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

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Legislative Update - February 17, 2021

Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Dear neighbors, 

This morning, Governor Walz announced a plan to allow more middle and high school students to return to the classroom. Starting February 22, all middle schools and high schools can begin welcoming students back for hybrid or in-person learning. The governor expects all schools will offer some form of in-person learning by March 8.  

Safe Learning Models

As the parent of a middle schooler, I know how welcome this news is for many families. We all want kids, teachers, and staff to get back to school safely. More information about the updated Safe Learning Plan is available here.  


New Legislation  

I’ve introduced several new bills lately, including:  

  • HF 953, which requires publicly owned wastewater treatment facilities to notify the public of any discharge that may cause pollution. The treatment plant must inform drinking water facilities and post notices at beaches and other public areas as well.  
  • HF 994, which modifies and strengthens provisions regarding the Office of the Legislative Auditor. 
  • HF 1137, which restructures the Board of Animal Health and modifies the appointment process. This bill ensures that the board isn’t composed entirely of people who work in the industry that they’re meant to oversee. It also takes steps to include Minnesotans from every corner of the state and encourage gender parity.  

Stay in Touch 

Finally, I want to remind you that Rep. Ruth Richardson, Sen. Matt Klein, and I are holding a town hall this weekend. I hope you can join us on Sunday, February 21 at 12 p.m. Please email amanda.pedersen@senate.mn to receive the information you’ll need to join us on Zoom.  

Hansen Town Hall

I hope you’ll stay in touch whether or not you can attend our town hall. You can contact me at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or 651-296-4165.  

Sincerely,  

Rick Hansen  
State Representative