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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Rick Hansen (DFL)

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Legislative Update - October 7, 2019

Monday, October 7, 2019

Rep. Hanson

Dear neighbors, 

As I mentioned in my last email, my colleagues and I held a three day mini session in southeastern Minnesota last week. We kept busy with public hearings, committee meetings, and informational tours and presentations.

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On Thursday, we took a boat tour of the Upper Mississippi River. River scientists joined us aboard the Cal Fremling – which Winona State uses as a floating classroom – to discuss invasive species, nutrient and sediment loading, climate change, and other threats to the long-term health of the river.

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Members of the Environment and Natural Resources Committee and the Legacy Committee were able to see firsthand how funds are being used for environmental projects. At Garvin Brook, one of the sites that we visited, Legacy funds were used to restore trout habitat and reduce erosion.

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The two committees also held a joint public hearing to talk about environmental issues and gather community input.

On the Road Again

Despite the rain, I had a great time at On the Road Again this weekend. Eight teams competed in the annual World Championship Booya Cook-off, and I coordinated the judging. The Booya Crew team took home the top prize, but all of the entries were delicious!

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State Auditor Julie Blaha stopped by to try some booya.

Minnesota Values Project

The mini session was one part of our efforts to give more Minnesotans an opportunity to share their thoughts and participate in the legislative process. The Minnesota Values Project, an ongoing partnership between Minnesotans and elected officials, is another piece. We’re working together to create a shared vision for the future of our state, and your input is an important part of this process! Please let us know what’s important to you, your community, and Minnesota by taking a short survey here.

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Legislative Audit Commission

The Legislative Audit Commission, which I chair, met earlier today. We provided an overview of the authority, functions, budget, and staffing of the Office of the Legislative Auditor (OLA) and updates on what the OLA is currently working on. More information is available here.

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

Sincerely, 

Rick Hansen
State Representative