By Andi Anderson
The Indiana Farm Bureau (INFB) has unveiled its legislative priorities for the 2025 session, with a strong focus on property tax reform and water rights protection.
These critical issues are aimed at safeguarding Hoosier farms and rural communities while ensuring food security for the state and beyond.
INFB President Randy Kron emphasized the significance of these priorities, stating, "Agriculture is vital to Indiana's economy, contributing over $35 billion. Our priorities aim to protect farms and ensure safe, affordable food for everyone."
Taxation
Rising property taxes have become a burden for farmers, threatening their financial stability. The base rate for farmland has skyrocketed in recent years, with a 17% increase in 2023, 26.4% in 2024, and another projected 20% rise for 2025.
This escalation coincides with declining farm income, making it difficult for farmers to sustain their operations. INFB advocates for a more predictable and manageable tax system, seeking reforms that balance tax burdens with the demand for services and farmers' ability to pay.
Water Rights
Access to water is critical for agriculture, and INFB is pushing for stronger protections to safeguard water rights for farmers. They aim to expand groundwater protection and prevent water withdrawals by other industries that could harm agriculture.
INFB also supports creating a statewide groundwater well monitoring network to track and manage the state's water resources effectively.
These priorities were shaped through a grassroots process, with input from county Farm Bureaus and subject matter experts. INFB will advocate for these issues at the Statehouse when the 2025 legislative session begins in January.
Photo Credit: indiana-farm-bureau
Categories: Indiana, Government & Policy