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Legislative Update 3.20.23

Another busy week at the Capitol!?

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Monday was Sovereignty Day. Leaders from all 11 Indigenous Tribes in Minnesota came to the Capitol to share concerns and hopes for their people and our state.

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Tuesday was MCCL Student Day at the Capitol.? Students in 7th-12th grade gathered to learn about the legislative process and how to advocate for their beliefs when talking with legislators. It was so inspiring to meet these students. Seeing our youngest generation getting involved in the fight for life is very encouraging. It deepens my resolve to do whatever I can to protect the lives of the unborn. Students from Lester Prairie came by to learn more about being a legislator.

Wednesday we were blessed to have so many toddlers and preschoolers fill the Capitol Rotunda for ECFE Day! I believe in giving all children the opportunity for success in education. Seeing this energetic crew singing and playing was so refreshing!

Will We Need Permission to Farm?

This week in the Agriculture Committee we heard HF 2472. The proposed legislation would establish a new program for systemic pesticide-treated seed. This bill will grow the bureaucracy within the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) and take away a pest management tool that farmers who work with agronomists have used for decades. The bill will direct MDA to:

• Account for the total number of treated seed purchased and used in the state, as well as total acreage and location where the treated seed is applied each year.
• Require the formal verification of need prior to the use of treated seed except where the treated seed is the only commercially available option.
• Require written certification from a ?trained and approved? individual for each use of treated seed used in the state.

This is government overreach when farmers who utilize best management practices and have the knowledge to determine what is needed for their operations. This proposed program will potentially lead to increased costs for seed manufacturers, distributors, farmers, and to all consumers.

? ? ? ? Last week the Humane Society brought puppies to the Capitol. They were so adorable! ?? ?

Please Contact Me

It?s an honor and privilege to work for you at the Capitol. Don?t hesitate to contact my office at any time this session to share your thoughts, concerns or ideas. I am here to serve you!

211 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Saint Paul, MN 55155
651.296.4229