Two bills, HB 509 and SB 2236, have been introduced to create a Department of Labor. However, neither has been taken up in their respective committees. Farm Bureau policy opposes the creation of a Department of Labor. The issue will be watched closely because of the already stressful budgetary pressures. The creation of a new department would only add to this pressure.
Legislators look to meet in a special summer session to redraw congressional district lines.
With the news of the state losing one of its congressional seats, the Legislature is expected to see two incumbent representatives face off after lines are re-drawn. With this being the stage as well as the state's demographics, much national attention will be drawn from political parties and national media. Farm Bureau is highly concerned with the aspect of losing 20 percent of its leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives. Also, another concern is the loss of rural interests. The state must rely heavily on its current leadership both in the House and Senate in order for the state to maintain its political power and provide stability.