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Jul. 17, 2023 Source: Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) news release Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (R-Va.), and Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón (R-Puerto Rico-At-Large) introduced bipartisan legislation to support women farmers and ranchers in Maine and across the U.S. The Women in Agriculture Act would create a Women Farmers and Ranchers Liaison at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), establish a research priority for agriculture machinery and equipment designed to be used by women, and create a funding set aside for childcare facilities in rural areas. The Women in Agriculture Act recognizes that women are essential to farmlands across the country and addresses the lack of equipment designed for women farmers and ranchers and the need for childcare in rural areas. "Maine is fortunate to have an abundant, diverse farming workforce helping to feed the nation. As a longtime farmer myself, I know the additional challenges women face to get their job done. In addition to navigating childcare obstacles, women must overcome a history of discrimination in lending opportunities," said Congresswoman Pingree. "The Women in Agriculture Act provides resources specifically for women farmers and ranchers to level the playing field and work towards a fairer agriculture industry." "Our women farmers and ranchers deserve recognition and representation for working our precious lands. But we know that the work of our sisters who represent 26% of the farm workforce face disparities and often go unrecognized. "Women farmers, especially non-white women farmers, are undervalued, underserved, and underpaid," said Rep. Leger Fernandez. "This is why I am introducing the Women in Agriculture Act to support a pathway for agricultural education and resources for women-led farms." To read the entire news release click here. Tweet |
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