INFB sets 2027 policy priorities

DANVILLE, Ind. — Policy positions for Indiana Farm Bureau in 2027 will include stances on income taxes and data center development, as decided by 236 farmer and agribusiness delegates from across the state.

“We knew going into delegate session that our members were concerned about data center development,” said Katie Nelson, INFB executive director of public policy.

“They voted to include language that would prioritize responsible stewardship of local resources and respect for private property rights while also ensuring safeguards for local water supply.

“These new policy directives will be incredibly helpful as we head into a new legislative session in January where I’m sure legislators will be discussing this issue quite a bit.”

Delegates also supported property and local income tax specifications to continue refining what was passed in Senate Enrolled Act 1 from the 2026 General Assembly.

They also included an exemption for nutrient-based food from being classified as “ultra-processed.”

This position was prompted by the Make America Healthy Again discussion expected to impact nutrition directives at the state and national levels.

The following members were voted to represent INFB at the 2027 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in in Charlotte, North Carolina:

• Jerry Brooks, Clark County

• Aaron Chalfant, Randolph County

• Jeff Demerly, White County

• Darin Hadley, Allen County

• Hans Schmitz, Posey County

Over the coming weeks, the INFB public policy team will work with the board of directors to decide which priorities will set the stage in 2027.