Here’s the latest from St. Paul:
Agriculture Committee Passes Policy Bill
For the last few years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as Chair of the Agriculture Committee. In that time, we’ve increased food access, invested in emerging farmers, and ensured that Minnesota remains at the forefront of innovation.
This year’s hot button issue is addressing the groundwater nitrate contamination in Southeastern Minnesota after a petition was filed to the Environmental Protection Agency. As DFLers we want to make sure communities have access to clean drinking water and continue to address water quality issues throughout the state.
Reminder: Listening Session Today
There is a listening session with the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR). They need your help in determining priorities for spending from the state’s lottery- generated Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) for the next six years. Currently, the ENRTF provides $80-90 million per year for environmental, natural resources, and outdoor recreation projects across Minnesota.
What issues are most important to you? Make your voice heard by attending a public listening session today, April 26, from 5-7 pm at the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation in St. Paul (451 Lexington Parkway North, St. Paul, MN 55104).
This informal, open-house session will be an opportunity to directly talk with LCCMR members and staff. Light refreshments will be provided. The site is easily accessible from the Green Line LRT and bus lines, and free parking is available on-site.
Join us for a conversation on this important matter! Learn more and share your priorities at https://www.legacy.mn.gov/about-funds.
Combatting Junk Fees
I proudly voted in favor of two pieces of legislation that will protect Minnesota consumers from deceptive and unfair business practices by ending junk fees and requiring ticket price transparency.
We are all familiar with buying a ticket to a concert, sports game, or other event and seeing extra “service” and “convenience” fees added that provide no additional value to consumers. DFLers are passing legislation to require fair, transparent ticket prices and other important protections for consumers. Ending these practices is the right thing to do and will help Minnesotans plan and budget better in the future.
Join a State Board, Council, or Committee!
The Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State recently released a notice of vacancies for various state boards, councils and committees that are accepting applications. Any Minnesotans interested in public service are encouraged to apply! There are positions for people from all backgrounds and professions, from cosmetologists to engineers.
You can find the full list of vacancies here.
Free Park Day
Get your hiking boots ready -- Saturday, April 27 is the next free entrance day to all Minnesota parks! Minnesota state parks are open year-round, and there's a state park within 30 miles of most Minnesotans. With a free day in each season, it's a great opportunity to get out there and explore someplace new! Whether you stay for the whole weekend or just spend a few hours outside, you'll make memories that will last a lifetime. So be sure to get out and visit our wonderful parks!
Stay in Touch
Please reach out to my office if you need assistance with anything. I am best reached through email at [email protected] or please contact my Legislative Assistant Jared at [email protected]. I always appreciate hearing from you. You can also follow along on my official Facebook page here.
Sincerely,
Rep. Samantha Vang
651-296-3709
[email protected]
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