Gov. Shapiro Backs Pennsylvania Farmers at PFB Conference

By Blake Jackson

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro addressed agricultural leaders at the annual Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) State Legislative Conference, underscoring his administration's strong support for the Commonwealth's farmers.

Governor Shapiro emphasized agriculture's central role in his economic development strategy, the first statewide plan in nearly two decades, and reaffirmed his commitment to investing in the sector while cautioning against potential federal tariffs and USDA program cuts.

"Over the last two years, I’ve spent a lot of time on farms across Pennsylvania, listening to our farmers and seeing firsthand the challenges they face and the incredible work they do to power our economy and put food on our tables. I kept those conversations top of mind as we developed the Commonwealth’s first Economic Development Strategy in nearly 20 years – and I made sure agriculture is front and center in that plan," said Governor Shapiro.

He highlighted significant investments, including funding the PA Farm Bill, launching the Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, opening Centers of Excellence, and expanding PA Preferred, all aimed at lowering costs, preserving farmland, and strengthening the agricultural industry. "Pennsylvania is leading the way in driving economic growth in our agriculture sector, and I will keep fighting for our farming families."

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) Secretary Russell Redding echoed this sentiment, stating, "Pennsylvania farmers have the ear of Governor Shapiro. He recognized early on that agriculture was not just the foundation of our past, but the key to our future success." He urged support for the Governor’s 2025-26 budget proposals that invest in the future of Pennsylvania’s farms.

Governor Shapiro has prioritized agricultural growth, evidenced by the first-in-the-nation Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, which awarded $10 million to 88 businesses in 46 counties in its first year. His proposed 2025-26 budget includes an additional $13 million for this program. The administration has also focused on cutting red tape, significantly reducing food establishment renewal times and overall permit processing times.

Governor Shapiro highlighted his administration’s record of delivering for agriculture through farmland preservation, avian influenza mitigation, organic farming support, the Fresh Food Financing Initiative, a new animal health laboratory, and consistent funding for the PA Farm Bill.

Governor Shapiro also championed sustainable farming practices and proposed increased funding for agricultural innovation, the state's animal testing laboratory, the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System, and the State Food Purchase Program in his 2025-26 budget.

Photo Credit: pa-farm-bureau