By: Ag. Reporter Mollie Goode
Senator Jason Howell is pushing for agriculture economic development with a new Senate Bill.
Senator Howell, of Murray, has filed SB 28, intending to establish an oversight board and development fund within the Department of Agriculture. The program will fund grants or forgivable loans that encourage the expansion of agriculture projects.
The board will be chaired by Jonathan Shell, the Commissioner of Agriculture, with four additional members representing livestock, row crops, specialty crops, and local economic development.
According to a news release from Senator Howell, he is looking forward to working alongside Commissioner Shell as they support rural communities in the state.
In addition to promoting new infrastructure and sustainable practices, the board will coordinate with the Cabinet for Economic Development to assist in the development of agribusiness projects and alternative fuels projects.
The bill also includes an emergency clause, making it effective immediately upon approval or if the General Assembly overrides his veto, instead of waiting 90 days after the adjournment.