Governor to address California family farmers

» December 6, 2005 «

Family farmers and ranchers from throughout California anticipate hearing Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's plan to move the state forward, as the governor addresses the California Farm Bureau Federation Annual Meeting in Monterey today.

Farm Bureau has worked with Gov. Schwarzenegger in pursuit of reforms needed to insure a healthy business climate, restore government accountability and protect family farms. The governor has played an important role in shielding businesses from increased regulation and higher taxes.

"Our members are anxious to hear the governor's vision as he looks forward to the significant challenges our state faces," California Farm Bureau President Bill Pauli said.

Pauli said Farm Bureau members hope to hear the governor's views on a wide range of issues, including:

• How to balance the state budget without new taxes, or taxes disguised as user fees;
• How to improve water supply and water reliability for all Californians;
• How to achieve balanced, scientifically based regulation of air quality and water quality;
• What the state government can do to improve energy supplies.

"Energy supplies and costs play a huge role on the family farm," Pauli said. "As much as one-third of farmers' production costs are tied to energy prices."

More than 800 Farm Bureau members from throughout California have registered to attend the organization's 87th Annual Meeting, which continues through Wednesday.

The California Farm Bureau Federation works to protect family farms and ranches on behalf of more than 88,000 members.

Contact: Dave Kranz
Phone: 916/561-5550
news@cfbf.com

Permission for use is granted, however, credit must be made to the California Farm Bureau Federation when reprinting this item.