RMFU statement on CO Governor Polis’ State Of State address
“Rocky Mountain Farmers Union commends Governor Jared Polis for recognizing production agriculture is facing serious challenges due to low commodity prices and a damaging tariff war in his State of the State address. We are pleased the Governor supports the funding and implementation of the Colorado Water Plan, as we all know how important water is to a productive and profitable agriculture industry and to so many of our communities.
We are encouraged that Gov. Polis wants all of Colorado to thrive. Sustainability is a keyword among farm and ranch families, and that includes economic sustainability when it comes to making a living from the land. We were honored that Governor Polis mentioned RMFU’s Cooperative Development Center in his speech, and we are ready to work with this administration to find solutions to restoring economic vitality and bring jobs to rural communities.
We also look forward to working with Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg in providing farmers and ranchers with effective tools they need to grow their agricultural enterprises. As a general farm organization, we understand the full scope of agriculture from established ranches on the eastern plains, to beginning farmers along the Front Range, specialty crop growers on the western slope, and livestock producers all over Colorado.
RMFU supports access to affordable medical, dental, vision and mental health services, as well as to long-term care and hospice care for all people, but especially in rural and mountain counties, where prices are high, and access is limited. As the Governor said in his speech, “There’s no reason for anybody to lose their savings or their home simply trying to keep up with rising health care costs. And there is no reason a family in Glenwood Springs or Gunnison should pay twice as much for health care as a family in Denver.”
The positive economic impact on agriculture and rural communities through expanded tax bases, reduced outward migration of rural populations, and reduced dependence on foreign oil makes the continued development of viable renewable energy imperative. We support and call for continued favorable legislation at the state and federal level for the development of renewable energy resources that brings a balanced portfolio for Colorado’s energy future.”
-Dr. Dale McCall, RMFU President
