Local farmers react to new agriculture legislation

VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) - Georgia farmers are reviewing the five pieces of legislation Governor Brian Kemp finalized to strengthen Georgia’s agriculture industry.

However underserved rural farmers are concerned about whether these new policies will protect them.

Department of Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said the laws will impact tax policies in agriculture, operations of the Hemp program, and greater penalties on cattle theft. It will also ensure foreign entities are unable to purchase farmland needed for local farming.

Meleade Wasson, owner of a small farm in Lowndes County said she’s hoping the legislation will benefit all rural farmers not just large farms.

Wasson said, “I’m glad Gov. Kemp has really put legislation in process but it needs to expand to underserved farmers. More protection, more resources to all farmers to be able to participate in farming and also be able to survive and provide for their families.”

She said as a family-owned farmer legislation that will protect family farmland will benefit many rural farmers as they focus on producing healthy and safe food and creating their family legacies.

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