Iowa’s ag secretary is encouraged as the state legislative session enters its third month.
Mike Naig tells Brownfield the first ever Iowa Farm Act continues to advance in both chambers.
“Continue to have tremendous support and interest in moving that piece of legislation, and like anything, it’s a work in progress. There’s some changes, a little few amendments here and there that we’re looking at. But by and large, the concept is solid and we’re moving it forward.”
He says the legislation reflects priorities raised directly by farmers, agribusinesses, and stakeholders in the state.
Naig says the budget is starting to take shape.
“And there’s some priorities for us. Certainly continuing to invest historic levels of resources in water quality and soil conservation practices, that’s a priority for us. Continuing to invest in foreign animal disease response and preparedness, that’s a priority for us.”
Other priorities include property tax reform and enhancing the Choose Iowa program for locally grown foods, Naig says.
