Skip to main content Skip to office menu Skip to footer
Capital IconMinnesota Legislature

Legislative News and Views - Rep. Todd Lippert (DFL)

Back to profile

Legislative Update - December 18, 2019

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

Rep. Lippert

Dear Neighbors,

Happy Holidays to you and yours! I hope you have the opportunity to spend time with family and friends as we celebrate this season and look forward to the new year.

Happy Holidays

The 2020 Legislative Session is fast approaching, and here’s an update on what we’ll be working towards.

 

Minnesota’s Budget Forecast

The recent budget forecast from Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) brought with it some mixed news for our state. While Minnesota’s economy is doing well, and the projected balance is at $1.3 billion, there are several factors to be considered when planning for our work next year.

When taking inflation into account, which is as high as $1 billion, along with other economic factors like changing federal trade policies, an excess of unfilled jobs, and potential economic slowdown, it becomes clear that caution will be key when legislating for Minnesota’s future. Minnesotans want us to continue to work for the things they value, like improving education, making health care affordable, empowering our workforce and updating our infrastructure. We can do all of these things with smart, responsible policies and investments.

You can see the specifics of MMB’s forecast here, or read MPR’s coverage. There will be another budget forecast in February when session begins.

 

Taking Action on Climate Change

Climate change is one of the largest issues facing our society, and with Minnesota being one of the fastest warming states in the station, we should be leading the charge on combatting this crisis. This year, we saw thousands of students march on the Capitol calling for action on climate change, and my colleagues and I formed the House Climate Action Caucus in response. This is an issue that’s going to take bold action at all levels of government, and to that end Governor Walz and our colleagues in the Minnesota Senate recently formed their own coalitions on this issue. It’s the kind of momentum we need going into the 2020 Legislative Session to protect our planet for future generations.

Climate Action Caucus Logo

Our work in the House during the interim included informational hearings on how climate change impacts various policy areas, including transportation, housing, and public health. Our next meeting on January 12 will cover the impact of climate change on Minnesota’s environment. You can find more information on the Climate Action Caucus, including updates and a meeting schedule, on our website. For more on our work on climate change, you can read my op-ed from last month.

 

Soil & Water Conservation

Last week, I was honored to be recognized as the Legislator of the Year by the Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD). SWCDs do such important work, and I look forward to our continued partnership in building soil health and protecting water quality, which are both key factors in a healthy, strong, and prosperous Minnesota.

Lippert

You can learn more about your local SCWD here.

 

Program Applications

There are two great outdoor-oriented programs that are currently accepting applications. The first is the No Child Left Inside grant application, which aims to get more of Minnesota’s children outdoors. There was an overwhelming response for Phase I with more than 400 applications, and a new wave of grants are now available. Preference is given to projects that propose new and innovative ways to serve youth who have limited outdoor opportunities. The grants are open to public entities and nonprofit organizations serving youth. Applications are due by 2pm, Thursday, Jan. 9. You can find more information and apply here.

The other is the Lawns to Legumes program. Pollinator-friendly plants are crucial for Minnesota’s environment, and this program helps Minnesotans create these pollinator habitats in their own backyards! Applications, workshop information, and plant guides are available here. The deadline to apply is February 28.

 

Stay In Touch!

We’ll be back in session on February 11, and as I prepare for our return to St. Paul, I want to hear from you. Please reach out with any questions, comments, or ideas leading up to and during the legislative session. I believe our work at the Capitol is made better when it’s open and collaborative. You can contact me at (651) 296-0171 or rep.todd.lippert@house.mn. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, 

Todd Lippert