Dear Neighbors,
As I continue to represent your interests at the Capitol this session, I am happy to report that a bill I authored, House File 2178, was passed out of the House Agriculture Policy Committee on Wednesday. Brought to me by the local Chisago City Farmers Market, this bill expands the ability of farmers’ markets to do business in Minnesota. Currently, they must operate under a jumble of state statutes related to both the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Department of Health.
HF 2178 authorizes vendors to perform food sampling and demonstrations at farmers’ markets. Farmers’ markets are great places for local farmers to sell their goods, and this bill will allow them to offer samples without fear of violating state law. With strong bipartisan support, I am hopeful this bill will continue through the committee process and land on Governor Dayton’s desk for signature.
There is a great event coming up at Chisago Lakes Area Library on Thursday, March 27th. You will have a chance to see art made by talented kids from across the area, and I would encourage you to check it out, see great art and support our local young artists.
Date: Thursday March 27th
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Chisago Lakes Area Library
11754 302nd St, Chisago City, MN 55013
What: Glassblower Anthony Michaud-Scorza will give a presentation on the glassblowing process followed by a question and answer period. You'll also get a chance to see all 14 sculptures from each ECRL branch and meet the child that drew the inspiration for their branch's individual sculpture. The event is funded with money from Minnesota's Arts and Cultural Heritage fund.
I hope you will be able to attend!
Finally, it was great to meet with students, teachers and parents from Chisago Lakes Middle School during their field trip to the capitol on Friday, March 7. Field trips to our Capitol are a wonderful way for students to learn about state government, and I was glad to get a chance to talk with our future leaders and answer their questions.
Chisago Lakes Middle School Students pose for a photo with Rep. Barrett in the Capitol Rotunda
As always, thank you for letting me be your voice in St. Paul. If I can ever be of assistance to you, or if you have any concerns or ideas you’d like to share with me regarding state government, I welcome your input.
Have a great weekend.
Sincerely,
Bob