The 2023 American Farm Bureau Convention is happening right now in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
During the Opening General Session, AFBF President Zippy Duvall announced some good news for rural America.
“We also know that action from the government isn’t always the best option. Our members asked the American Farm Bureau to work with farm equipment manufacturers. They asked us to find a path forward so we can repair our own equipment. Margins on the farm are tight, that’s why we fix things ourselves and go to local mechanics for help. I know many of you are forced to travel for hours to the nearest equipment dealer. That’s a challenge when something breaks in the middle of planting, harvest or any time-sensitive job.
“I’m pleased to share that immediately after this general session, I’ll be signing a Memorandum of Understanding with John Deere. It will ensure farmers everywhere are able to repair our own equipment. This will enable you and your independent mechanics to identify and fix problems. You will have access to the diagnostic tools and information you need. And you’ll get it at a fair and reasonable price.
“This is just the beginning of a process. We will meet regularly with John Deere to discuss solutions to the challenges farmers are facing in repairing their equipment. It has been a long journey to get here. I couldn’t be more proud of the team that negotiated the agreement. And I hope John Deere is the first of many farm equipment companies we can come to an agreement with.”
An exciting press conference at #AFBF23 with @FarmBureau signing an MOU with @JohnDeere ensuring farmers everywhere will be able to repair their own equipment. Thankful for this opportunity!#TNFarmBureau | #JohnDeere pic.twitter.com/2FMokxQPXV
— Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation (@TNFarmBureau) January 8, 2023
Duvall added they will meet with John Deere on a regular basis to discuss how farmers can overcome challenges in the face of repairing their equipment. He also said he hopes John Deere is the first of many companies they can come to an agreement with.
