Policy

KANSAS FARMERS UNION

2013 POLICY STATEMENT

ADOPTED BY KANSAS FARMERS UNION DELEGATES TO THE KFU STATE CONVENTION

DECEMBER 1, 2012

 

PREAMBLE

THE KANSAS FARMERS UNION REPRESENTS ITS MEMBERS WHO ARE ENGAGED IN VARIOUS FARMING AND RANCHING PURSUITS THROUGH COOPERATION, LEGISLATION, AND EDUCATION.

THE KANSAS FARMERS UNION TAKES PRIDE IN DEFINING OUR POLICY. WE BELIEVE THAT POLICY SHOULD ADDRESS THE NEEDS OF PEOPLE. THE MORAL AND ETHICAL DECISIONS MADE BY INDIVIDUALS AND GOVERNMENTS HAVE AN IMPACT ON OUR DAILY LIVES AND ON THE LIVES OF FUTURE GENERATIONS. RECOGNIZING THAT FACT, OUR POLICY STRIVES TO ASSURE THAT THOSE DECISIONS MAINTAIN A JUST AND ETHICAL BASIS.

OUR POLICY ALSO ADDRESSES THE USE OF OUR NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT WITH THE SAME FERVOR. WE MUST NOT ALLOW GREED, IGNORANCE, OR CARELESSNESS TO BRING ABOUT EXPLOITATION OF OUR NATURAL RESOURCES, OR OF OUR FELLOW MAN.

WE BELIEVE THAT FAMILY OWNERSHIP OF FARM LAND IS THE BASIS FOR THE WORLD’S MOST VIABLE SYSTEM OF FOOD AND FIBER PRODUCTION AND THAT MAINTAINING THIS FAMILY FARM SYSTEM WILL PRESERVE OUR COUNTRY’S NATURAL AND HUMAN RESOURCES.

WE BELIEVE THAT THIS POLICY WOULD DEVELOP FARM PROGRAMS THAT WILL DIMINISH HUNGER, FOSTER PEACE, JUSTICE, AND THE PRESERVATION AND PROTECTION OF OUR NATURAL RESOURCES and local economies.

 

AGRICULTURE POLICY

A POLICY OF PARITY PRICES, FAIR TRADE AND HUMANITARIAN AID SHOULD BE ESTABLISHED BY OUR COUNTRY AND PROMOTED AROUND THE WORLD. WE SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES FOR A FARM POLICY TO ENHANCE AGRICULTURE AND COMMUNITIES.

1. FARMER OWNED RESERVE (Market-Driven Inventory System)

2. SAFETY NET – AFFORDABLE CROP INSURANCE, PERMANENT DISASTER PROGRAM

3. FARM PROGRAM PAYMENT LIMITS

4. SUPPLY MANAGEMENT

5. CONSERVATION PROGRAMS AND STEWARDSHIP

6. RENEWABLE ENERGY

7. FOOD AND NUTRITION PROGRAMS

8. PUBLIC FUNDED RESEARCH

9. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

10. COUNTRY OF ORIGIN LABELING

11. FAIR AND COMPETITIVE MARKETS

12. ENHANCE TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE

13. ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE AGRICULTURAL CREDIT

14. FULL FUNDING OF FARM AND CONSERVATION PROGRAMS

15. GMO LIABILITY AND OVERSIGHT

16. BEGINNING FARMER RANCHER PROGRAM & MINORITY PROGRAM

17. SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL WATER USE

 

FARM SERVICE AGENCY REORGANIZATION

KANSAS FARMERS UNION OPPOSES EFFORTS TO DISMANTLE THE FARM SERVICE AGENCY (FSA) DELIVERY SYSTEM THROUGH OFFICE CLOSURES, ELIMINATION OF COUNTY OFFICE POSITIONS, OR CHANGE EMPLOYEES CLASSIFICATION TO CIVIL SERVICE. WE SUPPORT ADEQUATE FUNDING AND STAFFING TO SUPPORT THE FSA

SERVICE CENTERS.

WE SUPPORT THE CONTINUATION OF FARMER ELECTED COMMITTEES AND STRONGLY OPPOSE ANY EFFORT TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF SUCH COMMITTEES OR ANY ATTEMPT

TO MAKE THE POSITION OF COMMITTEEMEN APPOINTED.

WE OPPOSE THE FORMATION OF ANY NATIONAL OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE WHICH SUPERSEDES STATE OR COUNTY COMMITTEE JURISDICTIONS.

 

INTERNATIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS

WE URGE CONGRESS AND THE ADMINISTRATION TO RE-NEGOTIATE trade agreements SO THEY REFLECT THE NEEDS OF MANKIND.

WE OPPOSE “TRADE PROMOTION AUTHORITY” THAT CIRCUMVENTS THE ABILITY OF CONGRESS TO NEGOTIATE TRADE AGREEMENTS.

 

FOOD FOR PEACE

We support THE P.L. 480 P PEACE, AND ECONOMIC JUSTICE FOR ALL.

 

CROP INSURANCE AND DISASTER PROGRAMS

WE SUPPORT A FEDERAL PREMIUM SUBSIDY OF AT LEAST 50% FOR ALL LEVELS OF COVERAGE. YIELDS SHOULD BE BASED ON APH (ACTUAL PRODUCTION HISTORY) OVER A 5 YEAR PERIOD. FSA YIELDS SHOULD BE UPDATED TO REFLECT THE TRUE COUNTY AVERAGES. WE URGE A MINIMUM LEVEL OF MULTI-PERIL CROP INSURANCE (50%) BE PROVIDED AS A BENEFIT OF FARM PROGRAM PARTICIPATION TO TRADITIONAL FAMILY FARM SIZE UNITS.

WE SUPPORT SUBSIDY LIMITS ON CROP INSURANCE PREMIUMS, COUPLED WITH CONSERVATION COMPLIANCE.

 

We support limiting crop insurance premium subsidies for any single business entity or individual to $75,000.

 

WE SUPPORT CONTINUATION OF DISASTER PROGRAMS UNTIL SUCH TIME AS CROP INSURANCE IS FULLY A FUNCTIONAL ALTERNATIVE.

WHENEVER A NATURAL DISASTER STRIKES DESTROYING ANY PROGRAMMED CROPS, AFFECTED PRODUCERS SHOULD RECEIVE AN LDP PAYMENT BASED ON THE COUNTY AVERAGE YIELD.

 

WE OPPOSE THE RISK MANAGEMENT AGENCY ALLOWING PREMIUM DISCOUNTS PROMOTING THE USE OF SPECIFIC CROP INPUTS AND OR FARM EQUIPMENT.

 

We support full disclosure of crop insurance subsidy payments received by participants in the crop insurance program.

 

Crop insurance coverage regions should reflect feasibility of crop production in the region.

 

CRP ground should be ineligible for receiving crop insurance until after 3 years of crop production history has been established.

 

FOOD SAFETY

SINCE THE KANSAS FARMERS UNION’S GOAL IS A SAFE FOOD SUPPLY, FOR ALL CONSUMERS WE SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING:

1. BAN BSE PRESUMPTIVE POSITIVE ANIMALS FROM THE HUMAN FOOD SUPPLY.

2. BAN IMPORTS OF LIVE ANIMALS AND PROCESSED MEAT WITHOUT DOCUMENTED LABELING AND VERIFICATION.

3. BAN ALL RUMINANT MEAT PROTEIN PRODUCTS FOR FEED.

4. IMPLEMENT A VOLUNTARY, AFFORDABLE AND WORKABLE NATIONAL ANIMAL IDENTIFICATION PROGRAM IMPLEMENTED AND ADMINISTERED BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT, AND NOT BY A PRIVATE ENTITY.

5. IMPLEMENT A FULLY FUNDED COUNTRY OF ORIGIN LABELING (COOL).

6. LABEL PROCESSED FEEDSTUFFS.

7. REVIEW THE FOOD PROCESSING SYSTEM AND ADD ADDITIONAL INSPECTION.

8. PROVIDE INCENTIVES FOR A MORE DECENTRALIZED PACKING INDUSTRY AND FOOD SYSTEM.

 

GMO LABELING

WE SUPPORT FULL PUBLIC DISCLOSURE OF ALL GMO INGREDIENTS THROUGH FOOD LABELS.

 

IMPORTED FOODS

WE SUPPORT THE ENFORCED USDA INSPECTION OF ALL IMPORTED FOODS TO MEET THE SAME REQUIREMENTS AS INSPECTED PRODUCTS IN THE UNITED STATES.

IN ORDER FOR MEAT TO BE LABELED A UNITED STATES PRODUCT, IT MUST BE BRED, BORN, RAISED, PROCESSED AND PACKAGED IN THE UNITED STATES.

 

DAIRY IMPORTS

WE OPPOSE ANY REDUCTION OF IMPORT QUOTAS ON DAIRY PRODUCTS.

 

LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY IMPORTS ALL LIVESTOCK ENTERING THE U.S. MUST BE HELD IN QUARANTINE UNTIL SUCH TIME THERE IS PROOF POSITIVE THE IMPORTED STOCK IS DISEASE FREE.

 

Horse Slaughter

We oppose a ban on the slaughter of unwanted horses and other meat species, and the criminalization of individuals processing, shipping, transporting, purchasing, selling, delivering, or receiving any meat, flesh, or carcass for the purpose of harvest. We call for the reinstitution of facilities to deal with the humane disposal of horses.

 

INTER-STATE MARKETING OF PROCESSED MEATS

WE SUPPORT FEDERAL LEGISLATION TO ALLOW THE SMALLER INDEPENDENT MEAT PACKERS, WHO MEET STATE MEAT INSPECTION STANDARDS, TO MARKET INTER-STATE.

 

SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

WE URGE ALL UNIVERSITIES TO PURSUE ADDITIONAL RESEARCH AND SUPPORT SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL ENDEAVORS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ORGANIC FARMING, local food AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PRACTICES AND COOPERATE WITH OTHER ENTITIES DOING SUCH RESEARCH.

 

CORPORATE VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL INTEGRATION AND PRICE FIXING

WE DEMAND THE STRICT ENFORCEMENT OF THE ANTI-TRUST LAWS.

WE FULLY SUPPORT THE KANSAS LEGISLATURE ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE PRODUCERS PROTECTION ACT.

WE ALSO CALL FOR STATE AND FEDERAL LEGISLATION THAT WOULD REQUIRE BINDING MEDIATION IN THE EVENTS OF DISPUTES BETWEEN GROWERS OR THEIR ORGANIZATIONS AND CONTRACTED PROCESSORS OR MARKETERS. WE SUPPORT LEGISLATION TO ABOLISH PACKER/FEEDER COMBINATIONS THAT CONTROL MORE THAN 2% OF THE MARKET SHARE.

 

FEDERAL ANTI-CORPORATION FARMING LAW

WE SUPPORT LEGISLATION WHICH WOULD PROHIBIT DIRECT INVESTMENT BY CORPORATIONS OR PRIVATE CORPORATION SIZE ENTITIES AND THEIR STOCKHOLDERS IN THE BUSINESS OF FARMING.

 

Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act

WE SUPPORT THE “Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act (AFIDA).”

 

COMMODITY FUTURES TRADING COMMISSION

WE BELIEVE THE HISTORIC SYSTEM OF COMMODITY FUTURES TRADING CONTINUES BANKRUPTING FAMILY FARMERS, RANCHERS AND CONSUMERS AND IS NOT A PRUDENT RISK MANAGEMENT TOOL. THE FOLLOWING SHOULD BE ENACTED:

1. TRANSFER REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF THE COMMODITY FUTURES TRADING COMMISSION (CFTC) TO THE SECURITY EXCHANGE COMMISSION (SEC).

2. SUPPORT REGULATIONS THAT MAINTAIN PRICES ABOVE THE COST OF PRODUCTION.

3. WE OPPOSE AG COMMODITY OPTIONS AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR FARM PROGRAMS.

4. WE ARE OPPOSED TO ANY GOVERNMENT INVOLVEMENT IN AG OPTIONS OR FUTURES TRADING AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR OR IN CONJUNCTION WITH FARM PROGRAMS.

WE OPPOSE ANY SPECULATIVE TRADING OF COMMODITIES FUTURES BY ANY FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS, COMPANIES OR INDIVIDUALS.

5. ALL COMMODITIES SOLD ON FUTURES OR OPTIONS SHALL BE TREATED AS A POSITIVE SALE AND TAXED THE SAME AS ANY ORDINARY SALE OF THE SAME COMMODITY.

6. WE SUPPORT LEGISLATION REQUIRING ALL SPECULATIVE FUTURES CONTRACTS TO BE ASSESSED ANY FEDERAL CHECK-OFF.

7. WE SUPPORT THE ELIMINATION OF SPECULATIVE SHORT SELLING OF COMMODITY FUTURES CONTRACTS.

 

FEDERAL GRAIN INSPECTION SERVICE

WE RECOMMEND THAT THE PERCENTAGE OF ALLOWABLE DOCKAGE BE REDUCED. WE SUPPORT LEGISLATION TO PROHIBIT ADDING FOREIGN MATERIAL TO ANY COMMODITY.

KANSAS FARMERS UNION REQUESTS THAT THE STATE OF KANSAS REQUIRE THAT THE GRAIN TRADE GIVE EQUAL CREDIT TO GRAIN THAT EXCEEDS THE STANDARD WEIGHT IN DIRECT PROPORTION TO THE DISCOUNT FOR GRAIN UNDER STANDARD WEIGHT.

 

FEDERAL TAXATION

WE SUPPORT THE PRINCIPLE OF THE PROGRESSIVE INCOME TAX.

THE KANSAS FARMERS UNION SUPPORTS THE PHASE OUT OF ALL TAX PREFERENCES THAT MADE AGRICULTURE A TAX SHELTER FOR OUTSIDE, SPECULATIVE INVESTMENT.

WE RECOMMEND A CHANGE IN THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX LAWS TO ELIMINATE INCOME TAX LIABILITIES OF FORCED LIQUIDATIONS.

ROAD TAX ON FARM FUELS SHOULD BE EXEMPT AT POINT OF SALE. WE SUPPORT THE CONTINUATION OF THE DEDUCTION OF STATE AND LOCAL PROPERTY TAXES FROM FEDERAL TAX RETURNS.

WE SUPPORT INCOME TAX AVERAGING FOR FAMILY FARMERS.

WE SUPPORT INCREASING THE NUMBER OF TAX BRACKETS TO FACILITATE A MORE EQUITABLE TAX STRUCTURE.

WE SUPPORT THE TAX INCENTIVES TO ENCOURAGE THE USE OF WIND, SOLAR AND OTHER RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS.

INDIVIDUALS SHOULD BE ALLOWED THE SAME HEALTH INSURANCE DEDUCTION AS CORPORATIONS.

WE SUPPORT INCREASING THE LIMIT ON CALCULATING SOCIAL SECURITY TAX.

WE SUPPORT AN ESTATE TAX WITH A 5 MILLION DOLLAR EXEMPTION.

 

STATE TAXATION

WE SUPPORT A STATE-WIDE PROPERTY TAX IN CONJUNCTION WITH AN INCOME BOOSTER TAX, TO SUPPLEMENT EDUCATION FUNDING, AND PROVIDE LOCAL PROPERTY TAX RELIEF.

WE OPPOSE AN INCREASE OF STATE SALES TAX.

WE RECOMMEND A GRADUATED STATE INCOME TAX.

WE OPPOSE THE ELIMINATION OF THE CORPORATE INCOME TAX.

WE SUPPORT EXEMPTING ROAD TAX ON FARM FUEL AT THE POINT OF SALE IN LIEU OF REFUND. WE ARE IN FAVOR OF THE CURRENT HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION AND WE SUPPORT ITS INCREASE TO $25,000.

THE KANSAS FARMERS UNION SUPPORTS THE CONTINUATION OF A MINERAL PRODUCTION TAX ON OIL, GAS, SALT AND COAL TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL FUNDING NEEDED FOR SCHOOL FINANCING AND ROAD AND HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE. WE SUPPORT A PROPERTY TAX ON THE TRANS-CANADA KEYSTONE PIPELINES.

WE SUPPORT A FAIR AND REASONABLE TAX ON PERSONAL PROPERTY.

WE SUPPORT A STATE-WIDE INTANGIBLE EARNINGS TAX TO BE USED FOR PROPERTY TAX RELIEF AND FUNDING EDUCATION.

WE URGE THE REINSTATEMENT OF THE DOUBLE EXEMPTION FOR INDIVIDUALS OVER 65.

WE SUPPORT AN ESTATE TAX WITH A 7 MILLION DOLLAR EXEMPTION.

 

SOCIAL SECURITY

THE SOCIAL SECURITY FUND SHOULD BE HELD IN ITS OWN ENTITY AND NOT BE USED TO FINANCE OTHER GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS. ADJUSTMENT SHOULD BE MADE IN THE SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM TO ABOLISH “NOTCH YEAR” DISCRIMINATION.

TO BE VIABLE AND ASSURE BENEFITS INTO THE FUTURE, SOCIAL SECURITY MUST BE A MANDATORY, UNIVERSAL SYSTEM. WE OPPOSE PROPOSALS THAT WOULD PRIVATIZE ANY SEGMENT OF THE SYSTEM.

 

CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM 

WE DEMAND MEANINGFUL CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM, SPECIFICALLY PUBLIC FUNDING OF CONGRESSIONAL AND PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGNS. WE OPPOSE THE USE OF “SOFT” MONEY (Super PACs) IN CAMPAIGNS.

WE SUPPORT ELIMINATION OF CORPORATE CAMPAIGN FINANCE THROUGH “CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP.”

 

FEDERAL COMMODITY CHECK-OFFS

WE OPPOSE ALL FEDERAL CHECK-OFF PROGRAMS.

FRAUD AND ABUSE OF CHECK-OFF RESOURCES AND MONEY MUST BE PROSECUTED TO THE FULL EXTENT OF THE LAW.

ALL CHECK-OFF PROGRAMS MUST BE SUBJECT TO A REFERENDUM VOTE BY MAIL BALLOT EVERY THREE YEARS.

 

STATE COMMODITY CHECK-OFFS

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY CHECK-OFFS AT POINT OF SALE.

 

BANKRUPTCY

THE F.D.I.C. (FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION) SHOULD NOT HAVE AUTHORITY TO “CLASSIFY” LOANS DUE TO REDUCTION OF LAND VALUES.

WE OPPOSE ANY FEDERAL EFFORT TO ELIMINATE CHAPTER 12 BANKRUPTCY AND ANY OTHER ACTION TO FURTHER LESSEN THE BORROWERS’ RIGHTS. WE SUPPORT THE RIGHT OF MEDIATION TO PREVENT BANKRUPTCY.

 

ENERGY

WE SUPPORT CONSERVATION AS THE MAJOR EFFORT TO REDUCE ENERGY REQUIREMENTS. WE SUPPORT THE research and  DEVELOPMENT OF RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES SUCH AS SOLAR, GEOTHERMAL, WIND, HYDROGEN, ETHANOL, BIODIESEL and ALGAE WITH EMPHASIS ON COMMUNITY-OWNED WIND GENERATED POWER.

FEDERAL AND STATE LOW-INTEREST LOANS AND TAX CREDITS SHOULD BE MADE AVAILABLE FOR THESE AND OTHER PROGRAMS TO DEVELOP ENERGY SELF-SUFFICIENCY.

WE URGE PRODUCERS TO ADOPT FARMING PRACTICES AND CROP MIXES THAT WILL PERMIT EFFICIENT UTILIZATION OF LOCALLY PRODUCED FUELS AND NITROGEN FERTILIZERS, THEREBY REDUCING AGRICULTURAL DEPENDENCE ON THE PETROLEUM INDUSTRY.

WE FAVOR RATIONING OF FUEL IF NEEDED. WE ARE OPPOSED TO EXCESSIVE TAXES AND/OR PRICE INCREASES TO CONTROL FUEL USE.

WE FAVOR THE ABOLITION OF TAKE OR PAY CONTRACTS. WE OPPOSE THE DEREGULATION OF NATURAL GAS PRICES.

WE SUPPORT A RESILIENT EXPANDED ELECTRICAL GRID SYSTEM THAT ALLOWS FOR DEPENDABLE TRANSMISSION NATIONWIDE.

WE SUPPORT A 15% RENEWABLE ENERGY MANDATE FOR ELECTRICAL GENERATION.

WE SUPPORT SECURING 25% OF THE NATION’S ENERGY UTILIZATION FROM RENEWABLE SOURCES BY 2025(25×25).

WE ARE OPPOSED TO RETAIL WHEELING AND DEREGULATION OF ENERGY.

WE SUPPORT C-BED (COMMUNITY BASED ENERGY DEVELOPMENT).

WE SUPPORT NET METERING OF ELECTRICITY, WITH A 12-MONTH AVERAGING PERIOD.

We support the Renewable Portfolio Standard established by the Kansas Renewable Standards Act.

We support renewal of the national Renewable Energy Production Tax Credit.

 

RURAL ELECTRIFICATION ADMINISTRATION

WE OPPOSE ANY EFFORT TO “PRIVATIZE” THE REA SYSTEM.

WE STRONGLY OPPOSE LOSS OF RURAL ELECTRIC TERRITORY TO PRIVATE POWER COMPANIES.

 

TELECOMMUNICATION

WE URGE THE CONTINUATION AND FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF REASONABLE PRICED, STATE OF THE ART TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICE TO RURAL CUSTOMERS. WE OPPOSE CONSOLIDATION OF TELECOMMUNICATION PROVIDERS.

 

HEALTH CARE

WE SUPPORT USING A SINGLE PAYER HEALTH INSURANCE SYSTEM.

HEALTH CARE COVERAGE MUST BE COMPREHENSIVE AND THERE SHOULD BE PUBLIC EDUCATION TO PROMOTE HEALTHIER LIFE STYLE CHOICES.

 

UNTIL SUCH TIME AS UNIVERSAL SINGLE PAYER COVERAGE IS ENACTED, WE SUPPORT A 100 PERCENT TAX DEDUCTION FOR HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUM PAID BY THE SELF-EMPLOYED, AND WE SUPPORT EQUALIZATION OF MEDICARE PAYMENTS TO RURAL AND URBAN HOSPITALS ALIKE.

 

WE SUPPORT INCENTIVES FOR THE PURPOSE OF ENCOURAGING DOCTORS TO PRACTICE IN RURAL AND OTHER UNDER-SERVED AREAS. DOCTORS WHO RECEIVE AID TO PRACTICE IN KANSAS FOR A SPECIFIED PERIOD OF TIME BE REQUIRED TO FULFILL THEIR OBLIGATION. WE SUPPORT PRESCRIPTION COVERAGE UNDER THE MEDICARE AND MEDICAID SYSTEM.

 

WE OPPOSE THE SALE OF KANSAS BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD.

 

FRAN

WE SUPPORT IMPLEMENTATION AND FULL FUNDING OF FRAN (FARM & RANCH STRESS ASSISTANCE NETWORK).

 

TRANSPORTATION

WE URGE THE REVITALIZATION OF OUR NATION’S PASSENGER AND FREIGHT RAILROAD SYSTEM. WE OPPOSE THE CLOSING OF BRANCH RAIL LINES, WHICH SERVE RURAL COMMUNITIES.

WE OPPOSE THE DEREGULATION OF ALL NON-COMPETITIVE TRANSPORTATION ENTERPRISES.

WE SUPPORT THE RETENTION AND EXPANSION OF EXISTING AMTRAK ROUTES IN KANSAS and across the nation.

WE OPPOSE ALL COAL SLURRY PIPELINES.

WE OPPOSE THE CUMBERSOME IRS REGULATION REQUIRING FARMERS TO LOG FARM CARS, PICKUP AND TRUCK MILEAGE.

WE OPPOSE FOREIGN OWNERSHIP OF DOMESTIC RAILROAD LINES. WE OPPOSE THE PRIVATIZATION OF HIGHWAYS AND BRIDGES USED IN THE AGRICULTURAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM.

WE OPPOSE THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE KEYSTONE XL PIPELINE.

 

FARM COOPERATIVES

AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVES SHOULD BE FURTHER STRENGTHENED IN THE AMERICAN FARMING SYSTEM TO ENABLE FARMERS TO ACHIEVE GREATER BARGAINING POWER BOTH IN MARKETING AND PURCHASING.

FARMERS UNION OPPOSES ANY ATTEMPT TO INTERFERE WITH THE PRESENT CAPITAL STRUCTURE OF THE COOPERATIVE AND ITS PRESENT TAX STATUS. WE ARE OPPOSED TO ANY CO-OP MANAGER OR NON-MEMBERS SERVING ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF OUR LOCAL OR REGIONAL CO-OPS.

WE SUPPORT CURRENT LEGISLATION THAT REQUIRES 10 MEMBERS TO FORM A CO-OP.

WE OPPOSE THE DISTRIBUTION OF SEVERANCE PAY TO BOARD MEMBERS, CEO’S AND OTHER EXECUTIVES DUE TO MERGERS OR ACQUISITIONS.

WE OPPOSE CHANGING REGULATIONS THAT REQUIRE A 2/3 VOTE OF MEMBERS TO CHANGE THE ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION.

WE OPPOSE PLANNED ENTRY INTO LIVESTOCK BREEDING AND FEEDING FACILITIES WHICH WILL PLACE OUR COOPERATIVE INTO A VERTICAL INTEGRATION POSITION.

WE MUST NOT USE OUR COOPERATIVES’ RESOURCES IN ANY WAY WHICH CREATES DIRECT COMPETITION OR WEAKEN OUR MEMBERSHIPS FINANCIAL WELL-BEING.

WE SUPPORT THE ROCHDALE PRINCIPLE (ONE MEMBER/ONE VOTE).

WE STRONGLY OPPOSE ANY COOPERATIVE ENTITY FROM CREATING AN ALLIANCE WITH ANY COMPANIES WHO HAVE THE INTENT ON MARKET CONTROL.

 

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

WE URGE THE KANSAS LEGISLATURE AND THE U.S. CONGRESS TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE IN FUNDING A PROGRAM TO PROVIDE INFORMATION, CONSULTATION AND REFERRALS TO RURAL RESIDENTS. WE SUPPORT LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED VALUE-ADDED ENDEAVORS.

WE ALSO CALL FOR THE REJUVENATION OF A RURAL DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY.

WE SUPPORT MAINTAINING RURAL POST OFFICES.

 

FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN AGRICULTURAL LAND

WE URGE PASSAGE BY THE KANSAS STATE LEGISLATURE OF A LAW TO PROHIBIT ENTRY INTO BUSINESS OF FARMING AND RANCHING OR THE OWNERSHIP OF AGRICULTURAL LAND BY ALIEN INVESTORS, EXCEPT THOSE RESIDENT FARM FAMILIES OR INDIVIDUALS SEEKING UNITED STATES CITIZENSHIP.

WE URGE PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION STRENGTHENING THE REPORTING OF KANSAS AGRICULTURAL LAND OWNED BY ALIENS, CORPORATIONS, AND LIMITED PARTNERSHIPS.

 

STATE BANKING REGULATIONS

WE SUPPORT THE SYSTEM OF INDEPENDENT RURAL BANKS and credit unions. WE URGE THOSE BANKS TO SUPPORT KANSAS FAMILY FARMERS AND TO SERVE THE CREDIT REQUIREMENTS OF KANSAS FAMILY FARMERS. WE FAVOR THE SAME REGULATIONS FOR SAVINGS AND LOANS.

 

Federal Banking

We support reform in the banking industry. We support the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and/or Glass-Steagall Act.

 

INTERSTATE BRANCH BANKING

WE OPPOSE THE RIEGLE-NEAL INTERSTATE BANKING AND BRANCHING ACT MANDATES THAT AN OUT-OF-STATE BANK BE ALLOWED TO PURCHASE BANKS ACROSS STATE LINES WITHOUT REGARD TO INDIVIDUAL STATE LAW.

WE SUPPORT STATE LEGISLATION TO OPT-OUT OF THE INTERSTATE BRANCHING PROVISION OF THE RIEGLE-NEAL INTERSTATE BANKING AND BRANCHING ACT.

 

ELEVATOR BANKRUPTCY

STATE LEGISLATION SHOULD PROHIBIT SPECULATION IN THE FUTURES MARKET BY GRAIN ELEVATOR OWNERS AND OPERATORS, EXCEPT IN THE CASE OF LEGITIMATE HEDGING. STATE LEGISLATION SHOULD ALSO PROHIBIT INVOLVEMENT BY ELEVATORS IN DELAYED OR DEFERRED PRICING SCHEMES.

GRAIN ELEVATOR OPERATORS SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT MORE DETAILED FINANCIAL INFORMATION TO THE KANSAS GRAIN INSPECTION DEPARTMENT. WE SUPPORT TIMELY AND IN DEPTH AUDITS.

WE SUPPORT THE ACCELERATION OF THE RECEIVERSHIP PROCESS FOR FINANCIALLY TROUBLED ELEVATORS, WITH PROVISION FOR A TEMPORARY RECEIVER TO BE NAMED INSURING IMMEDIATE SUPERVISION OF A BANKRUPT ELEVATOR TO GUARANTEE THAT GRAIN IS PROTECTED WHILE THE COURTS APPOINT A PERMANENT RECEIVER.

WE SUPPORT FARMERS BEING GIVEN PRIORITY THROUGH “FARMERS FIRST LIEN” IN ELEVATOR BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS.

WE OPPOSE THE GRAIN WAREHOUSE TRUST FUND CONCEPT FUNDED BY A CHECKOFF ASSESSED AGAINST GRAIN SOLD BY FARMERS.

WE ENDORSE A FEDERAL OR STATE INSURANCE PROGRAM PROTECTING ANY STORED AND/OR PRICED GRAIN FOR ALL STATE AND FEDERALLY INSPECTED ELEVATORS, SIMILAR TO THE FDIC FOR BANKS.

WAREHOUSE RECEIPTS AND SCALE TICKETS SHALL BE RECOGNIZED AS LEGAL PROOF OF OWNERSHIP OF GRAIN, AND SHOULD BE GUARANTEED BY THE GOVERNMENT.

WE SUPPORT SIMILAR PROTECTION FOR THE SALE OF LIVESTOCK THROUGH PUBLIC AUCTION.

 

INITIATIVE AND REFERENDUM

WE SUPPORT THE CONCEPT OF INITIATIVE AND REFERENDUM, WHICH ALLOWS OUR CITIZENS TO VOTE ON MAJOR ISSUES AND TO INITIATE BALLOT QUESTIONS BY PETITION.

WE SUPPORT MAINTAINING THE COUNTY OPTION VOTE WITH REGARD TO CORPORATE SWINE AND DAIRY OPERATIONS.

WE SUPPORT COUNTY HOME RULE.

We encourage all eligible voters to get out and vote.

We oppose efforts to enact stricter voter ID requirements.

 

KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

WE SUPPORT THE CONCEPT OF A SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR AND CONFIRMED BY THE SENATE.

 

PHARMACEUTICAL GMO PRODUCTION

WE SUPPORT STRICT REGULATION AND PUBLIC DISCLOSURE OF ANY KANSAS GROWN PHARMACEUTICAL GMOs. ALL FIELD RESEARCH SITES OF GMOs MUST BE APPROVED AND HAVE PERMITS ISSUED BY THE KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.

 

KANSAS SEED LAW

KANSAS SEED LAW SHOULD NOT RESTRICT PRODUCERS OF WHEAT, BARLEY, OATS, SOYBEANS OR ALFALFA FROM REPLANTING OR SELLING SEED PRODUCED ON THEIR FARM.

WE OPPOSE ANY EFFORTS TO INTRODUCE OR ALLOW THE USE OF THE “TERMINATOR GENE” ON OUR NATION’S SEED SUPPLY.

 

BRAND LAWS

WE URGE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF MANDATORY LIVESTOCK BRAND INSPECTION AT ALL MARKETS.

 

DAIRY

WE SUPPORT A FLOOR ON THE BASIC FORMULA PRICE, I.E., THE BASE PRICE FOR DETERMINING THE MILK PRICE FOR PRODUCERS.

WE SUPPORT THE USE OF THE MARKETING ORDER SYSTEM IN KANSAS TO EFFECTIVELY SET A FLOOR ON DAIRY PRICES PAID TO THE DAIRY FARMERS.

WE SUPPORT AN APPEAL PROCESS FOR THE AMERICAN DAIRYMAN WHEN AN INSPECTION IS CONSIDERED UNJUST BY THE FARMER.

 

STATE MEAT AND POULTRY INSPECTION

WE OPPOSE THE ELIMINATION OF THE STATE’S MEAT AND POULTRY INSPECTION DIVISION.

 

NOXIOUS WEED LAW

WE OPPOSE ANY LEGISLATION THAT WOULD DISCONTINUE THE CURRENT PRACTICE OF COUNTY NOXIOUS WEED DEPARTMENTS SELLING, DISTRIBUTING AND APPLYING PESTICIDES, HERBICIDES AND OTHER CHEMICALS.

 

INDUSTRIAL WATER USE

WE RECOMMEND INDUSTRIES, WHICH ARE HEAVY USERS OF WATER, BE REQUIRED TO USE SURFACE WATER INSTEAD OF GROUND WATER, AND TO RECYCLE, WHEN POSSIBLE.

WE URGE THAT ALL OIL and natural gas PRODUCERS BE PROHIBITED FROM USING FRESH WATER IN FLOODING FOR SECONDARY OIL RECOVERY (hydraulic fracturing). WE OPPOSE THE USE OF ANY KANSAS WATER FOR THE TRANSPORTATION OF COAL SLURRY.

 

IRRIGATION

WE STRONGLY URGE THAT PRESENT IRRIGATION PRACTICES AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT CONFORM TO STRICT CONSERVATION PRINCIPLES TO ASSURE THE WISEST USE OF WATER TO MINIMIZE THE POSSIBILITIES FOR ADVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMIC IMPACT ON AFFECTED COMMUNITIES.

WE SUPPORT ELIMINATION OF THE “USE IT OR LOSE IT” RULE ON IRRIGATION WELLS.

WE RECOMMEND ANY MULTI-YEAR VARIABLE GROUNDWATER RIGHT PROGRAM INCLUDE A MANDATORY REDUCTION IN TOTAL ALLOCATION AS A CONSERVATION MEASURE TO OFFSET POTENTIAL UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES.

WE RECOMMEND THAT ALL WELLS HAVE METERS.

 

WATER TRANSFER

WE OPPOSE THE TRANSFER OF SURFACE OR GROUND WATER FROM ONE WATERSHED TO ANOTHER.

 

WATER AND WIND RIGHTS

WATER AND WIND RIGHTS MUST NOT BE SEVERED FROM SURFACE OWNERSHIP.

 

WATER RETENTION STRUCTURES

WE SUPPORT FLOOD CONTROL BY THE USE OF AREA WATERSHED PROJECTS AS OPPOSED TO LARGE GENERAL DAMS. WE SUPPORT CONTINUING TAX BENEFITS TO REMAIN IN EFFECT ON LANDS WITH DONATED EASEMENTS FOR THE ENTIRE LIFE OF BOTH NEW AND EXISTING STRUCTURES.

 

STATE FUNDING FOR CONSERVATION PRACTICES

WE SUPPORT STATE FUNDING AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE FOR SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION PRACTICES.

 

CONSTRUCTION WORK IN PROGRESS (CWIP)

THE KANSAS FARMERS UNION IS OPPOSED TO COSTS FOR POWER GENERATING FACILITIES UNDER CONSTRUCTION BEING ADDED TO CURRENT UTILITY RATES.

 

PROPERTY RIGHTS

A. EMINENT DOMAIN.

WE OPPOSE THE TAKING OF PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT DUE PROCESS.

WE OPPOSE GRANTING EMINENT DOMAIN POWER TO NON-REGULATED PRIVATE CORPORATIONS.

WE OPPOSE THE USE OF (EMINENT DOMAIN) BY THE DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE AND PARKS TO ACQUIRE LAND THAT HAS BEEN CULTIVATED FOR MORE THAN 10 YEARS, THAT HAS BEEN DESIGNATED WETLANDS.

B. ZONING.

PRESERVATION OF AGRICULTURAL LAND SHOULD BE GIVEN PRIORITY IN ALL ZONING DECISIONS.

C. REGIONAL PLANNING.

REQUIRED APPOINTMENT ON ZONING OR PLANNING BOARDS FOR FARMERS, ASSURING THEM REPRESENTATION ON A PAR WITH NON-AGRICULTURAL INTERESTS IN THE REGION.

D. WE SUPPORT LEGISLATION THAT ALLOWS FARMERS A VOICE IN ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW GAME OR PREDATOR SPECIES IN THEIR AREA. WE REQUIRE THE KANSAS WILDLIFE AND PARKS DEPARTMENT TO NOTIFY THE PUBLIC OF ANY PREVIOUS OR FUTURE RELEASES.

 

CLIMATE CHANGE

WE SUPPORT EFFORTS TO REDUCE EMISSIONS OF HEAT-TRAPPING GASES AND TOXIC POLLUTANTS.

We support research for climate change adaptation.

 

 

2013 Special Order of Business

 

FARMERS UNION’S EDUCATIONAL CENTER

KANSAS FARMERS UNION SUPPORTS THE NATIONAL FARMERS UNION EDUCATIONAL CENTER IN BAILEY, COLORADO.

WE SHOULD SUPPORT ALL ASPECTS OF THE NATIONAL FARMERS UNION YOUTH AND EDUCATION PROGRAM AND CONTINUE FULL UTILIZATION OF OUR BAILEY CAMP FACILITIES SO THAT IT IS AVAILABLE FOR OUR PRESENT AND FUTURE FARMERS UNION MEMBERSHIP.

WE RECOGNIZE AND RESPECT ALL THE DEDICATED EFFORTS THAT WENT INTO MAKING OUR EDUCATIONAL CENTER A REALITY BY THOUSANDS OF LOYAL FARMERS UNION MEMBERS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES.

 

Interstate Shipment of State Inspected Meat

Kansas Farmers Union requests the State of Kansas pursue the opportunity to sell and ship state inspected meats interstate.

 

Moratorium of Hydraulic Fracturing Operations

We support a moratorium on hydraulic fracturing operations in oil and gas recovery until an environmental impact study, guided by sound science, proves the activities safe.

 

 

UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE

THE KANSAS FARMERS UNION HAS A LONG HISTORY IN SUPPORT OF THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE (U.S.P.S.), INCLUDING RURAL FREE DELIVERY OF MAIL.  WE ARE DEEPLY CONCERNED WITH THE SYSTEMATIC DISMANTLING OF THE POSTAL SERVICE STRUCTURE, BASED ON FISCAL PRESSURE UNDULY INFLICTED UPON THE U.S.P.S. BY CONGRESS.   WE BELIEVE THE 2006 POSTAL ACCOUNTABILITY AND ENHANCEMENT ACT REQUIRING THE INSTITUTION TO PRE-FUND RETIREE PENSION FUNDS DECADES IN ADVANCE IS UNWARRANTED AND THE PRIMARY CULPRIT IN THE FINANCIAL ISSUES FACING THE U.S.P.S.

THE POTENTIAL ELIMINATION OF DOOR-TO-DOOR DELIVERY, COUPLED WITH THE LOSS OF GOOD-PAYING POSTAL JOBS OVER THE ENTIRE NATION, WILL NEGATIVELY AFFECT THE ECONOMY. RURAL AMERICA WILL BE DEALT AN ADDITIONAL FIRST CLASS BLOW UNDER THIS MIS-GUIDED POLICY.  LOCAL AND REGIONAL NEWSPAPER DELIVERY TO OUTLYING AREAS WILL BE DELAYED FOR DAYS.  THIS NOT ONLY DAMAGES THE CIRCULATION NUMBERS OF THE NEWSPAPERS, BUT ALSO DEVALUES LOCAL INFORMATION AND ADVERTISING.

THE U.S.P.S. WAS ESTABLISHED IN THE CONSTITUTION, ARTICLE I, SECTION 8, CLAUSE 7, CONGRESS SHALL HAVE THE POWER TO ESTABLISH POST OFFICES AND POST ROADS.”  WE STAND FIRM IN OUR CONVICTION TO PROTECT THIS GREAT FREEDOM AND COMMONWEALTH FROM ATTACKS AND PRIVATIZATION.