Legislative Update – July 31, 2023
Dear Neighbors,
Neighborhoods in our community and across the nation will gather at block parties tomorrow for Night to Unite. This annual event, also known as National Night Out, strengthens the bonds that allow our communities to succeed. I hope you will be able to get out and participate, it’s a great opportunity to visit with neighbors and meet local law enforcement officers and first responders.
Last week, I was glad to visit the opening of the Minnesota Zoo’s new Treetop Trail! This project has been years in the making and was supported by the legislature and the Environment Committee, which I chair. We saw caribou, tigers and more!
Odor Management Law and Public Feedback
Minnesota does not currently have odor management rules for ambient air. This year, the legislature passed my bill prohibiting objectionable odors and requiring the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to create odor management plans and testing based on odor complaints.
The new rules will require the development and submittal of an odor management plan by facilities located in Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, or Washington counties when determined by the MPCA commissioner that the facility emitted an objectionable odor. As residents of our district know, this has long been an issue and I am proud we are taking steps forward.
I am glad to share that the MPCA has launched its Odor Rulemaking Webpage. They also will be taking public feedback, comments, and suggestions that will help guide the 2024 legislative session. I urge you to share your thoughts with them here.
Pool 2 Fishing Health Notice
This morning, I received word from the Minnesota Department of Health, Pollution Control Agency, and Department of Natural Resources, that Certain people should avoid eating fish caught in two water bodies in the Twin Cities metro area, due to elevated levels of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in the Mississippi River from the Ford Dam in St. Paul to Hastings Dam (known as Pool 2) and Lake Rebecca near Hastings.
People who should avoid eating fish from these locations include children under age 15, people who are or could become pregnant, and those who are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. You can find more information here.
Stay in Touch
Please continue to share your questions, ideas, and feedback throughout the year. You can reach me by email at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-6828. You can contact my legislative assistant Sam O'Neill at 651-296-3305 or via email at samuel.oneill@house.mn.gov.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative