America’s family farmers have unique roles to play in combating global climate change. Several Members of Wisconsin’s Congressional delegation to the House of Representatives delegation understands that, and I thank them for their votes in support of the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009. As President Obama said about the legislation’s passage, it is a "bold and necessary step."

Farmers Union supports a national, mandatory carbon emission cap and trade system to reduce non-farm greenhouse gas emissions. As an energy-intensive industry, we know that doing so will result in increased production costs.

However, the flexible agricultural offset program within the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 will allow producers to mitigate some of those increased costs by adopting environmentally-friendly practices. That will allow American farmers and ranchers to continue to provide consumers with the most affordable and abundant food supply in the world.

Further, the individual producers referred to as "early actors" — those who have been engaged in innovative efforts to sequester carbon — are recognized for their efforts.

Failing to pass climate-change legislation is not an option. Without congressional action, the Environmental Protection Agency is poised to act. That regulatory action would mean the positive provisions within the legislation would be lost.

Thank you, Representatives Tammy Baldwin, Steve Kagen, Ron Kind, Gwen Moore, and Dave Obey for standing up for farmers and ranchers and allowing them to be a part of the climate change solution.