ST. PAUL, M.N. (Ag News 890) – On Tuesday, the Minnesota State Senate gave the green light to four spending packages, sending them to Governor Tim Walz’s desk.

Among the four bills, the Agriculture omnibus and Energy and Commerce omnibus bills passed the Republican-led chamber.

The Senate passed HF 8, the agriculture funding package, on a vote of 63-3 and sent the bill to the Governor for his signature. The initial debate on the bill took place Thursday, June 17. Sponsored by Senator Torrey Westrom, R-Elbow Lake, it funds the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, which supervises animal health and ensures a safe and reliable food supply. The bill invests in home-grown fuels by expanding E-15 infrastructure for smaller fueling stations and encourages continued development of agriculture and renewable energy industries.

Finally, the Senate sent to the governor HF 6, the omnibus commerce and energy policy and finance bill. Led by Senator Gary Dahms, R-Redwood Falls, and Senator David Senjem, R-Rochester, the measure provides funding for the Commerce Department and the Public Utilities Commission. Among the provisions, the bill creates an income tax subtraction for volunteer drivers and creates a toxic toy enforcement program. According to Senjem, the energy portion continues to make progress towards a clean energy future.

All bills passed The bills are awaiting Governor Walz’s signature.