America's family farmers and ranchers have a unique role to play when it comes to combating global climate change. Several members of Pennsylvania's congressional delegation understand that, and I thank them for their votes in support of the American Clean Energy and Security (ACES) Act of 2009. As President Obama said about the legislation's passage, it is a "bold and necessary step." Famers Union supports a national, mandatory carbon emission cap and trade system to reduce nonfarm greenhouse gas emissions. As an energy-intensive industry, we know doing so will result in increased production costs. However, the flexible agricultural offset program within ACES will allow producers to mitigate some of the increased costs by adopting environmentally-friendly practices. This will allow American farmers and ranchers to continue to provide consumers with the most affordable and abundant food supply in the world. Further, the individual producers referred to as "early actors," those who have been engaged in innovative efforts to sequester carbon using a variety of techniques are recognized for their efforts.

Failing to pass climate change legislation is not an option. Without congressional action, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is poised to act. This regulatory action would mean the positive provisions within the legislation would be lost.

Larry Breech

President

Pennsylvania Farmers Union

Submitted by Virtual Newsroom