Dear neighbors,
First Bill Approval
Our Environment and Natural Resources Finance Division Committee approved its first bill yesterday. House File 233, a bi-partisan bill, bill that I chief-authored. This proposal would correct problems from last year’s capital investment law. Funding for projects was to come from the sale of appropriation bonds financed by the Environmental Trust Fund, which are generally sold at a higher interest rate than General Obligation Bonds. I described this bill as a "corrections" bill to fix the costly mistake and questionable Constitutionality of using lottery funds to finance the more expensive appropriation bonds.
The $97 million in projects included cleaning up Seidl Lake in South St Paul, wastewater treatment projects across MInnesota, improvements for regional parks, and storm water control structures and the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program. H.F. 233 would correct this funding issue and ensure that these important projects can begin. It passed through our committee to the Full Ways & Means Committee.
Here is a link to the Session Daily story.
Meet Clay Schwartzwalter
I wanted to introduce all of you to my new legislative assistant Clay. Clay grew up in Moorhead and graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a degree in political science in 2015. He’s been living in the Twin Cities and working on campaigns as a DFL field organizer since graduation. He was the organizer for Senator Karla Bigham’s successful campaign in February 2018 and the CD1 Regional Organizing Director for the 2018 midterm election.
Clay has always wanted to work on the official side of politics. He recognizes the important role that state government plays in the everyday lives of Minnesotans, and he’s excited to do his part to make it as effective as possible. Clay’s responsibilities are numerous and varied, so please feel free to reach out to him with any questions or issues you may have.
South St. Paul Day at the Capitol
The third annual South St. Paul Day at the Capitol will take place tomorrow. It’s a great chance to tour the beautifully restored building and learn more about our state’s history and government. I look forward to seeing those of you who are joining in the morning!
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative