Jay Funke, co-owner of Del-Clay Farm Equipment and Past Chairman of the Iowa-Nebraska Equipment Dealers Association, testified before the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship on Wednesday, January 14th.
Funke’s testimony focused on current conditions facing agricultural businesses and the rural economy, drawing on more than four decades of experience in ag equipment ownership, farming, and rural economic development. Representing equipment dealers and rural communities across the Midwest, he addressed declining farm income, reduced equipment sales, rising inventory and financing pressures, trade challenges, and the downstream impact on rural businesses.
Funke also shared recommendations aimed at strengthening agriculture and rural America, including the need for timely farm assistance, fair and enforceable trade agreements, expanded safety-net programs, support for rural communities under 10,000 in population, and policies that encourage young farmers and entrepreneurs.
INEDA is proud to have a dealer voice represented at the national level and appreciates Jay’s continued leadership and advocacy on behalf of our members and rural America.