In this issue:
Thomas K. Dillon
In a closely watched decision with significant implications for Michigan’s agritourism industry, the Michigan Court of Appeals has upheld a ruling that limits the scope of agricultural tax exemptions for properties engaged in commercial agritourism activities. The case, Blake’s Farm, Inc. v. Armada Township, centered on whether a popular agritourism destination could claim a full Qualified Agricultural Exemption (QAE) for its entire property, including areas used for retail, dining, and entertainment...
Courtney G. Agrusa and Anthony M. Dalimonte
With summer here and teenagers out of school—most will certainly be looking for a place to work. If you’re planning on hiring teenagers during the summer months and beyond, be sure you’re familiar with the recent labor law changes that will impact employers that hire workers under 18 years old to avoid costly penalties...
Michigan Farm News
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is suspending enforcement of a long-embattled rule, giving much-needed clarity to farmers after pushback from Michigan Farm Bureau and other key ag groups.
The 600-page “Improving Protections for Workers in Temporary Agriculture Employment in the United States” Rule — commonly known as the Worker Protection Rule — would have extended unionization rights to H-2A guest workers, among other provisions...
Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC welcomes back litigator, Allison M. Collins, to the firm’s Lansing office. Allison was previously with the firm from 2013-2021, starting in 2013 as a summer associate.
Allison then served the State of Texas from 2021-2025 as part of the General Litigation Division of the Texas Office of the Attorney General, rising to the rank of Deputy Division Chief. Allison defended Texas state agencies, state officials, and public universities against complex employment discrimination and constitutional claims in Texas trial courts and on appeal...
Allison M. Collins
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and attorney generals from Illinois and Minnesota sued ag equipment giant Deere & Co. over “unfair practices that have driven up equipment repair costs for farmers.”
FTC’s complaint alleges that Deere’s unlawful practices have limited the ability of farmers and independent repair providers to repair Deere equipment, forcing farmers to rely on Deere’s network of authorized dealers for necessary repairs.
According to the lawsuit, this practice has boosted company profits on agricultural equipment and parts, allowing the company to grow its repair parts business while burdening farmers with higher repair costs...
Michigan’s first-ever grant program aimed at strengthening the state’s middle-of-the-supply-chain agri-food systems is now open, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Director Tim Boring announced this week.
The Farm-to-Family “Food Hubs and Farm Stops” grant program is designed to support innovative models that deliver locally produced and healthy food to Michiganders while creating economic opportunities for Michigan farmers...
Lansing
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Southfield
Grand Rapids
Detroit
Holland
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