Posted on 01/21/2003 12:10:02 AM PST by farmfriend
National Grange Unveils It's "Blueprint for Rural America 2003"
For over a century, the National Grange has served as a political advocate for the rural community. Every January, the National Grange releases a priority issues document that helps focus the Grange's political advocacy efforts for the coming year. The "Blueprint for Rural America" consists of a ten-point plan that outlines for Granges key issues on which to base grassroots activity. With each passing year, the "Blueprint" is updated to reflect those changes that have occurred over the previous year while maintaining objectives that are still relevant.
1. Return Prosperity to U.S. Agriculture for Individuals and Families - The number one priority for the Grange is the return of US agriculture to prosperity for individuals and families. Federal farm programs, such as the 2002 Farm Bill, providing economic assistance and promote responsible land stewardship to family farms, must be properly implemented. Also discussed under this point is the importance of supporting and promoting innovative production practices such as organic farming and biotechnology, along with lifting barriers to foreign trade.
2. Expand Telecommunications Services in Rural Areas - Access to things such as telephone, Internet, satellite and cable service are essential towards enhancing the quality of life in rural America. It allows telecommuters the tools necessary to pursue a rewarding career while maintaining a rural lifestyle; provides information to farmers regarding farming practices, consumer preferences and weather conditions; and enhances the effectiveness of community services such as rural schools, law enforcement and healthcare.
3. Reform the Endangered Species Act and Other Environmental Programs - Although preservation of endangered species is a worthwhile concern, the Act does not take into account the negative implications for farmers existing as a result. Under this act, the livelihood of farmers will be compromised on classifications not based on sound science. Decisions regarding the classification of endangered species must take into account not only biological conditions; they should take into consideration their effects on the surrounding community, objective, scientifically-based peer review and take into account the private property rights of landowners.
4. Achieve Energy Security for Rural America - Within our nation's farms and among our natural resources exist a potential gold mine of energy sources that must be utilized. Things such as the use of ethanol fuel derived from corn, wind and solar power provide America with enough energy reserves that will allow us to be less dependent on foreign oil. Because of the lack of understanding and political support, these resources are not being utilized. Another issue it touches upon is energy deregulation of public power utility rural communities rely on. Therefore any benefits consumers derive from deregulation must also extend to rural consumers.
5. Improve the Quality of Rural Education - In order to be effective, rural schools must be equipped with the latest technology, such as computer and Internet access, to provide a beneficial learning environment for today's students, who will make tomorrow's workforce and leaders. Rural public schools must not only be technologically up to speed, they should provide a learning environment that benefits all students by continuing to support funding for special education and Headstart programs.
6. Enhance Homeland Security and Public Safety in Rural Areas - In the wake of September 11, 2001, homeland security is a top priority. The USDA Homeland Security Council was established to perform duties such as protecting of our food supply from foreign pests and diseases. Within our borders, rural Americans must contend with threats from extremist environmental organizations, such as the Earth Liberation Front and the Animal Liberation Front, which promote violence, seek to control through intimidation and spread propaganda. The National Grange also supports efforts to coordinate abducted children "Amber Alert" notices in all 50 states.
7. Strengthen Civic Participation in Our Society - In addition to homeland security, common frames of reference, such as language, faith and patriotism, are prerequisites for individual liberties and vibrant civic participation. The National Grange encourages maintaining recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance in our children's school, along with educating youth about the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Grangers are encouraged to get involved in activities such as Internet voting and registration, campaigning, serving on juries and taking part in volunteer service programs.
8. Improve the Quality and Availability of Rural Health Care - Improving the quality and availability of rural health care has always been a major priority for the Grange. Because it is imperative that health care be made affordable to rural citizens, the need for programs such as Medicare prescription drug coverage benefits and the tax-deductibility of health care expenses are addressed. However, these benefits are worthless unless the healthcare facilities needed to distribute them are available. Preserving access to the latest pharmaceutical technologies for all rural families is also a priority for the Grange.
9. Reform the Federal Tax System to Preserve Family Farms and Rural Businesses - For our nation's agricultural producers, their farms and businesses are their most important retirement asset. That is why the Grange supports reforming the Federal tax system to preserve family farms and businesses. Current tax laws penalize farmers and rural business owners that seek to sell their properties or pass it onto their heirs. New policies must ensure that farmers and rural business owners can retire with dignity and that they be able to pass it on to the next generation of America's agricultural producers.
10. Address the Needs of Foster Children and Foster Parents in our Communities - The Grange has been a strong advocate in supporting foster families through its Foster Parent Program. The Grange seeks to restore dignity, raise self-esteem and create a safe haven for foster children through educational efforts, advocacy and the upholding of family values.
Through continually updating and re-evaluating the ten-point plan in the "Blueprint for Rural America," the National Grange is better able to stay relevant and fulfill its role as a leader and advocate for our America's farmers and rural citizens. Copies of the "Blueprint for Rural America 2003" will soon be available as a brochure, as part of the 2003 National Grange Legislative Policy Book and Grassroots Training Manual.
This is in reference to an earlier thread on homeland security and does not have anything to do with Grange policy. Probably should not have put it on this thread.
Fair Oaks #724
Do you guys have a web site? Ours is being revived.
California State Grange To get into the members only stuff just use the perminent word and the annual word. Or freepmail me. This password stuff has got to go.
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