Reining in Government Agencies
by Senator Steve Green

There is a growing problem in Minnesota concerning agencies and their relentless abuse of power. Democrats holding complete control in the State have weaponized these agencies. Tactics against private citizens have been described to me by others as “terroristic” in their overreach. Over the years I have dealt with the Minnesota Pollution Control agency (MPCA), Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and also various Watershed Districts, just to name a few. Many constituents have also expressed concerns about repeated overreach by these agencies. On top of dealing with state agencies, Minnesotans also deal with many bloated federal agencies as well. It’s a recurring theme that people are tired of. The largest offender that has accumulated the highest amount of complaints in my district is by far is the DNR.

The DNR has had many issues that I’ve been vocal about. There have been a number of offenses against the people of Minnesota. The first and most alarming is the fact that many of their meetings are not true, open meetings. Instead, they’ve been replaced by “Open House” events that do not encourage folks to congregate or ask questions openly. Instead, they are just directed to individual DNR staff. Most times these non-meetings also have numerous armed Conservation Officers (COs) around the room. Nothing about these new meetings is conducive to feedback.

Another recurring issue is the tactic of delaying permits for years, not just for large job creators, but small businesses and small family farms. This is an undue burden for many small farms that often can’t afford to wait.

The DNR has also been imposing fines and fees, as well as confiscating private property without due process. Most people do not have the finances available to fight against the huge behemoth that these agencies have become. It is hard to believe these agencies are able to use taxpayer dollars to work against taxpayers in many instances. It’s not right.

I’ve also heard from many that they feel the DNR engages using intimidation through things like threats of criminal penalties, confiscation of property, and possibly even the destruction of livestock. When carried out, these actions could easily drive Minnesota small farmers and ranchers out of business.

There has also been a clear effort to eliminate deer farms. In fact, there have even been stories about armed officers being used to intimidate and terrorize folks just trying to make a living. Imposing rules and regulations that are so cost prohibitive are going to force these folks out of business. If the DNR followed through and killed hundreds of White Tail Deer, it would financially bankrupt many Minnesotans. This is not a solution that makes sense.

We need to roll back the authority of these agencies. I want folks to know the bills are being drafted, and some are ready to go. We need hearings in committees to get these bills to the floor of the House and Senate so we can discuss them further. I would hope to receive support in both Legislative bodies as well as widespread support from Minnesotans. We need to get the ball rolling and do what’s right for Minnesotans.