Dear Friends and Neighbors,
National Agriculture Day was Tuesday, March 25th, and it is a great time to recognize the hard work of the farmers and ranchers in our district who contribute so much to our state and local economy.
As a farmer, I am proud to live in Minnesota, a world class state for agriculture. Farmers supply the nation with delicious, affordable goods and feed our families. Agriculture in our state affects every single resident, and it’s so important to remember just how much our farmers do for us.
I would like to extend my thanks and gratitude to farmers across our state and join in the celebration of National Agriculture Day. I will continue to advocate for agriculture at the Capitol.
Agriculture in Minnesota
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has put together a great profile piece on agriculture in our state. Check out what farmers do in Minnesota and how we compare to other states here.
For more resources to learn about agriculture in our state, check out these organizations:
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture
Minnesota Farm Bureau
Minnesota Future Farmers of America
House File 2989 Heard in Civil Law Committee
On Wednesday, a bill I authored regarding farm liens was heard in the House Civil Law Committee. House File 2989 is a fairly technical change to state statute, but it eliminates redundant filing and some state agency fees while also modernizing the notification process to farm liens.
Farm product dealers will find it easier to register with the Secretary of State’s office to receive security interests and lists, and will also not have to pay a fee to receive those lists electronically. Streamlining and simplifying dealings with state government is good for our farmers and agriculture industry in Minnesota.
Farmers at the Capitol
This week, it was great to meet with constituents from the Minnesota Farmers’ Union and FFA students. I have always had a strong working relationship with these groups, and do my best to represent their interests in St. Paul. Minnesota has a strong agricultural community, and farmers deserve to have their interests represented at the Capitol.
Constituents from the Farmers’ Union visit the Capitol
Local Bills Move Forward in the Tax Committee
After being heard two weeks ago in the House Taxes Committee, two bills I authored are moving forward in a Tax Omnibus Bill.
House File 2709 provides a sales tax exemption for construction materials donated to the Marshall City and House File 2607 expands the existing motor vehicle sales tax exemption for road maintenance vehicles including snow plows and dump trucks for cities and counties.
I am pleased that these provisions are moving forward as part of an omnibus bill, as they will have a significant impact in our district and on all of southwest Minnesota.
It is an honor to represent you at the Capitol. If I can ever help you or your family on a matter of state government, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Chris