes. H.J.Res. 59 and S.J.Res. 25. MFB is also supporting S. 874 and H.R. 3308, the Farm Operations Support Act. The bill would require that the AEWR that was in effect on December 1, 2022, remains the AEWR through December 21, 2023. MFB is also supporting H.R. 3516, a bill which would waive the visa interview requirement for returning H-2A guestworkers. MFB also communicated with Congress on the USCIS proposed rule to increase fees for the H-2A and H-2B visa programs. Specifically, USCIS proposes to raise filing fees for H-2A and H-2B petitions by 137% and 135%, respectively. In addition, USCIS proposes an additional $600 asylum fee per petition. Furthermore, by capping each petition at 25 workers, employers with a larger guest worker need, will incur these costs potentially multiple times over. MFB is very concerned with these proposed charges to farmers and has asked Congress to weigh in. MFB opposed H.R. 2 the Secure the Border Act of 2023 due to the bill containing mandatory E-verify. Farm Bureau cannot support mandatory E-verify unless it moves in tandem with legislation to improve the stability of our agricultural workforce. MFB also supported including language in the House Appropriations bill for FY2024 that would include an H-2B returning worker cap exemption. H-2B is an important guestworker program for agricultural processors and others that rely on seasonal workers.

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated to Congress for reforms to the regulatory system, specifically updates to how agricultural chemistries are reviewed and approved. Farmers need a regulatory system that is fair, transparent, adheres to the will of Congress, takes economic impact into account, and respects our freedoms Crop protection tools go through a rigorous process to get to market and are regularly reviewed by the manufacturers and government agencies Farmers now face additional uncertainty due to EPA's new requirements to do more to prevent endangered species impacts from pesticides Farm Bureau policy supports: Use of sound science in rulemaking Coordination between USDA and EPA on regulations affecting agriculture Estimating the cost and benefits of regulations Ensuring transparency in the rulemaking process Vigorous congressional oversight Litigation reform Funding for IR4 bio-pesticide research program for minor crops

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for a long-term solution to our agricultural workforce needs. We continue to communicate to Congress on the out-of-control growth in the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) and challenges with the H-2A visa program. We are also concerned with a few recent rules from the Biden Administration and shared those concerns with Congress. Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with Congress in opposition to the Department of Labors rule regarding the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) methodology for the Temporary Employment of H-2A Nonimmigrants (Employment and Training Administration, Department of Labor, Docket Number ETA-2021-0006). MFB is supporting a Congressional Resolution of Disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) in opposition to the final AEWR rule and is encouraging Members of Congress to support it. The rule neglects to account for the fact that farm job descriptions often include many different responsibilities not just one role as the rule assumes. MFB is also supporting S. 874 the Farm Operations Support Act, a bill by Senators Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and Thomas Tillis (R-NC). The bill would require that the AEWR that was in effect on December 1, 2022, remains the AEWR through December 21, 2023. MFB also communicated with Congress on the USCIS proposed rule to increase fees for the H-2A and H-2B visa programs. Specifically, USCIS proposes to raise filing fees for H-2A and H-2B petitions by 137% and 135%, respectively. In addition, USCIS proposes an additional $600 asylum fee per petition. Furthermore, by capping each petition at 25 workers, employers with a larger guest worker need, will incur these costs potentially multiple times over. MFB is very concerned with these proposed charges to farmers and has asked Congress to weigh in.

Michigan Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the 2023 Farm Bill to be completed on time. Our priorities for the bill include: Increase baseline funding commitments to farm programs (reference price increase, commodity loan rates) as they have not kept up with inflation Maintain a unified, bipartisan farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together Prioritize funding for risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs (ARC, PLC, DMC) Ensure adequate USDA staffing capacity and technical assistance Maintain funding for voluntary, working lands conservation programs. Support trade promotion programs like Foreign Market Development (FMD) and Market Assistance Program (MAP) Ensuring adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing & promotion, and pest management programs Funding for ag research and education MFB Supported H.R. 1480 and S. 759, the Beagle Brigade Act would provide permanent authorization for the National Detector Dog Training Center, which trains detector dogs, mostly beagles, and their U.S. Customs and Border Protection handlers to sniff out prohibited agricultural items that could carry foreign plant pests or animal diseases into America.

MFB Supported H.J. Res. 27 - Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers, Department of Defense and the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Revised Definition of 'Waters of the United States'"

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. Farm Bureau also advocated for a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for H-2A works to stay at the current levels. The wage rate required for H-2A users has increased substantially over the past several years and Farm Bureau members do not believe it accurately reflects the job market. The Michigan AEWR went up 12.8% from 2022-2023 to $17.34 per hour. MFB advocated for the Senate to move on legislation since the House started the process and passed the Farm Workforce Modernization Act in 2021 and Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for Congress to pass S. 5282, the Affordable and Secure Food Act (Bennet, D-CO) as part of the year-end Omnibus. Farm Bureau supported the Keep Food Local and Affordable Act of 2021, H.R. 5887 and S. 3134, a bill that would freeze the AEWR at 2021 levels for most states.

MFB has been supportive of eliminating duties imposed on urea ammonium nitrate and phosphate fertilizers from Morocco, Trinidad and Tobago and other countries. Farmers have seen some of these products increase over 100% in price over the last year and are necessary inputs for crop production. Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the improvement of existing trade agreements and new opportunities for export. We also support working to make sure other countries are playing fairly and our import sensitive commodities can compete on a level playing field. MFB signed on a letter to USTR Amb. Tai asking for Michigan agriculture to be included in any advisory panel that may be created in response to the Florida trade petition to USTR from earlier in the year. MFB supported the petition by the Florida Congressional Delegation to Ambassador Tai for a Section 301 investigation into Mexico for seasonal and perishable commodities.

Farm Bureau has been supportive of legislation and Congressional letters to the Biden Administration on the importance of biofuels. In particular, the year-round availability of E15. Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Adrian Smith (R-NE) introduced the Year-Round Fuel Choice Act of 2021 and Sens. Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) led reintroduction of the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. Both bills would ensure that EPA can grant Reid Vapor Pressure volatility waivers to allow E15 and higher blend fuels to be sold at fuel retailers all year-round. Farm Bureau is also supportive of H.R. 5089, the Next Generations Fuels Act, a bill that would transition gasoline and vehicles to low-carbon, higher-octane fuel to reduce greenhouse gas emission and meet future needs of more advanced vehicles by taking advantage of the benefits of higher ethanol blends.

MFB has been supportive of eliminating duties imposed on urea ammonium nitrate and phosphate fertilizers from Morocco, Trinidad and Tobago and other countries. Farmers have seen some of these products increase over 100% in price over the last year and are necessary inputs for crop production. Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the improvement of existing trade agreements and new opportunities for export. We also support working to make sure other countries are playing fairly and our import sensitive commodities can compete on a level playing field.

Farm Bureau remains concerned about challenges in the supply chain that are adding additional operating costs for farmers, including, but not limited to fertilizer, seed, crop protection tools, fuel, equipment, repair parts and labor. Michigan Farm Bureau has been very supportive of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022, a bill that would: Establish reciprocal trade to promote U.S. exports as part of the Federal Maritime Commissions (FMC) mission. Require ocean carriers to adhere to minimum service standards that meet the public interest, reflecting best practices in the global shipping industry. Require ocean carriers or marine terminal operators to certify that any late fees -known in maritime parlance as detention and demurrage charges-comply with federal regulations or face penalties. Shift burden of proof regarding the reasonableness of detention or demurrage charges from the invoiced party to the ocean carrier or marine terminal operator. Prohibit ocean carriers from declining opportunities for U.S. exports unreasonably, as determined by the FMC in new required rulemaking. Require ocean common carriers to report to the FMC each calendar quarter on total import/export tonnage and twenty-foot equivalent units (loaded/empty) per vessel that makes port in the United States. Authorizes the FMC to self-initiate investigations of ocean common carriers business practices and apply enforcement measures, as appropriate.

Farm Bureau remains concerned about the number of critical crop protection tools potentially being challenged or eliminated. In many cases there are not alternatives in the marketplace. Losing these tools could make it very difficult to grow some of these crops in Michigan. We continue to share this message with Congress.

Farm Bureau has been supportive of legislation and Congressional letters to the Biden Administration on the importance of biofuels. In particular, the year-round availability of E15. Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Adrian Smith (R-NE) introduced the Year-Round Fuel Choice Act of 2021 and Sens. Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) led reintroduction of the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. Both bills would ensure that EPA can grant Reid Vapor Pressure volatility waivers to allow E15 and higher blend fuels to be sold at fuel retailers all year-round. Farm Bureau is also supportive of H.R. 5089, the Next Generations Fuels Act, a bill that would transition gasoline and vehicles to low-carbon, higher-octane fuel to reduce greenhouse gas emission and meet future needs of more advanced vehicles by taking advantage of the benefits of higher ethanol blends.

Michigan Farm Bureau has communicated with the House and Senate opposing House-added sections of the America COMPETES Act that ban the farming and trade of American mink and significantly amend the Lacey Act. This would be detrimental to farmers raising mink and all of animal agriculture.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports S.1251, the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act of 2021, and advocated for passage in the Senate. MFB also supports the House companion, H.R. 2820. The Growing Climate Solutions Act would create a certification program at USDA to help solve technical entry barriers for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who wish to participate in voluntary carbon credit markets. We are currently asking Congress to work together on a bipartisan Farm Bill thats completed on time, when the 2023 bill expires. We support protecting the farm safety net, including crop insurance. We also support maintaining much of the 2018 Farm Bill, including research, trade assistance, energy policy, conservation policy, rural development, keeping nutrition connected to the Farm Bill, and other components of the bill.

Michigan Farm Bureau has communicated with the House and Senate opposing House-added sections of the America COMPETES Act that ban the farming and trade of American mink and significantly amend the Lacey Act. This would be detrimental to farmers raising mink and all of animal agriculture.

Farm Bureau remains concerned about challenges in the supply chain that are adding additional operating costs for farmers, including, but not limited to fertilizer, seed, crop protection tools, fuel, equipment, repair parts and labor. Michigan Farm Bureau has been very supportive of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022, a bill that would: Establish reciprocal trade to promote U.S. exports as part of the Federal Maritime Commissions (FMC) mission. Require ocean carriers to adhere to minimum service standards that meet the public interest, reflecting best practices in the global shipping industry. Require ocean carriers or marine terminal operators to certify that any late fees -known in maritime parlance as detention and demurrage charges-comply with federal regulations or face penalties. Shift burden of proof regarding the reasonableness of detention or demurrage charges from the invoiced party to the ocean carrier or marine terminal operator. Prohibit ocean carriers from declining opportunities for U.S. exports unreasonably, as determined by the FMC in new required rulemaking. Require ocean common carriers to report to the FMC each calendar quarter on total import/export tonnage and twenty-foot equivalent units (loaded/empty) per vessel that makes port in the United States. Authorizes the FMC to self-initiate investigations of ocean common carriers business practices and apply enforcement measures, as appropriate.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports S.1251, the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act of 2021, and advocated for passage in the Senate. MFB also supports the House companion, H.R. 2820. The Growing Climate Solutions Act would create a certification program at USDA to help solve technical entry barriers for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who wish to participate in voluntary carbon credit markets. We are currently asking Congress to work together on a bipartisan Farm Bill thats completed on time, when the 2023 bill expires. We support protecting the farm safety net, including crop insurance. We also support maintaining much of the 2018 Farm Bill, including research, trade assistance, energy policy, conservation policy, rural development, keeping nutrition connected to the Farm Bill, and other components of the bill.

MFB has been supportive of eliminating duties imposed on urea ammonium nitrate and phosphate fertilizers from Morocco, Trinidad and Tobago and other countries. Farmers have seen some of these products increase over 100% in price over the last year and are necessary inputs for crop production. Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the improvement of existing trade agreements and new opportunities for export. We also support working to make sure other countries are playing fairly and our import sensitive commodities can compete on a level playing field.

Farm Bureau has been supportive of legislation and Congressional letters to the Biden Administration on the importance of biofuels. In particular, the year-round availability of E15. Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Adrian Smith (R-NE) introduced the Year-Round Fuel Choice Act of 2021 and Sens. Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) led reintroduction of the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. Both bills would ensure that EPA can grant Reid Vapor Pressure volatility waivers to allow E15 and higher blend fuels to be sold at fuel retailers all year-round. Farm Bureau is also supportive of H.R. 5089, the Next Generations Fuels Act, a bill that would transition gasoline and vehicles to low-carbon, higher-octane fuel to reduce greenhouse gas emission and meet future needs of more advanced vehicles by taking advantage of the benefits of higher ethanol blends.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. Farm Bureau also advocated for a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for H-2A works to stay at the 2021 levels. The wage rate required for H-2A users has increased substantially over the past several years and Farm Bureau members do not believe it accurately reflects the job market. MFB advocated for the Senate to move on legislation since the House started the process and passed the Farm Workforce Modernization Act in 2021. Farm Bureau supported the Keep Food Local and Affordable Act of 2021, H.R. 5887 and S. 3134, a bill that would freeze the AEWR at 2021 levels for most states. Farm Bureau signed a letter to the Secretary of State and Secretary of Homeland Security over concerns with the Proclamation on Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Certain Additional Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting Coronavirus Disease 2019, which limits the travel of noncitizens from several countries, including South Africa, to the United States and Proclamation on Advancing the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic, which limits the entry into the United States to only those fully vaccinated with a CDC approved vaccine with limited exceptions. We were concerned about his this could impact H-2A worker availability.

Michigan Farm Bureau has communicated with the House and Senate opposing House-added sections of the America COMPETES Act that ban the farming and trade of American mink and significantly amend the Lacey Act. This would be detrimental to farmers raising mink and all of animal agriculture. Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with the House and Senate Agriculture Committees on S. 4030, the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act. Farm Bureau generally supported the bill, but opposed a provision in Section 2 and Section 7 which would establish a mandatory minimum order under which certain percentages of cattle are purchased. Farm Bureau also expressed support for the following livestock bills with the Ag Committees: H.R. 7764: directs the Secretary of Agriculture to provide additional payments under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) for nutrient management practices. H.R. 2518, the PRECISE Act: would allow for the use of EQIP dollars to be used for the adoption of precision agriculture technology for the purpose of participating in the EQIP program. H.R. 2606, the SUSTAINS Act: would establish public-private partnership contribution accounts within NRCS to incentivize private funding by awarding dollars to targeted conservation initiatives that would improve land use for sequestering carbon, wildlife habitat, water quality, and other practices that promote the conservation of natural resources. H.R. 4140, the BUTCHER BLOCK Act: would help drive competition by establishing a loan program at USDA Rural Development that would allow for the development of new and expanding processing facilities. Farm Bureau policy is generally supportive of enhanced enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act and our members support adequate funding and staff at USDA to carry out the mission. However, Farm Bureau has reservations regarding how H.R. 7606, the Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act would be implemented and did not offer support.

Farm Bureau remains concerned about the number of critical crop protection tools potentially being challenged or eliminated. In many cases there are not alternatives in the marketplace. Losing these tools could make it very difficult to grow some of these crops in Michigan. We continue to share this message with Congress. MFB communicated specifically with Congress and urged signing a Congressional letter to EPA on the Proposed Revisions to the Atrazine Interim Registration Review Decision.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports S.1251, the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act of 2021, and advocated for passage in the Senate. MFB also supports the House companion, H.R. 2820. The Growing Climate Solutions Act would create a certification program at USDA to help solve technical entry barriers for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who wish to participate in voluntary carbon credit markets. We are currently asking Congress to work together on a bipartisan Farm Bill thats completed on time, when the 2023 bill expires. We support protecting the farm safety net, including crop insurance. We also support maintaining much of the 2018 Farm Bill, including research, trade assistance, energy policy, conservation policy, rural development, keeping nutrition connected to the Farm Bill, and other components of the bill. Farm Bureau also offered support for H.R. 7663, the Great Lakes Agricultural Stewardship Act. This bill requires the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a Great Lakes basin initiative for agricultural nonpoint source pollution prevention. Nonpoint source pollution comes from diffuse sources and is caused by precipitation moving over or through the ground and carrying pollution.

MFB has been supportive of eliminating duties imposed on urea ammonium nitrate and phosphate fertilizers from Morocco, Trinidad and Tobago and other countries. Farmers have seen some of these products increase over 100% in price over the last year and are necessary inputs for crop production. Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the improvement of existing trade agreements and new opportunities for export. We also support working to make sure other countries are playing fairly and our import sensitive commodities can compete on a level playing field.

Farm Bureau remains concerned about challenges in the supply chain that are adding additional operating costs for farmers, including, but not limited to fertilizer, seed, crop protection tools, fuel, equipment, repair parts and labor. Michigan Farm Bureau has been very supportive of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022, a bill that would: Establish reciprocal trade to promote U.S. exports as part of the Federal Maritime Commissions (FMC) mission. Require ocean carriers to adhere to minimum service standards that meet the public interest, reflecting best practices in the global shipping industry. Require ocean carriers or marine terminal operators to certify that any late fees -known in maritime parlance as detention and demurrage charges-comply with federal regulations or face penalties. Shift burden of proof regarding the reasonableness of detention or demurrage charges from the invoiced party to the ocean carrier or marine terminal operator. Prohibit ocean carriers from declining opportunities for U.S. exports unreasonably, as determined by the FMC in new required rulemaking. Require ocean common carriers to report to the FMC each calendar quarter on total import/export tonnage and twenty-foot equivalent units (loaded/empty) per vessel that makes port in the United States. Authorizes the FMC to self-initiate investigations of ocean common carriers business practices and apply enforcement measures, as appropriate.

Michigan Farm Bureau is concerned about proposed rulemaking by the Securities and Exchange Commission and supported Congressional letters to the SEC on the issue and expressed our concerns with the proposal to Congress. In a Federal Register notice published April 11, the SEC is proposing for public comment amendments to its rules under the Securities Act of 1933 (Securities Act) and Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act) that would require registrants to provide certain climate related information in their registration statements and annual reports, including potentially invasive and burdensome information about farms. The proposed rules would require information about a registrants climate related risks that are reasonably likely to have a material impact on its business, results of operations, or financial condition. The required information about climate-related risks would also include disclosure of a registrants greenhouse gas emissions, which have become a commonly used metric to assess a registrants exposure to such risks. In addition, under the proposed rules, certain climate-related financial metrics would be required in a registrants audited financial statements. Farmers and ranchers are not registrants or otherwise subject in any way to the jurisdiction and oversight of the SEC. The proposed rule changes this. The proposed rules expansive treatment of the reporting of Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions not only directly effects our members operations, but in doing so may create multiple, new sources of substantial costs and liabilities. These include almost certain reporting obligations, technical challenges, significant financial and operational disruption and the risk of financially crippling legal liabilities. In doing so, the rule would have meaningful consequences for our members ability to produce this countrys food, fuel and fiber as well as for the security and stability of US agricultural supply chains.

Farm Bureau has been supportive of legislation and Congressional letters to the Biden Administration on the importance of biofuels. In particular, the year-round availability of E15. Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Adrian Smith (R-NE) introduced the Year-Round Fuel Choice Act of 2021 and Sens. Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) led reintroduction of the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. Both bills would ensure that EPA can grant Reid Vapor Pressure volatility waivers to allow E15 and higher blend fuels to be sold at fuel retailers all year-round. Farm Bureau is also supportive of H.R. 5089, the Next Generations Fuels Act, a bill that would transition gasoline and vehicles to low-carbon, higher-octane fuel to reduce greenhouse gas emission and meet future needs of more advanced vehicles by taking advantage of the benefits of higher ethanol blends.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. Farm Bureau also advocated for a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for H-2A works to stay at the 2021 levels. The wage rate required for H-2A users has increased substantially over the past several years and Farm Bureau members do not believe it accurately reflects the job market. MFB advocated for the Senate to move on legislation since the House started the process and passed the Farm Workforce Modernization Act in 2021. Farm Bureau supported the Keep Food Local and Affordable Act of 2021, H.R. 5887 and S. 3134, a bill that would freeze the AEWR at 2021 levels for most states.

Michigan Farm Bureau is concerned about proposed rulemaking by the Securities and Exchange Commission and supported Congressional letters to the SEC on the issue and expressed our concerns with the proposal to Congress. In a Federal Register notice published April 11, the SEC is proposing for public comment amendments to its rules under the Securities Act of 1933 (Securities Act) and Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act) that would require registrants to provide certain climate related information in their registration statements and annual reports, including potentially invasive and burdensome information about farms. The proposed rules would require information about a registrants climate related risks that are reasonably likely to have a material impact on its business, results of operations, or financial condition. The required information about climate-related risks would also include disclosure of a registrants greenhouse gas emissions, which have become a commonly used metric to assess a registrants exposure to such risks. In addition, under the proposed rules, certain climate-related financial metrics would be required in a registrants audited financial statements. Farmers and ranchers are not registrants or otherwise subject in any way to the jurisdiction and oversight of the SEC. The proposed rule changes this. The proposed rules expansive treatment of the reporting of Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions not only directly effects our members operations, but in doing so may create multiple, new sources of substantial costs and liabilities. These include almost certain reporting obligations, technical challenges, significant financial and operational disruption and the risk of financially crippling legal liabilities. In doing so, the rule would have meaningful consequences for our members ability to produce this countrys food, fuel and fiber as well as for the security and stability of US agricultural supply chains.

Farm Bureau has been supportive of legislation and Congressional letters to the Biden Administration on the importance of biofuels. In particular, the year-round availability of E15. Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Adrian Smith (R-NE) introduced the Year-Round Fuel Choice Act of 2021 and Sens. Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) led reintroduction of the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. Both bills would ensure that EPA can grant Reid Vapor Pressure volatility waivers to allow E15 and higher blend fuels to be sold at fuel retailers all year-round. Farm Bureau is also supportive of H.R. 5089, the Next Generations Fuels Act, a bill that would transition gasoline and vehicles to low-carbon, higher-octane fuel to reduce greenhouse gas emission and meet future needs of more advanced vehicles by taking advantage of the benefits of higher ethanol blends.

MFB has been supportive of eliminating duties imposed on urea ammonium nitrate and phosphate fertilizers from Morocco, Trinidad and Tobago and other countries. Farmers have seen some of these products increase over 100% in price over the last year and are necessary inputs for crop production. Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the improvement of existing trade agreements and new opportunities for export. We also support working to make sure other countries are playing fairly and our import sensitive commodities can compete on a level playing field.

Michigan Farm Bureau has communicated with the House and Senate opposing House-added sections of the America COMPETES Act that ban the farming and trade of American mink and significantly amend the Lacey Act. This would be detrimental to farmers raising mink and all of animal agriculture.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports S.1251, the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act of 2021, and advocated for passage in the Senate. MFB also supports the House companion, H.R. 2820. The Growing Climate Solutions Act would create a certification program at USDA to help solve technical entry barriers for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who wish to participate in voluntary carbon credit markets. We are currently asking Congress to work together on a bipartisan Farm Bill thats completed on time, when the 2023 bill expires. We support protecting the farm safety net, including crop insurance. We also support maintaining much of the 2018 Farm Bill, including research, trade assistance, energy policy, conservation policy, rural development, keeping nutrition connected to the Farm Bill, and other components of the bill.

Farm Bureau has been supportive of legislation and Congressional letters to the Biden Administration on the importance of biofuels. In particular, the year-round availability of E15. Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Adrian Smith (R-NE) introduced the Year-Round Fuel Choice Act of 2021 and Sens. Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) led reintroduction of the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. Both bills would ensure that EPA can grant Reid Vapor Pressure volatility waivers to allow E15 and higher blend fuels to be sold at fuel retailers all year-round. Farm Bureau is also supportive of H.R. 5089, the Next Generations Fuels Act, a bill that would transition gasoline and vehicles to low-carbon, higher-octane fuel to reduce greenhouse gas emission and meet future needs of more advanced vehicles by taking advantage of the benefits of higher ethanol blends.

Farm Bureau remains concerned about the number of critical crop protection tools potentially being challenged or eliminated. In many cases there are not alternatives in the marketplace. Losing these tools could make it very difficult to grow some of these crops in Michigan. We continue to share this message with Congress.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports S.1251, the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act of 2021, and advocated for passage in the Senate. MFB also supports the House companion, H.R. 2820. The Growing Climate Solutions Act would create a certification program at USDA to help solve technical entry barriers for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who wish to participate in voluntary carbon credit markets. We are currently asking Congress to work together on a bipartisan Farm Bill thats completed on time, when the 2023 bill expires. We support protecting the farm safety net, including crop insurance. We also support maintaining much of the 2018 Farm Bill, including research, trade assistance, energy policy, conservation policy, rural development, keeping nutrition connected to the Farm Bill, and other components of the bill.

Michigan Farm Bureau has communicated with the House and Senate opposing House-added sections of the America COMPETES Act that ban the farming and trade of American mink and significantly amend the Lacey Act. This would be detrimental to farmers raising mink and all of animal agriculture.

MFB has been supportive of eliminating duties imposed on urea ammonium nitrate and phosphate fertilizers from Morocco, Trinidad and Tobago and other countries. Farmers have seen some of these products increase over 100% in price over the last year and are necessary inputs for crop production. Farm Bureau continues to advocate for the improvement of existing trade agreements and new opportunities for export. We also support working to make sure other countries are playing fairly and our import sensitive commodities can compete on a level playing field.

Farm Bureau communicated to Congress on the DHS rule Notification of Temporary Travel Restrictions Applicable to Land Ports of Entry and Ferries Service Between the United States and Mexico. Farm Bureau is concerned about the strain this will have on truck driver availability between the US and Canada and Mexico when truck drivers are already in very short supply. Additionally, Farm Bureau is concerned about the requirement for visa workers to be fully vaccinated before they arrive in the U.S. and what this could mean with delayed arrival times. We are also concerned what it would mean for workers being able to get access to approved vaccines in their home country and what flexibility would be offered to those that received vaccines not on our approved list.

Farm Bureau remains concerned about challenges in the supply chain that are adding additional operating costs for farmers, including, but not limited to fertilizer, seed, crop protection tools, fuel, equipment, repair parts and labor. Michigan Farm Bureau has been very supportive of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022, a bill that would: Establish reciprocal trade to promote U.S. exports as part of the Federal Maritime Commissions (FMC) mission. Require ocean carriers to adhere to minimum service standards that meet the public interest, reflecting best practices in the global shipping industry. Require ocean carriers or marine terminal operators to certify that any late fees -known in maritime parlance as detention and demurrage charges-comply with federal regulations or face penalties. Shift burden of proof regarding the reasonableness of detention or demurrage charges from the invoiced party to the ocean carrier or marine terminal operator. Prohibit ocean carriers from declining opportunities for U.S. exports unreasonably, as determined by the FMC in new required rulemaking. Require ocean common carriers to report to the FMC each calendar quarter on total import/export tonnage and twenty-foot equivalent units (loaded/empty) per vessel that makes port in the United States. Authorizes the FMC to self-initiate investigations of ocean common carriers business practices and apply enforcement measures, as appropriate.

Farm Bureau is opposed to legislation that has been proposed in the House and Senate to end stepped-up basis and impose capital gains taxes at death. The bills treat property which is transferred by gift or at death as if were sold for its fair market value. The proposed Senate bill is called the Sensible Taxation and Equity Promotion (STEP) Act, introduced by Sens. Chris Van Hollen. The introduced House bill is H.R. 2286, sponsored by Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.) Farm Bureau supports the continuation of Sec. 1031 Like Kind Exchanges. By using Section 1031, farmers are able to defer taxes when they sell real property, such as land or buildings, and replace it with similar property. Without Section 1031 like-kind exchanges, farmers might have to incur debt to continue their businesses or, worse yet, delay essential improvements needed to maintain the financial viability of their farm. Farm Bureau supports H.R. 1712, Death Tax Repeal Act, introduced by Reps. Jason Smith (R-Mo.) and Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.). and S. 617, Death Tax Repeal Act of 2021- introduced by Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.). Farm Bureau policy supports a permanent repeal of the federal estate tax. Farm Bureau supports H.R. 1381, Main Street Tax Certainty Act, introduced by Reps. Jason Smith (R-Mo.) and Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) and S. 480. Main Street Tax Certainty Act, introduced by Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) The Section 199A business income deduction allows pass through businesses to take a deduction worth 20 percent of their business income. Ninety-eight percent of farms and ranches are organized as pass through businesses. If it is not made permanent, the result will be a huge increase in the taxes that farmers and ranchers pay and leave them without ways to deal with the cyclical and unpredictable nature of their businesses. Farm Bureau supports H.R. 2558 and S. 1166, the Accelerate Long-term Investment Growth Now Act (ALIGN Act) which would make full and immediate expensing provisions permanent. Because farming requires large investments in machinery and equipment, farmers and ranchers place great value on tax code provisions that allow them to write off expenditures in the year that purchases are made. Immediate deductibility permits them to better manage cash flow, minimize tax liabilities and reduce borrowing. Immediate expensing also offers the benefit of reducing the record keeping burden associated with having to depreciate equipment. Curtailing valuation discounting, an estate planning practice helpful to farmers and ranchers as they transfer their agricultural operations from one generation to another, has surfaced as one of the potential revenue raisers that could be used to pay for spending legislation. Michigan Farm Bureau opposes these efforts. Michigan Farm Bureau has weighed in with Members of Congress about the above mentioned tax provisions as part of the broader conversation around Build Back Better/Budget Reconciliation and Infrastructure as well. Farm Bureau opposed Build Back Better, H.R. 5376, as passed in the House on November 19.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the Senate approved H.R. 3684, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. BIF touts $550 billion in new spending over the next 5 years. It invests $110 billion in U.S. roads and bridges, $65 billion for broadband, and $17.3 billion for ports and inland waterways. Farm Bureau supports H.R. as passed in the Senate and has long advocated for investments in roads, bridges, locks, dams, rail, broadband and other physical infrastructure projects. Farm Bureau also supported the House passed version, H.R. 3684, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Farm Bureau also supports the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, H.R. 4996, a bill that would update federal regulations for the global ocean shipping industry. Agriculture relies on ocean shipping both for importing critical inputs and for exporting farm products abroad.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. Farm Bureau also advocated for a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for H-2A works to stay at the 2021 levels. The wage rate required for H-2A users has increased substantially over the past several years and Farm Bureau members do not believe it accurately reflects the job market.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the Senate approved H.R. 3684, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. BIF touts $550 billion in new spending over the next 5 years. It invests $110 billion in U.S. roads and bridges, $65 billion for broadband, and $17.3 billion for ports and inland waterways. Farm Bureau supports H.R. as passed in the Senate and has long advocated for investments in roads, bridges, locks, dams, rail, broadband and other physical infrastructure projects.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports S.1251, the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act of 2021, and advocated for passage in the Senate. MFB also supports the House companion, H.R. 2820. The Growing Climate Solutions Act would create a certification program at USDA to help solve technical entry barriers for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who wish to participate in voluntary carbon credit markets. Farm Bureau also sent a letter to President Biden asking for clarity on his goal to conserve at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030, commonly referred to as 30 by 30.

Farm Bureau supports the Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (EBRIDGE) Act: H.R. 3193 and S. 1695. The bill would: Eliminate barriers to investments in broadband in distressed communities, making them eligible for EDA grants; Clarify that eligible recipients may include public-private partnerships and consortiums to leverage private sector expertise in project development; Provide flexibility in the procurement process to account for the limited availability of broadband services in distressed communities; Clarify that funds can be combined with other federal resources; and Provide flexibility on accounting for in-kind methods to meet non-federal cost share. Farm Bureau also supports H.R. 3369, the Broadband for Rural America Act. The bill invests $43.2billion in USDAs Rural Development broadband programs by providing last mile technical and financial assistance to rural communities seeking to improve their broadband service, increasing resources available to build out middle mile, providing grant funding to small rural communities, and providing funds to invest in distance learning and telemedicine capabilities.

Michigan Farm Bureau urged Congress to support legislation that would clarify that all self-employed farmers can access the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). There are currently two bills that Farm Bureau supports: H.R. 1246, the Paycheck Protection Clarification for Producers Act introduced by Reps. Ron Kind (D-Wisc.) and Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.) and H.R. 1411 the PPP Flexibility for Farmers and Ranchers Act introduced by Rep. James Hagedorn (R-Minn.) and Henry Cuellar (D-Texas.). The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is a low-interest Small Business Administration (SBA) loan program that provides a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. The Small Business Administration has, however, been denying participation to self-employed Schedule F farmers and who are organized as partnerships or as a sole-owner LLC (Limited Liability Company).

MFB has been very supportive of the actions by USTR that supported a Section 201 investigation for blueberries and the potential for other investigations for other seasonal and perishable commodities - including the later Sec. 332 efforts on strawberries and bell peppers and cucumbers and squash. Our members are supportive of investigations into unfair foreign competition that are making it increasingly difficult for our farmers to compete, especially fruit and vegetable growers. MFB encouraged members of the Michigan Congressional Delegation to support several letters to the Biden Administration on this topic, including a litter from Senator Rubio to USTR in support of seasonal and perishable commodities and import competition and a letter from Rep. Jack Bergman on support for the U.S. tart cherry industry that highlighted the economic impact and the import challenges faced by the growers.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. Farm Bureau also advocated for a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for H-2A works to stay at the 2021 levels. The wage rate required for H-2A users has increased substantially over the past several years and Farm Bureau members do not believe it accurately reflects the job market.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports S.1251, the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act of 2021, and advocated for passage in the Senate. MFB also supports the House companion, H.R. 2820. The Growing Climate Solutions Act would create a certification program at USDA to help solve technical entry barriers for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who wish to participate in voluntary carbon credit markets. Farm Bureau also sent a letter to President Biden asking for clarity on his goal to conserve at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030, commonly referred to as 30 by 30.

MFB has been very supportive of the actions by USTR that supported a Section 201 investigation for blueberries and the potential for other investigations for other seasonal and perishable commodities - including the later Sec. 332 efforts on strawberries and bell peppers and cucumbers and squash. Our members are supportive of investigations into unfair foreign competition that are making it increasingly difficult for our farmers to compete, especially fruit and vegetable growers.

Farm Bureau advocated for agricultures inclusion in the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans and for reforms and increased funding to the program once implemented and for follow up bills. Farm Bureau also advocated for extending the deadline beyond the original March 31 deadline for participation in PPP and continued to advocate for partnerships to be able to participate in the program. Currently, many farms that are organized as partnerships are not eligible for PPP. There are currently two bills that Farm Bureau supports: H.R. 1246, the Paycheck Protection Clarification for Producers Act introduced by Reps. Ron Kind (D-Wisc.) and Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.) and H.R. 1411 the PPP Flexibility for Farmers and Ranchers Act introduced by Rep. James Hagedorn (R-Minn.) and Henry Cuellar (D-Texas.).

Farm Bureau is opposed to legislation that has been proposed in the House and Senate to end stepped-up basis and impose capital gains taxes at death. The bills treat property which is transferred by gift or at death as if were sold for its fair market value. The proposed Senate bill is called the Sensible Taxation and Equity Promotion (STEP) Act, introduced by Sens. Chris Van Hollen. The introduced House bill is H.R. 2286, sponsored by Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.) Farm Bureau supports the continuation of Sec. 1031 Like Kind Exchanges. By using Section 1031, farmers are able to defer taxes when they sell real property, such as land or buildings, and replace it with similar property. Without Section 1031 like-kind exchanges, farmers might have to incur debt to continue their businesses or, worse yet, delay essential improvements needed to maintain the financial viability of their farm. Farm Bureau supports H.R. 1712, Death Tax Repeal Act, introduced by Reps. Jason Smith (R-Mo.) and Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.). and S. 617, Death Tax Repeal Act of 2021- introduced by Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.). Farm Bureau policy supports a permanent repeal of the federal estate tax. Farm Bureau supports H.R. 1381, Main Street Tax Certainty Act, introduced by Reps. Jason Smith (R-Mo.) and Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) and S. 480. Main Street Tax Certainty Act, introduced by Sen. Steve Daines(R-Mont.) The Section 199A business income deduction allows pass through businesses to take a deduction worth 20 percent of their business income. Ninety-eight percent of farms and ranches are organized as pass through businesses. If it is not made permanent, the result will be a huge increase in the taxes that farmers and ranchers pay and leave them without ways to deal with the cyclical and unpredictable nature of their businesses.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports S. 1149 and H.R. 216, the Main Street Tax Certainty Act to make deduction for small business income permanent (Sec. 199A). Failure to extend this provision will result in a tax increase for farmers and leave them without ways to deal with the cyclical and unpredictable nature of their businesses. 199A allows a small business that operates as a sole proprietorship, partnership or S -Corp to take a tax deduction of up to 20 percent of qualified business income. Farm Bureau supports H.R. 5259, the Preserving Family Farms Act to allow $11.4 million of farmland or ranchland to be valued at agricultural value rather than developed value under section 2032A Special Use Valuation. This is especially important at the time of the death of a family member. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act doubled the estate tax level up to $11 million through 2025, but not permanently. Section 2032A special use valuation is one tool available to help family business owners manage their estate tax liability. Farm Bureau advocated for a change to IRS rules so that farmers can claim a tax deduction for expenses incurred while operating their businesses using funds from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). This increased and unexpected tax bill will come when farm businesses continue to struggle with pandemic-induced financial uncertainty and economic stress. Legislation supported included: S. 3612, the Small Business Expense Protection Act, and HR 6821, the Small Business Expense Protection Act of 2020. Farm Bureau advocated for extension of expiring tax provisions during the lame-duck session including: tax credits for second-generation biofuel producers, tax incentives for craft breweries, wineries, and distilleries, tax credits for alternative fuel and alternative fuel mixtures, and tax credits for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property.

MFB urged Congress to support H.R. 101/S. 16 the Defending Domestic Produce Production Act, a bill that would make it easier for a small seasonal, specialty crop industry to build and take a case against a foreign county that is believed to be dumping product below the cost of production or unfairly subsidized by their government. We also urged support of S. 564, the Self Initiation Trade Enforcement Act, a bill that would create a task force within the Department of Commerce that small seasonal specialty crop industries could petition in the event they believe they are being hurt by unfair foreign competition. MFB has been very supportive of the Administrations actions that would request a Section 201 investigation into blueberries and the potential for other investigations for other seasonal and perishable commodities - including the later Sec. 332 efforts on strawberries and bell peppers. Farm Bureau urged the Administration to quickly finalize a trade deal with the Peoples Republic of China and end tariffs hurting US agricultural exports. Farm Bureau urged quick passage, and end to tariffs and expanded markets for U.S. agriculture. Farm Bureau supported the Phase I agreement reached in January. We also communicated to USDA about a concern with competition our tart cherry industry is experiencing from the country of Turkey with little barriers to entry, in addition to seasonal competition to US asparagus growers from Mexico and Peru. Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for and supported the new trade agreement with Japan. Japan currently is the top 3 trade destination for Michigan agricultural products. Michigan Farm Bureau also advocated for improved trade with the European Union. Trade between the two countries amounts to $1 trillion worth of goods and services annually and $3.7 trillion in two-way direct investment. The U.S. exported $12.7 billion in agricultural products to the EU in 2018, while the EU exported $23.7 billion in agricultural products to the U.S. Specifically, MFB advocated for the following points: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Eliminate non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import-sensitive products; Oppose the Precautionary Principle; and Oppose the use of geographic indicators.

Farm Bureau advocated for several provisions included in the FY2021 Omnibus spending and COVID Relief bill already covered in other sections of this report, including the continuation of and improvements to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), additional resources to USDA to assist farmers with COVID-19 including the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, additional funding for the Commodity Credit Corporation, funding for broadband, WRDA and the tax extenders.

Farm Bureau advocated for agricultures inclusion in the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans and for reforms and increased funding to the program once implemented and for follow up bills. Farm Bureau also advocated for extending the deadline beyond the original June 30 deadline for participation in PPP and lobbied Congress throughout the fall on extending the program. In addition, MFB continued to advocate for the following priorities: Sole-proprietors should be able to apply based on gross receipts. H-2A workers should qualify as employees under the PPP and wages paid be eligible for loan forgiveness. Businesses should not be required to show a 50 percent reduction in gross income for eligibility. PPP loans of less than $150,000 should be forgiven upon the borrowers completion of a simple, one-page forgiveness document. All business-related rental payments should be eligible for loan forgiveness. PPE should be an eligible expenditure for loan forgiveness - including costs to modify worker housing and adjust transportation. Expenses paid with PPP loan funds should be eligible for a business income tax deduction. Income from farm equipment trades, sales of breed livestock, rental income and commodity wages should count toward loan availability. IRS Form 943 should be allowable for loan forgiveness purposes. 501(c)5 agricultural organizations should be eligible for PPP loans.

Farm Bureau supported S. 1522 and H.R. 3162, the Broadband Data Improvement Act. This legislation would improve the accuracy of broadband coverage maps and as a result, better direct federal funds to expand connectivity. The legislation improves upon data gathering methods by requiring broadband providers to report data that is significantly more granular and transparent. Farm Bureau supports this legislation.

Michigan Farm Bureau supported transportation infrastructure improvement to highways, bridges, railways, locks and dams, harbors and port facilities, and expanding broadband access across rural communities. Michigan Farm Bureau supported H.R. 4919, The Responsible & Efficient Agriculture Destination (TREAD) Act, recently introduced by Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Lloyd Smucker (R-PA). This bipartisan legislation would provide additional flexibility to those hauling agricultural products and livestock. Farm Bureau continues to hear from farmers that have been negatively impacted due to Hours of Service (HOS) requirements and the burden it places on hauling perishable and seasonal commodities and livestock to markets. H.R. 4919 provides for an additional 150 air-miles exemption from HOS regulations on the backend of hauls (after delivery) for those transporting agricultural commodities. This builds on the current exemption for the beginning of hauls (before delivery) at the source and would simply add the term destination. The bill additionally allows this exemption to be utilized year-round. Farm Bureau supported the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020. In particular, Farm Bureau is interested in provisions that help bolster the U.S. inland waterways transportation system by amending the cost-share formula for the construction and major rehabilitation of inland waterways navigation projects from the 50:50 percent general revenue: Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) funding to 65 percent general revenue and 35 percent IWTF. Farm Bureau also supports section 101 of the legislation which will better ensure that funds collected and deposited in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) go towards their intended purpose of dredging the nations ports and harbors.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports S. 1149 and H.R. 216, the Main Street Tax Certainty Act to make deduction for small business income permanent (Sec. 199A). Failure to extend this provision will result in a tax increase for farmers and leave them without ways to deal with the cyclical and unpredictable nature of their businesses. 199A allows a small business that operates as a sole proprietorship, partnership or S -Corp to take a tax deduction of up to 20 percent of qualified business income. Farm Bureau supports H.R. 5259, the Preserving Family Farms Act to allow $11.4 million of farmland or ranchland to be valued at agricultural value rather than developed value under section 2032A Special Use Valuation. This is especially important at the time of the death of a family member. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act doubled the estate tax level up to $11 million through 2025, but not permanently. Section 2032A special use valuation is one tool available to help family business owners manage their estate tax liability.

Farm Bureau supported S. 1522 and H.R. 3162, the Broadband Data Improvement Act. This legislation would improve the accuracy of broadband coverage maps and as a result, better direct federal funds to expand connectivity. The legislation improves upon data gathering methods by requiring broadband providers to report data that is significantly more granular and transparent. Farm Bureau supports this legislation.

Michigan Farm Bureau supported transportation infrastructure improvement to highways, bridges, railways, locks and dams, harbors and port facilities, and expanding broadband access across rural communities. Michigan Farm Bureau supported H.R. 4919, The Responsible & Efficient Agriculture Destination (TREAD) Act, recently introduced by Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Lloyd Smucker (R-PA). This bipartisan legislation would provide additional flexibility to those hauling agricultural products and livestock. Farm Bureau continues to hear from farmers that have been negatively impacted due to Hours of Service (HOS) requirements and the burden it places on hauling perishable and seasonal commodities and livestock to markets. H.R. 4919 provides for an additional 150 air-miles exemption from HOS regulations on the backend of hauls (after delivery) for those transporting agricultural commodities. This builds on the current exemption for the beginning of hauls (before delivery) at the source and would simply add the term destination. The bill additionally allows this exemption to be utilized year-round rather than only during planting and harvesting seasons. Farm Bureau is a founding member of the Rebuild Rural Coalition, comprised of more than 220 organizations from across the country. The coalition collectively represents U.S. agricultural producers and cooperatives, and rural businesses, communities and families. The Rebuild Rural Coalition is dedicated to advocating for investment in rural Americas infrastructure and understands that rural Americas infrastructure needs are fundamentally vast.

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for assistance for farmers and rural communities as part of the COVID-19 response packages from Congress including: access to agricultural labor, including continued access and flexibility with the H-2A visa program, increased authority to USDA to help farmers through the Commodity Credit Corporation and with the Farm Service Agency on access to safety net programs; open borders for ag visa workers and also for farm input and ag export flow, designation of all ag and ag related businesses as critical infrastructure and essential services, funding for broadband, financial assistance to farmers through credit, tax code and other avenues. Additionally, Farm Bureau advocated for agricultures inclusion in the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans and for reforms and increased funding to the program once implemented and for follow up bills. Farm Bureau also advocated for direct assistance to famers through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) in the CARES Act and the Farmers to Families Food Box program to help move food products to those in need. Farm Bureau also advocated for continued access to personal protective equipment (PPE) to farmers and ag processors throughout the COVID outbreak and for flexibility in Hours of Service requirements for farmers and haulers of ag commodities. Specific to CFAP, MFB advocated for the inclusion of specialty crops in the program in addition to livestock, poultry and row crops produced in Michigan and for help to Michigan farmers hurt both before and after the April time window to help farmers with crops planted or harvested later have also been negatively impacted by the virus and market disruption. MFB submitted comments to USDA on the notice of funds available.

MFB urged Congress to support H.R. 101/S. 16 the Defending Domestic Produce Production Act, a bill that would make it easier for a small seasonal, specialty crop industry to build and take a case against a foreign county that is believed to be dumping product below the cost of production or unfairly subsidized by their government. We also urged support of S. 564, the Self Initiation Trade Enforcement Act, a bill that would create a task force within the Department of Commerce that small seasonal specialty crop industries could petition in the event they believe they are being hurt by unfair foreign competition. MFB has been very supportive of the Administrations actions that would request a Section 201 investigation into blueberries and the potential for other investigations for other seasonal and perishable commodities. Farm Bureau urged the Administration to quickly finalize a trade deal with the Peoples Republic of China and end tariffs hurting US agricultural exports. Farm Bureau urged quick passage, and end to tariffs and expanded markets for U.S. agriculture. Farm Bureau supported the Phase I agreement reached in January. We also communicated to USDA about a concern with competition our tart cherry industry is experiencing from the country of Turkey with little barriers to entry, in addition to seasonal competition to US asparagus growers from Mexico and Peru. Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for and supported the new trade agreement with Japan. Japan currently is the top 3 trade destination for Michigan agricultural products. Michigan Farm Bureau also advocated for improved trade with the European Union. Trade between the two countries amounts to $1 trillion worth of goods and services annually and $3.7 trillion in two-way direct investment. The U.S. exported $12.7 billion in agricultural products to the EU in 2018, while the EU exported $23.7 billion in agricultural products to the U.S. Specifically, MFB advocated for the following points: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Eliminate non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import-sensitive products; Oppose the Precautionary Principle; and Oppose the use of geographic indicators.

Farm Bureau advocated for agricultures inclusion in the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans and for reforms and increased funding to the program once implemented and for follow up bills. Farm Bureau also advocated for extending the deadline beyond the original June 30 deadline for participation in PPP and lobbied Congress throughout the summer on extending the program. In addition, MFB continues to advocate for the following priorities: Sole-proprietors should be able to apply based on gross receipts. H-2A workers should qualify as employees under the PPP and wages paid be eligible for loan forgiveness. Businesses should not be required to show a 50 percent reduction in gross income for eligibility. PPP loans of less than $150,000 should be forgiven upon the borrowers completion of a simple, one-page forgiveness document. All business-related rental payments should be eligible for loan forgiveness. PPE should be an eligible expenditure for loan forgiveness - including costs to modify worker housing and adjust transportation. Expenses paid with PPP loan funds should be eligible for a business income tax deduction. Income from farm equipment trades, sales of breed livestock, rental income and commodity wages should count toward loan availability. IRS Form 943 should be allowable for loan forgiveness purposes. 501(c)5 agricultural organizations should be eligible for PPP loans.

Michigan Farm Bureau supported S. 2599 and H.R. 4820, the Seeding Rural Resilience Act. This legislation would require USDA to implement a public service announcement campaign to support the mental health needs of famers. USDA would also train employees on stress and suicide prevention. Additionally, they would be charged with convening a task force of rural stakeholders at the federal, state, and local levels to assess the causes of mental stress in farmers and identify best practices for responding to such stress. Farm Bureau supports this legislation.

Michigan Farm Bureau supported transportation infrastructure improvement to highways, bridges, railways, locks and dams, harbors and port facilities, and expanding broadband access across rural communities. Michigan Farm Bureau supported H.R. 4919, The Responsible & Efficient Agriculture Destination (TREAD) Act, recently introduced by Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Lloyd Smucker (R-PA). This bipartisan legislation would provide additional flexibility to those hauling agricultural products and livestock. Farm Bureau continues to hear from farmers that have been negatively impacted due to Hours of Service (HOS) requirements and the burden it places on hauling perishable and seasonal commodities and livestock to markets. H.R. 4919 provides for an additional 150 air-miles exemption from HOS regulations on the backend of hauls (after delivery) for those transporting agricultural commodities. This builds on the current exemption for the beginning of hauls (before delivery) at the source and would simply add the term destination. The bill additionally allows this exemption to be utilized year-round rather than only during planting and harvesting seasons. Farm Bureau is a founding member of the Rebuild Rural Coalition, comprised of more than 220 organizations from across the country. The coalition collectively represents U.S. agricultural producers and cooperatives, and rural businesses, communities and families. The Rebuild Rural Coalition is dedicated to advocating for investment in rural Americas infrastructure and understands that rural Americas infrastructure needs are fundamentally vast.

MFB urged Congress to support H.R. 101/S. 16 the Defending Domestic Produce Production Act, a bill that would make it easier for a small seasonal, specialty crop industry to build and take a case against a foreign county that is believed to be dumping product below the cost of production or unfairly subsidized by their government. We also urged support of S. 564, the Self Initiation Trade Enforcement Act, a bill that would create a task force within the Department of Commerce that small seasonal specialty crop industries could petition in the event they believe they are being hurt by unfair foreign competition. Farm Bureau urged the Administration to quickly finalize a trade deal with the Peoples Republic of China and end tariffs hurting US agricultural exports. Farm Bureau urged quick passage, and end to tariffs and expanded markets for U.S. agriculture. Farm Bureau supported the Phase I agreement reached in January. We also communicated to USDA about a concern with competition our tart cherry industry is experiencing from the country of Turkey with little barriers to entry, in addition to seasonal competition to US asparagus growers from Mexico and Peru. Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for and supported the new trade agreement with Japan. Japan currently is the top 3 trade destination for Michigan agricultural products. Michigan Farm Bureau also advocated for improved trade with the European Union. Trade between the two countries amounts to $1 trillion worth of goods and services annually and $3.7 trillion in two-way direct investment. The U.S. exported $12.7 billion in agricultural products to the EU in 2018, while the EU exported $23.7 billion in agricultural products to the U.S. Specifically, MFB advocated for the following points: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Eliminate non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import-sensitive products; Oppose the Precautionary Principle; and Oppose the use of geographic indicators.

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for assistance for farmers and rural communities as part of the COVID-19 response packages from Congress including: access to agricultural labor, including continued access and flexibility with the H-2A visa program, increased authority to USDA to help farmers through the Commodity Credit Corporation and with the Farm Service Agency on access to safety net programs; open borders for ag visa workers and also for farm input and ag export flow, designation of all ag and ag related businesses as critical infrastructure and essential services, funding for broadband, financial assistance to farmers through credit, tax code and other avenues. Additionally, Farm Bureau advocated for agricultures inclusion in the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans and for reforms and increased funding to the program once implemented and for follow up bills. Farm Bureau also advocated for direct assistance to famers through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) in the CARES Act and the Farmers to Families Food Box program to help move food products to those in need. Farm Bureau also advocated for continued access to personal protective equipment (PPE) to farmers and ag processors throughout the COVID outbreak and for flexibility in Hours of Service requirements for farmers and haulers of ag commodities. Specific to CFAP, MFB advocated for the inclusion of specialty crops in the program in addition to livestock, poultry and row crops produced in Michigan and for help to Michigan farmers hurt both before and after the April time window to help farmers with crops planted or harvested later have also been negatively impacted by the virus and market disruption. MFB submitted comments to USDA on the notice of funds available.

Farm Bureau advocated for agricultures inclusion in the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans and for reforms and increased funding to the program once implemented and for follow up bills. Farm Bureau also advocated for extending the deadline beyond the original June 30 deadline for participation in PPP. In addition, MFB continues to advocate for the following priorities: Sole-proprietors should be able to apply based on gross receipts. H-2A workers should qualify as employees under the PPP and wages paid be eligible for loan forgiveness. Businesses should not be required to show a 50 percent reduction in gross income for eligibility. PPP loans of less than $150,000 should be forgiven upon the borrowers completion of a simple, one-page forgiveness document. All business-related rental payments should be eligible for loan forgiveness. PPE should be an eligible expenditure for loan forgiveness - including costs to modify worker housing and adjust transportation. Expenses paid with PPP loan funds should be eligible for a business income tax deduction. Income from farm equipment trades, sales of breed livestock, rental income and commodity wages should count toward loan availability. IRS Form 943 should be allowable for loan forgiveness purposes. 501(c)5 agricultural organizations should be eligible for PPP loans.

Farm Bureau supported S. 1522 and H.R. 3162, the Broadband Data Improvement Act. This legislation would improve the accuracy of broadband coverage maps and as a result, better direct federal funds to expand connectivity. The legislation improves upon data gathering methods by requiring broadband providers to report data that is significantly more granular and transparent. Farm Bureau supports this legislation.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports S. 1149 and H.R. 216, the Main Street Tax Certainty Act to make deduction for small business income permanent (Sec. 199A). Failure to extend this provision will result in a tax increase for farmers and leave them without ways to deal with the cyclical and unpredictable nature of their businesses. 199A allows a small business that operates as a sole proprietorship, partnership or S -Corp to take a tax deduction of up to 20 percent of qualified business income. Farm Bureau supports H.R. 5259, the Preserving Family Farms Act to allow $11.4 million of farmland or ranchland to be valued at agricultural value rather than developed value under section 2032A Special Use Valuation. This is especially important at the time of the death of a family member. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act doubled the estate tax level up to $11 million through 2025, but not permanently. Section 2032A special use valuation is one tool available to help family business owners manage their estate tax liability.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. Farm Bureau also advocated for a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for H-2A works to stay at the 2019 levels. The wage rate required for H-2A users has increased substantially over the past several years and Farm Bureau members do not believe it accurately reflects the job market. Farm Bureau did not weigh in on any legislative efforts in the first quarter of 2020, but advocated for Senate action.

Michigan Farm Bureau supported transportation infrastructure improvement to highways, bridges, railways, locks and dams, harbors and port facilities, and expanding broadband access across rural communities. Michigan Farm Bureau supported H.R. 4919, The Responsible & Efficient Agriculture Destination (TREAD) Act, recently introduced by Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN) and Lloyd Smucker (R-PA). This bipartisan legislation would provide additional flexibility to those hauling agricultural products and livestock. Farm Bureau continues to hear from farmers that have been negatively impacted due to Hours of Service (HOS) requirements and the burden it places on hauling perishable and seasonal commodities and livestock to markets. H.R. 4919 provides for an additional 150 air-miles exemption from HOS regulations on the backend of hauls (after delivery) for those transporting agricultural commodities. This builds on the current exemption for the beginning of hauls (before delivery) at the source and would simply add the term destination. The bill additionally allows this exemption to be utilized year-round rather than only during planting and harvesting seasons. Farm Bureau is a founding member of the Rebuild Rural Coalition, comprised of more than 220 organizations from across the country. The coalition collectively represents U.S. agricultural producers and cooperatives, and rural businesses, communities and families. The Rebuild Rural Coalition is dedicated to advocating for investment in rural Americas infrastructure and understands that rural Americas infrastructure needs are fundamentally vast.

MFB urged Congress to support H.R. 101/S. 16 the Defending Domestic Produce Production Act, a bill that would make it easier for a small seasonal, specialty crop industry to build and take a case against a foreign county that is believed to be dumping product below the cost of production or unfairly subsidized by their government. We also urged support of S. 564, the Self Initiation Trade Enforcement Act, a bill that would create a task force within the Department of Commerce that small seasonal specialty crop industries could petition in the event they believe they are being hurt by unfair foreign competition. Farm Bureau urged the Administration to quickly finalize a trade deal with the Peoples Republic of China and end tariffs hurting US agricultural exports. Farm Bureau urged quick passage, and end to tariffs and expanded markets for U.S. agriculture. Farm Bureau supported the Phase I agreement reached in January. We also communicated to USDA about a concern with competition our tart cherry industry is experiencing from the country of Turkey with little barriers to entry, in addition to seasonal competition to US asparagus growers from Mexico and Peru. Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for and supported the new trade agreement with Japan. Japan currently is the top 3 trade destination for Michigan agricultural products. Michigan Farm Bureau also advocated for improved trade with the European Union. Trade between the two countries amounts to $1 trillion worth of goods and services annually and $3.7 trillion in two-way direct investment. The U.S. exported $12.7 billion in agricultural products to the EU in 2018, while the EU exported $23.7 billion in agricultural products to the U.S. Specifically, MFB advocated for the following points: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Eliminate non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import-sensitive products; Oppose the Precautionary Principle; and Oppose the use of geographic indicators.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. Farm Bureau also advocated for a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for H-2A works to stay at the 2019 levels. The wage rate required for H-2A users has increased substantially over the past several years and Farm Bureau members do not believe it accurately reflects the job market. Michigan Farm Bureau did not take a position on H.R. 5038, the Farm Workforce Modernization Act because several key items were not addressed and amendments were not allowed. However, Farm Bureau opposed the Rule to the bill and supported the Motion to Recommit (roll 673). Farm Bureau was very concerned that the bill did not do enough to curb the unsustainable growth in the AEWR, it capped the year-round visas at an extremely low number, extended private right of action to H-2A workers and mandated e-verify for only agriculture and no other industries.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the U.S. Mexico Canada (USMCA) agreement. While we supported NAFTA, the USMCA is an opportunity to modernize or improve some areas for agriculture, we also support that - including Sanitary/Phytosanitary requirements, biotechnology, and additional protections for fruit and vegetable growers. MFB also has advocated the importance of the trading relationship with China to the Administration and Congress and the $20 billion positive impact to the ag sector in 2017. Farm Bureau advocated for passage of H.R. 5430, USMCA. We also communicated to USDA about a concern with competition our tart cherry industry is experiencing from the country of Turkey with little barriers to entry, in addition to seasonal competition to US asparagus growers from Mexico and Peru. Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for and supported the new trade agreement with Japan. Japan currently is the top 3 trade destination for Michigan agricultural products. MFB urged Congress to support H.R. 101/S. 16 the Defending Domestic Produce Production Act, a bill that would make it easier for a small seasonal, specialty crop industry to build and take a case against a foreign county that is believed to be dumping product below the cost of production or unfairly subsidized by their government. We also urged support of S. 564, the Self Initiation Trade Enforcement Act, a bill that would create a task force within the Department of Commerce that small seasonal specialty crop industries could petition in the event they believe they are being hurt by unfair foreign competition. Farm Bureau urged the Administration to quickly finalize a trade deal with the Peoples Republic of China and end tariffs hurting US agricultural exports. Farm Bureau urged quick passage, and end to tariffs and expanded markets for U.S. agriculture.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. Farm Bureau also advocated for a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for H-2A works to stay at the 2019 levels. The wage rate required for H-2A users has increased substantially over the past several years and Farm Bureau members do not believe it accurately reflects the job market. Michigan Farm Bureau has not taken a position on any legislation to date related to labor or immigration reform.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the new U.S. Mexico Canada (USMCA) agreement. While we supported NAFTA, the USMCA is an opportunity to modernize or improve some areas for agriculture, we also support that - including Sanitary/Phytosanitary requirements, biotechnology, and additional protections for fruit and vegetable growers. MFB also has advocated the importance of the trading relationship with China to the Administration and Congress and the $20 billion positive impact to the ag sector in 2017. We also communicated to USDA about a concern with competition our tart cherry industry is experiencing from the country of Turkey with little barriers to entry, in addition to seasonal competition to US asparagus growers from Mexico and Peru. Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for and supported the new trade agreement with Japan. Japan currently is the top 3 trade destination for Michigan agricultural products.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the new U.S. Mexico Canada (USMCA) agreement. While we supported NAFTA, the USMCA is an opportunity to modernize or improve some areas for agriculture, we also support that - including Sanitary/Phytosanitary requirements, biotechnology, and additional protections for fruit and vegetable growers. MFB also has advocated the importance of the trading relationship with China to the Administration and Congress and the $20 billion positive impact to the ag sector in 2017. We also communicated to USDA about a concern with competition our tart cherry industry is experiencing from the country of Turkey with little barriers to entry, in addition to seasonal competition to US asparagus growers from Mexico and Peru.

Farm Bureau weighed in on several amendments for H.R. 3055, the fiscal 2020 appropriations for Commerce, Justice, Science; Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration; Interior and Environment; Military Construction, Veterans Affairs; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. Amendments supported included: Broadband - o MFB supports Rep. Spanbergers (D-Va.) amendment #114 that would increase funding for the USDA ReConnect Program by $55 million. MFB also supported Rep. Pences (R-Ind.) amendment #105 that would increase funding for the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program by $25 million. Chronic Wasting Disease - MFB supported Reps. Veasey (D-Texas), Gosar (R-Ariz.), Kind (D-Wis.) and Abrahams (R-La.) amendment #106 and Rep. Joyces (R-Pa.) amendment #110 that would designate funding for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to prevent and combat Chronic Wasting Disease. African Swine Fever - MFB supported Rep. Yohos (R-Fla.) amendment #92 that would designate funding to support the research and development of an African Swine Fever vaccine. Oppose Amendments: Spending Cuts - MFB opposed Rep. Grothmans (R-Wis.) amendment #97 and Rep. Banks (R-Ind.) amendment #99 that would reduce funding for the entire agriculture spending bill.

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for changes to the crop insurance requirements for prevented plant so that livestock farmers would be able to utilize prevent plant acres for growing forage crops specifically for animal feed use specifically: Allow planting and normal harvest and grazing of forage crops/cover crops on prevent plant acreage for 2019 without penalty and without date restrictions; Allow harvest and grazing of forages on CRP ground and all eligible acres for 2019 without penalty and date restrictions. We support the FEEED Act, H.R. 3183, the bipartisan Feed Emergency Enhancement During Disasters Act (FEEDD Act). The FEEDD Act will provide farmers and ranchers additional emergency flexibility to help alleviate feed shortages during planting seasons with high levels of prevent plant due to extreme moisture or drought.

MFB supported H.R. 2141, the Great Lakes Agricultural Stewardship Act introduced by Rep. Tim Walberg. The bill would amend the Food Security Act of 1985 to require the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a Great Lakes basin initiative for agricultural nonpoint source pollution prevention. In implementing the initiative, USDA must: Provide grants to Great Lakes states (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, or Wisconsin) for education and outreach, technical assistance, and voluntary verification programs regarding nonpoint source pollution from agricultural activities; Establish a funding priority within the Great Lakes basin for payments to producers that participate in the initiative to achieve verification through a state verification program; and Use existing data where it is available. In carrying out the initiative, states may collaborate with entities that have agricultural or environmental expertise, including academic or nonprofit organizations.

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for greater flexibility for Hours of Service regulations for haulers of agricultural commodities that fit under the commercial designation. Farm Bureau supported two petitions to the Department of Transportation (DOT) requesting additional flexibility on Hours of Service (HOS) requirements specifically for the hauling of livestock and perishable commodities. The petition would allow drivers who complete fatigue management training, have a sufficient safety record, and are willing to follow certain documentary requirements to drive 15 hours during a 16-hour work day and rest the currently required 10 hours. Current rules limit drive time to 11 hours and limit on-duty hours to 14. Michigan Farm Bureau has also encouraged Congress to provide additional flexibility to agricultural haulers, including: a Dear Colleague Letter circulated by Reps. Collin Peterson (D-Minn.) and Roger Marshall (R- Kan.) supporting a one-year delay on implementation of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) for livestock haulers to be included in FY2020 appropriations. MFB also supports legislation introduced by Sens. Hoeven (R-ND) and Bennet (D-CO), the Modernizing Agricultural Transportation Act. The legislation would reform the Hours of Service (HOS) and Electronic Logging Device (ELD) regulations and would delay enforcement of the ELD rule until reforms are proposed by the Secretary of Transportation.

Farm Bureau advocated funding for voluntary conservation programs and against cuts to any conservation programs in the 2018 Farm Bill through the federal appropriations process. MFB supports fully funding the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), Clean Water Action Section 319 Nonpoint Source Management Programs, Farm Bill conservation programs as critical tools to help get conservation programs enacted on the ground.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated to USDA on in the importance of a quick implementation to the 2018 Farm Bill which passed Congress in December 2018, especially for dairy and row crop farmers that need the certainty provided in Title I. We support the following principles: 1.) Protecting current Farm Bill program spending; 2.) Maintaining a unified farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together; 3.) Risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs as top funding priorities; 4.) Continuation of Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) with changes to ARC-County to make it more effective and fairer to all farmers; 5.) Developing farm savings accounts as a risk management option for all producers; 6.) Changes to the Dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) to provide producers more flexibility and better coverage; 7.) Maintaining funding for federal conservation programs which maintain environmental benefits; 8.) Maintain adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing and promotions, and pest management programs. MFB communicated with Congress specifically against any cuts to Farm Bill programs through the appropriations process.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated to both the U.S. House and Senate on the need to complete a 2018 Farm Bill before the current bill expires in October 2018. We support the following principles as a guide in writing the next Farm Bill: 1.) Protecting current Farm Bill program spending; 2.) Maintaining a unified farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together; 3.) Risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs as top funding priorities; 4.) Continuation of Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) with changes to ARC-County to make it more effective and fairer to all farmers; 5.) Developing farm savings accounts as a risk management option for all producers; 6.) Changes to the Dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) to provide producers more flexibility and better coverage; 7.) Maintaining funding for federal conservation programs which maintain environmental benefits; 8.) Maintain adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing and promotions, and pest management programs. MFB supported H.R. 2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 in the House, and H.R. 2, the Agriculture & Nutrition Act of 2018 in the Senate, and the Conference report.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. MFB has advocated for the AG and Legal Workforce Act, H.R. 6417, introduced by Rep. Bob Goodlatte. The bill would create a new H-2C guest worker visa for agriculture, that would provide up to a three year, renewable visa for both seasonal and year-round agriculture and ag processing jobs. Farm Bureau also advocated for a freeze on the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for H-2A works to stay at the 2018 levels. There was discussion of including this as an amendment during Senate Appropriations, but it was not ultimately included. The wage rate required for H-2A users has increased substantially over the past several years and Farm Bureau members do not believe it accurately reflects the job market. MFB also filed comments on two public dockets related to improving delivery of the H-2A visa program to farmers and supported in our member policy. Comments on proposed revisions to Form ETA-9142A and appendix, Form ETA-790/790A and addenda- dealt with simplifying the forms farmers fill out with Department of Labor and were submitted via email. The second comments were specific to the advertising requirement for domestic labor recruitment for the H-2A application process, docket No. ETA-2018-0002, and were submitted through the federal docket. Our comments reflected a need to advertise electronically, in addition to via newspapers to better target potential workers.

Michigan Farm Bureau supported H.R. 88, a bill which included several tax provisions supported in Farm Bureau member policy, including: 1.) Permanent extension of the short-line railroad track maintenance credit. 2.) Long-term extension of the biodiesel and renewable diesel through 2024. 3.) Additional two-year suspension of the Health Insurance Tax (HIT) for 2020 and 2021. 4.) Repeal of UBIT taxes on transportation fringe benefits of tax-exempt organizations.

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for the passage of WRDA, the Water Resources Development Act, H.R. 8. The bill funds inland waterway and transportation projects vital to the shipment of agricultural commodities out of ports and through locks in the Great Lakes and across the country. Farm Bureau policy supports these efforts.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. MFB has advocated for inclusion of the Agricultural Guestworker (AG) Act, H.R. 4092, introduced by Rep. Bob Goodlatte, in any broader immigration reform vehicles that move through the House, including the Securing Americas Future (SAF) Act, H.R. 4760, and H.R. 6136, which we supported. The bill would create a new H-2C guest worker visa for agriculture.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Our position is that overall, NAFTA has been very good for Michigan agriculture and we should work to protect the positive gains made in this agreement. If there is an opportunity to modernize or improve some areas for agriculture, we also support that - including Sanitary/Phytosanitary requirements, biotechnology, and additional protections for fruit and vegetable growers. MFB also has advocated the importance of the trading relationship with China to the Administration and Congress and the $20 billion positive impact to the ag sector in 2017. We also communicated to USDA about a concern with competition our tart cherry industry is experiencing from the country of Turkey with no barriers to entry.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated to both the U.S. House and Senate on the need to complete a 2018 Farm Bill before the current bill expires in October 2018. We support the following principles as a guide in writing the next Farm Bill: 1.) Protecting current Farm Bill program spending; 2.) Maintaining a unified farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together; 3.) Risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs as top funding priorities; 4.) Continuation of Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) with changes to ARC-County to make it more effective and fairer to all farmers; 5.) Developing farm savings accounts as a risk management option for all producers; 6.) Changes to the Dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) to provide producers more flexibility and better coverage; 7.) Maintaining funding for federal conservation programs which maintain environmental benefits; 8.) Maintain adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing and promotions, and pest management programs. MFB supported H.R. 2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 in the House, and H.R. 2, the Agriculture & Nutrition Act of 2018 in the Senate. Michigan Farm Bureau also advocated against the Rep. Foxx amendment in the House bill that would have eliminated the U.S. sugar program and the McClintock (CA) amendment which would have phased out agricultural subsidies. Both amendments failed.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and has been encouraged by the progress made with the new U.S. Mexico Canada (USMCA) agreement. Our position is that overall, NAFTA has been very good for Michigan agriculture and we should work to protect the positive gains made in this agreement. If there is an opportunity to modernize or improve some areas for agriculture, we also support that - including Sanitary/Phytosanitary requirements, biotechnology, and additional protections for fruit and vegetable growers. MFB also has advocated the importance of the trading relationship with China to the Administration and Congress and the $20 billion positive impact to the ag sector in 2017. We also communicated to USDA about a concern with competition our tart cherry industry is experiencing from the country of Turkey with no barriers to entry.

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for the passage of WRDA, the Water Resources Development Act, H.R. 8. The bill funds inland waterway and transportation projects vital to the shipment of agricultural commodities out of ports and through locks in the Great Lakes and across the country. Farm Bureau policy supports these efforts. We also advocated for the passage of the Senate version, S. 3021, and are very supportive of language that authorizes funding for improvements to the Soo Locks in Michigan.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated to both the U.S. House and Senate on the need to complete a 2018 Farm Bill before the current bill expires in October 2018. We support the following principles as a guide in writing the next Farm Bill: 1.) Protecting current Farm Bill program spending; 2.) Maintaining a unified farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together; 3.) Risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs as top funding priorities; 4.) Continuation of Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) with changes to ARC-County to make it more effective and fairer to all farmers; 5.) Developing farm savings accounts as a risk management option for all producers; 6.) Changes to the Dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) to provide producers more flexibility and better coverage; 7.) Maintaining funding for federal conservation programs which maintain environmental benefits; 8.) Maintain adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing and promotions, and pest management programs. MFB supported H.R. 2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 in the House, and H.R. 2, the Agriculture & Nutrition Act of 2018 in the Senate. We continue to communicate with House and Senate Ag Committee leadership about completing the Farm Bill before the end of the calendar year.

Michigan Farm Bureau has continued to advocate to EPA for the repeal and rewrite of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule or Clean Water Rule and commented on this when recently proposed by EPA and Army Corps of Engineers of the intention to withdraw and replace the rule. MFB policy strongly supports repealing the rule.

Michigan Farm Bureau continued to communicate to USDA Rural Development on a change to the Section 514 Housing program, which would allow H-2A via guest workers to have the option of staying in on farm housing financed under Section 514 federal housing program administered by USDA. H.R. 1625, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018 (Omnibus) was supported by MFB and contained a provision that will now allow H-2A workers eligibility to live in Section 514 Housing. We advocated to USDA to finalize the guidance to states.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated to both the U.S. House and Senate on the need to complete a 2018 Farm Bill before the current bill expires in October 2018. We support the following principles as a guide in writing the next Farm Bill: 1.) Protecting current Farm Bill program spending; 2.) Maintaining a unified farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together; 3.) Risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs as top funding priorities; 4.) Continuation of Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) with changes to ARC-County to make it more effective and fairer to all farmers; 5.) Developing farm savings accounts as a risk management option for all producers; 6.) Changes to the Dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) to provide producers more flexibility and better coverage; 7.) Maintaining funding for federal conservation programs which maintain environmental benefits; 8.) Maintain adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing and promotions, and pest management programs. MFB supported H.R. 2, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 in the House, and H.R. 2, the Agriculture & Nutrition Act of 2018 in the Senate. Michigan Farm Bureau also advocated against the Rep. Foxx amendment in the House bill that would have eliminated the U.S. sugar program and the McClintock (CA) amendment which would have phased out agricultural subsidies. Both amendments failed.

Michigan Farm Bureau advocated for the passage of WRDA, the Water Resources Development Act, H.R. 8. The bill funds inland waterway and transportation projects vital to the shipment of agricultural commodities out of ports and through locks in the Great Lakes and across the country. Farm Bureau policy supports these efforts.

Michigan Farm Bureau successfully advocated to the USDA for a federal Section 32 bonus purchase of tart cherries. The initiative was lead by the tart cherry industry and MFB supplied a letter of support and communicated verbally with USDA about the importance of a purchase directly to USDA.

Michigan Farm Bureau is working with members of the House and Senate on seeking a legislative change that would allow H-2A via guest workers to have the option of staying in on farm housing financed under Section 514 federal housing program administered by USDA. Currently these ag works are not eligible. MFB believes farmers have exhausted options to employ domestic workers that would utilize the housing and would like to use the empty houses to be made available to H-2A workers. H.R. 1625, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018 (Omnibus) was supported by MFB and contained a provision that will now allow H-2A workers eligibility to live in Section 514 Housing.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated to both the U.S. House and Senate on the need to complete a 2018 Farm Bill before the current bill expires in October 2018. We support the following principles as a guide in writing the next Farm Bill: 1.) Protecting current Farm Bill program spending; 2.) Maintaining a unified farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together; 3.) Risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs as top funding priorities; 4.) Continuation of Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) with changes to ARC-County to make it more effective and fairer to all farmers; 5.) Developing farm savings accounts as a risk management option for all producers; 6.) Changes to the Dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) to provide producers more flexibility and better coverage; 7.) Maintaining funding for federal conservation programs which maintain environmental benefits; 8.) Maintain adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing and promotions, and pest management programs. Michigan Farm Bureau has been working with USDA and House and Senate members on addressing an ongoing concern with farmers enrolled in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) in Lenawee County, Michigan. Audit/reviews were done by the Farm Service Agency (FSA) of existing contracts and there have been considerable delays in payments for 2016 and 2017 to farmers. Farm Bureau is advocating for payments to contract holders, improved communication by USDA, and an end to the uncertainty. MFB also supports H.R. 3518, the Great Lakes Agricultural Stewardship Act. The bill would require the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a Great Lakes basin initiative for agricultural nonpoint source pollution prevention. The bill would provide incentives for voluntary conservation initiatives on farms. MFB also supported S. 1966, the Regional Conservation Partnership Program Improvement Act. The bill would help streamline the program, reduce unnecessary red tape and ensure the maximum amount of resources go to on the ground conservation practices on farms. We support broader partnerships to help farmers implement conservation in accordance with NRCS practice standards as well as new approaches guided by sound science. RCPP has done a lot of great work in Michigan to support both soil and water quality and a strong agricultural industry. MFB also worked closely with members of the House and Senate and USDA on improving delivery of conservation services in Michigan after a USDA audit of the Conservation Reserve Program. MFB continues to advocate for increased customer service, the inclusion of ditches and drains as an allowed filter strip practice - something allowed in Michigan for decades but recently called into question. MFB supported passage of H.R. 1892, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 and supported inclusion of the following items: Provides nearly $90 billion in disaster aid spending, which is critically needed for the farmers and ranchers impacted by the natural disasters last year. Provides assistance to livestock producers, including dairy farmers, including: The Margin Protection Program for dairy producers would be modified to include lower premium rates, monthly margin calculations, and would increase Tier 1 coverage to 5 million pounds of production history. Sign-up for the 2018 MPP coverage would be reopened for 90 days following the signing of the bill. The $20 million cap on livestock related expenditures under the Federal Crop Insurance program would be removed - providing more risk management options for cattle, swine, lamb and dairy farmers. Other Provisions: Provides $6 billion to fight opioid addiction. Extends important energy tax provisions, which were not included in the tax reform bill.

Key provisions included in H.R. 1625, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018 Omnibus that Michigan Farm Bureau supported: Cooperative Tax Deduction: Amends the cooperative tax deduction, Section 199A. This provision restores balance to commodity markets and reestablishes fairness between cooperative and non-cooperative agriculture producers. Details on the fix can be found in the Impact section. CERCLA: The bill amends Section 103 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) to clarify that air emissions from animal waste at a farm are not applicable under this act and thus farmers do not need to report their emissions. Electronic Logging Devices: The bill prohibits through the remainder of FY18 the Department of Transportation from enforcing the electronic logging device mandate on those haulers transporting livestock and insects. Farm Program: The bill allows for pilot program for the 2017 crop year for county-level agriculture risk coverage payments where a supplemental payment is made based on alternative calculations if the National Agricultural Statistics Service data currently used creates payment disparities within comparable counties in a state. One alternative calculation can be based on Risk Management Agency data. This is designed to address the payment disparities observed in ARC-CO program payments during the previous crop years. Forest Management: The bill provides critical forest management reforms and allows the U.S. Forest Service to adjust its cap when its fire-suppression budget goes above the 10-year average. This provision is critical to the long term fiscal health of the Forest Service. Rural Broadband: Creates a pilot program within the Rural Utility Service to allocate $625 million in funding to underserved and unserved areas. Following are the FY18 Agriculture Highlights: $23.3 billion in discretionary funding, which is $2.1 billion above the FY17 enacted level Agriculture Research: Provides $3.03 billion for agriculture research, which is $138.8 million above the FY17 enacted level. Includes $400 million for the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative; $244 million for the Hatch Act; $483.6 million to support extension service activities; and $140.6 million for Agricultural Research Service Building and Facilities. Animal and Plant Health: Includes $985.1 million for the Animal and Health Inspection Service, which is $36 million above the FY17 enacted level. Conservation Programs: Provides $1.03 billion for conservation programs, which is $8 million above the FY17 enacted levels. Includes $160 million for infrastructure rehabilitation projects. Provides $150 million for the Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations program. Farm Service Agency: Includes $1.7 billion for farm programs, which is $2 million more than the FY17 enacted level. Prohibits the closure of FSA county offices and provides additional funding for the hiring of more loan officers. Rural Development: Provides more than $4 billion for rural development programs, which is $1.125 billion above FY17 enacted level. Food Safety and Inspection Service: Provides $1.06 billion, which is an increase of $25 million above the FY17 enacted level, for food safety and inspection programs. Food and Drug Administration: Includes more than $2.9 billion for the FDA, which is $134 million above the FY17 enacted level. $94 million is designated for combating the opioid epidemic; $10.5 million is for food safety activities; and $60 million for the 21st Century Cures Act. Commodity Futures Trading Commission: Provides $249 million for the CFTC, which is $1 million below the FY17 enacted level. International Programs: Includes $2.1 billion for food aid programs, which is $130 million above the FY17 enacted level. $1.76 billion for PL 480, Title II Food for Peace grants. $207.6 million for the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program, with $10 million designated for the Local and Regional Food Aid Procurement at the Foreign Agriculture Service. Food and Nutrition Programs: Provides $6.175 billion for the Women, Infants and Children Program, which is $175 million below the FY17 enacted level. Includes $24.3 billion in mandatory funding for child nutrition programs, which is $1.5 billion above FY17 enacted level. Provides $74 billion in mandatory funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which is $4.5 billion below FY17 enacted level.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with the U.S. House on support of H. R. 26 Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act, H.R. 5 the Regulatory Accountability Act, and H.R. 1004, the Regulatory Integrity Act. MFB has also communicated with the U.S. Senate on the need to take up these bills and concepts in 2017. Specifically, we are supportive of S. 951, the Regulatory Accountability Act, introduced by Sens. Rob Portman and Heidi Heitkamp. Farm Bureau members support these efforts because of EPAs recent rulemaking actions, such as the Waters of the US Rule, Clean Air Rule, Worker Protection Standards and others have highlighted the problems not just with the Agency, but with the regulatory process itself. Everything from how scientific review is incorporated, to the requirements for cost-benefit analysis, to the deference given to agencies in federal courts and beyond, need to be examined to ensure that the regulatory process is fair, transparent, and aligns with Congressional intent based on the laws they pass. Michigan Farm Bureau has continued to advocate for the repeal of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule or Clean Water Rule and commented on this when recently proposed by EPA and Army Corps of Engineers of the intention to withdraw and replace the rule. MFB policy strongly supports repealing the rule. Farm Bureau also supported an amendment to FY 2018 Interior-EPA Appropriations in the House (H.R. 3354) offered by Reps. Billy Long (R-MO) and Jim Costa (D-CA), would reaffirm congressional intent that two laws enacted to manage the after-effects of industrial toxic waste spills were not intended to govern routine, low-level emissions from livestock on farms. Specifically, the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) was enacted to provide for cleanup of major industrial toxic waste dumps and spills, like oil spills and chemical tank explosions. The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) was enacted to ensure that parties who emit hazardous chemicals submit reports to their local emergency responders to allow for more effective planning for chemical emergencies. Farm Bureau does not believe farms need to report air emissions under interpretation of this law and have communicated this to Congress and the Administration. H.R. 1625, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018 (Omnibus) was supported by MFB and contained a provision that will now eliminate any air emissions reporting requirements (CERCELA) for livestock farms.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. MFB has advocated for inclusion of the Agricultural Guestworker (AG) Act, H.R. 4092, introduced by Rep. Bob Goodlatte, in any broader immigration reform vehicles that move through the House, including the Securing Americas Future (SAF) Act, H.R. 4760. The bill would create a new H-2C guest worker visa for agriculture.

Michigan Farm Bureau is working with members of the House and Senate on seeking a legislative change that would allow H-2A via guest workers to have the option of staying in on farm housing financed under Section 514 federal housing program administered by USDA. Currently these ag works are not eligible. MFB believes farmers have exhausted options to employ domestic workers that would utilize the housing and would like to use the empty houses to be made available to H-2A workers.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated to both the U.S. House and Senate on the need to complete a 2018 Farm Bill before the current bill expires in October 2018. We support the following principles as a guide in writing the next Farm Bill: 1.) Protecting current Farm Bill program spending; 2.) Maintaining a unified farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together; 3.) Risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs as top funding priorities; 4.) Continuation of Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) with changes to ARC-County to make it more effective and fairer to all farmers; 5.) Developing farm savings accounts as a risk management option for all producers; 6.) Changes to the Dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) to provide producers more flexibility and better coverage; 7.) Maintaining funding for federal conservation programs which maintain environmental benefits; 8.) Maintain adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing and promotions, and pest management programs. Michigan Farm Bureau has been working with USDA and House and Senate members on addressing an ongoing concern with farmers enrolled in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) in Lenawee County, Michigan. Audit/reviews were done by the Farm Service Agency (FSA) of existing contracts and there have been considerable delays in payments for 2016 and 2017 to farmers. Farm Bureau is advocating for payments to contract holders, improved communication by USDA, and an end to the uncertainty. MFB also supports H.R. 3518, the Great Lakes Agricultural Stewardship Act. The bill would require the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a Great Lakes basin initiative for agricultural nonpoint source pollution prevention. The bill would provide incentives for voluntary conservation initiatives on farms. MFB also supported S. 1966, the Regional Conservation Partnership Program Improvement Act. The bill would help streamline the program, reduce unnecessary red tape and ensure the maximum amount of resources go to on the ground conservation practices on farms. We support broader partnerships to help farmers implement conservation in accordance with NRCS practice standards as well as new approaches guided by sound science. RCPP has done a lot of great work in Michigan to support both soil and water quality and a strong agricultural industry. MFB also worked closely with members of the House and Senate and USDA on improving delivery of conservation services in Michigan after a USDA audit of the Conservation Reserve Program. MFB continues to advocate for increased customer service, the inclusion of ditches and drains as an allowed filter strip practice - something allowed in Michigan for decades but recently called into question.

Michigan Farm Bureau has communicated with the U.S. House and Senate on the the following principles in regards to tax reform discussion: 1.) Lower effective tax rates; 2.) Repeal estate taxes and keep stepped-up basis; 3.) Reduce capital gains taxes; 4.) Provide immediate expensing of business inputs; 5.) Keep the deduction for interest expenses; 6.) Continue cash method of accounting; 7.) Continue like-kind exchanges. MFB would like to see these items included in future tax policy and supports these items. MFB supported passage of H.R. 1 the Tax Cuts and Jobs act that passed in both the House and Senate. MFB also advocated for extending expired tax provisions including the biodiesel tax credit and the Health Insurance Tax.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Our position is that overall, NAFTA has been very good for Michigan agriculture and we should work to protect the positive gains made in this agreement. If there is an opportunity to modernize or improve some areas for agriculture, we also support that - including Sanitary/Phytosanitary requirements, biotechnology, and additional protections for fruit and vegetable growers. MFB also supports the further opening of trade opportunities with Cuba.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with the U.S. House on support of H. R. 26 Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act, H.R. 5 the Regulatory Accountability Act, and H.R. 1004, the Regulatory Integrity Act. MFB has also communicated with the U.S. Senate on the need to take up these bills and concepts in 2017. Specifically, we are supportive of S. 951, the Regulatory Accountability Act, introduced by Sens. Rob Portman and Heidi Heitkamp. Farm Bureau members support these efforts because of EPAs recent rulemaking actions, such as the Waters of the US Rule, Clean Air Rule, Worker Protection Standards and others have highlighted the problems not just with the Agency, but with the regulatory process itself. Everything from how scientific review is incorporated, to the requirements for cost-benefit analysis, to the deference given to agencies in federal courts and beyond, need to be examined to ensure that the regulatory process is fair, transparent, and aligns with Congressional intent based on the laws they pass. Michigan Farm Bureau has continued to advocate for the repeal of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule or Clean Water Rule and commented on this when recently proposed by EPA and Army Corps of Engineers of the intention to withdraw and replace the rule. MFB policy strongly supports repealing the rule.

Michigan Farm Bureau took positions on the following amendments during the House FY2018 Appropriations process: Agriculture Amendments Oriental Fruit Fly Research - MFB supports Rep. Curbelos (R-Fla.) amendment #11 that appropriates $1.5 million for Oriental Fruit Fly research with the offset coming from Departmental Administration under the Office of the Secretary account. APHIS - MFB supports Rep. Graves (R-La.) amendment #16 that reduces the Department of Agriculture expense account by $400,000, and increases the Animal and Plant Inspection Services accounts by $400,000 to control the outbreaks of insect and plant diseases. Citrus Greening - MFB supports Rep. Sotos (D-Fla.) amendment #24 that increases funding for Specialty Crop Pest Program by $1,000,000 for the Huanglongbing multi-agency Coordination efforts. Broadband - MFB supports Rep. Nolans (D-Minn.) amendment #46 that increases the USDAs Rural Broadband Program Loan Subsidy funding by $479,000, offset with a reduction to general Rural Development administrative expenses. Alternative Fuels - MFB supports Rep. Youngs (R-Iowa) amendment #35 that strikes language that would prevent the U.S. Department of Agriculture from using Commodity Credit Corporation funds to purchase, produce, or defray the costs of alternative fuels under its memorandum of understanding with the Department of Defense. National Ocean Policy -MFB opposes Rep. Cicillines (D-R.I.) amendment #21 that strikes language that restricts funding for Executive Order 13547, National Ocean Policy. National Park Service - MFB opposes Rep. Jackson Lees (D-Texas) amendment #17 that prohibits use of funds by the National Park Service in contravention of section 320101 of title 54, United States Code which provides that it is a national policy to preserve for public use historic sites, buildings, and objects of national significance for the inspiration and benefit of the people of the United States, especially as it relates to National Heritage Areas. GIPSA - MFB supports Rep. Davis (R-Ill.) amendment #15 that prohibits the use of funds provided by the Act to be used to revoke exceptions made pursuant to the rule entitled "Exceptions to Geographic Areas for Official Agencies Under the USGSA" on a date before April 14, 2017. E-Verify - MFB opposes Rep. Kings (R-Iowa) amendment #47 that ensures that no funds may be used on new hires who have not been verified through the E-Verify program, except for an employee compensated under a local compensation plan established under section 408 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980. THUD Amendment Electronic Logging - MFB supports Rep. Babins (R-Texas) amendment #35 that prohibits funds from being used to implement or enforce the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate. Interior Amendments CERCLA - MFB supports Rep. Longs (R-Mo.) amendment #65 that prohibits funds from being used to enforce reporting requirements of hazardous substances from farms in accordance with Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986. Financial Services Amendments Cuba - MFB supports Rep. Crawfords (R-Ark.) amendment #81 that prohibits funds from being used to implement, administer, and enforce Section 908(b) of Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000, which requires agriculture commodities sales to Cuba to be carried out on a cash basis. Cuba - MFB supports Rep. Sanfords (R-S.C.) amendment #82 that defunds restrictions on American travel to Cuba.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) supports H.R. 424, the Gray Wolf State Management Act. Farm Bureau supports legislation that would direct the Secretary of the Interior to reissue the final rule that was published on December 28, 2011 (76 Fed. Reg. 81666 et seq) delisting the Western Great Lakes District Population Segment (DPS) of gray wolf, without regard to any other provision or statute or regulation that applies to the issuance of such rule and not subject to judicial review. This legislation would achieve this objective. MFB members support wildlife management tools at the state level to properly manage wolf predation.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Our position is that overall, NAFTA has been very good for Michigan agriculture and we should work to protect the positive gains made in this agreement. If there is an opportunity to modernize or improve some areas for agriculture, we also support that - including Sanitary/Phytosanitary requirements, biotechnology, and additional protections for fruit and vegetable growers. MFB also supports the further opening of trade opportunities with Cuba.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. MFB is supporting The Agricultural Guestworker (AG) Act, introduced by Rep. Bob Goodlatte. The bill would create a new H-2C guest worker visa for agriculture.

Michigan Farm Bureau has communicated with the U.S. House and Senate on the the following principles in regards to tax reform discussion: 1.) Lower effective tax rates; 2.) Repeal estate taxes and keep stepped-up basis; 3.) Reduce capital gains taxes; 4.) Provide immediate expensing of business inputs; 5.) Keep the deduction for interest expenses; 6.) Continue cash method of accounting; 7.) Continue like-kind exchanges. MFB would like to see these items included in future tax policy and supports these items.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with the U.S. House on support of H. R. 26 Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act, H.R. 5 the Regulatory Accountability Act, and H.R. 1004, the Regulatory Integrity Act. MFB has also communicated with the U.S. Senate on the need to take up these bills and concepts in 2017. Specifically, we are supportive of S. 951, the Regulatory Accountability Act, introduced by Sens. Rob Portman and Heidi Heitkamp. Farm Bureau members support these efforts because of EPAs recent rulemaking actions, such as the Waters of the US Rule, Clean Air Rule, Worker Protection Standards and others have highlighted the problems not just with the Agency, but with the regulatory process itself. Everything from how scientific review is incorporated, to the requirements for cost-benefit analysis, to the deference given to agencies in federal courts and beyond, need to be examined to ensure that the regulatory process is fair, transparent, and aligns with Congressional intent based on the laws they pass.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops. Michigan Farm Bureau has not taken a position on any current legislation.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated to both the U.S. House and Senate on the need to complete a 2018 Farm Bill before the current bill expires in October 2018. We support the following principles as a guide in writing the next Farm Bill: 1.) Protecting current Farm Bill program spending; 2.) Maintaining a unified farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together; 3.) Risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs as top funding priorities; 4.) Continuation of Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) with changes to ARC-County to make it more effective and fairer to all farmers; 5.) Developing farm savings accounts as a risk management option for all producers; 6.) Changes to the Dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) to provide producers more flexibility and better coverage; 7.) Maintaining funding for federal conservation programs which maintain environmental benefits; 8.) Maintain adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing and promotions, and pest management programs.

Michigan Farm Bureau is working with members of the House and Senate on seeking a legislative change that would allow H-2A via guest workers to have the option of staying in on farm housing financed under Section 514 federal housing program administered by USDA. Currently these ag works are not eligible. MFB believes farmers have exhausted options to employ domestic workers that would utilize the housing and would like to use the empty houses to be made available to H-2A workers.

Michigan Farm Bureau has communicated with the U.S. House and Senate on the the following principles in regards to tax reform discussion: 1.) Lower effective tax rates; 2.) Repeal estate taxes and keep stepped-up basis; 3.) Reduce capital gains taxes; 4.) Provide immediate expensing of business inputs; 5.) Keep the deduction for interest expenses; 6.) Continue cash method of accounting; 7.) Continue like-kind exchanges. MFB would like to see these items included in future tax policy and supports these items.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with the U.S. House on support of H. R. 26 Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act, H.R. 5 the Regulatory Accountability Act, and H.R. 1004, the Regulatory Integrity Act. MFB has also communicated with the U.S. Senate on the need to take up these bills and concepts in 2017. Farm Bureau members support these efforts because of EPAs recent rulemaking actions, such as the Waters of the US Rule, Clean Air Rule, Worker Protection Standards and others have highlighted the problems not just with the Agency, but with the regulatory process itself. Everything from how scientific review is incorporated, to the requirements for cost-benefit analysis, to the deference given to agencies in federal courts and beyond, need to be examined to ensure that the regulatory process is fair, transparent, and aligns with Congressional intent based on the laws they pass.

Michigan Farm Bureau supported H.R. 1628, the American Health Care Act of 2017, to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. MFB communicated with the House on support for the legislation. Following are Farm Bureau policy points that are contained in H.R. 1628: 1.) Repeals the Affordable Care Act. 2.) Eliminates penalties for individuals that fail to purchase health insurance. 3.) Ends penalties on employers that fail to purchase health insurance for their workers. 4.) Guarantees coverage for pre-existing conditions. 5.) Repeals the Health Insurance Tax (HIT). 6.) Block grants Medicaid to states.7.) Expands tax incentives for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

Michigan Farm Bureau supported the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) free trade agreement and continued efforts between the European Union and the US on TTIP. Farm Bureau policy for trade negotiations includes as objectives: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Elimination of non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotech products; Address issues concerning import sensitive products; Opposition to he use of geographic indicators. MFB also is supporting normalizing trade relations with Cuba.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agriculture's long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creases a usable guest worker program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes E-Verify legislation unless it moves in tandem with legislation addressing agriculture's labor needs. MFB also advocated for changes in the H-2A guest worker visa program that would make the system more efficient and streamlined and guaranteed workers arrived on time to perform job duties like planting or harvesting crops.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated to both the U.S. House and Senate on the need to complete a 2018 Farm Bill before the current bill expires in October 2018. We support the following principles as a guide in writing the next Farm Bill: 1.) Protecting current Farm Bill program spending; 2.) Maintaining a unified farm bill which includes nutrition programs and farm programs together; 3.) Risk management tools which include both federal crop insurance and commodity programs as top funding priorities; 4.) Continuation of Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) with changes to ARC-County to make it more effective and fairer to all farmers; 5.) Developing farm savings accounts as a risk management option for all producers; 6.) Changes to the Dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) to provide producers more flexibility and better coverage; 7.) Maintaining funding for federal conservation programs which maintain environmental benefits; 8.) Maintain adequate funding for the specialty crop industry with emphasis on fundamental research, marketing and promotions, and pest management programs.

Michigan Farm Bureau supported the passage of S. 612 the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act. Member policy supports provisions in the bill including: harbor dredging and maintenance to maintain the inland waterway infrastructure, and the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) regulation provisions for above ground storage on farms.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the passage of the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), continued efforts to negotiate the U.S.-E.U. Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), and the concept of trade with Cuba. FB Policy for trade negotiations includes as objectives: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Elimination of non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import sensitive products; Opposition to the use of geographic indicators. MFB also is in support of normalizing trade relations with Cuba and was part of a letter that went to House leadership advocating for fully lifting the financing, trade and travel bans for Cuba. MFB urged House members to sign onto a letter by Reps. Adrian Smith, Jim Costa, Dan Newhouse supporting the President's continued prioritization of normalizing biotechnology product exports into China. The letter emphasized agriculture's support for biotechnology reform, while respecting China as the United States largest export destination for agricultural products.

MFB encouraged members of Congress to support a letter to Treasury Secretary Lew opposing proposed changes to estate tax discount valuation rules. MFB also supported H.R. 6100, Protect Family Farms and Businesses Act, which would prevent the IRS from issuing rules that would restrict estate tax discount valuation from taking effect. The bill was introduced by Rep. Warren Davidson (R-Ohio). MFB has serious concerns about how this proposed change to negatively impact estate planning and transferring family farms to the next generation when a family death occurs leading to increased tax burdens on the heirs.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with Congress on the need to begin writing the 2018 Farm Bill in 2017 to ensure a smooth transition. While specific bills or concepts were not included, Farm Bureau communicated concerns identified by members regarding the Dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) not working for enough dairy farmers, continued emphasis on programs designed to assist the specialty crop sector, including Specialty Crop Block Grants and programs designed to fight plant pests and disease, and risk management tools including crop insurance for all farmers. Michigan Farm Bureau also encouraged members of the House to sign a letter being lead by Rep. Rick Crawford and Bruce Westerman to USFWS regarding cormorant depredation on fish farms, and the need to have more management tools to prevent fish loss.

Earlier this year, EPA issued a draft Ecological Assessment of the herbicides Atrazine and Simazine, which is a preliminary step in judging whether the chemical will continue to be available for agricultural producers. MFB met with industry partners and collaborated on comments from our organization and our members and sent them to EPA by the October 5 deadline. In addition to sharing with EPA, MFB communicated concerns to Congress throughout the process. MFB believes that the draft assessment by EPA did not rely on the best available science and would significantly impacted continued availability of these herbicides to farmers if left unchallenged. MFB also encouraged House members to sign a letter lead by Rep. Ken Buck (R-CO)to the EPA requesting the agency take into account the needs of farmers in determining atrazine's future use.

Michigan Farm Bureau filed comments on the USDA National Organic Program's proposed changes to Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices published in the Federal Register on April 13, 2016. MFB expressed concerns with the proposal, specifically with the creation of cage size and outdoor access for livestock and poultry under this proposal. MFB communicated these concerns to congress in addition to USDA.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the passage of the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), continued efforts to negotiate the U.S.-E.U. Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), and the concept of trade with Cuba. FB Policy for trade negotiations includes as objectives: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Elimination of non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import sensitive products; Opposition to the use of geographic indicators. MFB also is in support of normalizing trade relations with Cuba and was part of a letter that went to House leadership advocating for fully lifting the financing, trade and travel bans for Cuba.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) is working with members of the House and Senate on seeing a legislative change that would allow H-2A visa guest workers to have the option of staying in farm housing financed under the Section 514 federal housing program administered under USDA. Currently theses agricultural workers are not eligible. MFB believes farmers have exhausted options to employ domestic workers that would utilize the housing and would like to use the empty houses to make available for H-2A.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agricultures long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creates a usable guest worker visa program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes H.R. 1147 the Legal Workforce Act, a bill to require mandatory E-Verify, unless the legislation were to move in tandem with legislation addressing agricultures labor needs.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) continues to express concerns with the EPAs efforts to expand the definition of Waters of the United States under the Clean Water Act/Clean Water Rule. MFB supported H.R. 1732, the Regulatory Integrity Protection Act of 2015 and has asked the U.S. Senate to pass similar legislation. The bill would require the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. EPA to withdraw the Clean Water Rule. MFB also supported S. 1140 the Federal Water Quality Protection Act and S.J.Res. 22, a vote of disapproval of the WOTUS rule. MFB also supports H.R. 3120, the Great Lakes Assurance Verification Act of 2015, a bill that would establish a Great Lakes basin initiative for agricultural nonpoint source pollution prevention. MFB supports H.R. 5226, the Regulatory Integrity Act, a bill that requires transparency about public communications made by agencies. MFB believed that the EPA overstepped its boundaries in regard to how it communicated the Waters of the US rule during the public comment period. This bill is in response to that concern. MFB also supported the Interior Appropriations Bill that passed in the House in July. In particular provisions that would prevent EPA from making changes to the definition of "navigable waters" under the Clean Water Act.

MFB encouraged members of Congress to support a letter to Treasury Secretary Lew opposing proposed changes to estate tax discount valuation rules. MFB also supported H.R. 6100, Protect Family Farms and Businesses Act, which would prevent the IRS from issuing rules that would restrict estate tax discount valuation from taking effect. The bill was introduced by Rep. Warren Davidson (R-Ohio). MFB has serious concerns about how this proposed change to negatively impact estate planning and transferring family farms to the next generation when a family death occurs leading to increased tax burdens on the heirs.

Michigan Farm Bureau supported S. 764 - the Roberts-Stabenow GMO Labeling compromise. MFB policy supported a federal standard that would preempt mandatory state GMO labeling laws. In addition MFB supports a federal definition for biotechnology. MFB supports H.R. 3532, the Fruit and Vegetable Access for Children Act, the bill would expand the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) to allow schools to serve all forms of produce. Michigan annually processes more fruits like apples and cherries than are sold for fresh consumption. MFB Policy supports increased market opportunity for growers. MFB also supported a letter to appropriators on child nutrition reauthorization that would open the program to all forms of produce - fresh, frozen, canned and other processed products. MFB Supported H.R. 5003, Improving Child Nutrition and Education Act of 2016. The bill expands the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable program to allow schools to serve more fruits and vegetables - fresh, frozen, canned or dried. MFB opposed efforts in the House and Senate to move catfish inspection from the Food Safety and Inspection Service to FDA. MFB opposed S.J.Res 28 and similar efforts in the House.

Michigan Farm Bureau supported H.R. 4626 and S. 2595, the BRACE Act. The bills extend the 50% tax credit for short line railroad track maintenance. MFB policy supports this bill because farmers need efficient and cost-effective rail transportation for the delivery of equipment, seed, fertilizer and other inputs and to move the food, fiber, and fuel products they produce to market. An efficient system helps reduce the prices farmers pay for supplies and increases domestic and foreign market access. MFB also asked House Ag Committee members to support a letter being led by Reps. Gibbs and Rouzer in support of Like-Kind Exchanges. Farmers use like-kind exchanges to consolidate distant land parcels into a contiguous unit or to move their farm businesses out of the path of urban development or to a more rural setting, and to reconfigure their businesses so that young and beginning farmers can join the business. Farm Bureau also advocated for broad tax reform that contained the following principals: Comprehensive: Tax reform should help all farm and ranch businesses: sole-proprietors, partnerships, sub-S and C corporations. Effective Tax Rate: Tax reform should reduce rates low enough to account for any deductions/credits lost due to base broadening. Estate Taxes: Tax reform should repeal estate taxes. Stepped-up basis should continue. Capital Gains Taxes: Tax reform should lower taxes on capital investments. Capital gains taxes should not be levied on transfers at death. Cost Recovery: Tax reform should allow businesses to deduct expenses when incurred. Cash accounting should continue. Simplification: Tax reform should simplify the tax code to reduce the tax compliance burden.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agricultures long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creates a usable guest worker visa program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes H.R. 1147 the Legal Workforce Act, a bill to require mandatory E-Verify, unless the legislation were to move in tandem with legislation addressing agricultures labor needs.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the passage of the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), continued efforts to negotiate the U.S.-E.U. Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), and the concept of trade with Cuba. FB Policy for trade negotiations includes as objectives: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Elimination of non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import sensitive products; Opposition to the use of geographic indicators. MFB also is in support of normalizing trade relations with Cuba and was part of a letter that went to House leadership advocating for fully lifting the financing, trade and travel bans for Cuba.

Michigan Farm Bureau filed comments on the USDA National Organic Program's proposed changes to Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices published in the Federal Register on April 13, 2016. MFB asked for a 60 day extension. MFB also supported a joint House and Senate Agriculture Committee letter asking for an extension. MFB also supported a House letter led by Rep. John Moolenaar to USDA outlining concerns with the proposed rule and asked Representatives from Michigan to sign the letter.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) is working with members of the House and Senate on seeing a legislative change that would allow H-2A visa guest workers to have the option of staying in farm housing financed under the Section 514 federal housing program administered under USDA. Currently theses agricultural workers are not eligible. MFB believes farmers have exhausted options to employ domestic workers that would utilize the housing and would like to use the empty houses to make available for H-2A. MFB has also contacted members of the House and Senate on slow downs and deficiencies within the H-2A visa processing process, particularly with Department of Labor and Department of Homeland Security and has communicated with these federal departments on the concerns as well. MFB also supported a letter led in the House by Reps. Newhouse, DelBene, Stefanik and Bishop to USCIS and DOL dealing with administrative delays in the processing of visa applications for the H-2A guest worker program. Farmers rely on the program working efficiently so that workers arrive on time to complete harvest.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) is working with members of the House and Senate on seeing a legislative change that would allow H-2A visa guest workers to have the option of staying in farm housing financed under the Section 514 federal housing program administered under USDA. Currently theses agricultural workers are not eligible. MFB believes farmers have exhausted options to employ domestic workers that would utilize the housing and would like to use the empty houses to make available for H-2A. MFB has also contacted members of the House and Senate on slow downs and deficiencies within the H-2A visa processing process, particularly with Department of Labor and Department of Homeland Security and has communicated with these federal departments on the concerns as well.

Michigan Farm Bureau communicated with the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)of USDA regarding 2015 harvest prices under the revenue protection endorsement for navy and small red beans in Michigan. In 2014, a pilot program for Dry Bean Revenue Insurance became effective under the Pulse Crop Endorsement Submission Package. Many Michigan growers had concerns about how the formula was calculated in 2015. We also communicated this concern with the House and Senate.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the passage of the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), continued efforts to negotiate the U.S.-E.U. Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), and the concept of trade with Cuba. FB Policy for trade negotiations includes as objectives: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Elimination of non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import sensitive products; Opposition to the use of geographic indicators.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) supports H.R. 1599, the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015. The bill would create a voluntary, national standard for the labeling of foods containing or not containing genetic modification. MFB supports a measure that is voluntary and avoids a patchwork of state laws on this issue. MFB supports the Senate acting on the House version or similar legislation once introduced. Additionally, MFB supported Sen. Pat Roberts' S.Amdt.3450 to S.764 Vote 37 (cloture vote GMO Labeling) that did not get enough votes for further action. In addition, MFB supports H.R. 3532, the Fruit and Vegetable Access for Children Act, the bill would expand the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) to allow schools to serve all forms of produce. Michigan annually processes more fruits like apples and cherries than are sold for fresh consumption. MFB Policy supports increased market opportunity for growers. MFB also supported a letter to appropriators on child nutrition reauthorization that would open the program to all forms of produce - fresh, frozen, canned and other processed products.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for tax reform that focuses on passing and making permanent tax extenders that expired at the end of 2014 and other business tax provisions, including: Section 179, Bonus Depreciation, Capital Gains Taxes and Stepped-Up Basis, Estate Taxes, Health Insurance Tax (HIT), Marketplace Fairness Act (sales tax), and Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT). MFB supported: H.R. 641, the Conservation Easement Incentive Act of 2015, to make permanent the enhanced tax deduction for donated conservation easements; H.R. 644 to permanently extend and expand the charitable deduction for donated food; H.R. 636, Americas Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2015, to permanently set the IRC Section 179 small business expensing maximum limit at $500,000. MFB also supported S. 860, the Death Tax Repeal Act of 2015 and H.R. 1105, Death Tax Repeal Act of 2015. MFB also supported H.R. 2510, a bill that would permanently extend 50 percent bonus depreciation. The bill would be expanded to include fruit growers. Farm Bureau policy supports extending and making permanent tax tools that help farmers better manage cash flow, minimize tax liabilities and reduce borrowing needs. MFB also supported H.R. 2029, the Consolidated Appropriations Act which included the PATH Act which either made permanent or extended most of these tax provisions.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) communicated with the House and Senate during the FY2016 appropriations process, mainly, Farm Bureau supported the House and Senate Omnibus spending package, H.R. 2029 Consolidated Appropriations Act - FY2016 Omnibus Appropriations and Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act. MFB supported funding for the Department of Agriculture and related agencies, and specific items in the legislation including the repeal of mandatory country of origin labeling (COOL) for beef and pork; and provisions within the PATH Act related to tax reform. MFB supported making Section 197 depreciation, Donation of Conservation Easements, and Donation of Surplus Food permanent in the tax code and extending bonus depreciation for 5 years in addition to supporting other tax extenders.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agricultures long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creates a usable guest worker visa program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes H.R. 1147 the Legal Workforce Act, a bill to require mandatory E-Verify, unless the legislation were to move in tandem with legislation addressing agricultures labor needs.

Michigan Farm Bureau suppored the passage of Trade Promotion Authority and free trade agreement including: support for the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), continued efforts to negotiate the U.S.-E.U. Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), and the concept of trade with Cuba. MFB supported H.R. 2146, the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015. FB Policy for trade negotiations includes as objectives: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Elimination of non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import sensitive products; Opposition to the use of geographic indicators. MFB also supports H.R. 2393, a bill that would repeal the beef, pork and chicken provisions of the mandatory country of origin labeling law (MCOOL). Farm Bureau policy supports COOL provisions that are WTO compliant and our U.S. COOL laws for meat products were found to be non-compliant with WTO for the 4th time. MFB also supported House and Senate passed H.R. 2029 the Consolidated Appropriations Act which included a repeal of the COOL rule for beef and pork.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) supports H.R. 1599, the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015. The bill would create a voluntary, national standard for the labeling of foods containing or not containing genetic modification. MFB supports a measure that is voluntary and avoids a patchwork of state laws on this issue. MFB supports the Senate acting on the House version or similar legislation once introduced. In addition, MFB supports H.R. 3532, the Fruit and Vegetable Access for Children Act, the bill would expand the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) to allow schools to serve all forms of produce. Michigan annually processes more fruits like apples and cherries than are sold for fresh consumption. MFB Policy supports increased market opportunity for growers.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) continues to express concerns with the EPAs efforts to expand the definition of Waters of the United States under the Clean Water Act/Clean Water Rule. MFB supported H.R. 1732, the Regulatory Integrity Protection Act of 2015 and has asked the U.S. Senate to pass similar legislation. The bill would require the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. EPA to withdraw the Clean Water Rule. MFB also supported S. 1140 the Federal Water Quality Protection Act and S.J.Res. 22, a vote of disapproval of the WOTUS rule.MFB also supports H.R. 3120, the Great Lakes Assurance Verification Act of 2015, a bill that would establish a Great Lakes basin initiative for agricultural nonpoint source pollution prevention. MFB only contacted House and Senate offices on this issue, not the EPA.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) supports H.R. 1599, the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015. The bill would create a voluntary, national standard for the labeling of foods containing or not containing genetic modification. MFB supports a measure that is voluntary and avoids a patchwork of state laws on this issue. MFB supports the Senate acting on the House version or similar legislation once introduced. In addition, MFB supports H.R. 3532, the Fruit and Vegetable Access for Children Act, the bill would expand the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) to allow schools to serve all forms of produce. Michigan annually processes more fruits like apples and cherries than are sold for fresh consumption. MFB Policy supports increased market opportunity for growers.

MFB supports a long term solution to funding federal transportation and support maintaining funding for the Highway Trust Fund. MFB supported H.R. 22, the Developing a Reliable and Innovative Vision for the Economy (DRIVE) Act as passed by the Senate. Additionally, MFB supports H.R. 3651, a bill that would extend the deadline for U.S. railroads to implement Positive Train Control (PTC) technology. Farmers rely on rail to transport commodities to market and to get inputs to farms. Railroad companies have stated they will not be able to comply by the mandated deadline of year end.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the concept of Trade Promotion Authority and free trade agreement including: Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), the U.S.-E.U. Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), and Cuba. MFB supported H.R. 2146, the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015. FB Policy for trade negotiations includes as objectives: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Elimination of non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import sensitive products; Opposition to the use of geographic indicators. MFB also supports H.R. 2393, a bill that would repeal the beef, pork and chicken provisions of the mandatory country of origin labeling law (MCOOL). Farm Bureau policy supports COOL provisions that are WTO compliant and our U.S. COOL laws for meat products were found to be non-compliant with WTO for the 4th time.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for tax reform that focuses on passing and making permanent tax extenders that expired at the end of 2014 and other business tax provisions, including: Section 179, Bonus Depreciation, Capital Gains Taxes and Stepped-Up Basis, Estate Taxes, Health Insurance Tax (HIT), Marketplace Fairness Act (sales tax), and Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT). MFB supported: H.R. 641, the Conservation Easement Incentive Act of 2015, to make permanent the enhanced tax deduction for donated conservation easements; H.R. 644 to permanently extend and expand the charitable deduction for donated food; H.R. 636, Americas Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2015, to permanently set the IRC Section 179 small business expensing maximum limit at $500,000. MFB also supported S. 860, the Death Tax Repeal Act of 2015 and H.R. 1105, Death Tax Repeal Act of 2015. MFB also supported H.R. 2510, a bill that would permanently extend 50 percent bonus depreciation. The bill would be expanded to include fruit growers. Farm Bureau policy supports extending and making permanent tax tools that help farmers better manage cash flow, minimize tax liabilities and reduce borrowing needs.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) communicated with the House and Senate during the FY2016 appropriations process, mainly, Farm Bureau urged the House and Senate not to make cuts to areas under the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Committees, especially Farm Bill programs.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) continues to express concerns with the EPAs efforts to expand the definition of Waters of the United States under the Clean Water Act/Clean Water Rule. MFB supported H.R. 1732, the Regulatory Integrity Protection Act of 2015 and has asked the U.S. Senate to pass similar legislation. The bill would require the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. EPA to withdraw the Clean Water Rule. MFB also supports H.R. 3120, the Great Lakes Assurance Verification Act of 2015, a bill that would establish a Great Lakes basin initiative for agricultural nonpoint source pollution prevention. MFB only contacted House and Senate offices on this issue, not the EPA.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for legislation that addresses agricultures long and short-term labor needs. Immigration reform would include an adjustment of status for those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creates a usable guest worker visa program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture. MFB opposes H.R. 1147 the Legal Workforce Act, a bill to require mandatory E-Verify, unless the legislation were to move in tandem with legislation addressing agricultures labor needs. MFB supported signing a letter by Rep. Dan Newhouse R-WA which asked that no e-verify legislation come before the House unless it moved with ag labor legislation.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) communicated with the House and Senate during the FY2016 appropriations process, mainly, Farm Bureau urged the House and Senate not to make cuts to areas under the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Committees, especially Farm Bill programs.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the concept of Trade Promotion Authority and free trade agreement including: Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), the U.S.-E.U. Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), and Cuba. MFB supported H.R. 2146, the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015. FB Policy for trade negotiations includes as objectives: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Elimination of non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import sensitive products; Opposition to the use of geographic indicators. MFB also supports H.R. 2393, a bill that would repeal the beef, pork and chicken provisions of the mandatory country of origin labeling law (MCOOL). Farm Bureau policy supports COOL provisions that are WTO compliant and our U.S. COOL laws for meat products were found to be non-compliant with WTO for the 4th time.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) supports H.R. 1599, the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015. The bill would create a voluntary, national standard for the labeling of foods containing or not containing genetic modification. MFB supports a measure that is voluntary and avoids a patchwork of state laws on this issue.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) continues to express concerns with the EPAs efforts to expand the definition of Waters of the United States under the Clean Water Act/Clean Water Rule. MFB supported H.R. 1732, the Regulatory Integrity Protection Act of 2015 and has asked the U.S. Senate to pass similar legislation. The bill would require the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. EPA to withdraw the Clean Water Rule.

Michigan Farm Bureau supports the concept of Trade Promotion Authority and free trade agreement including: Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), the U.S.-E.U. Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), and Cuba. MFB has not taken positions on any pieces of legislation at this time but has been advocating for Congress to move forward on the following trade agreements and authority for the administration. FB Policy for trade negotiations includes as objectives: Include all agricultural products and policies in the negotiations; Elimination of non-tariff trade barriers; Ensure market access for biotechnology products; Address issues concerning import sensitive products; Opposition to the use of geographic indicators.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) communicated with the House and Senate during the FY2016 budget resolution process - H.Con.Res. 27 and S.Con.Res. 11. Mainly, Farm Bureau urged the House and Senate not to make cuts to areas under the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Committees, especially Farm Bill programs. Additionally, Farm Bureau supported two amendments to the Senate Budget Resolution, one offered by Senator Thune to repeal the Estate Tax and another by Senator Barrasso #347 to Limit EPA funding to adopt a broad regulatory definition of Waters of the U.S.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for tax reform that focuses on passing and making permanent tax extenders that expired at the end of 2014 and other business tax provisions, including: Section 179, Bonus Depreciation, Capital Gains Taxes and Stepped-Up Basis, Estate Taxes, Health Insurance Tax (HIT), Marketplace Fairness Act (sales tax), and Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT). MFB supported: H.R. 641, the Conservation Easement Incentive Act of 2015, to make permanent the enhanced tax deduction for donated conservation easements; H.R. 644 to permanently extend and expand the charitable deduction for donated food; H.R. 636, Americas Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2015, to permanently set the IRC Section 179 small business expensing maximum limit at $500,000. MFB also supported S. 860, the Death Tax Repeal Act of 2015, H.R. 1105, Death Tax Repeal Act of 2015, and an amendment by Senator Thune to repeal the estate tax that was offered as an amendment to the Senate FY2016 budget resolution.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) continues to express concerns with the EPAs efforts to expand the definition of Waters of the United States under the Clean Water Act. MFB supported H.R. 5078 Waters of the US Regulatory Overreach Protection Act in the 113th Congress. The bill prohibits the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers from developing, finalizing, adopting, administering, applying, or enforcing the Administrations proposed WOTUS rule. MFB is calling for the complete withdrawal of the rule, Docket ID: EPA-HQ-OW-2011-0880. MFB has met with the House and Senate. MFB also supported the Sen. Barrasso Amendment #347 that limits EPAs funding to adopt a broad regulatory definition of Waters of the U.S. The provision would amend the Senate budget resolution, S. Con. Res. 11, and would exclude from Clean Water Act jurisdiction groundwater, storm water, irrigation systems, storm water systems, wastewater systems, isolated ponds, ditches and puddles.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for passage of the Omnibus Bill H.R. 83, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015. Specifically of interest of MFB were funding for ag research, Animal and Plant Health, Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Country of Origin Labeling, and International Food Program.

Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) advocated for comprehensive immigration reform that adjusts the status of those currently undocumented that are working in agriculture, allowing them to work in agriculture, and secondly creates a usable guest worker visa program run by the USDA that allows for at-will or contract workers for agriculture.

Michigan Farm Bureau(MFB) continues to express concerns with the EPA's efforts to expand the definition of Waters of the United States under the Clean Water Act. Michigan Farm Bureau supported H.R. 5078 Waters of the U.S. Regulatory Overreach Protection Act. The bill prohibits the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers from developing, finalizing, adoption implementing, applying, administering or enforcing the administrations proposed WOTUS rule. MFB is calling for the complete withdrawal of the rule, Docket ID: EPA-HQ-OW-2011-0880. MFB has met with the House, Senate, and EPA.

Michigan Farm Bureau(MFB) continues to express concerns with the EPA's efforts to expand the definition of Waters of the United States under the Clean Water Act. Michigan Farm Bureau supported H.R. 5078 Waters of the U.S. Regulatory Overreach Protection Act. The bill prohibits the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers from developing, finalizing, adoption implementing, applying, administering or enforcing the administrations proposed WOTUS rule. MFB is calling for the complete withdrawal of the rule, Docket ID: EPA-HQ-OW-2011-0880. MFB has met with the House, Senate, and EPA.

Waters of the United States proposed rulemaking; Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act; immigration reform; tax reform; federal road funding; improvement of channels for international trade

Waters of the United States proposed rulemaking; Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act; immigration reform; tax reform; federal road funding; improvement of channels for international trade

Waters of the United States proposed rulemaking; Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act; immigration reform; tax reform; federal road funding; improvement of channels for international trade

Waters of the United States proposed rulemaking; Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act; immigration reform; tax reform; federal road funding; improvement of channels for international trade