When you join the Virginia Farm Bureau, a percentage of your annual membership dues go to the American Farm Bureau Federation, which is a voice for farmers nationwide.

And just like Virginia Farm Bureau, the AFBF works to keep farming viable and profitable so your family can enjoy safe, fresh American-grown foods.

AFBF’s legislative accomplishments include the following:

Reducing the capital gains tax

Land accounts for 79 percent of the assets owned by agricultural producers. During the average 30 years that farmers own their land, it can increase in value half a dozen times. The resulting taxes that are imposed when land is sold threaten the transfer of farmland and put the industry at risk. If farms disappear, so does our safe, fresh food supply.

Working to repeal the federal estate tax

Farms and ranches face heavier “death tax” burdens than other estates. The average farm estate tax payment in 2000 equaled almost two years of net farm income. With taxes as high as 45 percent, farm families can be forced to sell land, buildings or equipment needed to operate their businesses. When farms and ranches disappear, the rural communities and businesses they support also see an adverse impact. AFBF supports legislation to make the estate tax repeal permanent by 2010.

Enactment of the healthy forest act

This legislation was introduced to reduce risks posed by downed trees and brush in national forests.

Creation of the U.S. Trade Promotion Authority

The TPA expands trade between nations. Expanded trade means U.S. farmers have a larger export market for their products.