As director, I have demonstrated that we are not afraid of tackling the tough issues. One such challenge we’ve been working on is reducing restrictive rules at the Missouri Department of Agriculture. Although this specific challenge came our way as part of a directive laid out by Gov. Eric Greitens, it’s something that I feel strongly about personally. I don’t want government to get in your way or be a hurdle to your progress. These efforts tie directly into our Empower More pillar, as we aim to identify and reduce regulatory barriers to empower farmers and ranchers to do what they do best. 

For about seven months, we combed through more than 4,000 restrictions. The journey officially began June 1, 2017, when we opened our comment period. Thousands of Missourians weighed in through our online form, and dozens more visited with us face to face at public meetings.

Now, it’s time for the rubber to meet the road. It’s time for Phase 2 of the No MO Red Tape initiative. Through all of this work, the department has proposed the elimination of 1,201 restrictions, a reduction of 25%.

Cleaning up the clutter
We consider this our own version of spring cleaning. All areas of the department were looked at: divisions, boards and commissions. The proposed reductions will wash away the old, clean up the clutter, provide flexibility and make room for industry growth. Some changes will remove over-the-top, unnecessary restrictions that make it hard for businesses to comply and grow. Some will ensure we’re referring to the most up-to-date science and research. Others will provide flexibility in the way of training requirements.

I think we all know how laborious spring cleaning can be, but how accomplished and good we feel afterward. Just like any deep clean, this process will take time, but we believe Missouri agriculture will be positioned for greater success once it is complete. 

We recognize that not every one of you may have taken the opportunity to share your input through our open comment period last summer. Not to worry: We will continue to accept comments as these changes go through the official rule-making process.

For the first time ever, the department will be accepting online comments on each of these proposed changes. This one-stop-shop webpage will list each proposed change or amendment or rescission with a link to fiscal notes, the Missouri Register, reference materials and important dates. You’ll also find a handy timeline for rule-making, which outlines the process in detail, from filing to publishing. You can go online, do some reading and research and submit your comments — all in one place.

Visit the department’s proposed rules webpage.

Chinn is director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture and a hog producer from Clarence, Mo.