The Missouri General Assembly concluded its veto session Wednesday, overriding 13 of the governor’s vetoes. Four of the bills passed directly affect agriculture.
- The Legislature passed a bill to close some types of farm data from the state’s open record laws. State agencies will be required to keep information collected for voluntary agricultural programs confidential.
- A bill creating a state income tax deduction for disaster payments to farmers and ranchers was passed.
- The makeup of the seven-member Clean Water Commission will be altered with new legislation passed Wednesday. The new law clarifies that two members must come from the agriculture or mining industries and at least four members must be from the general public. All appointees are appointed and confirmed by the State Senate.
- Another bill that was overridden exempts livestock owners from having to pay for damage caused by wandering cattle and horses unless the owner is negligent.
Missouri Farm Bureau President Blake Hurst, who farms near Westboro, Mo., said the organization was thankful for legislator’s efforts.
“Every one of these bills will benefit the farmers and ranchers of this state. They will make a positive difference on their farms. We appreciate the Missouri General Assembly for overriding the vetoes of bills important to Missouri agriculture.”
