Dear Neighbors,
Opioid Summit
Last week, while the legislature was on Easter and Passover break, I traveled to Atlanta to take part in a summit regarding the opioid epidemic called the RX Drug Abuse Summit. I was proud to give a presentation on the steps we’re taking in Minnesota to try and save more lives. It was so informative to hear what other states are doing to respond to opioid abuse. I’m hoping to take some of the things I learned back to St. Paul to make even bigger strides in our state.
Citizenship Ceremony
Earlier this week, I was utterly honored to be in Willmar for a ceremony as 25 new Americans from 10 countries took the oath of allegiance to the United States of America. The path to becoming an American citizen isn’t easy, and I’m proud of those who chose to take this enormous step for our nation. Congrats to all 25 new American citizens!
Agriculture Update
You may have heard about the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) proposed fines up to $500 per linear foot for farmers out of compliance with the riparian buffer law. As you know, this could quickly add up to thousands of dollars for farmers just because of a minor lack of compliance.
The proposed fines are devastating for farmers who already work hard to help keep our waters clean. Thankfully, BWSR took part in a committee hearing on Thursday and indicated they wouldn’t be going through with the proposal. Thank you to everyone who spoke up against these harmful fines; you made a big difference.
Please Contact Me
If you ever need anything, please call or email my office. I love hearing your ideas, or any ways I can be of assistance to you and your family.
Have a great weekend,
Dave