SSB1251: Ag & Natural Resources Appropriations- On page 21: We asked for language that specifically codifies the long-held practice of paying elevators for maintaining and/or enhancing the quality of commodities stored and dried for patrons, while also protecting the quality of lender collateral. This came into question when a bank sued two cooperatives in an attempt to claw back storage and drying charges incurred on grain: FOR- Passed out of committee on Thursday
SF555: Weight Limits on Equipment- Moves all self-propelled implements applying plant food, agricultural limestone, or ag chemicals to the category of "implement of husbandry." Maximum of 25,000 lbs. and specifically stating that equipment must still meet posted limits on bridges/overpasses (allowing for permits to pass on weight capped roads/bridges): FOR: Passed out of both chambers
HF647/SF444:Beginning Farmer Credit- Establishes a new Beginning Farmer Tax Credit program replacing Agricultural Assets Transfer Credit. Also allows farmers with ag assets a tax credit for assisting beginning farmers. Caps the credit at $50,000/year per farmer. Expands replacement program from $6 million to $12 million:FOR
HF725/SF473: Electric Vehicle Taxes- Provides registration taxes and tax at charging stations equivalent to average road use taxes paid through fuel consumption (per the DOT: the average motorist pays $150/year): MONITORING
HSB204/SSB1193: Empower Rural Iowa- Creates incentives for broadband and workforce housing. Amendments were discussed including adding a broadband base speed and making the bill withstand the test of time/future: FOR
Reach your Federal LegislatorsHEREabout Pension Plan Premiums!
This legislation would stop Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) from grossly overcharging charity and not-for-profit rural cooperative defined-benefit pension plans.