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Dear neighbors,
I hope this email finds you well and staying warm! Here’s the latest news from the Capitol:
Legislation to Combat CWD Advances
On Tuesday, the House Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee considered legislation that will aid Minnesota’s fight against chronic wasting disease (CWD), a fatal neurological disorder that affects deer and similar species. The bill will protect our state’s wild deer population and hunting traditions by creating new requirements for captive deer farms and prohibiting the importation of carcasses. The committee advanced the bill, and it’s on the way to the House floor!
Steve Cook, a West St. Paul resident, testified in favor of the bill. You can watch his testimony and the rest of the public hearing here.
Small Business Assistance Available
The bipartisan COVID-19 assistance package that the Minnesota Legislature passed in December provided funding for each Minnesota county to support local businesses. As a result, Dakota County – which received $8.3 million for this purpose – launched a fourth round of grants for businesses and nonprofits last week. Businesses and nonprofits who haven’t received any COVID-19 assistance from the county or the state will be prioritized in this round. Any remaining funds will be allocated among those that have already accepted grants. Applications for grants of up to $15,000 will be accepted until Friday, February 12 at 5:00 p.m.
Gov. Walz Announces COVID-19 Recovery Budget
Governor Walz released his budget proposal for the next biennium yesterday. The COVID-19 Recovery Budget he proposed would support working families, ensure students catch up on learning, and help small businesses stay afloat while driving our state’s economic recovery. I’m glad the budget proposal includes these critical investments, and I’ll continue working with the Walz Administration and my colleagues to address the challenges Minnesotans are facing and put our state in a position to build back better from this crisis.
I always appreciate hearing from constituents, so please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact me at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or 651-296-6828.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative
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