Friends and neighbors,
The first week of the legislative session is in the books.
We started on Tuesday with a tribute to the late Speaker Emerita Hortman. On Wednesday, committee hearings got underway. I’m serving on the same committees as last year—Education Finance; Environment, Climate, and Legacy; State and Local Government; and Transportation. And on Thursday, we paid tribute to the late Senator Bruce Anderson, who I was proud to call a friend.
As we get into session, I want to hear from you. What are your priorites? What are you concerned about?
Never hesitate to reach out if you have a question or concern. I can be reached via email at sen.andrew.lang@mnsenate.gov or by phone at 651-296-4918.
Have a great weekend,
Andrew
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Paying Tribute to Senator Bruce Anderson
On Thursday in the Senate, we paid tribute to our colleague and friend, Senator Bruce Anderson. Sen. Anderson (March 12, 1950 – July 21, 2025) spent 27 years in the military and 31 years in the Legislature. That’s 58 years of his life dedicated to serving others.
He was steady, humble, and dependable. He showed up early, stayed late, and never asked anyone to do something he wasn’t willing to do himself.
I’m grateful to Sen. Anderson for his service, leadership, friendship, and for the time we were blessed to know him.
Rest easy, my friend.
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News
I talked to Willmar Radio about Lake Lillian’s bonding request.
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Ag Grant Opportunity
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is now accepting applications for the Produce Safety Mini-Grant. This funding opportunity helps reimburse produce growers for expenses that improve on-farm food safety systems.
This grant is open to produce growers who farm in Minnesota, who:
- Grew and sold one or more of the following crops in 2025: Leafy greens, apples, berries, carrots, cucumbers, garlic, green beans, herbs, melons, microgreens, mushrooms, onions, peppers, sprouts, summer squash/zucchini, tomatoes.
- Have completed the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule Grower Questionnaire, or otherwise verified their farm's Produce Safety Rule Status with the MDA, at least once between 2023-2026.
- Are in good standing and not debarred or suspended to receive state or federal funds.
The MDA anticipates awarding approximately $30,400. Awardees will receive reimbursement of up to $800 per farm. No matching funds are required.
Applications are open for the 2026 Produce Safety Mini-Grant until March 21, 2026 at 11:59 pm. Award notices will be sent in May 2026.
More information, including the link to apply for this grant, is available here: https://www.mda.state.mn.us/minigrant
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Have a great weekend.
Sincerely,
Signature
Andrew R. Lang
Minnesota Senate, District 16