Legislative Update – February 7, 2024
Dear neighbors,
Last week I attended the Association of Metropolitan School Districts’ legislative session preview along with my colleague and educator Rep. Mary Frances Clardy. There was a bipartisan panel discussion on issues relating to our schools and how the legislature can ensure every child gets a world-class education in our state.
LCCMR Emerging Issues
The Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR), which I co-chair, met this week to approve funding from our “Emerging Issues Account” to address environmental issues in our state.
We approved a containment and civic engagement program to stop the spread of starry stonewort, which is an aquatic invasive plant, and two projects restoring habitat space in Dakota County.
We also approved a project to reduce turtle mortality using fencing along roadsides. Minnesota has 9 native turtle species, and two are on the threatened species list. This project was tested by the Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Minnesota Zoo and is a common-sense solution to making our roads safer and protecting our reptilian neighbors. You can watch the meeting here.
Electric Vehicle Rebates
Last session we passed an Electric Vehicle Rebate Program allowing residents to receive a rebate of up to $2,500 for a new EV purchase and $600 for a used purchase. Electric cars, plug-ins or hybrids purchased or leased on or after May 25, 2023, are eligible. Applications go live today, February 7th at 10:00 am, and you can find more information at https://mn.gov/evrebates.
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