Dear Neighbors, Happy Fall! It’s officially the season of changing colors, one of my favorite times of the year. Each year, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources compiles a “fall color finder” so you can track the best times and spots to catch the peak colors in our area or anywhere across the state. It’s a fun way to enjoy the season and plan your next outdoor adventure before the snow flies.  Inver Grove Heights Water UpdateI’ve received several inquiries about the water quality in Inver Grove Heights. The City continues to partner with the Minnesota Department of Health and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to track radium levels in the water in Inver Grove Heights. Traces of radium are still evident, per a June 20 test, but the city has shared that residents don’t need to take any special precautions at this time unless individuals are advised otherwise by their medical providers. I continue to monitor the situation and am staying connected with the city and the state to ensure our drinking water is safe for everyone. Driver's License Eligibility Expands October 1Beginning October 1st, more of our neighbors will be able to earn a driver’s license regardless of immigration status as a result of legislation we passed early this year. This law reverses the short-sighted 2003 law prohibiting those without U.S. citizenship status from obtaining a driver’s license in Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Driver Vehicle Services has a wide variety of information on its website, including step-by-step guides in multiple languages outlining what is needed to take the written test and behind-the-wheel test, and how to schedule those appointments. Bottom line: getting a driver’s license is a privilege, and requires the same rules everyone must abide by to prove they can legally drive. Minnesota statute also requires ALL drivers to be insured. Please don’t hesitate to contact my office if you have questions or need assistance.  Keep in TouchPlease continue to contact me anytime at rep.mary.frances.clardy@house.mn.gov or 651-296-3533 with questions or input. I appreciate your engagement and ideas. Thank you for the honor of representing our neighbors at the State Capitol! Forward, Mary Frances Clardy
State Representative |