Dear neighbors,
I hope you and your loved ones had a safe and happy Halloween. Here’s the latest news from the Capitol:
I got my COVID-19 vaccine booster shot at Walgreens in West St. Paul today! It was easy to get and didn’t take much time. If you’re eligible for a booster shot, you can use Minnesota’s Vaccine Locator Map to find a provider near you.
Update on CWD Management
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) - a fatal neurological disorder that affects deer and similar species – is a serious threat to Minnesota’s wild deer population, economy, and traditions. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is taking several steps to prevent the spread of CWD this fall, such as testing all deer killed by hunters in CWD surveillance areas. The agency has an interactive website that Minnesotans can use to find information about each deer permit area and local CWD regulations.
Many Minnesotans, including hunters, are calling for a more aggressive response. House DFLers are listening. As chair of the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee, I plan to support legislation that would help our state get this disease under control. If you’d like to learn more about this issue and some of the proposed solutions, this MPR article is a great resource.
Update on the Search for a Legislative Auditor
Today, I chaired a meeting of the Executive Committee that’s interviewing candidates for the Legislative Auditor position. James Nobles, who served as Minnesota’s Legislative Auditor for 37 years, retired last month. It will be difficult to replace him, but I’m confident we’ll find a skilled and dedicated person to conduct government oversight and ensure programs are working effectively. Until then, Joel Alter will continue serving as Interim Legislative Auditor.
Apply for the EQB
Minnesota’s Environmental Quality Board (EQB) helps state agencies coordinate and work together on important environmental issues. They’re currently searching for new members, including someone to represent the 2nd Congressional District. The position, which will begin in January 2022, is open until filled.
You can find more information about the position at www.eqb.state.mn.us/join-board. If you’re interested, I encourage you to apply.
Upcoming Events
House Capital Investment Committee to Visit Our Community
I’m looking forward to welcoming the House Capital Investment Committee to our community next week. On Tuesday, November 9, legislators will visit Mendota to learn how residents would benefit from watermain looping and pressure reduction and travel to the historic Oheyawahe/Pilot Knob site in Mendota Heights. On Wednesday, we’ll hear about plans to potentially build a new library and rehabilitate the utility system in South St. Paul. The committee will also visit West St. Paul to see a lift station and learn about proposed improvements. I’m excited to show fellow members of the Capital Investment Committee around and to advocate for these critical projects!
If you have questions or feedback, please feel free to reach out. You can reach me by email at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or call (651) 296-6828.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative