NEBRASKA CORN GROWERS ASSOCIATION
STATE ISSUES 2008

NeCGA will hold their annual meeting December 12, 2007; at that time, the delegate body will adopt and reaffirm policy positions of the organization. NeCGA leadership has identified the issues summarized as priorities for the 2008 legislative year.

LIVESTOCK EXPANSION
Livestock is the largest sector of Nebraska’s agricultural economy. Agriculture is a significant component of Nebraska’s economy.  This issue entails a wide range of areas that may be addressed including regulation, research, and public acceptance. We believe that as a state it is important to approach livestock expansion with an open mind.  Decisions regarding livestock expansion need to be based on sound science and correct factual information.

ETHANOL
NeCGA supports full funding of the EPIC Fund contractual obligations. We are opposed to any consideration of a tax on ethanol or co-products produced in Nebraska.
Our policy seeks a balanced input of revenue from a grain checkoff and general funds to fulfill the current needs of the EPIC Fund. Realizing the EPIC Fund contractual obligations are not yet known, we understand a future decision will need to be made to complete funding of the obligations.

WATER
Corn growers realize the importance of a comprehensive water plan for the sate of Nebraska. With the implementation of LB 701 this past year, many of our members have become less supportive of the direction of the overall plan. The long-term effects and challenges of moving forward continue to grow and many parts of the plan are subject to question.

NeCGA’s major concern regarding LB 701 is the use of a corn checkoff as a funding source. Checkoff programs in this state and across the country were created as self help programs by producers to develop markets and new uses for their commodities.  Checkoff use as a general fund revenue source was never the legislative intent when these programs were established.  We are opposed to this concept and look forward to working with the Legislature to find a more balanced and equitable approach to funding the Nebraska’s water problems.

CORPORATE FARMING
NeCGA would like to commend the Agriculture Committee for their work this summer to begin to address the issue of corporate farming structures in the state, especially attempting to create legislation that will provide checks and balances for operations and yet stand the test of legal compliance.  NeCGA believes farmers should have the ability to utilize all available, legal business structures. We look forward to working with the Committee to further this process.   

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