Legislative Update - March 14, 2023
Dear Neighbors,
It is hard to believe we are already over halfway done with the legislative session. I wanted to provide a quick update on the committee process. Last week was our first legislative committee deadline, which means we are beginning to craft our budgets to pass at the end of the session. All committees have been very busy, sometimes holding additional meetings on Fridays or after 5:00 pm. In the Environment Committee, we have been holding longer meetings to ensure that we are doing all we can to protect our natural resources and protect Minnesotans. You can find more information on the Environment and Natural Resources Committee Webpage.
Sovereignty Day
Yesterday, the Minnesota Legislature celebrated “Sovereignty Day” at the Capitol. We heard from all 11 of Minnesota’s Native American tribes and held educational presentations on a series of important issues to our native communities. I attended sessions on cannabis and on the environment and water protection. It was a great opportunity to hear from tribal leaders and make sure we are listening to their perspectives as we create legislation here in Saint Paul.
SEIU Day at the Capitol
I was glad to meet a fantastic group of constituents advocating for better working conditions for Minnesotans with SEIU. SEIU has been active at the Capitol this year working on so many important issues, including ensuring our workers have paid sick days and stronger labor standards. I will continue advocating for policies that help workers in our district thrive.
Community Events
I wanted to take a moment to highlight two community events coming up in our area. Town Square Television, a local community cable TV station serving Northern Dakota County, is hosting a Flapjacks Fundraiser Saturday, April 15 from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. at the West Saint Paul Applebee's, 1753 South Robert Street, WEST ST. PAUL. You can sign up by visiting this Facebook Event. Town Square TV provides a great public service by carrying local government, education, and sports coverage to our district.
On Saturday, April 22, The City of South St. Paul will be celebrating Earth Day by holding an Annual River Clean Up with registration starting at 9:45 AM at the Spiral Bridge at the intersection of Grand and Hardman. Once there, residents will be provided with gloves, bags, and instructions on how to better protect our water and make an impact on our community!
Stay in Touch!
Please continue to share your questions, ideas, and feedback throughout the legislative session. You can reach me by email at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-6828. You can contact my Legislative Assistant Sam O'Neill at 651-296-3305 or via email at Samuel.ONeill@house.mn.gov.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative