Issue Position: Agriculture

Issue Position

Family farms are the backbone of our nation and are a major part of California's economy. I am working hard to help family farms thrive and to promote policies that benefit the unique needs of growers and ranchers in California.

I have met with numerous farmers, ranchers, and growers from across our area. Many of the people I've met want to pass their family farm to the next generation but are worried that the estate tax could make that dream impossible. That's why I introduced a bill to lessen the burden of the estate tax on family farms and small businesses.

For far too long, our nation's farm policies have been directed to support commodity crops grown in places like the Midwest but not in California. I have worked hard to reform agriculture policy to benefit "specialty crop" growers like those in California who produce fruits, nuts, and vegetables. The funding and other support I've obtained is helping family farmers in our area be more profitable, control pests that harm their productivity, and find new markets for their goods.

Farmers also depend on ample supplies of healthy water for their crops. I'm working hard to preserve water quality in Northern California by fighting for local water rights and to make sure that farmers from our area have a seat at the table as decisions are made about the future of California's water supply. I've also brought back funding for projects that are recharging the groundwater basin, shoring up local levees, and expanding water supplies.

Our area has a long and proud agricultural tradition, and I'll keep fighting for California's family farmers.

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