Living in Central Pennsylvania, I hear a lot about the candidates in the upcoming election for Congress. Of the many things I hear from both candidates, my greatest concern is Marc Friendenberg’s support of the Green New Deal.

For the past 30 years, I have owned and operated Harmony Springs Farm to support my family while contributing to the community and our region’s agricultural industry in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner. Hearing the specifics of the Green New Deal troubles me in many ways.

Universal costs aside, I’m worried about the price tag my farm will be required to pay to retrofit equipment, ensure lower emissions and meet new government standards while still trying to produce the same milk, corn and soybeans.

Inevitably, these extra costs are overburdensome to the small businessman. Marc Friendenberg’s support for this proposal is troubling because it means he clearly does not understand what we in the agricultural industry are dealing with and what these changes mean for my livelihood, the people who depend on my farming operation and the ripple effect it would have through the entire county.

It is disappointing to have someone who seeks to represent this area walk lock-step with national Democrats that support this proposal. The $93 TRILLION price tag aside, the Green New Deal does nothing for the small business owner and neither does Marc Friedenberg.

Dennis Spangler

New Berlin

Submitted via Virtual Newsroom