In the great state of Indiana, farming has been a way of life for generation after generation. In fact, since our state’s inception, this industry has been key to our livelihood, contributing $44.1 billion to the Indiana economy –even during the devastating drought of 2012. Needless to say, these farms do not run themselves, and I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the tireless dedication of the Hoosier farmer.
To recognize their invaluable contributions, the state developed the Hoosier Homestead Award Program, which twice a year commemorates the achievements of outstanding Hoosiers who have owned and operated the same farm for 100 years or more. Since its inauguration in 1976, the program has recognized more than 5,000 farms for their dedication to Indiana’s economy, reputation and overall advancement.
I am proud to say that four families from our community, three from Ripley County and one from Switzerland County, will be receiving these awards. Newhart Farms, which has been in operation since 1901, will be recognized with a centennial award. The Miller Farm has been in operation since 1890 and will also receive the centennial award for over 100 years of ownership.
The Rohls family, which opened their farm in 1864, will be receiving the sesquicentennial award for over 150 years of ownership. Last, but certainly not least, the Archer Farm of Switzerland Co. will also receive the sesquicentennial award. Their farm has been in operation since 1865. Congratulations to these local families as well as the many others across the state that will be receiving these awards.
As a state legislator, I take great pride in not only supporting these families during our discussions at the Statehouse, but also, and most importantly, through my actions when it comes time to vote on the House floor. This session, I was a proud supporter of a variety of new laws which aim to help Hoosier farmers. For instance, I voted to freeze Indiana’s soil productivity factors at their 2011 levels, a measure which I have now supported for four consecutive years.
These factors are responsible for either raising or lowering an acre’s value depending on the quality of the soil. Without this freeze, it is estimated that over the next three years, Hoosier farmers would have faced a $250 million tax increase on their farmland. In retrospect, this new law seems more important than ever as record-breaking rains have caused widespread crop damage in nearly every corner of the state.
I also voted to raise the cap on the Grain Indemnity Fund to $25 million. This fund was established in 1996 to protect grain producers in the event of a grain buyer’s financial failure. The fund’s balance comes from a premium on the gross sale price received by producers, but those who do not wish to participate may request a refund of their premium. As of January 1, that balance was about $14 million.
Years ago, $14 million may have been enough, but in this day and age, a single disaster could conceivably deplete the fund’s entire current balance. By raising the cap to $25 million, it was our goal to help guarantee that farmers who voluntarily pay the premium are adequately insured.
The work of a farmer is truly a thankless job, but for many, no thank you is necessary. A strong commitment to family and state is what keeps these men and women going year after year, and being able to serve them at the Statehouse as they serve us statewide, is one of the many honors of my role as your representative. If you are interested in learning more about these new laws or any others, please visit iga.in.gov.
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