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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2008
CONTACT: Lee Derr
(717) 787-6538
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Orie's Bill to Aid Ag Credit Associations Goes to Governor

Legislation sponsored by Senator Jane Orie, Majority Whip (R-Allegheny), that would enable more agricultural organizations to access state funding has been approved by the General Assembly and sent to the governor.

Senator Orie's legislation, Senate Bill 768, would make Agricultural Credit Associations eligible to participate in the state's First Industries Agricultural loan guarantee program, which was established in 2004.

"Because these credit associations do not take deposits, they have been excluded from participation in this very important program, which provides loans, loan guarantees and grants to organizations for the promotion and development of agriculture," Orie said.  "My bill will correct this inadvertent conclusion."

Orie said the bill is important because it would create more opportunities for farmers and forest products business owners to gain access to financial aid.