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State Representative Rick Hansen
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-6828
For more information contact: Matt Swenson 651-297-8406
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SPECIAL SESSION DELIVERS ON DISASTER RELIEF
ST. PAUL – Earlier this week, the Minnesota House unanimously passed a disaster relief package focused on flood-stricken communities in southeastern Minnesota. In a one-day special session legislators passed the largest flood relief package in our state's history.
"This special session delivered relief to communities that have been asking for help and leadership," said Rep. Karla Bigham. "We needed to get this bill done. We should have done it sooner, not three weeks later. Citizens in southeastern Minnesota are relieved that help is finally on the way."
$157 million in cash and loans is now available to help businesses and homeowners rebuild and pay for road and bridge repairs as well as replace drinking water systems.
"17 inches of rain can do a lot of damage in one day," said Rep. Rick Hansen. "The victims of this disaster needed our help, and I'm glad we came together as Minnesotans to lend a helping hand."
Rep. Joe Atkins agreed, "When our neighbors need us, we step up. It’s just what Minnesotans do. It’s who we are."
An additional $55 million was also included in the bill for rebuilding the Interstate 35W bridge and $5.3 million in disaster relief for Browns Valley, Crookston and other areas affected by earlier floods and central Minnesota drought. We made the flood-relief bill as flexible as possible so that state agencies and local governments can expedite the fund efficiently.
"Coming together in the way we did to pass this legislation showed that government works and does what it is supposed to do. We made a solid downpayment on a rebuilding effort that may require additional resources in the future," said Bigham. "I would like to see more bipartisan efforts deliver on important issues to Minnesota and South St. Paul – property tax relief and a comprehensive transportation package. No more missed opportunities for Minnesota."
News Items
- Rep. Rick Hansen chosen as leader of Great Lakes Legislative Caucus - (Posted: Dec 27 2012 8:34AM)
- Need Holiday Gifts? Consider DNR Gift Cards - (Posted: 2012-11-27 00:00:00)
- Looking Forward to Serving, Getting the Job Done - (Posted: 2012-11-14 00:00:00)
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