|
Dear neighbors,
It’s a somber day in Minnesota as we grieve the loss of Daunte Wright. His death at the hands of a police officer provides further evidence that our state is fundamentally unjust and that action is needed to protect Black Minnesotans. I want to echo the sentiments that Speaker Hortman and Majority Leader Winkler shared in a statement yesterday; House DFLers are committed to providing safety for all Minnesotans, and we will continue fighting for reform and accountability.
Protecting Minnesota’s Environment and Natural Resources
The House Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee passed our budget bill on Thursday. As I mentioned in my last update, this legislation aims to protect Minnesota’s air, water, land, and wildlife as well as Minnesotans’ health and wellbeing. It would address significant threats to our environment and natural resources, including COVID-19, climate change, pollution, and invasive species. I’m looking forward to presenting the bill in Ways and Means today and to seeing it on the House floor soon.
Supporting Minnesota Agriculture
Another committee that I serve on, the Agriculture Finance and Policy Committee, also passed a budget bill last week. I’m happy to report that it contains several bills that I authored, including legislation that strengthens regulations on seeds treated with neonicotinoid pesticides which can harm bees and other pollinators. My proposal to restructure the Board of Animal Health was included as well. This bill would encourage broader representation and strengthen oversight by making sure the board isn’t composed entirely of people who are embedded in the industry that they’re supposed to oversee.
COVID-19 Vaccine Update
Governor Walz announced last week that more than three million COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Minnesota. I was able to get my shot last Friday at U.S. Back Stadium.
Opportunities to get vaccinated will keep increasing gradually as the state receives more doses from the federal government. If you’d like to receive alerts when vaccines are available in your area, I encourage you to sign up for the Vaccine Connector. You can also contact your health care provider, local pharmacy, or use the Vaccine Locator Map to search for providers nearby.
Please let me know if you have any questions or feedback on these issues or others that are important to you. You can reach me at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or 651-296-6828.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative
|