SC New York News

U.S. Representatives Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) and Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30) have introduced the Enteric Methane Innovation Tools for Lower Emissions and Sustainable Stock (EMIT LESS) Act, aiming to reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions in upstate New York by incentivizing dairy farmers to adopt clean energy practices.

The EMIT LESS Act proposes several measures:

- Creating methane product and practice testing capacity through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Agricultural Research Service.

- Establishing and expanding training programs to familiarize farmers with practices that reduce methane emissions.

- Adding practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions under USDA's Conservation Innovation Grant’s On-Farm Conservation Innovation Trials.

- Directing USDA to review and revise conservation practice standards to assist in reducing methane emissions.

- Amending USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Conservation Stewardship Program to provide financial incentives for adopting methane-reducing practices.

Rep. Molinaro stated, “I’m a conservationist. Incentivizing dairy farmers to implement clean and efficient energy practices will further our cause and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. I'm proud to deliver for the dairy industry and protect our environment alongside Rep. Crockett."

Rep. Crockett commented, “From an ice-cold glass of milk to freshly churned ice cream, farm-fresh cheese to a rare steak, American beef and dairy is the best on planet Earth – but for decades, that excellence has come at a high emission cost to our environment... This legislation is proof that putting farmers and ranchers first doesn’t mean putting the environment last!”

The Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance (FACA) praised the bill: “The bipartisan EMIT LESS Act will bolster ongoing, farmer-led efforts to address enteric methane emissions.”

Mike Barnes of Agri-Mark Family Dairy Farms noted, “Upstate New York dairy farmers like me are always eager to embrace new technologies... I thank my Representative, Marc Molinaro, for co-authoring the bipartisan EMIT LESS Act.”

Gregg Doud from the National Milk Producers Federation added, “Innovative feed ingredients will help U.S. dairy farmers bolster their already robust voluntary environmental stewardship efforts... We commend Representatives Marc Molinaro and Jasmine Crockett.”

Andrew Lentz from the Environmental Defense Fund emphasized the importance of reducing enteric methane emissions: “The EMIT LESS Act will set U.S. farms and ranches up for success now and into the future.”

Michael Dykes of International Dairy Foods Association highlighted how the act supports adoption of science-based enteric methane reduction products: “IDFA is grateful to Reps. Molinaro and Crockett for leading this effort.”

David Hong from Breakthrough Institute remarked on new technologies' role: “The EMIT LESS Act will provide much-needed support for research on emerging solutions with potential.”

Charles Brooke from Spark Climate Solutions stated, “Developing new solutions... will give them [farmers] tools to mitigate climate change.”

Chuck Conner from National Council of Farmer Cooperatives said, “This bill empowers USDA to direct resources towards voluntary livestock practices with incredible potential.”

Clean Air Task Force noted current limitations: "This important legislation supports research... The more technologies available...the more opportunities they have."

Constance Cullman from American Feed Industry Association appreciated bipartisan support: "The EMIT LESS Act demonstrates our country's commitment."

Pat Maloney from Danone North America added his endorsement: "Reducing livestock methane emissions is vital... We thank Rep. Molinaro and Crockett."

Endorsed by numerous organizations including FACA, Dairy Farmers of America, Environmental Defense Fund, National Milk Producers Federation among others; this act represents a collaborative effort across multiple sectors.