August Recess - AFBF's Call for Farmer Advocacy

This August recess, an annual period when lawmakers return to their respective districts and states, presents a significant opportunity for farmers and ranchers. The American Farm Bureau Federation encourages them to take advantage of this opportunity to promote agriculture. 

The August recess gives lawmakers a chance to speak with their constituents face-to-face. Therefore, it serves as an ideal platform for farmers and ranchers to discuss pertinent agricultural issues. This year, the focus lies on the reauthorization of the Farm Bill. Hence, farmers and ranchers are urged to emphasize Farm Bill's benefits over the past five years and suggest potential improvements for the future. 

Farmers who are unsure of their local lawmaker can find this information on the Federation's website. Once identified, they can stay informed about the lawmakers' activities by subscribing to their e-newsletters. Such channels provide updates on when lawmakers are back in town and details about upcoming town hall meetings. 

Farmers can also schedule meetings with lawmakers' staff or invite them to visit their farms or ranches. The presence of lawmakers at these locations can provide them with a firsthand look into the agricultural sector's operations and the issues it faces. 

Creating these connections and fostering relationships with lawmakers can prove advantageous for both farmers and lawmakers in the long term. It positions farmers and ranchers as valuable resources for elected officials, while it provides lawmakers with deeper insights into the agricultural sector. 

Actively engaging in legislative or regulatory discussions ensures that the agricultural sector's voice is heard. Sharing the reality of life in small towns, districts, counties, farms, and ranches can influence policy decisions. Hence, farmers are urged to seize the opportunity provided by the August recess to advocate for agriculture and make their voices count.