Dear Neighbors,
3M Bill Signed Into Law
Earlier this week, Governor Dayton signed our bill, HF3660, into law. The legislation, which I co-authored, ensures public transparency and guardrails for the $850 million 3M settlement. We want to make sure these funds are used in our area so we can have the drinking water quality that our residents deserve.
I’m happy to see this bill signed and to know that the areas that need it most will receive funds from the settlement. I want to thank our local officials and my fellow legislators for working tirelessly on behalf of east metro residents. This is great news for our district.
Bonding Bill Becomes Law
On Wednesday, our bonding proposal was signed into law. This will be a big help statewide, and also includes projects in our area. Now signed by the governor, we’ll see funding from a bill I authored for the Seidl’s Lake stormwater lift station. Another important part of our bonding bill is nearly $9.5 million to fund the HERO Center in Cottage Grove. My friend and colleague, Rep. Tony Jurgens, authored this bill, and I was one of the co-authors. The HERO Center would be a big addition to our area to help train first responders.
Another critical part of the bill is $25 million to make safety improvements to Minnesota schools. I’ve been advocating all session for increased school safety measures, so it’s good to see these funds become law.
Highlights of the bonding portion of the bill as presented to the governor include:
- $178 million asset preservation
- $123 million for water-related projects
- $20 million for flood work
- $208 million for higher education construction
- $541 million for transportation
- $32 million for veterans homes in Preston, Bemidji, and Montevideo
- $28 million for mental health crisis centers
Please Contact Me
I’ve enjoyed hearing your thoughts and ideas this session, and thank you for all of your calls and emails. Now that we’re done with session, I’ll be back in the district and encourage you to contact my office so we can set up a time to meet.
Have a great weekend,
Keith