Northwest Wayne News

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) recently signed a series of bills that are meant to support the state’s agriculture economy.

According to a news release from the governor’s office, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) will provide certificates that will help ag organizations trade their products.

“Agriculture is a cornerstone of Michigan’s economy, and today’s package of bipartisan legislation empowers our food and agriculture businesses to expand and create more good-paying jobs,” said Whitmer in the release.

"Michigan's food and agricultural businesses continue to succeed because they've embraced creativity, innovation, and sustainability," said Gary McDowell, MDARD director. "I thank Governor Whitmer for signing this bipartisan legislation to help pave the way for MDARD to better assist our $104.7 billion food and agriculture industry’s export of goods increasing Michigan’s global footprint

The release reported that Whitmer has signed 878 bipartisan bills during her tenure as governor.

"I am excited to have led this effort to help Michigan farmers. As a fifth-generation farmer, I understand the challenges we face as an industry every day, and I will continue to work to make it easier for Michigan to feed the world," said Rep. Bryan Posthumus (R-Cannon Township).

The governor’s office reported that the bills will allow MDARD to verify the condition of agricultural products created in the state.

“It's common-sense legislation that's a win-win for teenagers looking for a job and employers looking for workers in this tough labor market,” said Rep. Stephanie Young (D-Detroit).

Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association President Spencer Nevins said the bills would allow the state’s beer and wine industry to address its labor shortages.

“These new laws will support the many employers that make Michigan’s three-tier system of manufacturing, delivery and retail work,” he said.

The sentiment was echoed by Rep. Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton) who said the bills would help eliminate dog tattoos as a form of identification.

“Tattoo provisions were in place long before the technology of micro-chipping came into being, and many veterinary professionals now consider tattooing of dogs to be ineffective and cruel,” he said. “I am proud to have been part of such an important package of bills with my colleague Rep. TC Clements (R-Lambertville).”