WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Glenn Thompson, R -Pa., has introduced a bill that will invest in the next generation of farmers and help them pay back their student loans through an existing program geared toward public service.

House Resolution 1060, the Young Farmer Success Act, is a bipartisan bill sponsored by Thompson, Rep. Joe Courtney, D-Conn., and Rep. John Faso., R-N.Y., in an effort to preserve America’s agricultural economy and the security of its national food supply.

“Farmers are stewards of the land and cornerstones of our rural communities,” Thompson said. “They provide the country with a safe and affordable food supply, but we need to do more to cultivate the future generation of farmers. They face tough odds by the very nature of the business, and this legislation will provide incentives for those who would like to pursue a future in the agriculture industry, which aids our national security and the long-term sustainability of our country.”

To address the critical shortfall of skilled young and beginning farmers and ranchers, the Young Farmer Success Act would provide incentives to those perusing careers in agriculture by adding farmers to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which currently includes professions such as government service, teaching, and nursing. Under the program, eligible public service professionals who make 10 years of income-driven student loan payments can have the balance of their loans forgiven.