How do you think this will play in Iowa?
Gov. Pawlenty cut $1.9 million in state ethanol producer payments. From his detailed budget proposal (emphasis mine):
This proposal reduces the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's (MDA) program and grant spending by 6.7 percent. The largest reduction is a one-time decrease in ethanol producer payments ($1.931 million), with the remainder making up reductions in grants to county fairs, livestock breeders, agricultural research and education organizations and Second Harvest Heartland. Mental health grants, farm-to-school grants, livestock investment grants and MDA's dairy development and profitability enhancement program are also reduced.
I suspect Iowa voters may challenge Pawlenty on this proposal along with his plan to cut $23.8 million in ethanol subsidies in 2003. That's if Pawlenty decides to run for president.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.