Madison – The Assembly Committee on Agriculture, chaired by State Representative Travis Tranel (R–Cuba City), has had a very busy start to the new year, advancing multiple pieces of legislation that address land ownership, agricultural innovation, farmer protections, and food and feed standards.
On January 8th and 14th, the committee held executive sessions and voted to advance several bills in a bipartisan fashion, a hallmark of the Assembly Agriculture Committee. These measures, which are now available for scheduling on the Assembly floor, include:
- AB 30, prohibiting foreign adversaries from acquiring agricultural or forestry land in Wisconsin, strengthening food security and protecting vital state resources.
- AB 31, relating to the repair and replacement of implements of husbandry under warranty to ensure clarity and fairness for farmers and equipment owners.
- AB 93, updating the distribution and labeling requirements for fertilizers and soil or plant additives produced from manure.
- AB 411, creating a farmland link program to connect landowners with beginning farmers and support farm transitions.
On January 14th, the committee also held a public hearing on:
- AB 664, relating to serving margarine as a substitute for butter in certain circumstances.
- AB 363, establishing a dairy cattle innovation program to support research, modernization, and competitiveness in Wisconsin’s dairy industry.
- AB 218, addressing limitations on the ownership of real property in Wisconsin by foreign persons.
These bills were heard by the committee, and some may be scheduled for executive votes in the coming weeks.
“The Assembly Agriculture Committee continues to work in a bipartisan manner to address the needs of Wisconsin agriculture,” said Rep. Tranel. “I appreciate the hard work and collaboration of committee members on both sides of the aisle as we move legislation forward that supports farmers, protects farmland, and strengthens our agricultural economy.”
As the legislative session enters the home stretch, the committee will continue to work diligently to advocate for Wisconsin’s $116 billion Ag economy. Stakeholders are encouraged to remain engaged in the process, and those with questions or insights into agricultural issues are welcome to reach out to Rep. Tranel’s office with ideas the committee should consider as work continues.
“The agricultural community has a strong voice in Wisconsin, and it is very important that farmers stay engaged,” Rep. Tranel added. “I look forward to seeing everyone during Ag Day at the Capitol next Wednesday and continuing the conversation about the future of agriculture in our state.”
The committee will continue its efforts in the weeks ahead as bills progress through the legislative process.
