Debbie knows we do not have an economy or a middle class unless we make things and grow things.

Agriculture supports nearly one in four Michigan jobs and is our state’s second-largest industry. From cherries, corn, soybeans, hops and apples to asparagus and milk producers and more, Michigan farmers grow a wider variety of crops than any other state but California.

As Chair of the Agriculture Committee, Debbie put Michigan first as she worked across the aisle to pass the bipartisan 2014 Farm Bill, which was signed into law right here in Michigan. The Farm Bill streamlined over 100 programs, saving taxpayers over $80 billion while making historic investments in Michigan agriculture and our small towns. It also made historic investments to protect our land and water, supporting hunting, fishing, and outdoor tourism. Her leadership in passing the bill earned her bipartisan praise from Senate colleagues, media and agricultural leaders.

She built on that success in coauthoring the bipartisan 2018 Farm Bill, which offers new support for beginning farmers, veterans, and urban agriculture; permanent support for exports and local food promotion; strengthened risk management tools; critical improvements for dairy and specialty crops; and new investments in conservation, rural water infrastructure, and high-speed internet. The legislation passed the Senate on a bipartisan vote of 86-11 – more votes than any Farm Bill in history.