Assemblyman Chris Tague (R,C-Schoharie), ranking Minority member of the Assembly Agriculture Committee, issued the following statement after today’s legislative hearing on supporting emerging farmers.

“I want to thank Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, dedicated staff and all who testified for taking time out of their schedules for today’s hearing on emerging farmers. As a former dairy farmer and past president of Schoharie County Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers and Ranchers, it is the honor of a lifetime to serve as ranking member on the Agriculture Committee. I know firsthand the grit it takes to keep New York’s farms thriving.

“Today’s discussion made it abundantly clear that despite increased funding over the past eight years, we must prioritize investments in cutting-edge technology, research and efficiency. That starts with fully funding Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and our SUNY partners at Cobleskill, Morrisville, Delhi and beyond to equip the next generation with world-class tools.

“New York’s regulatory burden continues to tilt the playing field against our producers, especially in meat processing, where lack of capacity is costing jobs and market share. We should be leading the nation. Every day we remind New Yorkers: no farms, no food. Protecting our young farmers and ranchers and our food security is national security and pivotal for creating strong local communities. I look forward to partnering with Chairwoman Lupardo and the Agriculture Committee in the upcoming session to deliver real relief, smarter regulations and investments that will sustain New York agriculture for decades to come,” said Tague.