The Nation - News from Feb. 19, 1985

The Minnesota Senate gave preliminary approval in a 33-31 vote to a one-year ban on farm mortgage foreclosures “to send a signal to Washington” that farmers need better prices and lower interest rates. “I hope this bill is a trigger that results in a domino effect in other farm states,” said Republican Sen. Charles Berg, a farmer from western Minnesota. Opponents of the bill included Sen. Randy Kamrath, a fellow Republican and also a farmer. “This is very, very dangerous policy just to send a message,” he said. “This will dry up credit for farmers.” At least 34 votes are needed for final passage.