Bipartisan legislation recently introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives would help young farmers manage student loan debt.
H.R. 2728, the Young Farmer Success Act, would make farmers eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
“The average age of a farmer in the United States is 57 years old,” U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-PA), the bill’s main sponsor, said. “We must encourage our youth to enter the agriculture workforce and cultivate the next generation of farmers and ranchers. Without farm and ranch workers, our country will lose the ability to provide safe and affordable food to our citizens and the world.”
The bill has the support of numerous organizations representing farmers and ranchers, including the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.
“Agriculture is the backbone of Pennsylvania’s economy, so it is crucial that we support legislation that promotes reducing barriers for younger generations in the industry,” Chris Hoffman, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau president, said. “We recognize one of the most prominent financial burdens for young farmers and ranchers is their outstanding student loans because the agriculture industry’s salaries are not the highest paying, yet their jobs are critical for food and national security. Having a robust agricultural workforce for years to come is imperative because American families depend on our producers to supply their food, fiber, and fuel.”