In a significant victory for Wisconsin's agricultural community, the Wisconsin Ag Coalition celebrates the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 247 by both the State Assembly and Senate. Authored by Senators Marklein, Tomczyk, and Ballweg, along with Representatives Tranel and VanderMeer, this landmark bill introduces the Agricultural Road Improvement Program (ARIP).
Aimed at addressing the pressing issue of deteriorating roads and bridges, the program will provide grants to local governments for crucial repairs and reconstruction, easing the burden on farmers.
The agricultural sector in Wisconsin has been grappling with supply chain challenges in recent years, and the state's crumbling rural infrastructure has only exacerbated the situation. These road conditions not only hinder the movement of goods but also lead to rising prices and limited availability of food products in local grocery stores, directly impacting consumers.
The Wisconsin Ag Coalition, comprising a diverse range of organizations representing agricultural interests in the state, hails this legislative action as a pivotal step toward revitalizing the agricultural economy. The coalition extends its gratitude to local government partners, other members of the coalition, and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for their unwavering support in advancing this critical initiative.
With the bill's unanimous approval, it now awaits Governor Tony Evers' signature to become law. Upon implementation, the ARIP will provide a historic investment of $150 million in rural infrastructure improvements, kickstarting the modernization of Wisconsin's agricultural infrastructure and strengthening the state's global supply chain.
Key industry leaders and representatives have voiced their appreciation for this transformative legislation. Kevin Krentz, President of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, highlights the importance of this funding in modernizing rural infrastructure, while Tamas Houlihan, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association, emphasizes the critical role of rural roads as the backbone of the agricultural economy.
Tom Lochner, Executive Director of the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association, underscores the necessity of maintaining a robust food supply chain, and Rebekah Sweeney, Senior Director of Programs & Policy for the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, expresses gratitude to lawmakers for recognizing the significance of rural road improvements for the dairy processing sector.
This landmark legislation marks a substantial boost to Wisconsin's agricultural infrastructure, ensuring the efficient movement of products and securing the livelihoods of farm families. The focus on long-term investments in agricultural and rural roads demonstrates the government's commitment to the state's agricultural sector and its local communities.
As Wisconsin moves forward, the implementation of the Agricultural Road Improvement Program promises to revitalize the state's rural infrastructure, supporting the growth and resilience of the agricultural economy for years to come.
Photo Credit: istock-Stefonlinton
Categories: Wisconsin, General