Legislative Update – May 6, 2026
Dear neighbors,
We’re two weeks away from the end of the 2026 Legislative Session, which means long floor sessions as we negotiate, debate, and pass bills that can find the bipartisan support we need in a tied House.
On Monday we were on the floor until 10:00pm and passed over a dozen bills. One bill I co-authored that would help increase school funding, without raising individual or property taxes, via the state’s School Land Trust Fund through a Constitutional Amendment that hopefully voters will consider this fall.
This is a smart, bipartisan bill that will give our schools more stability going forward, and it passed on a 133-0 vote. You can read more about the proposal here.
I was glad to meet with Lilly Anne Miller, the executive director of Visit Inver Grove Heights! alongside Rep. Mary Frances Clardy to discuss how we can strengthen our region and support our local small businesses.
Environment Trust Fund Bill
Another bill we passed recently is the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund bill, which uses $102 million from state lottery proceeds to fund 108 projects around the state to preserve and improve our environment and natural resources.
From outdoor education and recreation to land and water management and dealing with current issues like PFAS and chronic wasting disease, the Environment and Natural Resources Trust fund continues to be one of the most important sources of dedicated funding for our great outdoors.
Local Events
This Thursday, join neighbors in beautifying the banks of the Mississippi River in South St. Paul. Gloves, recycle and garbage bags will be provided. Registration will take place starting at 5:00 pm at the Spiral Bridge by Grand and Hardman Avenues. Learn more here.
If you’re free on Saturday, May 16th, consider taking part in Plant-a-Thon! Plant-a-Thon is a joint effort between the City of South St. Paul and Tree Trust to plant 76 new boulevard trees on 5th and 6th Avenue! No prior tree-planting experience is needed to participate in this event. Learn more 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.
For more regular updates, you can subscribe to these regular legislative updates if you haven’t already, here, and you can also “like” and follow my official State Representative Facebook page.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative