March 30, 2011

REP. RYAN NAMED TO REGIONAL AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE

State Representative Kevin Ryan has been appointed by Speaker of the House Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) to serve on the Council of State Governments’ (CSG) Eastern Regional Conference Agriculture Committee.

The CSG Agriculture Committee seeks to preserve and enhance agriculture in the northeastern United States, especially the viability of small and mid-size family farms, as a vital component of the regions economic competitiveness and quality of life.

“A recent UConn study shows the positive impact of the Agriculture industry in Connecticut at $3.5 billion, employment at 20,000 people and significant social and ecosystem benefits,” said Rep. Ryan. “I look forward to keeping Connecticut farms producing.”

Created in 1999 to provide a unified voice for northeast agriculture in the development of the 2002 federal Farm Bill, the Committee’s focus is on developing innovative agricultural policies dedicated to promoting and assisting farming and rural development in the northeast.

“Rep. Ryan’s state legislative experience will allow him to represent Connecticut well as he undertakes this new challenge,” said Speaker Donovan. “I am confident Kevin’s work on this committee will not only benefit our state, but help ensure the continued support of this important segment of our economy.”

Established in 1933, the Council of State Governments is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that provides information, research, and training to state officials in all 50 states and U.S. territories to promote region-wide initiatives, facilitate inter-branch cooperation, advocate on state-federal issues, and educate policymakers and the public on regional priorities.

Rep. Ryan is a Deputy Speaker in his 10th term serving the 139th Assembly District.