Michigan Farm Bureau’s Lansing Legislative Seminar returns to the capital city Feb. 20. With a newly reformatted agenda, the event will feature state-level legislative and regulatory issue updates, a lunchtime reception with lawmakers, and afternoon sessions giving attendees exclusive access to leadership from the state’s agriculture, natural resources and environmental agencies, as well as popular election experts.
The event will conclude earlier than in years past — 4 p.m. — to give attendees more time for their trip back home. Members interested in registering should contact their county Farm Bureau by Feb. 2.
Participation by members (like you!) in this event is critical. Conversations between county Farm Bureau members and state legislators remain important as ever to the success and protection of Michigan farms, agribusinesses and rural communities.
“Giving farmers the ability to maintain a strong connection to the Capitol is vital to ensuring their concerns remain a top priority for lawmakers and decision-makers,” said Rep. Angela Witwer (D-Delta Twp), who’s regularly attended the event to speak with Farm Bureau members from her district.
“Direct conversations are key to understanding the challenges Michigan agriculture faces,” Witwer added. “Farmers and the agriculture industry have always been a top priority and they deserve a seat at the table. Events like these are part of an essential dialogue.
"Let’s come together to amplify the voices of our farmers and ensure their perspectives shape the policies that impact us all.”
Longtime LLS attendee and Clinton County Farm Bureau member Bob Craig further underscored the value of the event.
“When legislators walk into the Lansing Legislative Seminar reception and see the hundreds of Farm Bureau members wanting to talk to them, and wanting to listen to them, they think ‘WOW!’” Craig emphasized. “Plus, the excellent reputation of Michigan Farm Bureau shows we're one of the most effective groups in Lansing because we use our grassroots policy development and implementation process like no one else does.”
Event Agenda
Visit the LLS web page for details and agenda updates. All activities are held at the Lansing Center, 333 E. Michigan Ave.
9 a.m. — Optional Capitol Building tour departing from Lansing Center (See the new Heritage Hall space with history exhibits, artifact space and more.)
9:30 a.m. — Registration
10 a.m. — Legislative and regulatory updates
11:30 a.m. — Welcome from MFB President Carl Bednarski and presentation of the Excellence in Grassroots Lobbying Award
12 p.m. — Lunch reception with representatives, senators and state agency leaders
1:30 p.m. — Break
2 p.m. — Sessions:
Option 1: Quality of Life Director Panel discussion
MDARD Director Tim Boring
MDNR Director Scott Bowen
MDEGLE Director Phillip Roos
Option 2: A Look Back to Move Forward
A review and analysis of recent issues impacting Farm Bureau policy and agriculture, including but not limited to energy, environment and higher education.
Option 3: County Farm Bureau engagement with elected officials
Spend time with fellow members interested in hosting or attending county Farm Bureau activities with elected officials. This is a great session to attend whether you're a public policy committee member or not!
3 p.m. — 2024 Election Forecast with Michigan political reporter Rick Albin
4 p.m. — Adjourn
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Nicole Sevrey
