By Andi Anderson
On August 17, Indiana Farm Bureau (INFB) member delegates convened at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds to establish the organization's policy positions for 2025.
The meeting brought together 233 farmers and agribusiness professionals from across the state to discuss critical issues impacting agriculture and rural communities.
The annual delegate session is a cornerstone of INFB’s grassroots policy process, where members have the opportunity to voice their opinions and shape the future of Indiana agriculture.
“INFB’s annual delegate session provides the opportunity for our members to create policy positions for issues directly impacting agriculture and rural communities,” said Randy Kron, INFB president. “It is the foundation of our grassroots policy process and vital to the advocacy work INFB will be doing during the upcoming legislative session.”
This year’s discussions covered a range of topics, including water rights, property taxes, renewable energy, land use, and rural broadband access. Delegates proposed increased protection for agriculture’s right to water resources, emphasizing the need for a transparent regulatory framework for large groundwater withdrawal facilities.
Property taxes also featured prominently in the discussions, with delegates advocating for a focus on reducing property taxes rather than income taxes. They supported the use of property tax caps on farmland as a buffer against rapidly rising land values and called for modernization of the farmland valuation formula.
“Water and taxes continue to remain our top policy priorities here at INFB,” said Andy Tauer, INFB executive director of public policy. He highlighted the importance of a statewide water plan and a comprehensive review of the tax burden on farmers.
Renewable energy was another key topic, with delegates working to strike a balance between supporting clean energy initiatives and preserving farmland. Additionally, delegates expressed strong support for expanding rural broadband access and setting a standard height for overhead communication cables to accommodate farm equipment.
During the meeting, delegates also elected representatives to attend the 2025 American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Convention in San Antonio, Texas. The chosen delegates—Mike Beale, Josh Boxell, Sarah Delbecq, John Feutz, and Nick Wenning—will work with representatives from all 50 states to shape national policy.
In the coming weeks, the INFB board of directors will finalize the organization’s priorities for the 2025 state legislative session, building on the discussions and decisions made during this session.
These priorities will guide INFB’s efforts both at the Statehouse and in Washington, D.C., ensuring that the voices of Indiana’s farmers are heard at all levels of government.
Photo Credit: indiana-farm-bureau
Categories: Indiana, General