Legislative Update - February 21, 2022

Dear neighbors,  

I hope you’re doing well and prepared for the snow we’re expected to get over the next two days. Here’s an update from the Capitol:  

Introducing New Legislation

I introduced several bills today, including:  

• HF 3616, which provides funding for a tourism industry recovery grant program to help organizations and communities recover from the pandemic. 
• HF 3617, which provides funding to help lake associations manage aquatic invasive plant species. 
• HF 3618, which would help the University of Minnesota maintain the genetic diversity of oilseeds, grains, grasses, legumes, and other plants. It also includes funding for outreach to small and BIPOC farmers.  
• HF 3623, which includes funding for the G Line bus rapid transit project in West St. Paul, St. Paul, Roseville, and Little Canada.  

Supporting Frontline Workers 

Health care workers, long-term care and home care workers, first responders, and other frontline workers have kept our state running during the pandemic. They face a higher risk of exposure to COVID-19, and they deserve to be compensated for their hard work and sacrifices.  

Last year, we passed legislation that included $250 million of premium pay for frontline workers. Recognizing that this isn’t enough to get a meaningful bonus check to everyone who deserves one, we’re now proposing a $1 billion investment. Under HF 2900, the legislation House DFLers are championing, 667,000 Minnesotans would receive bonuses of up to $1,500. You can find a list of workers who would receive checks and information about how our proposal compares to what Senate Republicans have proposed here.  

Protecting Drinking Water 

In the second half of 2021, the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority (PFA) awarded more than $180 million to 26 cities, including South St. Paul. Local governments will use the funds to improve water service and protect waterways. These investments will help protect the health of Minnesotans and provide clean drinking water for years to come.  

South St. Paul received $2 million to improve the city’s water, sanitary, and storm water system along Concord Street. A list of cities that received funds and the projects they will conduct is available here.  

New OLA Report Released 

Today, the Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor (OLA) released a report on the Petroleum Remediation Program, which oversees responses to leaks and spills from petroleum storage tanks. The nonpartisan group found that the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has limited authority to hold consultants accountable for poor-quality work on site investigations and cleanups. You can read the entire report here. 

Keep In Touch

It’s an honor to represent you at the Capitol. If you have any questions or input to share, please email me at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or call (651) 296-6828.  

Sincerely,  

Rick Hansen 
State Representative