By Rep. Ryan Zinke
In Sidney, you know better than anyone that Montana is one of the leading producers of sugarbeets in the nation.
We have tens of thousands of acres dedicated to the crop, average annual revenues of $50 million plus millions more to the local communities that support the industry through operations like processing and transportation. Sugarbeets also help support Montana ranchers with a steady supply of feed. It’s clear our sugarbeet industry is an economic engine for the region.
Sidney sugarbeet products can be found across the globe, which is why fair access to overseas markets is critical for Montana suppliers.
I support trade policies that allow Montana farmers to have access to all markets, and have continually voted for legislation to make sure Montana farmers have a level playing field.
A level playing field also means making sure we do everything we can in Washington to make sure the government is not in the way.
The proposed Waters of the U.S. rule is a disaster. It just doesn’t make sense for Montana farmers. I’ve cosponsored and voted to prevent this rule from going into effect. I will continue to fight it.
Lastly, I’m committed to making sure the farm you and your family built from the ground up is around for your kids and grandkids one day. That means the Death Tax has to go.
One of the biggest threats to generational farming and ranching, as well as small business ownership, is passing it down to the next generation.
When parents can’t pass down the family business for farm because the taxes will literally put them out of business, that’s a problem. It’s not the American way, and it’s killing the American Dream. I also voted in favor of making section 179 financing permanent because all Montana farmers and small businesses should have tax certainty so they can confidently invest in their own future.
As Montana’s sole Congressman, I will make sure that Montana’s ag industry is protected and respected in our nation’s Capital. I salute this year’s sugarbeet growers, another year well done.
Source: www.sidneyherald.com