ST. PAUL – A package of measures pertaining to agriculture policy Rep. Paul Anderson, R-Starbuck, shaped as chairman of the House Agriculture Policy Committee passed the House 102-25 on Monday.
Key provisions in the agriculture omnibus policy bill (H.F. 1554) include liability protection for agri-tourism events, expanded agriculture loan programs and modifications allowing counties to work together in collecting waste pesticides.
The agri-tourism measure is one Anderson carried through the House himself. It provides basic liability protection for people who host events such as Breakfast on the Farm. This legislation protects property owners, but does not relieve them of responsibility in cases of willful neglect.
"Agri-tourism is important to the ag. industry in Greater Minnesota and I am pleased our bill provides basic protection for people who open up their farms to visitors," Anderson said. "It is an importation part of the bill and involved a great deal of collaboration to find a solution that all parties involved can agree upon."
The bill also extends the Agricultural Growth, Research and Innovation program to 2025. Beginner farmer loans, loan restructuring and livestock expansion loan programs and more are provided.
Language in the bill pertain to disposing of pesticide waste is something Anderson said counties in Greater Minnesota are seeking. The bill removes a requirement that waste pesticide collections are available in each county, allowing for counties to co-op.
The bill now awaits action from the Senate.
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