Farm Bureau News January 2022 - 2022 Policy Issue
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Farm Bureau News January 2022
2022 Policy Issue
West Virginia
Farm Bureau News
4 The Next Step The Voice of Agriculture in
— Charles Wilfong
the Mountain State
5 Around the Dome January 2022
— Dwayne O’Dell
Volume 30 Number 1
7 The Year Ahead in Farm Policy
— Zippy Duvall West Virginia Farm Bureau
62 Farm Bureau Road
Buckhannon, WV 26201
West Virginia Farm Bureau Policies
PRESIDENT
10 Agriculture Charles Wilfong
VICE PRESIDENT
15 Constitutional Amendments Woody Ireland
17 Education SECRETARY/TREASURER
Steve Butler
22 Natural Resources & Environment EDITOR
Ron Williams
31 Public Issues
West Virginia Farm Bureau News is
38 Highways published monthly by the West Virginia
Farm Bureau, Inc. Annual subscription
41 Taxes
rates: $3.32 (included in annual dues).
Advertising rates and circulation information
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3579 to West Virginia Farm Bureau, 62 Farm
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(ISSN 1076-8556) (USPS 011-537)
— Puzzles, Wit, and Wisdom Printed by Ralston Press, Inc.
Buckhannon, WV.
© 2022 West Virginia Farm Bureau
No portion of this publication may be reproduced
in any manner without prior written permission
web site: www.wvfarm.org
email: contactus@wvfarm.org
phone: 800.398.4630
On the cover
West Virginia Capitol Building
Inside Back Cover:
Whitetail Doe
Photos by Al Tucker
The Next Step
Charles Wilfong, President, West Virginia Farm Bureau
As usual, we are using the January issue of our districts. This was
magazine to focus on the policies that will guide something the West
West Virginia Farm Bureau for the coming year. Virginia Farm Bureau
There are some new policies included that came has supported for
through the policy development process. The rest of many years and has
the policies are a continuation of positions approved finally happened.
in former years. All policies were reviewed and Also, as a result of
approved at our state annual meeting, which was the 2020 census, all
held at Oglebay Resort and Conference Center in House and Senate
November 2021. Our policies plainly lay out where were redrawn to reflect the current population. With
we stand when dealing with various legislation at all these changes, there will be new opportunities
the state and national levels. We truly appreciate the for some people to run for public office. We need
effort that our members have put into these policies to evaluate incumbent members’ records, and if
that represent our needs and concerns. necessary, encourage individuals who share our
general philosophy to become candidates.
The next step is to work to implement these
policy positions. Dwayne O’Dell, WV Farm Bureau Unfortunately, as a result of population loss, WV
Lobbyist, does an exceptional job on our behalf with will see a loss in Congressional representation from
our elected officials. It is still vitally important for three to two. This required considerable changes to
us all to stay in contact with our representatives and our congressional district lines. Having confidence
keep them informed as to where we stand on the in our elections is vital! Secretary of State Mac
various issues. Warner has brought integrity back to elections in
WV. He has worked hard to clean up many elements
Our chances of success are much greater when
that had plagued our elections for many years.
we have been involved with the election process.
This being an election year, we will have the chance I look forward to working with you to implement
to elect our entire WV House of Delegates and 17 our policies and elect good people to public office in
of 34 of our state Senators. This is the first election this New Year.
when we will have 100 single delegate House
4 West Virginia Farm Bureau News
Around the Dome
Dwayne O’Dell, WVFB Director of Government Relations
As we look at 2022, farmers in West Virginia is associated with
and throughout America are discussing the 70 to 90 percent of
skyrocketing cost of fertilizer. The purchase of production costs.
fertilizer accounts for approximately 15 to 20 Natural gas prices in
percent of agricultural input costs. Unfortunately, Europe are up 300
fertilizer prices have been reported to be up more percent, which has
than 300 percent in some areas. This problem forced European
also occurred in 2008. At that time, the issues Union nitrogen plants to close. Several disruptions
were strong domestic and global demand, low have occurred at U.S. plants due to hurricanes and
inventories, and the inability of the U.S. fertilizer COVID related labor issues. Increased fuel costs to
industry to adjust production levels. In 2022, these transport fertilizer is also adding to price increases.
same issues are at play, along with inflation and
pandemic related labor problems. Compared to Given all these factors, most economists are
last year, liquid nitrogen is up 159 percent, and predicting that fertilizer prices will remain high
potash is up 134 percent. through 2022. Some indicate that farmers may
reduce corn acres to crops that need less nitrogen.
Fertilizer is a global commodity, as 44 percent of Certainly, crop farmers must consider whether the
all production in the world is exported to a different increased cost of fertilizer and other inputs can be
country. Two-thirds of the global fertilizer demand covered by cash receipts.
is primarily driven by crops. Corn represents
about 16 percent of farm use fertilizer demand, U.S. beef exports were up 38 percent over last
while wheat production accounts for 15 percent. year for the first 10 months of 2021. Strong sales
Vegetable and fruit production accounts for 9 and 7 account for $8.53 billion in sales. Major increased
percent respectively. beef exports to China, Japan, and South Korea drove
the numbers. The United States has shipped $1.26
Increased technology and innovation have billion of beef to China, which is up 600 percent.
improved for on-farm fertilizer use efficiency.
In 1980, U.S. farmers used 23.7 million tons, but AFBF is involved in several court cases that have
recent data shows that farmers in this country great implications to farmers. In late September,
use about 22 million tons. Corn, wheat, and AFBF and the Natural Pork Producers Council
soybeans account for 70 percent of U.S. fertilizer appealed the challenge to California Proposition 12
consumption. In the 1960s, the United States to the U.S. Supreme Court. Proposition 12 imposes
accounted for 25 percent of global nutrient use. animal housing standards that reach outside
Today, the U.S. market consumes about 10 percent California borders to farmers across the United
of global production. States. California consumes at least 6 percent of
all pork produced. Some in-state businesses are
The United States is the third largest producer of also suing the State over the rules, as the California
fertilizer; however, we still import large amounts of Department of Agriculture has failed to publish all
nitrogen and potash. China produces 37 percent rules associated with Proposition 12.
of global phosphate, while India produces about 10
percent. Of the world’s potash supply, 80 percent California and the Humane Society of the
comes from Canada, Belarus, Russia, and China. United States (HSUS) drafted Proposition 12,
intervened in the case, and initially declined to
Natural gas is the primary building block for file a response to AFBF’s petition, but the Court
most nitrogen fertilizer. The cost of natural gas instructed the State and HSUS to do so.
West Virginia Farm Bureau News 5
AFBF has received amici (friend of the court) Don’t forget to register to vote! President
support from six major groups, including national Abraham Lincoln said, “We the people are the
industry associations, 20 state attorneys general, rightful masters of both Congress and the courts,
and the Canadian Pork Council. We anticipate the not to overthrow the Constitution but to overthrow
Supreme Court will decide in late January whether the men who pervert the Constitution.” Likewise,
to take up the case. President Calvin Coolidge stated, “Patriotism is easy
to understand in America; it means looking out for
In late September, the U.S. District Court for yourself by looking out for your country.” Look out
New Mexico, along with a court in Arizona, ruled for yourself and your country by voting in 2022.
to vacate the Navigable Waters Protection Rule
(NWPR). Five other courts have declined to Have a great day!
dismantle the NWPR; however, EPA is interpreting
the Arizona decision to apply it nationwide. In late U.S.S. POLARIS, LLC
408 NORTH CTY RD HWY 63
October, AFBF appealed the Arizona decision and TOLEDO, IA
asked the court to keep NWPR in place while the Terms and conditions apply.
appeal proceeds. U.S.S. POLARIS,WARNING:
LLC
can
Polaris off road vehicles
be hazardous to operate and
408 NORTH CTY RD HWY
are 63
not intended for on-road use.
U.S.S. POLARIS, LLC TOLEDO, IA Driver must be at least 16 years
In late November, the government moved to 408 NORTH CTY RD HWY 63
TOLEDO, IA
old with a valid driver’s license to
operate. Passengers, if permitted,
must be at least 12 years old. All
regard without vacatur (cancelled or annulled) riders should always wear helmets,
eye protection, and protective
the Emergency Planning & Community Right- clothing. Always use seat belts and
cab nets or doors (as equipped).
Never engage in stunt driving and
to-Know Rural Empowerment Association for avoid excessive speeds and sharp
turns. All riders should take a safety
Community Help (EPCRA) vs. EPA. EPA wants training course. Riding and alcohol/
drugs don’t mix. Call 800-342-3764
Terms and conditions apply. WARNING: Polaris off road vehicles canfor additional
be hazardous information.
to operate Check
and are not intended for on-road use. Drive must
to initiate a new rule-making process to revise or license to operate. Passengers, if permitted, must be at least 12 years old. All riders should always wear helmets, eye protection, and protec
local
nets or doors (as equipped). Never engage in stunt driving and avoid laws
excessive speeds
©2020 Polaris, Inc.
Call 800-342-3764 for additional information. Check local laws before riding on
before
trails.
riding
and sharp
2020
turns. on
Polaris,©
trails.
All riders
Inc.
should take a safety training
rescind the EPCRA in reporting exemptions for ELKINS MOTORSPORTS Terms and conditions apply. WARNING: Polaris off road vehicles can be hazardous to operate and are not intended for on-road use. D
farms. Because of this exemption, farms across Elkins, WV 26241
license to operate. Passengers, if permitted, must be at least 12 years old. All riders should always wear helmets, eye protection, a
Follow
nets or doors (as equipped). Never engage in stunt driving and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. All riders should take a safet
Call 800-342-3764 for additional information. Check local laws before riding on trails. ©2020 Polaris, Inc.
Terms and conditions apply. WARNING: Polaris off road vehicles can be hazardous to operate and are not intended for on-road use. Drive must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver's
304-636-7732 www.elkinsmotorsports.net us on
our country no longer need to file EPCRA reports
license to operate. Passengers, if permitted, must be at least 12 years old. All riders should always wear helmets, eye protection, and protective clothing. Always use seat belts and cab
nets or doors (as equipped). Never engage in stunt driving and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. All riders should take a safety training course. Riding and alcohol/drugs don't mix.
Call 800-342-3764 for additional information. Check local laws before riding on trails. ©2020 Polaris, Inc.
for manure emissions. AFBF supports the current
exemption, along with the National Cattlemen’s
U.S.S. POLARIS, LLC
Association, the National Pork Producers Council, 408 NORTH CTY RD HWY 63
TOLEDO, IA
and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association.
Finally, the West Virginia Legislature began its
2022 session on January 12. By the time you read Posts • Beams
this article, the session will be underway. The Roof & Floor Trusses
primary election will be held on May 10, 2022. Metal Roofing & Siding
Plyco Windows & Doors
Some important primary dates and deadlines Terms and conditions apply. WARNING: Polaris off road vehicles can be hazardous to operate and are not intended for on-road use. Drive must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver's
license to operate. Passengers, if permitted, must be at least 12 years old. All riders should always wear helmets, eye protection, and protective clothing. Always use seat belts and cab
nets or doors (as equipped). Never engage in stunt driving and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. All riders should take a safety training course. Riding and alcohol/drugs don't mix.
Call 800-342-3764 for additional information. Check local laws before riding on trails. ©2020 Polaris, Inc.
include the following: “ Be confident your Investment will be there
for your future generations!”
Jan. 1 – May 4 Absentee ballot application
period
Jan. 10 – Jan. 29 Candidate filing period
March 25 County clerks begin
mailing absentee ballots
April 19 Voter registration deadline
April 27 – May 7 Early voting in person
Additional information may be accessed at the
Secretary of State’s website, www.sos.wv.gov or at
301.334.3977
GoVoteWV.com. www.rigidply.com
1283 Joni Miller Road, Oakland MD 21550
6 West Virginia Farm Bureau News
The Year Ahead
in Farm Policy
Zippy Duvall, President AFBF
Two years ago, when the COVID-19 pandemic in over half of
started, many of us thought we’d quickly get past the country. Our
it and get back to normal. But as we move into grassroots efforts at
a new year, we continue to face the lingering Farm Bureau and
and devastating impacts of this pandemic. across the agriculture
However, our resolve to be stronger together community helped spur the development of the
has not weakened, and we will continue taking 2020 Navigable Waters Protection Rule. This rule
the challenges we face head-on. In the face of provided clear rules to protect our water. As the
unprecedented challenges, farmers and ranchers EPA and Army Corps of Engineers work to rewrite
continued to step up to support their communities the rule yet again, we must make our voices heard
and stood up to shape policies affecting their so the agencies understand how the rule could
farms and ranches. impact farms and small businesses. Farmers and
ranchers shouldn’t need a team of lawyers and
We always hope for a brighter future, and 2022 is consultants to move forward with practices to
no different. There will be challenges, no doubt, but sustain their land and businesses.
there will be many opportunities to shape federal
legislation and regulations to protect and sustain We will also have the opportunity to help shape
family farms. And with the midterm elections later the 2023 farm bill throughout the upcoming year.
this year, farmers and ranchers will have even We have already started the Farm Bureau Farm
greater opportunities to make our voices heard. Bill Working Group to explore the issues that need
fixing so we can lay a foundation for lawmakers as
One of the issues at the forefront for farm they write the legislation.
country is the rising cost of inputs like fertilizer
and the difficulties securing supplies for the spring Year in and year out, the struggle of hiring an
planting season. Shortages of parts and new adequate, skilled workforce continues to be the
machinery have sent prices skyrocketing for both most significant limiting factor to U.S. agriculture.
new and used machinery. The American Farm It is disappointing that Congress failed to advance
Bureau provided the administration with multiple ag labor reform in 2021, but we will remain vigilant
recommendations to alleviate supply chain in pressing for a long-term solution. It is time for
challenges, based on what our members shared Congress to put the security of our food supply
with us and guided by our grassroots policy. While above politics and pass a solution that works for all
we continue to work through this issue, we have of agriculture in 2022.
the opportunity to build a more resilient and
secure supply chain. I am optimistic about the future for farmers and
ranchers. While we face challenges, I’m confident
This year we will continue intensely advocating that the dedicated men and women who stock
for a responsible definition of WOTUS as this America’s pantries will rise up to meet those
administration continues the unfortunate ping challenges and find solutions. That’s just what
pong match rewriting this regulation. Our call we do. And I know opportunities for growth and
for clear rules to maintain the clean water we all improvement will come, too. Together, we’ll seize
depend on has not changed. The 2015 rule was them to ensure agriculture continues to thrive
an overreach by the federal government, and throughout our great country in 2022 and
thankfully courts blocked its implementation beyond.
West Virginia Farm Bureau News 7
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West Virginia Farm Bureau News 9
WEST VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU POLICIES
These policies were adopted by the voting delegates of the member county Farm Bureaus at the 102nd
Annual Meeting of the West Virginia Farm Bureau, held at Oglebay Resort & Conference Center, Wheeling,
West Virginia, on November 14-16, 2021.
5. POULTRY LITTER
No commercial litter may be transported or
spread within one (1) mile of a primary poultry
stock breeder site unless the litter meets all four of
the following conditions:
• All litter shall be properly composted or dry
stacked at least thirty (30) days
• All litter shall be tested and certified by the
WVDA to be free of salmonella, mycoplasma
and avian influenza prior to movement
• All litter being transported off the
premises of origin shall have a certification
accompanying the load
AGRICULTURE • All litter used for soil amendments must
1. USE OF AGRICULTURAL be spread according to best management
PHARMACEUTICALS practices to reduce the chances of a breach in
WVFB supports the use of agricultural bio-security of other agricultural enterprises
pharmaceuticals to address animal and plant
diseases. 6. LOOSE ANIMAL STANDARDS
We believe decisions made by government West Virginia Farm Bureau supports the
regulatory agencies should be based on sound development of loose animal standards through
science. the Livestock Care Standards Board and/or the
West Virginia Legislature. Additionally, to limit
2. LEMON LAW AND FARM MACHINERY and reduce the liability of loose livestock.
West Virginia Farm Bureau believes the West
Virginia “Lemon Law” should be extended to cover 7. NOTIFICATION OF HAZARDOUS
farm machinery purchased for use in West Virginia. MATERIAL SPILL
In the event of a hazardous material spill by
3. STATE ENTITY USE OF AG PRODUCTS an outside party, property owners/operators shall
WVFB supports efforts by state schools, be notified immediately by the proper authorities
institutions, agencies and other entities to (but no longer than 24 hours) of the nature and
purchase and use locally grown and produced magnitude of the materials spilled. The landowner/
agriculture products. operator should have input in the clean-up proce-
dure. One agency should be responsible to keep
4. CAPTIVE CERVID PROGRAM the landowner/operator fully informed of all mate-
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports the rials and progress of the cleanup and recovery.
Captive Cervid Program. The landowner/operator should have
10 West Virginia Farm Bureau Newsthe right to discuss any concerns with ONE or expand an agricultural operation in West
designated representative who has the Virginia
exclusive knowledge and authority to make a • Development of a West Virginia Farm
lasting decision. WVFB recommends that the Transfer Program, designed to pair those
Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) farmers preparing to transition out of
be the agency of contact. agriculture with a younger farmer (35
years of age or younger) or veteran who is
8. FOOD PRODUCTION AND GOOD interested in purchasing an existing farm to
SCIENCE begin or expand an agricultural operation
Farm Bureau recommends careful
consideration of good science and adequate 12. SOIL TESTING PROGRAM
notice prior to enacting laws and regulation The soil testing program at West Virginia
affecting agriculture and the costs of producing University is effective and benefits farmers and
food products. gardeners. We recommend that the Legislature
provide adequate funds for this program, and that
9. AGRICULTURAL PESTICIDES WVU maintains adequate laboratory personnel to
We recommend that the West Virginia return soil test results in a timely manner.
Department of Agriculture provide collection
centers throughout West Virginia to accept unused 13. FUNDING FOR AG ENHANCEMENT
farm and household chemicals and containers. PROGRAM
We recommend additional emphasis be We recommend the continuation of adequate
placed on integrated pest management control funding for the WV Ag Enhancement Program,
systems. administered by West Virginia Conservation
We recommend that the West Virginia Agency and WV Conservation Districts.
Department of Agriculture cooperate with the
adjoining State Departments of Agriculture to 14. WEST VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF
approve the use of agricultural pesticides to create AGRICULTURE LABORATORIES
fair competition for our farmers. West Virginia Farm Bureau supports the
upgrading, rebuilding, modernization, and
10. FAIR IMPORTS improvement of access to the West Virginia
In order to protect the health and safety Department of Agriculture laboratories.
of U.S. citizens and the economic well-being of
U.S. farmers, Farm Bureau recommends that any 15. PROMOTION OF AGRICULTURAL
agricultural product imported into this country COMMODITIES & INDUSTRIES
be produced according to the same rules and Farm Bureau recommends that the West
regulations currently required of U.S. farmers and Virginia Development Office cooperate with
companies. the Department of Agriculture in attracting
agricultural processing industries.
11. SUPPORT OF WV YOUNG FARMERS/ We recognize the right of producers to
VETERANS promote research, sales, and consumption of the
WVFB actively encourages the support of commodities they produce.
younger farmers and veterans throughout the We support the continued development and
state and recommends that sufficient resources promotion of the WV Grown Program so that West
be made available within the West Virginia Virginia grown produce should receive priority in
Department of Agriculture to facilitate the state farmers’ markets, tailgate markets, and in
following: purchases by state government.
• Creation of a low-interest loan program, Regulations governing custom slaughtering
specifically for younger farmers (35 years of plants, locker plants, producer-slaughterers,
age and younger) and veterans to start and/ dairying, syrup making or any other farm-
West Virginia Farm Bureau News 11produced product should be modified so as not establish standards for the raising, handling,
to eliminate those local services and to allow feeding, housing or transportation of livestock,
face-to-face sales from farmer to consumer with poultry and fur-bearing animals. The West
minimum government interference. Virginia Department of Agriculture should have
We recommend that producers’ check- sole authority in establishing these standards for
off funds not be used for political or legislative these animals.
lobbying.
19. CREATION OF EXOTIC ANIMAL
16. SUPPORT & ENHANCEMENT OF HORSE REGULATION BOARD AND AUTHORITIES
INDUSTRY Through the legislative process, WVDA
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports should be given the authority to regulate the
updating the “Horse Industry Impact Study on possession and sale of certain exotic species by
Economic Development and Tourism in WV” amending the Animal Regulations Act. These
completed in 2005 by WVU. changes, as prescribed by the WVDA, will help
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports the protect the health and safety of humans and
development of private facilities and public facilities the state’s agricultural and forestry industries,
to promote equine industry growth with a focus on its wildlife and other natural resource interests
educational programs, activities and tourism. from the introduction or spread of disease. This
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports the much-needed alteration to the Animal Regulations
recognition and classification of horses and Act will also support stronger enforcement of
other equine as a farm animal and their inclusion the Homeland Security Act pertaining to agro
in state and national census counts. We also terrorism.
support the classification of the equine industry The creation of an animal regulation board
as an agricultural enterprise. – which would include the Commissioner of the
West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends that Department of Agriculture, the Commissioner of
any equine species be included in the National the Bureau for Public Health and the Director of
Animal Identification System. the Division of Natural Resources – should be in-
WVFB believes support of the horse industry cluded in the language of the legislation granting
should include providing necessary financial the WVDA the aforementioned powers.
incentives to improve the industry’s economic This board will be authorized to:
growth as well as the general farm economy in • Take recommendations from a technical
the geographic area, with enhanced facilities advisory committee
necessary for success. • Seize and quarantine animals when there is
probable cause to suspect the animal poses
17. INTERSTATE SHIPMENT OF MEAT a threat to the health and safety of humans,
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports the other animals or certain industries
interstate shipment of meat with appropriate • Be a registering agency for pet shops
state inspection. • Be a permitting agency for those breeding
exotic animals
18. REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF
LIVESTOCK, POULTRY AND 20. NAMING AND LABELING OF FOOD
AQUACULTURE PRODUCTS
Farm profits depend on good animal care; Misleading advertising is being practiced
therefore, farmers have an inherent interest in pertaining to imitation food products. This is
practicing good animal care. especially true for milk, milk products and meat,
West Virginia Farm Bureau opposes and causes considerable misunderstanding
legislation that would give private organizations among consumers.
or public agencies, other than the West Virginia West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends the
Department of Agriculture, the authority to adoption of regulations providing that ingredients
12 West Virginia Farm Bureau Newsand cultural practices be clearly and correctly Tuberculosis, Brucellosis, and Anaplasmosis
identified on labels and in advertising. Labels are diseases common to livestock and humans.
should also show the country of origin of all We recommend continued efforts to maintain
imported ingredients. Class FREE status in West Virginia.
WVFB opposes labeling or marketing plant- We also urge the West Virginia Department
based products or lab-cultured cells as meat. of Agriculture and Department of Environmental
We support the advertising and promotion of Protection plan for removal and disposal of infect-
milk as a low-fat food. ed material when a highly infectious disease, such
as avian flu, occurs.
21. AGROTERRORISM AND BIOTERRORISM The WV Department of Agriculture has been
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports mandated by the USDA to develop an Animal
the actions of the West Virginia Department Disease Traceability program. WV Farm Bureau
of Agriculture, United States Department of should collaborate with WVDA to develop a
Agriculture, Department of Homeland Security program that will work by involving livestock
and other organizations to identify the impact of producers in the development of this program.
terrorism on agriculture and supply appropriate WVFB can be proactive in organizing
funding and manpower to protect the industry. regional meetings to solicit producer input for
development of this state program.
22. VETERINARY HEALTH ENHANCEMENT ACT WVFB should actively support mandatory disease
The number of veterinarians practicing traceability because it will be a defining factor in
in rural areas continues to decrease. Most the export market.
veterinarians that do practice in rural areas do not
provide services to large animals. West Virginia 24. CONTROL OF INJURIOUS INSECTS
Farm Bureau believes that the passage of the West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends
Veterinary Health Enhancement Act will help that the State Department of Agriculture, working
prevent a rural veterinarian crisis. We support with other research institutions, devise and use
passage of this bill, which would establish a effective controls over Gypsy Moth, Japanese
scholarship program for veterinary students and a Beetle, Tent Caterpillar, Grasshoppers, Emerald
student loan repayment program for veterinarians Ash Borer, Asian Long Horned Beetle, Brown
who agree to practice in areas where there Marmorated Stink Bug, Spotted Lantern Fly and
are veterinarian shortages, provided that, it is other injurious insects.
amended to require participants to offer large We recommend that all counties of West
animal veterinary services. We also recommend Virginia infested by Gypsy Moth be included
that a national tuition relief program be in the Department of Agriculture spraying
established for veterinary students who agree to program, and that all private landowners be
enter the food animal and rural veterinary fields. provided financial assistance and encouraged to
Furthermore, we support the large animal participate in the program.
veterinarian retention program sponsored by the
USDA Veterinary Services. 25. NOXIOUS WEEDS AND PLANTS
Labor is the biggest expense in eradication.
23. ANIMAL AND PLANT DISEASES West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends that
West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends the state supply the materials and training,
that West Virginia University Experiment Station and landowners provide the labor to eradicate
increase investigations and research into the noxious weeds. It is also recommended that
prevention and/or cure of destructive livestock, all landowners, both private and public, be
poultry and plant diseases. Because of the influx encouraged to participate in this process.
of new and current diseases, permit regulations It is further recommended that Chicory
and strict biosecurity procedures should be (chicorium intybus) and Himalayan Blackberry be
followed when any research is conducted. added to the list of noxious weeds.
West Virginia Farm Bureau News 1326. CONTROL OF RABIES AND We recommend the Dog Law be amended as
ADMINISTRATION OF VACCINE follows:
West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends County commissions shall pay all claims for
stricter enforcement of present laws for the livestock and poultry losses that exceed the
control of rabies in wild and domestic animals. dog fund. Excess money would be paid from the
We recommend that the state give financial general revenue fund
aid to farmers who find it necessary to vaccinate A leash law be put into effect for the period
livestock due to exposure to rabid animals. of February 1 to May 30 of each year during
We further recommend that the law which time dogs must be restrained unless
designate the State Health Department as the accompanied and controlled by their owners
leading agency to control rabies. The sheriff, Agriculture or livestock dogs should be
conservation officer, county health department exempt from leash law ordinances provided they
and any other agencies appointed by the State are actively herding or guarding livestock or
Health Department will be responsible for performing other farm-related activities
having the collected specimens of suspected All animal shelters must scan dogs for
rabid animals taken to the health department microchips prior to adoption or euthanizing. County
laboratory for examination. commissions shall provide scanners to each shelter
In addition, because of the decline in
numbers of large animal veterinarians, WVFB 30. RIGHT TO FARM ORDINANCE
recommends that livestock producers have One of the greatest assets of West Virginia
access to purchase the rabies vaccine to is the vast farmland and timberland. The
inoculate livestock (for example: cattle, sheep, aesthetically appealing landscape has attracted
equine, goats many new residents. Increasingly, many new
residents are not accustomed to agriculture
27. LYME DISEASE & WEST NILE VIRUS management practices. On occasion, these
West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends residents have objected to, and in some cases,
that the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, initiated lawsuits against the management
West Virginia Division of Health, West Virginia practices responsible for the pristine landscape
Department of Education, West Virginia that attracted them to the area. Therefore, West
University Extension Service, and public health Virginia Farm Bureau supports the State of West
agencies provide educational information about Virginia and any county that wishes to have a
prevention and treatment of Lyme disease Right to Farm Ordinance, which shall:
and West Nile virus as well as provide annual • Create a legal presumption that agriculture
notification by county of outbreaks and detection. management practices are not a nuisance
and are an expected part of the quiet
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West Virginia Farm Bureau opposes
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FOR CURRENT• Protect agriculture from nuisance lawsuits expenses incurred from timber theft or trespass
and or/complaints against generally should include but not be limited to fence repair
accepted management practices or replacement cost; total survey costs; attorney
• Exempt agriculture from noise ordinances, fees and court costs and replacement cost of
light ordinances, dilapidated building timber (3x value of timber in question).
ordinances, and other nuisance ordinances
• Establish a disclosure provision whereby the 34. AQUACULTURE IN WEST VIRGINIA
seller or his/her agent and the county clerk West Virginia Farm Bureau supports
are required to notify potential buyers of the aquaculture as agriculture. We support the
property of this right to farm ordinance regulation and administration of aquaculture by
• Exempt agriculture from zoning restrictions the West Virginia Department of Agriculture.
and other regulatory tools that may interfere
with generally accepted agriculture 35. CBD HEMP
management practices West Virginia Farm Bureau supports
standardized Federal regulations for hemp and
31. SUPPORT FOR AGRICULTURE/ encourages and supports the WV Hemp Industry.
AGRIBUSINESS PROTECTION
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports the
agriculture/agribusiness protection act to
address criminal trespass of agriculture property.
32. PROTECTING THE HEALTH AND
WELFARE OF AGRICULTURAL LIVESTOCK
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports the
establishment of a livestock committee in each
county to handle complaints of inhumane livestock
treatment. The committee will be appointed by the
county commission from recognized farmers within
the county, and the committee shall follow the
established standards of the Livestock Care Board. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
When, during the course of an investigation,
the county humane officer (CHO) finds livestock 36. TRANSFER OF WEST VIRGINIA DIVISION
in dire condition, he/she will contact a licensed OF FORESTRY TO WEST VIRGINIA
veterinarian for further examination. Upon the DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE WITH
veterinarian’s opinion that the animal(s) are at APPROPRIATE FUNDING
imminent risk, the CHO will immediately notify West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends
the county commission of the situation. Further the West Virginia Division of Forestry be
action by the CHO will occur only at the direction placed under the authority of the West Virginia
of the county commission and the county Department of Agriculture.
livestock committee. The WVDA already offers services such as the
To further protect livestock in a safe and Forest Health Protection Division, Pest Detection
humane way, harassment of these animals should programs, pest and disease identification expertise
not be tolerated at any level. Repeat, convicted and facilities as well as lumber/lumber products
offenders should be considered felons and jail export certification.
time should be implemented.
37. STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION
33. TIMBER THEFT AND SUBSEQUENT MEMBERSHIP
COSTS West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends
West Virginia Farm Bureau believes that the West Virginia State Board of Education be
West Virginia Farm Bureau News 15an elected non-partisan body with its members comparable 12-year limits for members of the
elected on a six-year rotation, with three West Virginia Senate, House of Delegates and
members elected every two years to serve a six- State Supreme Court of Appeals.
year term. Each Congressional district should
have three representatives on the board. 41. CONSOLIDATION OF CITY & COUNTY
GOVERNMENTS
38. QUALIFICATIONS FOR WEST VIRGINIA Should government consolidation be
COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE proposed, each incorporated municipality and the
The existence of a strong Department of voting precincts in the areas of the county outside
Agriculture is essential for growth and promotion the municipality must approve the consolidation
of existing agri-business and development of new by a two-thirds majority vote.
products and markets.
West Virginia Farm Bureau strongly supports 42. REVISION OF STATE CONSTITUTION
preserving the position of an elected West Virginia Farm Bureau opposes a State
Commissioner of Agriculture. We also oppose the Constitutional Convention for the purpose of a
reduction of authority and responsibilities of that general redrafting of the existing Constitution.
office.
WVFB supports an amendment to the West 43. AMENDMENTS FOR BOND AND LEVY
Virginia Constitution that clearly identifies the ISSUES
qualifications of the West Virginia Commissioner West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends
of Agriculture. The qualifications should include that amendments for bond and levy issues not
someone who is educated in a science of be presented to the people by municipalities,
agriculture and who receives farm status for his counties or the Legislature unless it is clearly
or her agriculture land base or files a US IRS stated how the bonds are to be retired, and how
Schedule F with his or her Federal Income Taxes. the funds are to be distributed.
The farm status or Schedule F shall have been
filed for at least the five (5) years prior to holding 44. WORDING ON BALLOTS
office. West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends that
amendments or issues placed on the ballot for
39. SUCCESSION OF GOVERNOR voter consideration be worded in such a manner
Our recommendation is not to create a that a simple yes or no means exactly that, and
new office such as Lieutenant Governor. We not be worded in such a manner as to confuse the
recommend the President of the Senate should voter.
be the next to serve as governor if the office is
vacated, and should complete the current term. 45. RECALL OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS
We further recommend that all of the present West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends
state elective offices be continued as such and that public officials in West Virginia be subject to
there be no expansion of the Executive Branch of recall with the possibility of removal from office
government. by popular vote.
40. TERM LIMITATIONS FOR ELECTED 46. DESECRATION OF THE UNITED STATES
OFFICIALS FLAG
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports term The United States Supreme Court has
limits for the members of the U.S. Congress and ruled that states could not impose a penalty for
the W.V. Legislature. desecration of one’s personal United States flag.
We propose a limit of two, six-year terms West Virginia Farm Bureau believes that
in succession for U.S. Senators and six, two- the United States flag is a symbol of freedom
year terms in succession for members of the and liberty unequaled in the world and that the
U.S. House of Representatives. We recommend wanton destruction of our flag demeans the
16 West Virginia Farm Bureau Newsvalues which we as free people hold so dear. We white student to apologize for their race. CRT
recommend that any American flag sold which is destructive, divisive and demeaning, and will
is 2 ft. x 3 ft. or larger come with instructions for divide our nation and wipe out the gains that the
proper use – display and disposal. civil rights movement of the sixties have made in
We support a constitutional amendment regards to race harmony.
making flag desecration a felony. Therefore it be resolved, that West Virginia
Farm Bureau opposes and actively encourages
47. BALANCED FEDERAL BUDGET the legislature to enact statutes that outlaw the
West Virginia Farm Bureau insists on a teaching of Critical Race Theory in the West
balanced federal budget, accomplished by Virginia State School systems.
reducing federal government expenditures
and not increasing taxes. Any balanced budget 49. THE FORGIVENESS OF FEDERAL
proposal should require full compliance in not STUDENT LOANS
more than five years. West Virginia Farm Bureau opposes the
blanket repayment of student loans with taxpayer
dollars, or the blanket forgiveness of such loans.
50. COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER SERVICE
PRIOR TO GRADUATION
Current West Virginia population falls in the
high-age category of retirement. Rescue squads,
fire departments, and organizations such as VFW,
American Legion, Lions Club, Kiwanis, Ruritan
Club and festivals are beginning to feel the effects
of the aged volunteers who have served in this
capacity for many years. Membership is waning
at an increasing level.
EDUCATION West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends a
West Virginia State Education Program where
48. CRITICAL RACE THEORY high school students be required to do 20
Critical Race Theory (CRT) is a radical new hours of community volunteer service prior to
policy that is being taught in public schools, graduation. Students would receive credits for
higher education, and corporate businesses and their volunteer service.
even in our service academies, West Point, Naval Curriculum Specialists and principals of
Academy and Air Force Academy. each high school should generate and monitor
It comes from the Marxist play book and has guidelines that address the volunteer service
been taught in some law schools since the 80’s. for these agencies, within their respective
Its purpose is to split our country along racial communities.
lines, rather than treat people like Martin Luther
King said in his “I Have a Dream Speech”, where 51. COMMON CORE
he said that one should be valued on the content West Virginia Farm Bureau recognizes
of their character, rather than the color of their the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) as
skin. CRT includes things such as white privilege an inappropriate overreach to standardize and
and white fragility. Their theory is that all control the education of our children so they will
progress in this country that has been attributed conform to a pre-conceived “normal.”
to whites has been at the expense of black and We also reject the collection of personal
brown people. student data for any non-education purpose
Teaching techniques allows teachers without the prior written consent of an adult
to separate students by race and require the student or an underage student’s parent or legal
West Virginia Farm Bureau News 17guardian, and reject the sharing of such personal home economics, math, civics and agricultural
data without the prior written consent of an adult science, and herpetology be provided for
student or an underage student’s parent or legal students of our state.
guardian, with any person or entity other than To achieve this goal, we support:
schools or education agencies within the state. Grades K-4 stress reading and learning
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports the repeal mathematical skills, such as addition, subtraction,
of the numerous federal regulations which interfere multiplication and division without the aid of
with state and local control of public schools, technology, such as calculators
and rejects the CCSS plan, which creates and fits Adequate facilities, instructional equipment
the country with a nationwide straightjacket on and supplies
academic freedom and achievement. Appropriate academic preparation of
teachers who are periodically evaluated and
52. WV FFA PROGRAMS & CEDAR LAKES tested
CONFERENCE CENTER Properly trained and qualified persons
West Virginia Farm Bureau believes Cedar should be permitted to volunteer to assist paid
Lakes is a major asset for WV as a center for personnel in sponsoring extracurricular activities
FFA and other youth activities, and as an adult and safety training programs
education facility. Cedar Lakes should be
maintained and facilities improved with additional 56. WEST VIRGINIA STUDIES REQUIREMENT
private housing. We encourage the West Virginia West Virginia Farm Bureau supports
Department of Agriculture to put more emphasis the teaching of West Virginia studies, which
on improving and using Cedar Lakes. is currently required for elementary school
Farm Bureau is willing to work with other students and eighth graders. Farm Bureau
organizations to help secure adequate state recommends that the study of West Virginia be
funding for Cedar Lakes Conference Center. We carried through in grades five, six and seven by
request that WV citizens receiving a state tax incorporating specific objectives addressing the
refund be given the option to dedicate it or a state’s relationship with the content of the social
portion thereof to a designated fund meant for studies curriculum for each of these grade levels.
capital improvements and maintenance of Cedar Farm Bureau also suggests that textbooks and
Lakes Conference Center. materials used by students and teachers for the
study of West Virginia be kept up-to-date.
53. FINANCIAL EDUCATION
West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends 57. SCHOOL FUNDING
that a financial planning and life skills course be The State of West Virginia currently allocates
mandated in the secondary school system. over $2 1/2 billion annually for education,
including higher education. Additionally,
54. ABSTINENCE EDUCATION approximately 70% of the counties’ property
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports taxes comprise the local share for county school
programs providing education and support boards.
to children in various subjects such as good School financing needs to be shared by all
hygiene, self-esteem, controlled substance the citizens of the state, not just property owners;
awareness, and abstinence, through school therefore, West Virginia Farm Bureau encourages
classes and community events. the legislature to develop a school financing plan
that would be equitable to property and non-
55. BASIC EDUCATION property owners.
West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends In addition, we urge funding be continued to
a thorough and efficient education, stressing rural county budgets to offset high costs of rural
competence in reading comprehension, transportation. We also recommend funding be
composition, cursive writing, science, technology, added for building maintenance.
18 West Virginia Farm Bureau News58. CONTROL OVER COUNTY SCHOOL daycare centers via a third-party contractual
SYSTEMS agreement.
West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends We recommend that no one who has been
that county school boards have greater control found guilty of sexual or criminal misconduct
over the curriculum and autonomy over the in any way be employable in a public school or
administration of the county school systems. federally-funded daycare center.
We further recommend the county school We recommend that any employee who
boards respect the desires of and maintain is under investigation for sexual or criminal
communications with the residents regarding misconduct be immediately placed on paid
school issues. suspension until the investigation determines
the guilt or innocence of the individual. If there
59. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND PRAYER IN is an adjudication of guilt, we request immediate
SCHOOL termination, and that any certification be
West Virginia Farm Bureau supports withdrawn.
returning prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance,
with the words “under God” retained, to the 62. SECURITY IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
school system. West Virginia Farm Bureau continues
support of a security program for the benefit of
60. SCHOOL CODES our children. All WV schools should be locked
West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends down during school sessions and admission to
appropriate attire be mandatory for all public the main building should only be permitted with
school students, teachers and personnel, and proper identification. In addition, county school
that all should practice good personal hygiene for systems should work jointly with local/county law
health and safety reasons. enforcement to have regular and/or undercover
We further recommend that teachers, presence in all schools.
instructors and students alike follow the Custodial parents need to advise school
same rules regarding food, beverage and administrations of any limitations or restrictions
cell phone usage in the classroom. Because regarding a child or children and of any changes
of the advancement and use of modern throughout the school year.
technology, we recommend that only teachers
or instructors have the authority to permit 63. RANDOM DRUG TESTING
use of these instruments in the furthering of West Virginia Farm Bureau recommends
the educational process; however, personal legislation to authorize county school boards the
use by students/teachers/instructors should power to initiate random drug testing for teachers
not be permitted during class except in a life- and personnel.
threatening emergency. Specifically, we recommend all personnel
and teachers, including those employed by
61. BACKGROUND CHECKS OF SCHOOL institutions of higher education, be subject to a
PERSONNEL AND DAYCARE PERSONNEL random drug test at any time.
AND HANDLING OF EMPLOYEES UNDER
INVESTIGATION FOR SEXUAL/CRIMINAL 64. DISCIPLINE IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MISCONDUCT To create the optimum learning environment,
West Virginia Farm Bureau believes that a West Virginia Farm Bureau strongly recommends
thorough background investigation should be that local school authorities be empowered to
required for all school employees and daycare establish a proper disciplinary environment.
personnel and those who volunteer on a regular Toward that end, parents or guardians shall
basis, as well as those individuals working with be held legally responsible for the actions of their
or around children who are indirectly employed children.
for the public school system or federally-funded
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