By Spencer Tuma, MOFB’s Director of National Legislative Affairs
At Missouri Farm Bureau, setting policy priorities is never an afterthought. Each June, our State Resolutions Committee gathers to kick off our annual policy development process, setting the stage for our priority efforts the following year. This process has stood the test of time, and it’s the foundation of our grassroots strength.
If you come to my office, you’ll find copies of our policy book dating back through the decades. We know that our grassroots process is strongly rooted in tradition, and a look back at our policy priorities over the years showcases just that.
For our members, the focus has always been on improving the quality of life for those engaged in agriculture and living in rural America. Over the years, the state resolutions committee has witnessed many issues come and go. From advocating for rural road improvements and supporting rural electrification, to leading the charge against regulatory overreach, the work never stops as we carry the voice of our members to legislators in Jefferson City and Washington, D.C.
Following the kickoff meeting, every member then has the opportunity to make their voice heard by answering our annual policy development questionnaire. Found in the upcoming summer issue of our Show Me Missouri Farm Bureau magazine, the four-page packet can be filled out online or returned the old-fashioned way to a county Farm Bureau office. As we move through this process, the responses received from county members inform and shape the overall policy priorities of our organization, and influence policy discussions at the federal level.
I often think back and wonder if our founding members, in that small Slater meeting room in 1915, would recognize the policy development process of today. I’m not sure that they could have envisioned the technology, caliber of speakers, and some of the other ways of today’s world, but I think they would be proud of the strong tradition of commitment to the grassroots that we still strive to maintain each and every year.
As a member of MOFB, you have a unique opportunity to participate in this process and make your voice heard. If you’re not a member, I would highly encourage you to become involved at your county level. You have the power and ability to bring about change.
Curious where to start? Check out our website to join the MOFB movement.
Missouri Farm Bureau is the state’s largest farm organization with a presence in every county throughout the state. Learn more on our website or follow @MissouriFarmBureau on Facebook, @MOFarmBureau on X or @MOFarmBureau on Instagram.