Representing one of the most productive farming regions in the country, I have worked hard on agriculture issues both in Wisconsin and in Washington.  I believe that current agricultural policies are out of date and do not reflect the needs of the average Wisconsin farmer in today’s modern economy.  This is why I have spent my time in Congress fighting to reform and modernize our agriculture policy.  

Western Wisconsin is home to one of the largest dairy producing regions in the country. I have long believed that we need to forge a truly national dairy policy that stops pitting region against region. I have introduced a comprehensive plan to secure the future of the Wisconsin dairy industry. Read my full plan here(LINK).

Additionally, I have highlighted the promise and needs of organic agriculture by founding and co-chairing the Congressional Organic Caucus.

I have used my position on the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee to advocate for tax benefits to help family farmers thrive and innovate. I authored a Biogas Investment Tax Credit to encourage dairy producers to control their animal waste with the use of manure digesters while also producing renewable energy.

I continue to look for new ways to assist small and beginning farmers and those who produce renewable energy on the farm through tax incentives; to expand market opportunities abroad; and to provide access to an adequate labor supply through reform of the H-2B program.