Letter to the editor Doris Chorny

How did our brand new New York State Senator, Jen Metzger (SD-42), fair during her first legislative session? She introduced 87 bills of which 75% passed with bi-partisan support.

As chair of the Agriculture Committee, Jen focused much of her concern on the fact that the average age of a NYS farmer is 60.  Below are some of the bills passed to encourage new and young farmers to establish themselves:

(Metzger S5822A) Farmers Markets in Parks is a most imaginative bill.  By allowing farmers to set up a market in state and local parks, not only are their businesses helped, but consumers have greater access to fresh, locally grown food.

(Metzger S4655) creates an Agricultural Hotline to handle concerns and questions farmers have about grants, research, marketing and finances.

(Metzger S4945) reduces paperwork as well as the money required to register vehicles used solely for agriculture. It passed both House and Senate.

(Metzger S5755) keeps agricultural property taxes affordable and makes it easier to obtain an agriculture assessment.

Brava, Senator Metzger!  You’ve had an amazing first term.

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River Reporter