RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Vibrant rural communities are essential to over-all well being of the people of this State. Accordingly we support policies and initiatives, specifically including pilot projects and innovative startups, with good prospects for improving infrastructure, economic activity and better family incomes in areas outside major metropolitan districts. Infrastructure specifically includes wind and water power energy installations, locally owned and managed financial institutions, access to 21st century communications systems, access to public health and medical and EMS services, and better public education and vocational training. We support realistic incentives for creation of non-agricultural programs as well as expansion into alternative crops.