As Congress returns from recess this week, the American Soybean Association (ASA) announces the launch of the Soy Action Center, a grassroots communications portal through which ASA’s 21,000 farmer members can connect with their members of Congress, administration and federal agency officials, and state and local offices.

"The Soy Action Center will be a very valuable tool for our members moving forward," said ASA President Steve Wellman, a soybean farmer from Syracuse, Neb. "While the farm bill takes center stage right now, there is always a need for simple and straightforward communication between farmers and their representatives in Congress, in the administration, and in their state and local governments. The Soy Action Center enables farmers to keep those lines of communication open, and underscore to their elected officials why informed policy decisions are so important on the farm."

Through the web-based system, available at www.SoyGrowers.com or by clicking here, farmers can enter their address or zip code to be connected with members of Congress and state and local officials representing their communities. Farmers can also connect with opinion editors at local and national media outlets, research important pieces of legislation, follow local and national elections, check congressional schedules, and learn more about the legislative process through online tutorials.

"Many times, the legislative process can be intimidating, or seem like a large time commitment," added Wellman. "But the Soy Action Center makes the process simple and user friendly. It is important to remember that these men and women work for us, and it is our responsibility to educate them on farm issues and how the decisions they make affect soybean farmers."

This week and next, ASA members will use the Soy Action Center to encourage the House to pass its version farm bill as the Sept. 30 deadline draws closer.

ASA represents U.S. soybean farmers on domestic and international issues of importance to the soybean industry. ASA’s advocacy efforts are made possible through voluntary membership by more than 21,000 farmers in 31 states where soybeans are grown.

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For more information contact:

Steve Wellman, ASA President, 402-269-3464, wellmanfarms@sbllcweb.com
Patrick Delaney, ASA Communications Director, 202-969-7040, pdelaney@soy.org