Here’s the latest legislative news: July’s New LawsOn July 1, several new policies and investments we passed at the State Capitol this year took effect, including $43 million to improve student literacy. We can make all the investments in education we want, but none of them will be that impactful if our children are falling behind on reading. Other highlights of the new laws taking effect include making sure our driver’s license exams utilize plain language, criminalizing the use of “deep fakes” to influence an election, and investing nearly $80 million in lottery proceeds covering more than 100 projects to protect Minnesota's natural resources. You can read about these new laws and more in this summary of what was enacted on July 1. Lawns to LegumesDo you want your lawn to be more pollinator-friendly? Minnesota residents can now apply for spring 2025 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 habitats in their yards. Applications will be accepted through November 30, 2024. If you previously applied for the program, you must reapply to be considered for spring 2025 funding. Apply online at Blue Thumb’s website. For more information about Lawns to Legumes, visit BWSR’s website. |