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Dear neighbors,
Thank you to everyone who joined Rep. Richardson, Sen. Klein, and me for our virtual town hall this weekend. If you weren’t able to participate, a video of the event is available here. Feel free to contact me directly if you have any questions or comments.
Today is the second day of the Youth Climate Justice Summit, a youth-led event organized by Climate Generation. It was a pleasure to discuss climate change solutions with young Minnesotans from our area – including my son.
COVID-19 Vaccine Connector
A new tool is available to help Minnesotans find out when, where, and how to get vaccinated. The COVID-19 Vaccine Connector will let you know when you’re eligible to receive a vaccine, connect you to resources to schedule a vaccine appointment, and notify you if there are vaccine opportunities in your area. Signing up is free and easy, and you don’t need insurance or identification. You can sign up online at mn.gov/vaccineconnector. If you aren’t able to sign up online or need translation assistance, you can call 833-431-2053.
Advancing Legislation
Two of my bills were heard in the House Ways and Means Committee earlier this week. One (HF 151) invests $70.8 million from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund in critical projects across the state. The other (HF 29) designates a bridge on Highway 52 in West St. Paul as “Private Joseph Marthaler Memorial Bridge.” Private Marthaler was killed in action during World War II. I’m happy to report that the committee voted to advance both bills, which means they’re ready to be heard on the House floor.
Last week, a broad coalition of Minnesotans joined legislators to introduce a bill that allows all residents to earn a driver’s license regardless of their immigration status. The bill (HF 1163) will make roads safer for everyone and boost our economy. Most importantly, it will help immigrants live with dignity, work, and take care of their families. I’m proud to be a co-author of this bill and excited to see it advance this session.
Here are some of the notable bills that I’ve introduced since my last legislative update:
- HF 1294, which strengthens water-use permit requirements and requires holding a public meeting before issuing certain permits.
- HF 1318, which expedites the process for replacing a Social Security card.
- HF 1371, which would help the City of South St. Paul preserve the historic gatehouses that once led to the Armour meatpacking plant. Under this bill, the gates would be relocated instead of being demolished to open up space for developers. You can read the Star Tribune’s recent article about the Armour gates if you’d like to learn more.
If you have any questions, ideas, or feedback, don’t hesitate to email me at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or give me a call at 651-296-6828. I always appreciate hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative
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