Local legislator discusses accomplishments of 2022 legislative session

Minnesota lawmakers missed their midnight Monday deadline to pass agreed-on tax cuts,  because of continuing disagreement over spending for health-and-human services, education and public safety.  State District 27A Representative Peggy Bennett, a Republican from Albert Lea spoke with KAUS News and stated that some good things were accomplished during the session, including refilling the state’s unemployment insurance trust fund, bonuses to frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and renewing reinsurance to keep healthcare costs in the state from skyrocketing…

A notable piece of legislation that will be heading to Governor Tim Walz for his signature include an agriculture budget bill that includes $210 million in broadband funding, additional support for livestock processing, incentives for ethanol and other biofuels, money for meat, poultry, dairy and egg processing facilities, $8 million in drought relief grants, $2.5 million for loans, prioritized for those affected by drought, and $4.5 million dollars for additional response to the bird flu outbreak and threats from African Swine Fever.  Another notable piece of legislation passed will allow Minnesota’s largest breweries to sell growlers in their taprooms and all other brewers to sell six and four packs on site.  The new law will also allow distilleries to offer 750-milliliter bottles in their cocktail rooms.