Policy Articles
Torres Small Faces Confirmation Hearing
Published May 11, 2023
The Senate Agriculture Committee hosted a confirmation hearing for USDA's deputy agriculture secretary nominee Xochital Torres Small. "My own roots are both rural and urban and we're all connected by land, resources and food." Torres Small, who is the USDA…Supreme Court Upholds Prop 12
Published May 11, 2023
The Supreme Court has upheld California's Proposition 12 on a split vote of 5-4, Prop 12 prevents the sale of meat products that doesn't abide by California's strict animal housing standards. The National Pork Producers Council and American Farm Bureau…Potential Drainage Issue in Environmental Bill Raises a Concern
Published May 11, 2023
State Representative Paul Anderson says certain items in Minnesota’s environment, natural resources, climate, and energy finance and policy bill would impact agriculture. Treated seed disposal and a proposed drainage portal are top of mind. Anderson says treated seed disposal provisions…DRIVE Act Keeps Wheels Rollin’
Published May 9, 2023
The Deregulating Restrictions on Interstate Vehicles and Eighteen Wheelers Act would prevent the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration from implementing any regulation requiring vehicles over 26,000 pounds to be equipped with a speed regulation device. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association Transportation Committee…MFBF Minute
Published May 9, 2023
The omnibus ag bill has been a hot topic during the legislative session. Minnesota Farm Bureau Public Policy Specialist Kaytlin Bemis gives an update on what's happening at the Capitol in the latest MFBF Minute.Paid Family and Medical Leave Passes in MN
Published May 9, 2023
The Minnesota Senate passed paid family and medical leave legislation by a vote of 34-to-33. Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Aric Putnam said this bill will help mid-sized businesses provide this employee benefit. "It's gotten better through the process of government…Vang: The Goal is to Solve Farmers’ Problems
Published May 9, 2023
In an interview with the Red River Farm Network, House Agriculture Committee Chair Samantha Vang said her goal is to solve the problems of farmers. The inclusion of $10 million for a grain indemnity fund and $4 million for the…Rural Finance Authority Funding Approved
Published May 9, 2023
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has signed legislation, providing $50 million to the Rural Finance Authority. With this approval, the RFA will continue to finance beginning farmers, livestock expansion and other ag loans.DAIRI Provision Prevails in MN Ag Omnibus
Published May 8, 2023
Minnesota Milk Producers Association Executive Director Lucas Sjostrom says the omnibus agriculture bill was short of their original ask of $10 million for the DAIRI program. However, Sjostrom said he is pleased with the final bill. “Rebates for the Dairy…