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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Jeff Backer (R)

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Legislative Update from Rep. Jeff Backer

Friday, April 13, 2018

Dear Neighbors,

Early this week, the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) introduced proposed fines that could cost Minnesota farmers, not in compliance with buffer zone laws, thousands of dollars.

The proposed penalty could fine farmers by up to $500 per linear foot. This would be imposed on farmers who may be even a few feet out of compliance.

When the buffer law was enacted a few years ago, we made sure to put enforcement measures in place for counties. To date, counties have done a good job and have had the resources to enforce the law without being overly punitive. Simply put, a $500 fine per linear foot is unacceptable.

Fortunately, thanks to public outcry from farmers, farm groups and GOP lawmakers, BWSR rescinded their proposed fine on Thursday afternoon.

Thanks to all of you that took time to make sure your voices were heard.

Visit this link if you’d like to watch yesterday’s Agriculture Policy Committee hearing discussing this proposed fine.

Additionally, on Thursday the House Environment Committee heard testimony regarding carbon monoxide poisoning in icehouses. There have unfortunately been a handful of tragic deaths in recent years due to carbon monoxide poisoning. I strongly urge you to make sure that if you are ice fishing, to make sure the structure you are in is well ventilated and that you have a carbon monoxide detector. It could be lifesaving.

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I had the pleasure of speaking with the  Stevens County leadership organization at the Capitol. We talked about several topics pertaining to our region.

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Hancock resident, Nadine Miller, spent the week at the Capitol serving as a House page!

Thank you and have a great weekend,

Jeff