Stay Informed

By Kathleen M. Dutro

Expanding high-speed broadband to both the unserved and underserved parts of the state is Indiana Farm Bureau’s top policy priority for 2021. In addition, the INFB board of directors has selected four other areas of special interest to Farm Bureau. 

“Over the years, INFB has advocated for the expansion of rural broadband, and this year the organization is focusing on it again,” said Andy Tauer, INFB director of public policy.

“Indiana has made significant steps toward getting broadband to rural Hoosiers, but COVID-19 has made the need for better broadband even more immediate,” he added. “With e-learning, telehealth and everyday connectivity, expanding rural broadband to the unserved and underserved is INFB’s number one priority for 2021.”

 The other policy priorities identified by the board are:

• Fund local meat inspection and kindergarten-12 education. These will be part of the discussion as the General Assembly considers the biennial state budget.
• Increase flexibility for HBV (Home Based Vendors) local food processing and marketing of value-added products.
• Improve transparency and functionality of the Indiana Grain Buyers and Warehouse Licensing Agency and the Indiana Grain Indemnity Fund.
• Regulate uniformity of agricultural and renewable assessments.