Yesterday I attended a speaker series hosted by NC Policy Watch. This luncheon focused on climate change and federal legislation surrounded cap & trade. There was an interesting perspective on this issue and the recurring theme of all 3 speakers was that action needed to be taken now. While they all agreed that any policy that comes out of Congress won't be perfect, cap and trade is an ideal option and needed to be signed into law immediately.
The NC State Grange has opposed cap & trade because of concerns that it will result in higher costs for the average household, decreased global competitiveness and detrimental impacts on the agricultural industry. All of these concerns tie back to the notion that cap & trade will do little to nothing to affect global climate change. During Q&A time with the speakers, I couldn't help but ask what the actual effect on global climate change a cap & trade policy would have. Simply, the answer I received was that an insignificant change would occur. Exactly the point the Grange has been stating all along. The speaker argued that China has the capability to implement a cap & trade policy and technology which would surpass us in reducing the carbon footprint and we would be "left behind" by China. There wasn't enough time for a follow up question, but if there was I would have asked - what indication has China given us that they are going to reduce their carbon emissions? None that I have seen. He was absolutely right.. China has the ability impose a policy to reduce carbon emissions and has the ability to do it through technology. However, they have not given any type of indication that they have any intention of doing so. The other two speakers followed up with my initial question by saying that cap & trade would only be the first step toward reducing carbon emissions. What an even scarier thought.....
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Estate Tax
BACKGROUND
Not long after the income tax was officially established, World War I began. Tax revenues were predominantly brought in by tariffs, but because Europe was at war, imports and exports significantly decreased. Therefore, tariffs decreased. Congress needed a revenue source and turned to the idea of taxes, much like they had for the funding of previous wars. In 1916, the estate tax became permanent through the Revenue Act of 1916.
WHAT IS AN ESTATE TAX?
The estate is the total money and assets of a person. The estate tax is a tax against total property of a person when they die. Appraisers will determine the fair market value of the assets and interests (business investments, etc.) and come up with an overall value of the estate. The federal government then receives tax money before an heir receives the inheritance.
SUNSET PROVISION AND RESURRECTION
In 2001, President Bush signed an Act which would repeal the federal estate tax in 2010, but would resume in 2011 at its old rate of 55%. A footnote in President Obama’s 2010 budget reads: “The estate tax is maintained at its 2009 parameters.” The death tax, which should have fallen to 0% next year, will now leave estates larger than $3.5 million or $7 million for a couple taxable by up to 45% and will rise to 55% in 2011 with a $1 million exemption. The US House of Representatives passed HR 4154 on Thursday, December 3rd which permanently extends the estate tax. Similar legislation is pending in the US Senate, however, the health care debate has taken precedent over any issue.
IMPACT ON THE FAMILY BUSINESS, INCLUDING THE FAMILY FARM
For many family businesses, passing the business to descendants after death would be ideal. Unfortunately, 70% of family-run businesses do not make it to the second generation and 90% never make it to the third. In a survey conducted by Prince & Associates asking why family-owned firms fail, 98% said “the need to raise funds to pay estate taxes.” After death, the taxes that must be paid on a small family business can be so large that dissolution of the business or sale to a larger corporation for the purposes of paying those taxes is an option the family must consider. Similarly, for family farms—which are often asset rich and money poor—the largest asset is the land. Upon death and an assessment of the highest and best value of the land, the difficult choice of selling the family farm is on the table. Given a deadline for paying estate taxes and little liquidity, a family farm will easily disappear. Currently, only .23% of estates
are affected by the estate tax. However, in 2011 the first $1 million is not taxable, but anything after it is.
CONFISCATORY ELEMENT OF THE ESTATE TAX
When small business owners and small farmers decide to put their money, time, talent, effort and risk into beginning a small business or farm, they should not have to worry that almost half of the accumulation of their life’s work will later be confiscated by the federal government. When a person earns, saves, invests or spends money, they pay taxes. When that person dies, they should not be taxed on those assets again. This double taxation is morally wrong. Punishing success is far from how the Founding Fathers envisioned this nation.
OBLIGATION
Rep. Jared Polis, D-CO stated, “In America, it’s not a sin to be rich nor is it a crime to die rich.” He’s exactly right. A lifetime of success is not a sin and those who profited from investments should not die with a bill from the federal government for those successes. The rest of Rep. Polis’ statement on the subject, however, is of great concern. “This bill gives our nation’s wealthiest families the ability to know exactly what their obligation to the nation that fostered their wealth will be, and it is fair and it is just.” Rep. Polis has confused the nation with the federal government. The obligation he speaks of, in regard to an estate tax, is to the federal government. The federal government did not, and never will, foster one’s wealth. Risk, ingenuity, sound decision making, capital, time and effort on behalf of an individual are the foundations
for the development of one’s wealth. An individual should have the right to choose where their obligation lies—whether it’s with their family, a charitable organization or any other place. Taxing an individual’s estate is a punishment for saving, gathering and investing. It is far from fair or just.
ECONOMIC DAMAGE
Lawrence Summers, top White House Economic Advisor to President Obama, wrote in a 1980 report that “The evidence presented indicates that intergenerational transfers accounts for the vast majority of aggregate US capital formation.” In other words, passing money and assets through families grows the US economy. In an effort to reduce the tax burden an individual will ultimately bear upon death, many people bind up their assets in tax shelters, such as foundations. Rather than finding ways to protect their assets, a person could have easily invested that money in other business ventures or in other people in the form of jobs. A study by Dr. Douglas Holtz-Eakin shows that eliminating the death tax will create over 1.5 million
small business jobs. The total number of jobs that would be lost in 2011 (with a $1 million exemption and 55% rate) amounts to 500,000. In North Carolina, Dr. Holtz-Eakin and other state analysts, estimate that the number of jobs gained by the repeal would be 42,669 and the number of jobs lost with $1 million exemption and 55% rate would be 14,223.
WERE YOU PROPERLY REPRESENTED BY YOUR REPRESENTATIVE?
HR 4154: Bill to reinstate the estate tax in 2010
YEAS: Butterfield, Etheridge, Price, McIntyre, Kissell, Shuler, Watt, Miller
NAYS: Foxx, Coble, Myrick, McHenry
WILL YOU BE PROPERLY REPRESENTED BY YOUR SENATORS?
Kay Hagan: 202-224-6342 Richard Burr: 202-224-3154
Not long after the income tax was officially established, World War I began. Tax revenues were predominantly brought in by tariffs, but because Europe was at war, imports and exports significantly decreased. Therefore, tariffs decreased. Congress needed a revenue source and turned to the idea of taxes, much like they had for the funding of previous wars. In 1916, the estate tax became permanent through the Revenue Act of 1916.
WHAT IS AN ESTATE TAX?
The estate is the total money and assets of a person. The estate tax is a tax against total property of a person when they die. Appraisers will determine the fair market value of the assets and interests (business investments, etc.) and come up with an overall value of the estate. The federal government then receives tax money before an heir receives the inheritance.
SUNSET PROVISION AND RESURRECTION
In 2001, President Bush signed an Act which would repeal the federal estate tax in 2010, but would resume in 2011 at its old rate of 55%. A footnote in President Obama’s 2010 budget reads: “The estate tax is maintained at its 2009 parameters.” The death tax, which should have fallen to 0% next year, will now leave estates larger than $3.5 million or $7 million for a couple taxable by up to 45% and will rise to 55% in 2011 with a $1 million exemption. The US House of Representatives passed HR 4154 on Thursday, December 3rd which permanently extends the estate tax. Similar legislation is pending in the US Senate, however, the health care debate has taken precedent over any issue.
IMPACT ON THE FAMILY BUSINESS, INCLUDING THE FAMILY FARM
For many family businesses, passing the business to descendants after death would be ideal. Unfortunately, 70% of family-run businesses do not make it to the second generation and 90% never make it to the third. In a survey conducted by Prince & Associates asking why family-owned firms fail, 98% said “the need to raise funds to pay estate taxes.” After death, the taxes that must be paid on a small family business can be so large that dissolution of the business or sale to a larger corporation for the purposes of paying those taxes is an option the family must consider. Similarly, for family farms—which are often asset rich and money poor—the largest asset is the land. Upon death and an assessment of the highest and best value of the land, the difficult choice of selling the family farm is on the table. Given a deadline for paying estate taxes and little liquidity, a family farm will easily disappear. Currently, only .23% of estates
are affected by the estate tax. However, in 2011 the first $1 million is not taxable, but anything after it is.
CONFISCATORY ELEMENT OF THE ESTATE TAX
When small business owners and small farmers decide to put their money, time, talent, effort and risk into beginning a small business or farm, they should not have to worry that almost half of the accumulation of their life’s work will later be confiscated by the federal government. When a person earns, saves, invests or spends money, they pay taxes. When that person dies, they should not be taxed on those assets again. This double taxation is morally wrong. Punishing success is far from how the Founding Fathers envisioned this nation.
OBLIGATION
Rep. Jared Polis, D-CO stated, “In America, it’s not a sin to be rich nor is it a crime to die rich.” He’s exactly right. A lifetime of success is not a sin and those who profited from investments should not die with a bill from the federal government for those successes. The rest of Rep. Polis’ statement on the subject, however, is of great concern. “This bill gives our nation’s wealthiest families the ability to know exactly what their obligation to the nation that fostered their wealth will be, and it is fair and it is just.” Rep. Polis has confused the nation with the federal government. The obligation he speaks of, in regard to an estate tax, is to the federal government. The federal government did not, and never will, foster one’s wealth. Risk, ingenuity, sound decision making, capital, time and effort on behalf of an individual are the foundations
for the development of one’s wealth. An individual should have the right to choose where their obligation lies—whether it’s with their family, a charitable organization or any other place. Taxing an individual’s estate is a punishment for saving, gathering and investing. It is far from fair or just.
ECONOMIC DAMAGE
Lawrence Summers, top White House Economic Advisor to President Obama, wrote in a 1980 report that “The evidence presented indicates that intergenerational transfers accounts for the vast majority of aggregate US capital formation.” In other words, passing money and assets through families grows the US economy. In an effort to reduce the tax burden an individual will ultimately bear upon death, many people bind up their assets in tax shelters, such as foundations. Rather than finding ways to protect their assets, a person could have easily invested that money in other business ventures or in other people in the form of jobs. A study by Dr. Douglas Holtz-Eakin shows that eliminating the death tax will create over 1.5 million
small business jobs. The total number of jobs that would be lost in 2011 (with a $1 million exemption and 55% rate) amounts to 500,000. In North Carolina, Dr. Holtz-Eakin and other state analysts, estimate that the number of jobs gained by the repeal would be 42,669 and the number of jobs lost with $1 million exemption and 55% rate would be 14,223.
WERE YOU PROPERLY REPRESENTED BY YOUR REPRESENTATIVE?
HR 4154: Bill to reinstate the estate tax in 2010
YEAS: Butterfield, Etheridge, Price, McIntyre, Kissell, Shuler, Watt, Miller
NAYS: Foxx, Coble, Myrick, McHenry
WILL YOU BE PROPERLY REPRESENTED BY YOUR SENATORS?
Kay Hagan: 202-224-6342 Richard Burr: 202-224-3154
Monday, November 30, 2009
Texting Ban Effective December 1
Adult drivers are still be able to talk on the phone, but texting could land the offender a $100 fine plus court costs. "When you're texting, you have your brain and your hand and your eyes all off the road at the same time," said Arthur Goodwin, a senior research associate with the UNC Highway Safety Research Center. "Texting is about one of the most dangerous things you can do while driving."
The Grange supported the texting while driving ban and are pleased to see that tomorrow, December 1, a ban on this practice will be in place in the state of North Carolina.
The Grange supported the texting while driving ban and are pleased to see that tomorrow, December 1, a ban on this practice will be in place in the state of North Carolina.
Closer to the Capitol
I have many goals as a Legislative Director, but one priority is to have a strong presence at the NC General Assembly. We have been able to do that very well in the past and I am determined to follow those footsteps. One way is to to move the Legislative Department to Raleigh. I will now live and work in Raleigh so that I will have greater access to our elected officials at the state capitol. I hope that this move will bring increased effectiveness to our legislative program and I can continue serving our members to the best of my ability.
National Convention
The annual session of the National Grange was held November 16-21 in Grand Rapids, MI. The Midwest region hosted this year's convention and it was such a great time! I assisted Leroy Watson, Legislative Director for the National Grange, with committee meetings and the business session. I enjoy seeing all of the resolutions that come from various states. It's interesting that there are common issues that affect all of us, regardless of location. I also love listening to the discussions that accompany the issues that come forward. The variety and mixture of expertise that is brought to the table when discussing issues makes policy development for the Grange so wonderful. When our policy is developed, we all stand together as a collective unit to advocate for these issues.
It wasn't all business in Michigan though.. there was plenty of time for fun and fellowship! From tours, luncheons, dinners and museums to workshops, the Idea Fair, the Evening of Excellence and Celebration Banquet... we all had such a great time being with our Grange friends! Although I've only been to 2 National Conventions, it's such a great feeling to be able to go to a place and feel so welcome! The opportunity to meet and interact with folks from across the country is an irreplaceable experience that everyone should have. Luckily, the 2010 National Convention will be held in Charlotte, NC next November and all of our North Carolina Grangers won't have far too travel to experience a wonderful National Convention!
It wasn't all business in Michigan though.. there was plenty of time for fun and fellowship! From tours, luncheons, dinners and museums to workshops, the Idea Fair, the Evening of Excellence and Celebration Banquet... we all had such a great time being with our Grange friends! Although I've only been to 2 National Conventions, it's such a great feeling to be able to go to a place and feel so welcome! The opportunity to meet and interact with folks from across the country is an irreplaceable experience that everyone should have. Luckily, the 2010 National Convention will be held in Charlotte, NC next November and all of our North Carolina Grangers won't have far too travel to experience a wonderful National Convention!
Sustainable Local Food Policy Advisory Council
A new state law created the North Carolina Sustainable Local Food Advisory Council. One of the issues to be considered by the Council is an in-depth analysis of the potential impacts that the production of sustainable local food would have on economic development in North Carolina, both the direct impacts for the producers of sustainable local food and the actual and potential indirect impacts, such as encouraging restaurants that feature locally raised agricultural products and promoting food and wine tourism.
The Council is made up of 27 members and the Grange was given a position. Phil Hudson from Westbrook Grange was appointed by the Speaker of the House to represent the Grange. Phil is the owner and manager of John Hudson Farms, Inc. in Newton Grove.
The Council is made up of 27 members and the Grange was given a position. Phil Hudson from Westbrook Grange was appointed by the Speaker of the House to represent the Grange. Phil is the owner and manager of John Hudson Farms, Inc. in Newton Grove.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Technology!
Technology has certainly made it much easier for us to stay in touch. By logging onto the internet, you're able to keep up with the Grange much easier than ever before! If you haven't checked out all of the ways to stay connected to us, I urge you to do it! Not quite sure about all of this new stuff? I'll explain!
You can easily tap into the National Grange too! Check them out!
Don't think your Grange can join the technology bandwagon and get connected online? Think again! Look at how these Granges stay connected online!
Schley Grange's website
Cape Fear Grange's blog
Southern Wake Grange's Facebook page
Think it's too expensive to do all of these things? Nope! While it does cost money to host a website, there are free sites. However, these sites don't offer very many options with what you can post or upload online. There has been an effort on the part of the National Grange to set up a website which will allow local Granges to host their own website. I'll keep you updated on that information as it becomes available! Starting a blog and joining Youtube or Twitter is completely free! How can you sign up? Click the following links to take you to the "Sign up" page for each website.
Blog
Facebook
Youtube
Twitter
NEED HELP DOING ANY OF THIS?? Call the State office! Allison or Jessica can help you get started!
Website
This one is pretty self explanatory! The website is our "home" on the
web. You are able to click through each section of our website to find out news
and information about our many programs and services.
Main Blog
This blog provides general information and happenings of our organization.
There are dates to remember and pictures to look at!
Membership Blog
Membership Director, Jessica Horton, updates her blog as she makes her way
around North Carolina. She documents her efforts in starting new Granges,
recruiting new members and revitalizing Granges. She also works closely
with Rusty Hunt, Membership Director for the National Grange, in his efforts to
grow the Grange across the nation!
Legislative Blog
If you're reading this... you probably already know what the legislative
blog is all about. I keep you updated on recent votes of interest and
issues concerning the Grange. I also document my networking and visits
across the state. This is a way for our members to stay updated on the
action they need to take on issues that effect Grange policy.
Facebook Group
This is NOT an official group of the NC State Grange. However, it's a way
to connect to other Grangers! You will need to be a member of Facebook to access
this site. What is Facebook? Simply put, it's a website that was
designed for college students so that they could connect with others on
campus. You are able to create a profile about yourself including a
picture, interests and hobbies, etc. Then, you can become "Facebook friends"
with others by sending a request. You're able to join various groups on
Facebook. These groups have their own profile and are dedicated to one issue,
interest, subject, organization, etc. There is a "wall" on everyone's profile as well as within the group. On this wall, you're able to leave comments and start discussions with others who are members of the group. A Facebook group dedicated to Grange is: "I LOVE NC STATE GRANGE!!!!!!!!"
You can easily tap into the National Grange too! Check them out!
Website
Again, this is pretty self explanatory. The website provides tons of
information and resources for Grange members. Take a look around the site to see
what all they have to offer.
Blog
I found the blog this morning.. and it's brand new! Keep updated with this
blog and I'm sure you'll be "in the know" about everything going on in DC, in
other states and on the national level.
Facebook Group
Again, there is a group dedicated to the National Grange. There are updates
and links to happenings around the National Grange (such as National Convention
registration and Youtube videos) There is even a National Grange Youth
Facebook group which can be found here. Remember, you have to sign up for Facebook to view and/or join these groups.
Youtube
The National Grange has produced several videos that they have posted
online. These videos range in nature - some promote programs and events like
National Convention while others are messages from the National President.
Youtube is a website that was designed to allow people to upload videos and
share them with others. The National Grange has their own Youtube Channel where
all of their videos are available for viewing.
The most recent craze is Twitter. Through Twitter, you can update 160 character messages that post to one website. These messages are called tweets. Movie stars tweet about new projects they're working on, musicians tweet about their concerts and regular folks tweet about everyday events of their lives. When you post a tweet on your Twitter page, it is updated automatically and others can read about what you update instantly. The National Grange's Twitter page has been used to instantly update followers about when registration forms are due, deadlines extended, new programs and links to articles of interest. You don't have to be a member of Twitter to follow the National Grange.
Don't think your Grange can join the technology bandwagon and get connected online? Think again! Look at how these Granges stay connected online!
Schley Grange's website
Cape Fear Grange's blog
Southern Wake Grange's Facebook page
Think it's too expensive to do all of these things? Nope! While it does cost money to host a website, there are free sites. However, these sites don't offer very many options with what you can post or upload online. There has been an effort on the part of the National Grange to set up a website which will allow local Granges to host their own website. I'll keep you updated on that information as it becomes available! Starting a blog and joining Youtube or Twitter is completely free! How can you sign up? Click the following links to take you to the "Sign up" page for each website.
Blog
Youtube
NEED HELP DOING ANY OF THIS?? Call the State office! Allison or Jessica can help you get started!
Monday, September 28, 2009
STATE CONVENTION
This past weekend the NC State Grange held our annual State Convention in Fayetteville. It's one of those events that every Granger looks forward to and this year was no different! A large portion of our convention is spent discussing resolutions which, if approved, become legislative policy. We discuss these resolutions within 4 committees - Agriculture & Environment, Health Education & Welfare, Legislative & Taxation, Grange Law & Programs. Each of these committees spends time reading through resolutions and debating the issues. When the committees finish their work, their resolutions are brought to the session floor and delegates are able to discuss and vote on the resolutions. Two delegates represent each Grange. When the voting is finished - the NC State Grange has lots of new legislative policy! Our Grange members put in some serious hard work this weekend...
and now my hard work begins! I am now working on putting the 2010 Legislative Policy Book together.. which will be full of new policy. I send a copy of this book to each President & Legislative Director. However, if you would like a copy of the book please let me know and I will be happy to send you one. Aside from putting this book together, it is my job to take your concerns to Raleigh. I will do my best to work on your behalf when I visit members of the General Assembly. I hope that I can represent you in the best way possible.
Thanks for all of your hard work this weekend & I look forward to seeing you all soon!
Friday, September 18, 2009
California's Manmade Drought
In case some of you haven't seen or heard about this issue, the water has been turned off in the Central Valley of California because the Delta Smelt (a minnow) gets caught in the pump and environmentalists hope to help save the fish. However, this area of California is full of fertile farmland that has become a desert filled with dead crops. Many have lost their jobs - in one area the unemployment rate has reached 40%. Take about 5 minutes to watch this video which aired in May on "Hannity". The video was taken from Rep. Devin Nunes' Youtube page. In describing the issues in this video, he begins with this statement: "Let me be honest: When I get hungry, I walk into the kitchen, wash an apple, slice it and slap some peanut butter on it. Or sometimes I grab a can of almonds, pour a few in my hand and enjoy a little healthy snack. But, never do I think about where the foods are grown or how much work went into growing them." Many Americans think that food comes from the grocery store and are completely blind to what actually goes into growing a crop.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Cass Sunstein Confirmed
Source: Foxnews.com
The Senate on Wednesday voted to confirm President Obama's nominee for "regulatory czar," overcoming months of delay due to Republican concerns that he would push a radical animal rights agenda.
Senators voted 57-40 to approve Harvard professor Cass Sunstein as the administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs at the Office of Budget and Management.
As regulatory czar, Sunstein will review and provide guidance for draft federal regulations at different federal agencies. It is a wide-ranging and largely unrestrained position in the executive branch.
That's a large part of the reason Sunstein's positions on animal rights have become worrisome to his critics. Despite his assurances to the contrary, Sunstein has spoken stridently in favor of allowing people the right to bring suit on behalf of animals in animal cruelty cases and to restrict what he calls the more horrific practices associated with industrial breeding and processing of animals for food.
Republican Sens. John Cornyn of Texas and Saxby Chambliss of Georgia had placed a "hold" on his nomination to prevent a vote from coming to the floor. Chambliss lifted his hold in July because he said Sunstein had convinced him that he wouldn't impose new restrictions on agriculture or hunting.
SENATOR BURR VOTED NO
SENATOR HAGAN VOTED YES
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Cass Sunstein
Yesterday, the Senate invoked cloture on debate on the confirmation of Cass Sunstein to head the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. The NC State Grange opposes his confirmation and has contacted both Senator Hagan and Senator Burr. His views on animal rights are far too extreme and we don't believe he will protect producers from regulation of animal agriculture. We believe his influence within the White House could lead to the decline or elimination of animal agriculture. I believe Cass Sunstein's own words can explain why we oppose his confirmation:
"We should focus attention not only on the 'enforcement gap' but on the areas where current law offers little or no protection. In sort, the law should impose further regulation on hunting, scientific experiments, entertainment, and (above all) farming to ensure against unnecessary animal suffering."
"Less modestly, anticruelty laws should be extended to areas that are now exempt from them, including scientific experiments and farming."
"There should be extensive regulation of the use of animals in entertainment, in scientific experiments, and in agriculture. It also suggests that there is a strong argument, in princple, for bans on many current uses of animals."
"It seems possible, however, that before long, Congress will grant standing to animals to protect their own rights and interests. ... Indeed, I believe that in some circumstances, Congress should do just that, to provide a supplement to limited public enforcement efforts."
"Representatives of animals should be able to bring private suits to ensure that anticruelty and related laws are actually enforced. If, for example, a farm is treating horses cruelly and in violation of legal requirements, a suit could be brought, on behalf of those animals, to bring about compliance with the law."
Farms should be more heavily regulated? Animals should sue their owners?
Senator Burr will be voting against his confirmation. I cannot reach Senator Hagan's office, but have left word with her Raleigh office that if she votes for the confirmation, I would like to be contacted with a reason why.
UPDATE: I was able to reach Senator Hagan's office. The assistant I spoke with said that she was satisfied with Sunstein's nomination and voted for cloture last night. When asked if she was satisfied with his views on animals as they pertain to agriculture, he stated that his writings do not necessarily reflect what he will actually do or have the ability to do. Our concerns with his views were noted and will be passed along to the Senator. If she votes for the confirmation, a response as to why she could support an individual who would have the influence to harm our state's number one industry was requested.
"We should focus attention not only on the 'enforcement gap' but on the areas where current law offers little or no protection. In sort, the law should impose further regulation on hunting, scientific experiments, entertainment, and (above all) farming to ensure against unnecessary animal suffering."
"Less modestly, anticruelty laws should be extended to areas that are now exempt from them, including scientific experiments and farming."
"There should be extensive regulation of the use of animals in entertainment, in scientific experiments, and in agriculture. It also suggests that there is a strong argument, in princple, for bans on many current uses of animals."
"It seems possible, however, that before long, Congress will grant standing to animals to protect their own rights and interests. ... Indeed, I believe that in some circumstances, Congress should do just that, to provide a supplement to limited public enforcement efforts."
"Representatives of animals should be able to bring private suits to ensure that anticruelty and related laws are actually enforced. If, for example, a farm is treating horses cruelly and in violation of legal requirements, a suit could be brought, on behalf of those animals, to bring about compliance with the law."
Farms should be more heavily regulated? Animals should sue their owners?
Senator Burr will be voting against his confirmation. I cannot reach Senator Hagan's office, but have left word with her Raleigh office that if she votes for the confirmation, I would like to be contacted with a reason why.
UPDATE: I was able to reach Senator Hagan's office. The assistant I spoke with said that she was satisfied with Sunstein's nomination and voted for cloture last night. When asked if she was satisfied with his views on animals as they pertain to agriculture, he stated that his writings do not necessarily reflect what he will actually do or have the ability to do. Our concerns with his views were noted and will be passed along to the Senator. If she votes for the confirmation, a response as to why she could support an individual who would have the influence to harm our state's number one industry was requested.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Plant-a-row to feed the hungry
I just had to post a link to the North Carolina Department of Agriculture's blog which provides information on a program being organized by organizations interested in helping feed the hungry in the Triangle.
CHECK IT OUT!
CHECK IT OUT!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Presidents & Legislative Directors
I came across this quote & I thought I'd share it with you. I encourage you all to take the advice to be an effective leader!
"Surround yourself with the best people you can find, delegate authority, and don't interfere as long as the policy you've decided upon is being carried out." - Ronald Reagan
"Surround yourself with the best people you can find, delegate authority, and don't interfere as long as the policy you've decided upon is being carried out." - Ronald Reagan
The Flu
Governor Perdue's newsletter contained the following information/tips.
As thousands of students in North Carolina prepare to return to school, many will be armed with notebooks and pencils, but they also should be armed with tips to fight the spread of seasonal and H1N1 flu.
Everyone is advised to get a seasonal Flu Vaccine. H1N1 vaccines are expected by late fall. High risk groups, including school-aged children, are advised to get a double dose H1N1 vaccination.
Prevention is critical. Here are some simple steps:
As thousands of students in North Carolina prepare to return to school, many will be armed with notebooks and pencils, but they also should be armed with tips to fight the spread of seasonal and H1N1 flu.
Everyone is advised to get a seasonal Flu Vaccine. H1N1 vaccines are expected by late fall. High risk groups, including school-aged children, are advised to get a double dose H1N1 vaccination.
Prevention is critical. Here are some simple steps:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- If you are sick, stay home to limit the chances of infecting others.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Meeting with Etheridge
Last night Congressman Etheridge held a meeting of interested parties to talk about agriculture. He gave some insight and updates into what's going on in DC. He also opened up the discussion for questions that anyone may have had concerning agriculture. It was a lively debate and discussion and the Grange is grateful to have had a seat the table!
Membership Cooperatives
Two electric cooperatives in North Carolina have been awarded more than $23 million in federal loans to help repair infrastructure in rural areas. The USDA said Wednesday that Central Electric Membership Corp. in Sanford and Rutherford Electric Membership Corp. in Forest City were awarded the loans. Central will receive $7.5 million and Rutherford will receive $16 million. US Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said the money is part of more than $1 billion awarded to utilities and cooperatives in 30 states. The money will be used to build and repair more than 11,200 miles of distribution and transmission lines in rural communities. (THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, 8/19/09)
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
NCDA Food Safety Forum
Yesterday was the 5th Annual Commissioner's Food Safety Forum. Congressman Etheridge, Congressman Coble and Congressman Miller were present to make a few comments. The agenda was as follows:
Stronger Partnerships for Safer Food: Building an Integrated, National Food Safety System: Michael R. Taylor, J.D. Senior Advisor to FDA Commissioner
The Changing Science of Peanut Butter: Dr. Donald Zink, FDA Senior Scientist, CFSAN, leading authority on low moisture foods
Collaboration Between Industry and Federal/State Regulators and Legislative Directions: Dr. Ken Falci, Sr. Director Scientific Regulatory Operations, Kelloggs
North Carolina's Response to the Peanut Butter Incident: Joe Reardon, NCDA&CS Director-Food & Drug Protection Division
Food Safety in North Carolina: Commissioner Steve Troxler
Seafood - Marketing and Food Safety: Dr. David Green & Barry Nash, NCSU Seafood Technology & Marketing
Seeing Things: Perspectives on teh Past, Present and Future of Foodborne Disease: David Bergmire-Sweat, NC Division of Public Health, Foodborne Disease Epidemiologist
Stronger Partnerships for Safer Food: Building an Integrated, National Food Safety System: Michael R. Taylor, J.D. Senior Advisor to FDA Commissioner
The Changing Science of Peanut Butter: Dr. Donald Zink, FDA Senior Scientist, CFSAN, leading authority on low moisture foods
Collaboration Between Industry and Federal/State Regulators and Legislative Directions: Dr. Ken Falci, Sr. Director Scientific Regulatory Operations, Kelloggs
North Carolina's Response to the Peanut Butter Incident: Joe Reardon, NCDA&CS Director-Food & Drug Protection Division
Food Safety in North Carolina: Commissioner Steve Troxler
Seafood - Marketing and Food Safety: Dr. David Green & Barry Nash, NCSU Seafood Technology & Marketing
Seeing Things: Perspectives on teh Past, Present and Future of Foodborne Disease: David Bergmire-Sweat, NC Division of Public Health, Foodborne Disease Epidemiologist
USDA Listening Tour
US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, US Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, Senator Richard Burr and Congressman Larry Kissell were in Hamlet, NC (Richmond County) to talk with interested people in the community. I attended this meeting and it was great to hear what these folks had to say about agriculture, rural America, education and the future of our nation.
Here is a snapshot of what was talked about on Tuesday:
- The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) brings in $1.84 for every $1 expended
- Know Your Farmer Know Your Food program - looking at purchasing more local goods and offering more than just farmer's markets to keep wealth in the community in which it was produced
- Farm to School program - asked for $1 billion for breakfast and lunch programs, important to link the producer to the customer, free or reduced breakfast and lunches must be easier to access so that students don't feel stigmatized, grants funded by stimulus money helped remodel kitchens to help accommodate this program
- The budget for forestry should be split into two so that fighting forest fires doesn't take up so much of the budget, should be split into maintenance & fire fighting
- North Carolina is an education leader and many ideas used in the state will be models for federal programs
- Community colleges are a hidden treasure and there must be more focus on this area of education
- Green jobs must be part of the next generation of jobs and community colleges can prepare folks for these jobs
- it's important to reform education delivery because one size fits all doesn't work (hand-held devices which held all textbook information could be in our future)
- Opportunities for Regional Economic Development - USDA is looking at improving rural areas through regional efforts v. individual grants, if a coalition of interested parties envisioned a way in which to fundamentally improve an area they want to know
Here is a snapshot of what was talked about on Tuesday:
- The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) brings in $1.84 for every $1 expended
- Know Your Farmer Know Your Food program - looking at purchasing more local goods and offering more than just farmer's markets to keep wealth in the community in which it was produced
- Farm to School program - asked for $1 billion for breakfast and lunch programs, important to link the producer to the customer, free or reduced breakfast and lunches must be easier to access so that students don't feel stigmatized, grants funded by stimulus money helped remodel kitchens to help accommodate this program
- The budget for forestry should be split into two so that fighting forest fires doesn't take up so much of the budget, should be split into maintenance & fire fighting
- North Carolina is an education leader and many ideas used in the state will be models for federal programs
- Community colleges are a hidden treasure and there must be more focus on this area of education
- Green jobs must be part of the next generation of jobs and community colleges can prepare folks for these jobs
- it's important to reform education delivery because one size fits all doesn't work (hand-held devices which held all textbook information could be in our future)
- Opportunities for Regional Economic Development - USDA is looking at improving rural areas through regional efforts v. individual grants, if a coalition of interested parties envisioned a way in which to fundamentally improve an area they want to know
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
A budget compromise
Public Education
News & Observer
- $225 million cut for grades 4-12 with local officials deciding how to cut without changing the average class size for grades K-3
- $48 million cut by delaying math textbook purchases in grades 6-12. Next year: moratorium on all new textbooks expected (will save $115.4 million)
- $38.3 million cut by eliminating funding to help students who perform poorly on certain statewide tests
- $12 million cut by eliminating 200 literacy coaches
- $14 million cut, but does not affect programs involving retraining unemployed workers
- $72.9 million cut for universities by targeting senior & middle management, centers and institutes, low-enrollment degree programs, faculty workload, speaker series and institutional trust fund
- In-state & out-of-state tuition increased by either $200 or 8%, whichever is the lower amount, at all UNC institutions (will raise $34.8 million)
- Reduce funding to university centers & institutes by $13.7 million for specific campuses
- $12.9 million cut - eliminated 350 positions within the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services
- Reduced funding for local mental health, substance abuse and physical disability service providers by $40 million
- Reduce funding to help counties administer public assistance programs by $5.5 million
- Eliminate 70 vacant positions in the Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (will save $3.4 million)
- Clean Water Management Trust Fund will be cut by $50 million each year for 2 years
- Dept. of Commerce must sell the state's King Air plane and reduce all costs associated with operating it, including a pilot position, to save $148,000 this year and $296,000 next year
- Eliminate 187 Department of Correction positions by cutting $8.1 million
- Close 7 small prisons (will save $8.4 million this year and $22.3 million next year)
- Increase SBI Crime Lab fee assessed on convicted criminals from $300 to $600. Impaired-driving cases make up the bulk of the money generated by the fee. (will raise $195,000 year this year)
- Cut $4.8 million by eliminating 27 work crews that provided free labor to state and local governments
- Individual income surcharge of 2% on married couples whose taxable income is between $100,000 and $250,000 and 3% on married couples with a taxable income of $250,000. (will raise $172.8 million)
- 3% surcharge on the profit tax paid by corporations (will raise $23.1 million)
- 1 cent sales tax increase (will raise $803.5 million)
- Sales tax on digital downloads and Internet purchases (will raise $11.8 million)
- 10 cents tax for cigarettes, 2.8% tax increase for other tobacco products, 5 cents tax increase for a six-pack of beer, 4 cents tax for a bottle of wine and 5% more per bottle of liquor (will raise $68.8 million)
- Marriage license fee increase from $50 to $60
- Bail bondsmen license increase from $100 to $200
- Fees paid by HMOs to operate increase from $250 to $500
- Child care licensing fees increase from $35 to $52 for small operations and from $400 to $600 for the largest facilities
- Convicted criminals who have a court-appointed lawyer will be charged a $50 appointment fee
- Defendants who fail to appear at court will pay $200 instead of $100
- Convicted criminals whose cases included SBI Lab testing would have to pay $600
News & Observer
Interesting Fact!
As I'm researching North Carolina Grange history for the National Grange, I came across this interesting piece of information.
"More than 90% of the organization's objectives were attained during the session of the 1941 General Assembly. 'The Grange was the only registered lobbyist for farmers, and someone from our Order was there every day,' remarked [Harry] Caldwell."
"More than 90% of the organization's objectives were attained during the session of the 1941 General Assembly. 'The Grange was the only registered lobbyist for farmers, and someone from our Order was there every day,' remarked [Harry] Caldwell."
Tax Free Weekend
August 7 - 9 marks North Carolina's tax free weekend.
For a list of all items which are tax free this weekend, please visit the NC Dept of Revenue's website - found here.
Happy shopping this weekend!
For a list of all items which are tax free this weekend, please visit the NC Dept of Revenue's website - found here.
Happy shopping this weekend!
Astroturf
If you've been watching the news, you've seen commentators and news reporters talking about allegations from the Obama administration that opposition to the health care reform bill backed by liberal Democrats is a product of manufacturing. The term "astroturf" was used. If you have heard my presentation on the Grange legislative program, you're familiar with this term. I contrast astroturf with grassroots. Astroturf movements are artificial or manufactured with no roots. Grassroots are rooted in people and grow naturally.
I'm very proud that our organization prides itself on its grassroots nature. Our policy positions are truly a product of our members - beginnnig on the local level. While I disseminate information to our members, it is far from manufacturing any type of movement. As you listen to the news about this issue, keep the Grange in mind. If you talk with people in your community about this, talk about the Grange. Let them know that you're a member of an organization which is truly grassroots... and that they're welcome to join too! It seems as though everyone's political senses are heightened a little bit more these days and our legislative involvement and activities can be used as a membership tool for your Grange.
I'm very proud that our organization prides itself on its grassroots nature. Our policy positions are truly a product of our members - beginnnig on the local level. While I disseminate information to our members, it is far from manufacturing any type of movement. As you listen to the news about this issue, keep the Grange in mind. If you talk with people in your community about this, talk about the Grange. Let them know that you're a member of an organization which is truly grassroots... and that they're welcome to join too! It seems as though everyone's political senses are heightened a little bit more these days and our legislative involvement and activities can be used as a membership tool for your Grange.
Monday, August 3, 2009
State Fair
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Annexation Reform
The Senate is planning to take up annexation reform. We were unsure if they would even listen to the bill because it contains a vote. While the vote is potentially useless, it could have stopped the Senate from even listening to the bill.
Take a look at an article written by Daren Bakst with the John Locke Foundation- published in the Wilmington Star-News. We are engaged in a coalition alongside the John Locke Foundation.
Take a look at an article written by Daren Bakst with the John Locke Foundation- published in the Wilmington Star-News. We are engaged in a coalition alongside the John Locke Foundation.
Inching closer to a budget
Tax Deal
House and Senate negotiators have pushed the ball forward again on a tax deal, nearing an agreement that could end a budget stalemate that has now lasted nearly a month into the fiscal year. "We're close, but we're trying to work on the details to get to the $990 million," said Sen. David Hoyle, D-Gaston. Hoyle indicated that House and Senate Democrats had decided against trying to placate Gov. Beverly Perdue by raising even more taxes to restore public school cuts. Legislative leaders had met Wednesday morning with Perdue, and negotiators said that she had been involved in the most recent talks.
Perdue helped scuttle a deal on taxes last week, criticizing legislators for applying an income tax surcharge to all taxpayers with income tax liability.
She also called for more revenue, money that might have gone to restore teaching position cuts in grades 4-12. Legislators seemed to be heeding the criticism about the income tax surcharge. Sources indicated that the deal being considered could put the income threshold at $100,000 before the surcharge applies. Instead of a 2-percent surcharge, the rate may be raised to 3 percent in order to hit the revenue target. Beyond those changes, House Democrats indicated the proposal isn't vastly different than the agreement which fell through last week.
That plan included an additional 1-cent sales tax and increases on cigarette, beer, wine and alcohol taxes. The two sides are also considering a special session this fall to examine comprehensive tax reform, apparently as a part of the deal, sources said. Democrats in both chambers emerged from closed-door caucuses late Wednesday sounding optimistic that they would reach a final, lasting agreement on a tax plan. As House Democrats completed their caucus meeting, negotiators from the House and Senate immediately began huddling in a nearby office. "We gathered feedback in the caucus,"
said Rep. Paul Luebke, D-Durham, a co-chair of the House Finance Committee.
"We just have some details to work out."(THE INSIDER, 7/30/09).
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