By Andi Anderson
Indiana Farm Bureau (INFB) has announced its legislative priorities for the 2027 session, focusing on strengthening agriculture, supporting rural communities, improving tax policies, and enhancing the state's food system. The organization aims to address challenges facing farmers while creating opportunities for future agricultural growth.
One of the major priorities is increasing investment in agriculture and rural areas. INFB supports additional funding for the Indiana State Department of Agriculture and the Board of Animal Health. These agencies play an important role in maintaining programs and services that support farmers across the state. Increased funding would help recruit and retain essential professionals, including veterinarians and meat inspectors, while supporting initiatives such as Indiana Grown that help farmers access new market opportunities.
The Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory has also been identified as a key funding priority. Strong disease monitoring and diagnostic systems are important for protecting livestock, preventing disease outbreaks, and ensuring rapid response capabilities. Investments in animal health programs can help maintain the competitiveness and sustainability of Indiana agriculture.
INFB is also advocating for stronger support for rural communities. The organization wants increased funding for rural healthcare services, transportation infrastructure, and childcare programs. These investments are designed to improve quality of life in rural areas and create opportunities for future generations to continue family farming operations.
Randy Kron, INFB president, emphasized the challenges facing young farmers. He said, “After several years of economic hardship in the ag economy, most seasoned farmers have reserves that can help them weather those storms. I worry about the younger generation of farmers who haven’t had time to establish themselves yet. That’s why we’re pushing to fund programs that assist new farmers and strengthen pathways for passing the farm to future generations.”
Property tax reform remains another major priority for the organization. INFB is seeking changes that would lower tax burdens on agricultural properties. Proposed reforms include reducing the assessed value of agricultural-use buildings and expanding business personal property tax exemptions. The organization also supports stronger oversight of the property tax assessment process to ensure fair and transparent assessments statewide.
Katie Nelson, INFB’s executive director of public policy, highlighted the need for further action. She stated, “The tax relief that came out of Senate Enrolled Act 1 from the 2025 legislative session was a great start to alleviate some of the economic pressures landowners were facing, but we need to finish the job. With continued hits coming from high input costs, land prices and property taxes, farmers will be lucky to break even this year. We need lasting property tax reform now.”
Supporting Indiana’s food system is also a central focus. INFB plans to advocate for programs that increase access to locally grown, nutrient-dense foods in schools and rural communities. The organization supports science-based policies that encourage food production while reducing unnecessary regulatory barriers for farmers.
Kron also stressed the importance of long-term planning for agriculture and rural communities. He said, “With this coming year being a longer budget session, it’s important that we prioritize the areas that really impact our members since we know they won’t be easy asks. This year, we need the General Assembly to consider legislation that will protect and enhance the future for farms and rural communities to ultimately ensure safe, affordable food not just for Hoosiers but for people all over the world.”
The policy priorities were developed through recommendations from county Farm Bureaus across Indiana and finalized through a member-driven process. As the 2027 legislative session approaches, INFB leaders and members will continue working with lawmakers to advance policies that support agriculture, rural development, and food security throughout the state.
Photo Credit: indiana-farm-bureau
Categories: Indiana, Business, Government & Policy, Rural Lifestyle