Sen. Sparks’ legislation featured on CBS show ‘Madam Secretary’

Published 10:10 am Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Legislation introduced by Sen. Dan Sparks, DFL-Austin, to open economic channels between Cuba and the state of Minnesota recently made the air waves at the highest levels of government — on network television.

Dan Sparks

Dan Sparks

Sunday’s episode of “Madam Secretary” on CBS mentioned legislation that would support trade between Cuba and Minnesota’s agricultural industry, mirroring a bill introduced by Sparks (SF 733) that funds outreach and marketing efforts for this very reason. To add to the similarity, the episode mentions a politician from Wyoming — by the name of Dan Sparks — who is carrying the legislation.

While appreciating the airtime, Sen. Sparks won’t be heading to Hollywood anytime soon, according to a press release.

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“It’s good to hear that my legislative work is being noticed by America’s premier diplomat, even if it is a fictional diplomat,” Sparks said in a press release. “It’s quite an honor to have my work be highlighted in this unique situation. I hope this fanfare will help our efforts to grow Minnesota’s agricultural industry and get more people interested in the work we are doing at the legislature.”