Member Login#1 APPRECIATION
During the first year of the 95th legislative session, more than 1,600 bills have been introduced, with over 100 bills signed into law by the Governor. Issues of importance to agriculture considered during the first year include:
- Supplemental funds approved and transferred to the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) to support the Right to Farm (RTF) program and the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) through the end of the 2008-09 Fiscal Year. This action prevented an official layoff of the MDA staff in the RTF and MAEAP areas.
- Resolution adopted by the Michigan Senate expressing support for the continuation of the MDA as a distinct department within state government.
- Wetlands reform signed into law that addressed Michigan Farm Bureau policy items including:
-- A clear definition of wetlands and prudent and feasible alternatives that is not more restrictive than the federal standard.
-- Understandable, transparent pathways to exemptions and permitting.
-- Meaningful, proactive tools for wetland crop species development.
-- A standardized wetland determination.
-- No fee increases. - Legislative changes to permit the on-road use of truck/trailer/mobile self-loader (slasher) combination units.
The State's continued economic challenges have forced more cuts in agricultural funding and threatened elimination of fundamental agricultural programs for plant and animal health, consumer protection, environmental stewardship, and statistical analysis. MFB remains concerned about the future existence of critical programs that support the $ $71.3 billion agriculture and food industry in Michigan.
We appreciate the interest and support of the "Friends of Agriculture" during these challenging times.
