Leaders in the Agricultural Industry Honor Sonnenberg

Colorado Livestock Association Names Sonnenberg Legislator of the Year

DENVER—The Colorado Livestock Association named Republican State Rep. Jerry Sonnenberg as their “Legislator of the Year” this week for his work and commitment to Colorado’s agriculture and livestock industry.

Sonnenberg, R-Sterling, earned much attention this past legislative session for his work in overturning House Bill 10-1195, part of the so-called “dirty dozen” tax package of 2010. HB10-1195, or the “ag tax” as it is more commonly known, eliminated a tax exemption on the sale of pesticides and agricultural production compounds.

“Since last year, agriculture has had to pay taxes on items that make up their final products," explained Sonnenberg. "No other industry in the state has to pay a tax on inputs.”

Sonnenberg successfully passed House Bill 11-1005 this year to repeal the “ag tax.” Rep. Jon Becker, R-Fort Morgan, and Sen. Greg Brophy, R-Wray, co-sponsored the proposal.

Sonnenberg also demonstrated his dedication to the agricultural community through his role as Chair of the House Agriculture, Livestock and Natural Resources Committee.

“I am both gratified and humbled to be the Colorado Livestock Association’s Legislator of the Year,” said Sonnenberg. “I cannot think of a more principled and forthcoming organization with which I’d like to associate myself. The CLA fought hard to promote and protect one of Colorado’s largest industries and I look forward to working with them on their efforts in the years to come.”

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