Legislative Update – October 19, 2023
Dear neighbors,
This weekend I was proud to be a part of the Annual Governor’s Pheasant Opener in Owatonna. I joined Governor Walz, MN Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Stromen and more for hunting and a public lands celebration where speakers from the conservation group the Izaak Walton League emphasized how hunters have been on the frontline of efforts to protect pollinators, wildlife, and our environment. I didn’t get a pheasant but I did get a wood duck!
Cottage Grove Nursery Visit
I also met with Ryan McEnaney representing Bailey Nurseries, toured their expanded production facility in Cottage Grove, and saw their advancements in water efficiency and horticulture technologies. Bailey Nursery is a part of the MN Landscape and Nursery Association which helps promote the Green economy in Minnesota. We discussed workforce issues and strengthening partnerships with schools to promote the Green industry, help growers thrive, promote biodiversity, and protect pollinators.
Upcoming Environment Committee Meeting
The House Environment and Natural Resources Committee, which I chair, will hold an informational hearing next Monday, October 23, at 9:30 AM. The committee will hear an update on the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease in the deer population.
We also will hear from state agencies on implementation of Inflow and Infiltration grants, Climate Resiliency grants, Cumulative Impacts, Emerald Ash Borer grants, Neonicotinoids in Wildlife, Water Storage, and Lawns to Legumes. You can find more information on our committee webpage and the meeting will be livestreamed on Monday morning here.
Next week I will also be hosting the House Capital Investment Committee in our District as we hear about public infrastructure projects seeking funding in 2024.
Budget Update
On October 16 we received the FY 2022-2023 Biennium Budget Close Report from the Minnesota Management and Budget Office. The biennium ended with a balance $820 million higher than estimated at the end of the 2023 legislative session. Final revenue for the biennium closed $739 million (1.2 percent) higher than estimates. General fund spending for the closed biennium, after accounting adjustments, was $81 million (0.2 percent) lower than prior estimates.
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