Legislative Update – January 4, 2024
Dear Neighbors,
Today I joined students from the YMCA Youth in Government program during their yearly conference at the State Capitol. The program is an immersive four-day experience which this year includes over 1,300 high school students from across the state learning about state and local issues. I was glad to talk to students about the importance of civic education and involvement.
Kaposia Library Opening
I’m proud to share that Dakota County’s newest county library will open on February 20th in South St. Paul. The Kaposia Library is located at the corner of Marie Avenue and Seventh? Avenue in South St. Paul. The Grand Opening will take place from 5–7 pm. All are welcome!
2023 Legislature Wrap-Up
As a fun way to wrap up the year, MinnPost published a list of notable quotations from the past year at the State Capitol.
The article included two of my quotes, including one of my committee remarks - “I would also invite you all to my district in the summer. Maybe on an 80- or 90-degree day.” - from when I introduced my bill to regulate smells from industrial plants which passed earlier this year.
You can find a good recap of laws that went into effect January 1st here from the Pioneer Press: New Minnesota laws beginning Jan. 1. From our earned sick and safe time program to increased tenant protections, and additional environmental protections, there is a lot of good policy to celebrate going into the new year.
Additional Information
You may have seen recent headlines about ice fishers and others being trapped on the ice across Minnesota. I wanted to share the Department of Natural Resources guide to ice safety as we head into colder weather.
I also wanted to share the DNR’s current rulemaking docket which was recently delivered to the legislature and can be found here, and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s recent report on sustainable waste management and solid waste policy.
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