Knowing the issues facing farmers when it comes to making decisions, Rep. Jim Baird recently introduced legislation aimed at giving farmers plenty of time to learn and adapt to new pesticide restrictions by the Environmental Protection Agency. 

Baird and Rep. Cindy Axne, a Democrat from Iowa, introduced the bipartisan legislation, The Farmers Deserve Notification Act, which is focused on preventing the EPA from canceling, suspending or enacting new restrictions on pesticides without first providing 270 days or nine months advance notice in the Federal Register. The legislation would allow the notice to be waived by a majority vote of the Independent Scientific Advisory Panel at the EPA should immediate action be deemed necessary. 

In a release, Baird touched on supply chain issues and rising costs as challenges facing producers and the nation. 

"The EPA's creation and rapid implementation of new regulations only further disrupts this vital industry, forcing farmers to adapt quickly at the detriment of their crops and conservation practices. Our producers need time to find alternatives, which is why I'm proud to work with Rep. Cindy Axne to require the EPA to give our producers the time they need to adapt so they can continue supplying a safe and affordable food supply without interruption," Baird said. 

In a release, Stu Swanson, Chairman of the Animal Agriculture and Environment Committee at the Iowa Corn Growers Association, welcomed the legislation, saying it would give corn growers time and an opportunity to find alternate resources and an ability to prepare for the next season. 
 

The Indiana Soybean Alliance and Indiana Farm Bureau are in support of the legislation.