JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — On Monday, Gov. Mike Parson called for a special legislative session to extend key agricultural tax credits. The following collaborative statement is provided on behalf of the Missouri Agribusiness Association, Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, Missouri Corn Growers Association, Missouri Farm Bureau Federation, Missouri Forest Products Association, Missouri Pork Association, and Missouri Soybean Association. “Following Gov. Parson’s call for a special session, Missouri’s commodity groups and agribusiness associations are committed to working with elected officials to fully extend agriculture and rural tax credits for a minimum of six years needed in business development. “For over two decades, tax credit programs housed in the Missouri Department of Agriculture have helped local butchers and meat processors expand, grow the reach of farmer-owned cooperatives, and build the foundation for Missouri’s renewable fuel industry. It is supporting local jobs by spurring investments in value-added processing facilities. This helps keep more of the benefits of Missouri agriculture in rural communities in nearly every corner of our state. “It is easy to recite how agriculture is Missouri’s top economic driver. However, words are nothing without action. We support Gov. Parson’s call for a special session to continue making smart investments today that will pay dividends and build this state’s economic base for decades to come.” | 