Legislative Update – May 19, 2023
Dear neighbors,
Last night, the House approved the conference committee report on H.F. 2310, the 2023 Environment, Natural Resources, Climate, and Energy Budget Bill, on a bipartisan vote of 72-57. You can watch my speech on the floor here.
I was proud to present this problem-solving bill that rights past wrongs and lays a foundation for protecting Minnesota’s land, air, water, and wildlife in the future. By passing this bill, we are making the largest investment into protecting our environment in our state’s history. Whether it’s addressing chronic wasting disease, PFAS chemicals, or emerald ash borer, this legislation makes meaningful progress on issues that previously stalled under a divided government.
You can read more about the bill in yesterday’s Star Tribune article: Minnesota lawmakers reach historic deal on environment, climate and energy, or in MPR’s article: State lawmakers agree to 'historic' environment and climate bill.
Local Projects in Legacy and Jobs Bill
I am glad to report that many of this year’s budget bills include provisions I have introduced and presented for our local communities. Earlier this month we passed the Legacy Budget Bill, which included HF 2108, a bill I authored to give $275,000 to the Dakota County Historical Society to improve and upgrade the Lawshe Memorial Museum. I am proud to continue to support the Lawshe Museum as they continue to educate our community and preserve our history for future generations.
The Jobs and Economic Development bill, which was passed this week, includes HF 189, a bill I wrote for a repurposing study for the 1972 American Legion Memorial Library in South St. Paul. I am dedicated to helping ensure that this historic building is preserved and continues to be a place for our community to use and gather in the future.
World Bee Day!
In order to raise awareness of the importance of pollinators and the threats they face, the United Nations (UN) has designated May 20th as World Bee Day!
Pollinators are a critical part of our ecosystem and the food we eat. They provide pollination for one-third of the food we eat like fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Pollinator populations in the U.S. have been falling for decades. Pollinator loss poses a significant threat to United States agriculture and the ability of our farmers to feed a growing world population.
I am proud of the work that we are doing in the Minnesota Legislature to protect bees and other pollinators, including provisions like Lawns to Legumes, Highways for Habitats, and Native Lawn Freedom which are being passed by the legislature this session! I encourage you to learn more about World Bee Day and the importance of pollinators here.
Conference Committee Reports
As the legislative session comes to a close, we are passing the final versions of our budget bills and other priorities. Alongside our DFL Senators, we are ending the gridlock and delivering on the promises we made to Minnesotans. You can read more about our final bills using our nonpartisan Session Daily stories: Veterans and Military Affairs, Housing, Higher Education, Legacy, Agriculture, Early Education, Public Safety and Judiciary, K-12 Education, Jobs and Labor, Environment and Energy, Commerce, Cannabis, and Paid Family and Medical Leave.
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