Dear Neighbors,
It looks like we are in for quite the stretch of cold weather over the next couple of weeks. Be sure to stay warm when you head outside. Rember, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!
If you are having trouble keeping your home warm, we are under Minnesota’s cold weather rule meaning your heat cannot be shut off if you meet certain requirements. In addition here is some info on energy assistance.
Energy Assistance Program Increased Benefits
The Department of Commerce recently announced an increase in the benefit available to Minnesota homeowners and renters facing heating emergencies this winter. The Energy Assistance Program more than doubled the maximum crisis benefit from $600 to $1,500, helping eligible homeowners and renters avoid the anxiety of a nearly empty fuel tank. Funding for the increase is part of a $1 billion federal resolution passed in September.
To request an Energy Assistance Program application or to find local service providers, visit this site or call 800-657-3710, option 1.
I happened upon some pheasant tracks while walking across the land one frigid evening.
Chronic Wasting Disease Article
CWD is a major threat to our natural environment and it's my hope we can make serious progress in fighting it this year. In particular we need a moratorium on all new deer farms and need to further regulate farms that are currently in operation. Check out this article covering what we can expect this year around deer farms and their role in spreading CWD.
Committee Assignments
I’m honored to have been appointed chair of the House Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee this coming session. I’m very grateful that Speaker Hortman has entrusted me with this critical committee once again. Minnesotans value our environment a great deal and I will run the committee knowing that these issues are a top priority for our state. With the DFL trifecta we have an opportunity to enact long lasting protections to ensure future generations can enjoy the same environmental benefits we do.
I’ll also serve on the Agriculture, Capital Investment, and State and Local Government committees. I look forward to working on these committees to support our local needs. You can find the full committee rosters here.
Stay in Touch
If you have any questions or feedback for me, please feel free to email me at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or call (651) 296-6828. I always appreciate hearing from constituents!
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative