Governor Gregoire Signs Legislation to Protect Farmland for Future Generations
apoire May 8th, 2007
Governor Chris Gregoire today signed into law a measure she requested as a part of her Working Lands Initiative that will create a statewide Office of Farmland Preservation as a resource to help protect, preserve and retain farmland for future generations.
Not all land is suitable for farming. In fact, we have a limited amount of agricultural land that we rely on to produce food and fuels and grow our economy,” said Governor Gregoire. “This office will serve as a strong voice on the importance of farmland preservation and provide farmers and growers more options to keep their farms profitable and productive.”
Governor Gregoire vetoed sections 6 and 7 of the bill.
Substitute Senate Bill 5108, sponsored by Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen (D-Camano Island), passed the Senate with 46 votes and passed the House with 95 votes. The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the Legislative session.