Dear Neighbor,
Faith and I send you our wishes for a happy and safe Fourth of July holiday as we celebrate our great nation’s independence. Please be extra careful on the roads or out on the water.
Today (July 1) marks the date a number of new laws take effect in Minnesota. Many of the changes are related to the new state budget, with two-year funding packages in place for various areas of state government. This includes everything from transportation to public safety, K-12 education and beyond. Other topics include heart screenings and the state’s opiate response. Click here for an overview of noteworthy changes. In addition, all laws passed by the 2019 Legislature are available at this link.
I would like to clarify that the state’s new law banning hand-held cell phone use while driving does not take effect today, rather it goes on the books Aug. 1. So, while I encourage people to use hands-free methods now, it will not be a violation of state law for another month. This website has more on that.
One particular item I would like to touch on regarding agriculture is that the Minnesota Department of Agriculture announced the roll-out of the new Dairy Assistance, Investment and Relief Initiative (DAIRI) program, which provides financial assistance for small- to medium-size dairy producers to help cover the costs of a federal Margin Protection Plan insurance program. This year, we provided $8 million for DAIRI to ensure that our dairy farmers can continue to do the difficult work they do in this time of tight margins. Click here to apply or to find more information on how to qualify.
Until next time, enjoy the Fourth and hope to see you around at the various summertime festivals in our area.
Sincerely,
Paul