legbriefs040308
On the homepage
Local
Out There
Business
Vita.mn
Home | Politically Connected | State Politics
Legislature briefs
Print this story
E-mail this story
Save to del.icio.us
Share on Facebook
Share on DiggMore from State Politics
State Senate panel approves bovine TB plan
A Minnesota Senate panel voted Wednesday for a plan to contain and eradicate bovine tuberculosis in part of northwestern Minnesota where the disease has infected both cattle and deer.
The Finance Committee approved the bill from Sen. Rod Skoe, DFL-Clearbrook.
Its main provision is a $3.5 million buyout and fencing program for herd owners in the outbreak area.
Ranchers and farmers could sell their herds for $500 per head, plus ongoing yearly payments of $75 per head until the area is disease-free. The animals would be destroyed.
Livestock owners could also get aid to put up more fences separating cattle from deer, since bovine TB spreads through contact between the animals.
Skoe said livestock owners have recognized the need for aggressive, quick action against the disease.
"This is a hard disease to control," he said.
Separately, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said it will spend $16.8 million to eradicate bovine tuberculosis in Minnesota, Michigan and California. The money will go toward culling infected cattle herds and extra surveillance of white-tailed deer that might be carrying the illness.
Bovine TB infects cattle, bison, deer, elk, goats and other species.
Special license plates during Women's OpenCourtesy cars ferrying golfers to and from Edina's Interlachen Country Club could get temporary special license plates during the U.S. Women's Open in June.
The Senate Finance Committee has approved the proposal from Sen. Geoff Michel, R-Edina.
It would allow as many as 250 special plates, costing $10 apiece and expiring on July 4. They would go on a fleet of brand-new courtesy cars used to bring players to the course from their hotels.
Dealer plates could be used, but they're only good for four days.
The U.S. Women's Open will be held at Interlachen from June 23 to 29.
Michel says the privilege has been granted for other golf tournaments and will probably be needed again.
Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska will host next year's PGA championship and the 2016 Ryder Cup.
ASSOCIATED PRESS
- Top DFLer asks for time on WCCO radio
- Coleman would cast long shadow in governor's race
- Board fines Entenza $500 for lobbyist contribution
- Emotional Franken finally gets sworn in
- Pawlenty starts cutting budget to close $2.7 billion gap
- Al Franken serious, ready to work
- Delano's Emmer plans run for governor
- Marty Seifert announces campaign for governor
- It's D-Day for state budget woes
Current state office holders
Governor: Tim Pawlenty
One of only a few prominent Republicans to win a competitive re-election contest in the Democratic sweep of 2006, Tim Pawlenty is widely seen as politically shrewd and naturally likable.
- Lt. Governor: Carol Molnau
- Secretary of State: Mark Ritchie
- Attorney General: Lori Swanson
- State Auditor: Rebecca Otto
Minnesota's political giants: Learn more about the men and women who have shaped Minnesota's political history.
  Research, Build, CompareCustomize your car search by building your own dream car. Find your perfect vehicle! Find Your New Car Here!Search and browse new and used vehicles from area dealers & private sellers. Search now! |
Win tickets to the Yer Cronies Beach Party with Yer Cronies and Joey Ryan & the Inks at 7th Street Entry.Vita.mn presents the Yer Cronies Beach Party with Yer Cronies and Joey Ryan & the Inks at 7th Street Entry on July 25. |
Comment on this story | Be the first to comment | Hide reader comments