HAZLETON – U.S. Rep. Lou Barletta, PA-11, has been recognized with the Friend of Farm Bureau award for supporting policies that help farmers attain profitability with less regulatory interference, and increase demand for U.S. farm products through new uses and enhanced trade opportunities.

The Friend of Farm Bureau award is given each session of Congress to senators and representatives who are nominated by their respective state Farm Bureau and approved by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Board of Directors.

“Farming is one of the most important industries in Pennsylvania and across the United States, and it’s critically important that Congress enact policies that support our farmers. As they feed our country and the world, American farmers face serious challenges, and I’m proud to help them in any way I can,” Rep. Barletta said.

“On behalf of our more than 55,000 farm and rural member families, the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) would like to thank Congressman Barletta for his support of agriculture and our rural way of life,” said PFB President Carl T. Shaffer.

In order for a state Farm Bureau to nominate a member, that member must vote consistently in favor of Farm Bureau issues. The voting records are based on American Farm Bureau Federation priority issues, as determined by the AFBF board of directors.

Pennsylvania Farm Bureau is a voluntary organization with a membership of more than 55,000 farm and rural families, representing farms of every size and commodity across the Keystone State.

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CAPTION: Rep. Lou Barletta, PA-11, accepts the Friend of the Farm Bureau award from Matt Balliet, president of the Luzerne County Farm Bureau and member of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau Board of Directors.