PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Brian BeGole, of Antrim Township, speaks at the annual Shiawassee County Farm Bureau Legislative Breakfast on Friday, March 8. Over 75 people attended the event, including many local officials along with staff from state and federal offices.

“I was incredibly honored to attend and speak at this event,” BeGole said. “There are many issues in Lansing impacting livelihoods within our vital agriculture industry. It’s important to talk with our farmers and ranchers about these issues and hear their concerns. Hardworking people in this industry help families put food on their tables, support communities throughout our state, and are a huge part of our economy. I will continue fighting for them in the Legislature.”

BeGole spoke about multiple topics, including pushing for needed updates to Michigan’s cottage food law and a concerning change within the proposed Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development budget that would convert conservation district Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program technicians from local conservation employees to state employees – a reform that would have big impacts for local farmers.

BeGole represents several Shiawassee County communities as part of the 71^st House District.