Dear Neighbors,
Yesterday we finished the Business Meeting of the Midwestern Legislative Conference in Winnipeg. The Resolutions I noted on Tuesday were passed unanimously by the full conference. After the conference, we rode bikes around Winnipeg.
MIDWESTERN HIGHER EDUCATION COMPACT (MHEC)
Retiring MHEC President Larry A. Isaak gave his final report to the Conference. Legislatively created, the MHED purpose is to provide greater higher education opportunities and services in the Midwestern region. It is a Compact between states to build higher education's capacity to serve. Including savings to students through the Midwest Student Exchange Program, MHEC programs and contracts have saved families, institutions, K-12, cities, states and local governments over $984 million since MHEC was created in 1971. For more information go to: www.mhec.org
FISCAL INFO
Tuesday, we heard some fiscal presentations. The description of the path for South Dakota vs. Wayfair Supreme Court decision was very interesting. This is the case regarding Internet sales. Here is the link to the presentation:
An analysis of state budgets and forecasts is here.
HEMP
Earlier in the conference we heard a presentation from the founder of Manitoba's Hemp Industry; how it started and where it is going. Here is Shaun Crew's presentation.
CANADIAN MUSEUM FOR HUMAN RIGHTS
Tuesday night the Conference had its State Dinner at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights: www.humanrights.ca
Americans and Canadians sang our national anthems together.
It was a very moving experience visiting the Museum. If you are ever in Winnipeg, I highly would recommend including it on your schedule.
Nelson Mandela's 100th Birthday would have been yesterday and the Museum presented a special exhibit and Celebration.
Happy Birthday Nelson!
Sincerely,
Rick