Legislative update - November 8, 2019

Dear neighbors, 

Across Minnesota, deer hunters are embarking on the statewide firearms season opener this weekend. I wish you, your family, and friends a happy, safe, and successful outing! 

Legislative Audit Commission Executive Subcommittee

On November 7, I participated in a meeting of the Legislative Audit Commission’s Executive Subcommittee. During the meeting, we considered the appointment of Legislative Auditor and Deputy Legislative Auditors. The Committee also reviewed the performance evaluation process. You can watch a full video replay here. 

Neonicotinoids and Minnesota's deer population 

Earlier this week, the Pioneer Press published a story about the potential impact of neonicotinoids on our state’s deer population. Starting this weekend, DNR researchers will begin collecting spleen samples from whitetail deer and test them for the presence of the common insecticide. “There’s been a lot of research done on pollinators, so we know those effects,” says Eric Michel, the DNR’s farmland deer project leader who’s part of Minnesota’s new effort. “This is one step of us trying to be cutting edge and be on top of the game in managing the deer herd.” You can read more about this initiative here. 

Deadline for High School Page Program application is approaching

Over the last 40 years the High School Page Program has been dedicated to providing participants with hands-on access to our state government in action. Modeled after the United States Congress Page Program, the Minnesota House of Representatives High School Page Program was established in 1975. Today, the program remains dedicated to providing students with meaningful opportunities and has evolved into one of the top page programs in the nation. High School Page Program participants are exposed to a wide variety of experiences, designed to provide them with a deep understanding of our state government.

The deadline to apply is November 21. Learn more and download an application here. 

As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions or feedback.

Sincerely, 

Rick Hansen

State Representative