Legislative Update – February 1, 2024
Dear neighbors,
Last week I was glad to participate in Dakota County Government's Legislative Breakfast alongside fellow state representatives, county commissioners, and local leaders where we discussed Dakota County’s legislative priorities for the upcoming session.
The 2024 legislative session begins on Monday, February 12, and I am looking forward to making progress on local infrastructure projects, environmental protections, and more. Please reach out to me if you have any input on priorities for the upcoming session.
Nitrate Pollution
Recently I spoke with reporter Keith Schneider about a bill I’m introducing to levy a “polluter pays” tax on commercial fertilizer. The tax would be used to address water contamination issues stemming from fertilizer runoff. In rural areas with elevated nitrate levels, residents see elevated cancer rates, which Schneider documents in his article.
If we are in a public health crisis with high nitrates, we have got to find a good alternative water for those people. The question then becomes: Who’s going to pay for it? I don’t believe that the general taxpayer should pay for it, which is why I’m introducing legislation this session.
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)
I want to highlight this recent article in Fortune about chronic wasting disease (CWD), and how Minnesota is on the frontlines of research and prevention. CWD is spreading through our wild deer population which threatens our wildlife, soil, and our health.
University of Minnesota epidemiologist Dr. Michael Osterholm talks about his work with CIDRAP, and about how funding from the legislature has brought together international experts to understand more about this disease, the potential threat to humans, and how we can prevent it.
Lawns to Legumes Applications Opening
Minnesota residents can now apply for fall 2024 Lawns to Legumes funding. The Lawns to Legumes program aims to increase habitat for at-risk pollinators in residential settings across the state by providing people with cost-share funding, workshops, coaching and gardening resources.
Anyone can apply to be reimbursed for up to $400 in costs associated with establishing new pollinator habitat in their yards. Applications will be accepted through May 15, 2024. If you previously applied for the program, you will need to reapply to be considered for fall 2024 funding.
Stay in Touch!
Please continue to share your questions, ideas, and feedback throughout the year. 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