WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) recently joined U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Tedd Budd (R-N.C.) in introducing bipartisan legislation to support the economic development and growth of agritourism businesses nationwide by increasing federal resources like loans, grants, broadband, and educational programs to small, family farmers.

"West Virginia farmers and small family farms generate around $24 billion in economic output for our state. Their success is vital to West Virginia's success. I'm proud to help introduce legislation that supports our agritourism businesses through federal resources and educational programs," Senator Capito said.

The Accelerating the Growth of Rural Innovation and Tourism Opportunities to Uphold Rural Industries and Sustainable Marketplaces (AGRITOURISM) Act would support local, family-owned businesses by designating a senior official at the U.S. Department of Agriculture as the federal agritourism advisor. This role would coordinate with stakeholders and other federal agencies to promote the growth of family-owned farms, and advise the Secretary of Agriculture on this essential industry.

Agritourism is one of the fastest growing industries that serves as a critical lifeline for rural economies nationwide by allowing family farms to offer outdoor recreational services like beer tasting, berry picking, seasonal festivities, bed-and-breakfast accommodations, and event venues.

Read the bill here.

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