MFU members talk family farms, ranches at Capitol

The spotlight was on agriculture and rural communities during the Montana Farmers Union Drive-In held the second day of the Montana Legislative Session in Helena.

During the event, MFU members from across the state spent the day at the capitol speaking with legislators about how MFU’s priority issues of of truth in labeling, data harvest, local and Montana food systems and right to repair impact them in their daily lives and work.

Kenny Smith, who owns KD Farms in Kalispell, said learning about the legislative process and being able to sit with legislators and have useful conversations was valuable for both sharing the importance of supporting ag, but also for him feeling more comfortable engaging in the legislative process.

“For me, [the Drive In] was definitely a launching point,” he added.

Legislation is one of the core pillars of Montana Farmers Union’s work, and MFU advocates for family farmers and ranchers using member-written grassroots policy during the Montana Legislature, as well as throughout the year.

Making sure consumers know the origin of the meat on their tables and that ranchers receive a fair and competitive price for their product by increasing truth in labeling, incentivizing shelf space and increasing access to Montana-produced food, preventing data harvested about yield and quality from being used to the detriment of farmers, and making sure farmers can fully repair their own equipment are issues that impact members year-round, as well.

During the Drive-In, members were able to share personal experiences with each of the priorities with their lawmakers.

“The work that MFU has been doing is being recognized around the state,” MFU President Walter Schweitzer said, adding he was encouraged by the number of legislators who took time to have conversations with members.

After the Drive-In, members can continue to engage with legislators, including by testifying remotely and in person, email, and phone messages – all things that make being part of the legislative process possible from kitchen tables.

“You should take advantage of that,” Schweitzer said.

MFU can help connect members with their Legislators and committees and offers updates of bills that impact agriculture throughout the Session. MFU also can help members remain engaged throughout the year with member gatherings, educational opportunities, and more.

“We’re constantly in your communities,” Schweitzer said.

“The next time you come to an MFU event, bring a neighbor or two and introduce them to MFU and the work we’re doing to support family farmers and ranchers,” he added.

Visit www.montanafarmersunion.com to learn more about the grassroots organization’s work during the Legislative Session or to connect with Membership Ambassadors.