Senate Agriculture Chair Aric Putnam’s Bill to Bolster State’s Farm Economy Garners Overwhelming Support
SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic (DFL-Minneapolis) said today the Senate has overwhelmingly passed a bipartisan agriculture budget bill, which invests in Minnesota farmers, dairy producers, and food processors – will help create jobs and economic vitality in communities across the state.
She said the measure, authored by Agriculture Committee Chair Aric Putnam (DFL-St. Cloud), also includes $100 million for expansion of reliable broadband services for Minnesotans who currently are going without it.
“Agriculture has always been important to Minnesota’s economy and to our state’s way of life. We know that Minnesota producers and processors not only provide our state with food security and job creation, but they also help feed our nation and the world,” said Majority Leader Dziedzic. “This bill bolsters Minnesota’s farm economy and makes significant investment in bringing broadband to families, businesses, and communities that currently don’t have access to reliable service. ”
“The Senate passed a great bill today,” said Senator Putnam. “This bill was written to solve problems, build strong relationships, and promote a brighter future for Minnesota’s agriculture community. We listened to the voice of the farmer. This bill was written in town halls and listening sessions, not in a committee room in St. Paul. We will help people by investing $48 million for the needs of our farmers and $100 million for broadband development to connect Minnesotans in every corner of the state. This bill will help people.”
The measure – which passed 58 to 7 – will next be taken up by House-Senate negotiators who will produce a final bill before sending it to the Governor to be signed into law.
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