Elise Stefanik: “Despite the Internet being an integral part of modern American life, there are still many rural farmers across our…”

“Despite the Internet being an integral part of modern American life, there are still many rural farmers across our Nation who do not have access to this essential tool. The Internet has the power to revolutionize the agriculture sector, and North Country farmers have shared with me various ways that increased broadband access could provide them with opportunities for innovation and improved agribusiness. For instance, a dairy farmer from Potsdam who spoke with my office uses broadband to automate feeding plans for his cows. To support our North Country farmers, I will be introducing the Precision Farming Act of 2016. This legislation will encourage the construction of rural broadband connections to farms by allowing providers to receive reimbursements for the costs related to construction. Furthermore, this legislation would put our Nation's farmers first by prioritizing their loan applications for additional construction. To compete in a 21st century economy, our farmers must have access to broadband technology. I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation. ____________________”