Source: PRESS RELEASE, 11/8/11
 

U.S. Congressman Mike McIntyre announced today he is taking action on three key agriculture issues to help North Carolina farmers.

First, Congressman McIntyre has become a co-sponsor to permanently extend the current 15% capital gains and dividend tax rate.  Low capital gains rates provide incentives for farmers to invest in their businesses, improve their operations, and create opportunities for expansion.

Second, Congressman McIntyre has signed on as a co-sponsor of the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act which will provide strong support for new farm entrepreneurs.  This bill aims to preserve a way of life by encouraging younger Americans to choose farming as a profession.  With the average American farmer approaching 60 years of age, young and talented leaders are needed to ensure that our agriculture sector remains the envy of the world.  Limited land and high production costs are some of the barriers that new farmers face, and this bill would provide them with the training and resources they need to start or expand.

Third and finally, Congressman McIntyre is supporting legislation, HR 3265,to amend the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999 to provide clarification regarding the applicability of exemptions relating to the transportation of agricultural commodities and farm supplies, and for other purposes.  The legislation would ensure that agriculture suppliers and movers are able to move farm supplies in a timely way during planting and harvesting season.  Current regulations are a real hindrance to ensuring quick delivery of ag supplies during the busy planting and harvest season, and transportation policies need to be clarified to accommodate the specific needs of the agriculture industry.

Congressman McIntyre is a senior member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee.