Minnesota State Senator Justin Eichorn (R-Grand Rapids) issued the following statement regarding Huber Engineered Woods’ plans to open a new OSB plant in Mississippi. Huber had intended to open the plant in Cohasset but withdrew those plans in February due to ongoing delays and Minnesota’s burdensome regulatory environment.

“It’s hard to fault Huber for its decision. By moving to Mississippi, Huber will probably be permitted in just a few months and the plant will be up and running in no time. When the alternative is Minnesota’s ridiculous permitting process, regulatory hurdles, and legal action from the Leech Lake Band, it is a no-brainer. 

“And that is what is most frustrating for me and for folks up here in Northern Minnesota: the reason Huber left – and the reason so many other businesses and individuals are leaving – is entirely self-inflicted. Senate and House Democrats and Gov. Walz could have used their power to make Minnesota much friendlier to businesses like Huber, but they were more interested in passing a divisive agenda to satisfy their far-left activist base. 

“Gov. Walz showed no real interest in trying to find a way to keep Huber here. The Leech Lake band showed no interest in coming to the table to find a solution; instead they chose a course of legal action to try to kill the project. As a result, Minnesota loses out on hundreds, if not thousands, of jobs; $450 million in direct investment; billions of dollars in long-term economic impact; and a phenomenal partner that has won international awards for sustainability.”