Ag. Sec Russell Redding confirmed by state Senate

Acting Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding was unanimously confirmed by the state Senate on Wednesday.

Redding, whose nomination moved through the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee on Tuesday with a “favorable nomination,” previously led the state Department of Agriculture under the Wolf and Rendell administrations. 

“I have dedicated my life to agriculture and public service, working to advance an industry that is at the center of some of the most important issues of our time, and shapes the quality of life for every Pennsylvanian,” Redding said in a statement following the vote.

Under his leadership, the department worked with state lawmakers to establish the first-ever Pennsylvania Farm Bill, help agricultural producers incorporate environmental stewardship and land management best practices on their farms, and create mental health support services for farmers across the commonwealth. 

Redding has said that the department, which oversees Pennsylvania’s $132.5 billion agriculture industry, will prioritize funding for organic farming, workforce and economic development, and permitting reform under the Shapiro administration.

“It is an honor and privilege to serve Pennsylvania under Governor Josh Shapiro’s dedicated leadership,” Redding said. “Since our first conversation, I have been struck by his energy, experience, and vision for Pennsylvania and for agriculture.”