Policy Articles
Mismanagement Alleged in SD Corn Checkoff Audit
Published February 25, 2022
A financial audit of the South Dakota Corn Utilization Council identified mismanagement of checkoff funds, not fraud. One point of contention was the use of an advertising agency led by the husband of former legislative director Teddi Mueller. This is…USDA Extends Deadline for Spot Hog Pandemic Program
Published February 24, 2022
USDA has extended the enrollment deadline for the pandemic assistance program for pork producers until April 15. The previous deadline was February 25. This program helps hog farmers who sold pigs through a spot market sale from April 16, 2020…GOP Senators Ask EPA, Corps to Half WOTUS Rulemaking Process
Published February 24, 2022
A group of nine Republican senators, including North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer, has sent a letter to the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers urging them to immediately stop the rulemaking process for the Waters of the United States.…Technology-Neutral, Performance-Based Approach Sought
Published February 23, 2022
The focus on low carbon emissions creates opportunities for ethanol. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper said a science-based approach is needed to reach those goals. "Whether it is a low carbon fuel standard or a high octane,…House Environment Committee Passes MN Drought Relief Package
Published February 23, 2022
The Minnesota House Environment and Natural Resources Committee approved the drought assistance bill for Minnesota farmers and ranchers. A plan for the DNR to spend $13 million to plant tree seedlings and improve water efficiency is tied to the agriculture…Vilsack Participates in Global Ag Climate Summit
Published February 22, 2022
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack helped lead the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate ministerial meeting in Dubai. This was the first meeting since this effort was launched in November. Forty countries are now part of this initiative that calls for investment…License Requirement Changes Sought for MN Grain Buyers
Published February 22, 2022
The Minnesota House Agriculture Committee is considering a bill to modify grain buyer license requirements. Representative Paul Anderson says his proposal deals with the dollar amount that triggers an audit for grain elevators and feed mills. "The numbers were last…Petersen: Drought Package Needs to Move This Week
Published February 21, 2022
An attempt to attach a DNR drought relief package to a proposal to assist farmers and ranchers is facing opposition in the Minnesota Legislature. The conflict centers on combining assistance for agriculture with support for a state agency. During the…Tax Cuts, Not One-Time Checks
Published February 21, 2022
With Minnesota’s $7.7 billion surplus, Senate Republicans are seeking tax cuts Deputy Majority Leader Mark Johnson says the surplus means the state is collecting too much money from the taxpayers. "We want to put together a package that hits all…