The conference committee for the Avian Flu relief bill approved joint language this week, allowing appropriated state money to continue making its way to farmers and those affected by the virus.
The spread of the virus and ongoing responses to it were the focus of much of the conference committee’s proceedings, as Representatives and Senators debated the finer details of the two different versions.
There had been some differences, but Republicans and Democrats from both chambers were able to stand together for Minnesota’s turkey producers. The need to address additional funding as the state continues to gauge how far this virus spreads will continue to be a topic of note at the legislature.
The conference committee heard expert testimony on the bill from commissioners and directors, who spoke of the difficulties in addressing the epidemic effectively. All agreed that the money is badly needed, and thanked the committee for working quickly to send the $900,000 appropriation to the communities that need it. The Senate version of the bill included a provision that allows the state to better access incoming federal funding, which was adopted by the committee.
The agreement has passed the Senate and House for final approval, and will now move on to the Governor’s desk for his signature. (H.F. 2225)
