The Pennsylvania Ag Republicans invite those interested in the future of Pennsylvania’s number one industry, agriculture to join them for a call to action on Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at 12:15 pm at the Media Room, East Wing of the Harrisburg Capitol. Members of the agriculture community are coming together to voice their concern about the Governor’s proposed budget affecting the number one industry, agriculture. The Center for Dairy Excellence, Center for Beef Excellence, All American Dairy Show and the Keystone International Livestock Exposition have been “zeroed out” of the 2017 Budget.

There has recently been some “discussions” about having the PA General Assembly open up the PA Agricultural Fair Act of 1986 (P.L.437, No.92) for possible alterations. Quoting directly from the act, Section 2.Declaration of purpose, “ The General Assembly declares that agricultural fairs are a part of Pennsylvania’s rich heritage and the public policy of this Commonwealth should be to continue their contribution to agriculture and agribusiness by encouraging related careers, fostering production and product improvements and promoting increased investments. Agriculture fairs also enrich the life of the community by showcasing agricultural and agribusiness achievements and promoting tourism.”

The PA Fair Act provides funding for the current 109 fairs, county 4-H clubs, local FFA chapters and eleven statewide agricultural organizations.  Pennsylvania has a diverse array of agriculture fairs, from the largest in Crawford County, Bloomsburg and York to the smallest such as Berlin-Brothers Valley and Northeast Fair. All of these fairs have a common denominator; they are the backbone of the community.  These fairs may receive funding through this Act however each one strengthens their community by connecting the agriculture and tourism industries. Fairs are economic drivers for each and every community of the Commonwealth.

Please join the PA Ag Republicans on Wednesday, April 19 for an important discussion in helping our fairs stay an important part of the economy. Now is not the time to have diminished funding of our state’s number one industry.