Empowering Women in Agriculture with New Legislation

Act to Boost Support and Childcare for Women Farmers

In a significant step towards gender equality in farming, Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández, alongside Jen Kiggans, Chellie Pingree, and Deborah Ross, reintroduced the Women in Agriculture Act.

This critical legislation proposes the establishment of a Women Farmers and Ranchers Liaison within the USDA. It emphasizes research on farm machinery tailored for women and prioritizes childcare solutions in rural locales.

The Act addresses the overlooked needs of women, who make up 26% of the agricultural workforce, by tackling equipment and childcare issues.

Leger Fernández highlighted, "Women farmers, especially non-white women, are undervalued, underserved, and underpaid. This Act is crafted by women ranchers and farmers who have voiced their necessities."

Supporting the initiative, Congresswoman Kiggans noted the challenges women face balancing farm work with family responsibilities. The Act aims to alleviate these burdens with better childcare options, promoting greater participation in agriculture.

Congresswoman Pingree added her insights as a farmer, stressing the historic discrimination women face, especially in securing agricultural loans. The proposed Act aims to level the playing field, ensuring fair treatment and opportunities in agriculture.

Endorsed by the Democratic Women’s Caucus and the Women, Food and Agriculture Network (WFAN), the Act promises to address structural inequalities. 

WFAN’s leaders, Morgan Bradley and Jennifer Payne, expressed strong support, recognizing the bill’s potential to significantly impact women’s roles in agriculture and improve their working conditions.

By introducing such progressive legislation, the representatives aim to foster an environment where women’s contributions to agriculture are acknowledged and facilitated, making an important move towards a more inclusive and equitable agricultural sector.