Small Town News

Alons gives update at county dairy banquet

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State Rep. Dwayne Alons provided a legislative update during the Lyon County dairy banquet June 1. One of the positive accomplishments was increasing truck weights to 90, 000 pounds for six axles and 96, 000 pounds for seven axles to haul farm commodities.

"This brings efficiency to agriculture and the economy, " said Alons.

The legislature passed a dog kennel bill which increases the regulations for dog breeders who are licensed through the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The bill allows state inspectors and local law enforcement the authority to enter federally-licensed and - regulated facilities in response to animal abuse and neglect.

"That sounds like a good deal for puppies, " said Alons, "but I didn't support it because I believe these regulations could easily be shifted to other situations such as chicken cages and hog pens. It's something to keep an eye on."

Regarding the state's budget, Alons feels the next governor will find it "difficult to keep things under control." The current governor used funds from the senior living trust, underground storage tank program, cash reserves and federal stimulus money to support general fund spending, according to the legislator.

Even though health care reform is a federal issue, Alons did make some comments.

"I've heard that big businesses could better pay a fine rather than provide insurance as mandated by the health reform bill, " he said. "For example, AT&T claims it could save $1.8 billion.

"I'm hoping for changes after the primary and general election, " Alons said.



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© 2011 Sioux County Index-Reporter Hull, Iowa. All Rights Reserved. This content, including derivations, may not be stored or distributed in any manner, disseminated, published, broadcast, rewritten or reproduced without express, written consent from DAS.

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