Legislative Update – March 8, 2024
Dear neighbors,
From protecting pollinators to preventing PFAS and plastic pollution, your lottery dollars work for Minnesotans. Yesterday, the Minnesota House passed my bill funding 101 environmental projects using lottery proceeds, on a bipartisan vote of 94-35.
The funding, which comes from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, is a key part of Minnesota’s legacy of environmental stewardship, funding habitat restoration, cutting-edge research, and clean water projects. These projects will help ensure our environment is protected for generations to come. You can read my full press release here.
Protecting Pollinators from Pesticides
Earlier this week, I joined environmental advocates and folks from the Natural Resources Defense Council for a press conference on my legislation that would close loopholes related to seeds treated with neonicotinoid pesticides.
Minnesota has always been a leader in this issue, and I will continue to advocate for policies that protect pollinators, soil health, and clean water in our state. You can read more about the legislation from NRDC here: Bees on the Brink: Will Minnesota Act to Save Them?
2023 Tax Bill Programs
Last year we passed a tax bill that prioritized making life more affordable for working families, parents, and seniors.
Now that tax season is upon us, I wanted to share some information about various programs you may be eligible for this year, including the Child Tax Credit, Property Tax Refund, Social Security Income Exemption, and the K-12 Credit and Subtraction.
Audit Commission Meeting
This week, the Legislative Audit Commission, which I co-chair, met to hear the report on the Department of Human Services Licensing Division’s support to counties. The evaluation subcommittee, which I serve on, met to discuss suggested topics for the Legislative Auditor to review in 2024. You can watch recordings of those meetings here.
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