Last week, I talked to law enforcement officers from across the 7th District to discuss their priorities and what Congress can do to support America's local law enforcement officers. One of the many things we discussed was the ongoing workforce issues. Unfortunately, police forces across the country are short-staffed due to a number of factors, including the radical "defund the police" movement leading to an increase in early retirements and a new generation that does not feel supported in pursuing a career in criminal justice.

Congress has an opportunity to support young people who are looking to their futures and want to serve their communities. That is why I reintroduced the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program Act, which is a targeted approach offering grants to students who choose to pursue their first degree in law enforcement or other criminal justice-related field. Unlike broad-stroke student loan forgiveness programs, the grant would come with a service agreement rom the recipient to serve as a full-time law enforcement officer for four years. If the graduate does not complete their service agreement, the grant will be converted into a loan.

I am proud to introduce this legislation to encourage young people to join the next generation of law enforcement and will continue to prioritize our police officers and the safety of our communities.

Fighting for Western Minnesota Trade Opportunities

As you may know, the Canadian dairy industry structure is historically restrictive, particularly with regard to their tariff-rate quota (TRQ) allocation measures. These measures allow lower tariff rates on imports within a specified quantity. The goal of the United States - Mexico - Canada Agreement (USMCA) was to level the playing field in trade across the three countries. This, of course, includes the dairy trade. But, the Canadian dairy industry has continued its restrictive practices, leaving America's dairy industry at a disadvantage. The United States Trade Representative rightfully took action requested and was granted a dispute settlement panel to address the restrictive measures. But, I am sorry to say, the panel came to the conclusion that Canada's TRQ allocation measures do not breach USMCA agreements. This decision stifles trade opportunities, but I will continue to work to increase trade opportunities and increase market access for our dairy farmers in Canada and across the world.

I also had the opportunity to sit down with Thailand's Ambassador to the United States, Mr. Tanee Sangrat. We discussed ways we can work together to strengthen the Thai-U.S. relationship, including opening up export market access for U.S. pork and poultry producers in Thailand.

Thank you for reading!

fischbach.house.gov

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