Agriculture Measures Signed into Law
Among the measures state lawmakers sent to the governor this session are several pertaining to the Show-Me State’s top economic industry: agriculture. Signed by the governor in late March, House Bill 662 addresses the misuse of herbicides that’s caused devastating crop damage in certain areas throughout the state, particularly in southeast Missouri.
Specifically, HB 662 grants the Department of Agriculture the authority to investigate complaints of the misuse of Dicamba, impose fines on those who continue to use it (up to $25,000 per violation) and even deny, suspend or revoke certain licenses and permits. Due to the urgent need to better protect our agriculture industry, this measure took effect immediately upon the governor’s signature.
The governor has also signed Senate Bill 8, relating to flashing lights on motor vehicles and equipment. Thanks to this legislation, Missouri farmers will soon be able to drive on state highways at night for agricultural purposes, provided their vehicles are equipped with proper lighting. This provision takes effect Aug. 28.
In other agriculture-related news, the 115th Missouri State Fair came to a close Sunday. Whether you were there to enjoy the great food and musical acts or you were competing in one of the many competitions, I want to thank you for your continued support of this important annual event. I also want to congratulate District 12 resident Miss Natalie Ayers, who was crowned the 2017 Missouri State Fair Queen on Thursday, Aug. 10. A resident of Green City, Natalie will be a sophomore at the University of Missouri-Columbia, where she’s working toward her Bachelor of Science in science and agricultural journalism. Natalie plans to graduate in May 2020 and hopes to work for a public relations firm or agricultural commodity group. Congratulations Natalie!
As always, please feel free to call, email or write with your ideas or concerns. My Capitol office number is (573) 751-1415, my email is dan.hegeman@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 332, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.