Reps. Huizenga, Walberg receive Friend of Farm Bureau Award

U.S. Reps. Bill Huizenga (R) and Tim Walberg (R) have received the Friend of Farm Bureau award for their commitment to Michigan agriculture during the 116th Congressional session. 

“Congressmen Huizenga and Walberg continuously work to pass meaningful legislation that benefits farm families and businesses and likewise, oppose proposals that would do harm,” said Michigan Farm Bureau National Legislative Counsel John Kran. “They are attentive to members’ ideas and concerns and consistently participation in local events, and for that, we thank them.” 

Presented every two years, Friend of Farm Bureau recipients are selected by the American Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors after evaluating the voting records and other actions of U.S. representatives and senators nominated by state Farm Bureaus.

This marks Huizenga’s sixth time receiving the award and Walberg’s seventh. 

Berrien County Farm Bureau President Ed Kretchman presented the awards at the county’s annual meeting Oct. 30.

“Congressmen Huizenga and Walberg both supported the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, a bill designed to support the growth and development of U.S. exports and promote reciprocal trade,” Kretchman said. “They also stood with Farm Bureau and supported extending the pandemic era Paycheck Protection Act, a program that helped many farmers get through a difficult time.”

He went on to show appreciation for their support of legislation to aid in broadband expansion, as well as bills to creating mandatory livestock reporting and a cattle contract library. 

Huizenga represents the 4th U.S. House District, including Allegan and Van Buren, and portions of Ottawa, Berrien, Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties.

Walberg represents the 5th U.S. House District, including Cass, St. Joseph, Branch, Hillsdale, Jackson, Lenawee, Monroe and portions of Berrien, Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties. 

Other members of the Michigan Congressional delegation receiving the award include Reps. Jack Bergman (R), Debbie Dingell (D), Dan Kildee (D), Brenda Lawrence (D), Lisa McClain (R) and John Moolenaar (R).