friends and neighbors,
Last week, the Senate debated and debated several bills. The largest bills, the Environmental Policy Omnibus Bill and the Higher Education Policy Omnibus Bill, were thoroughly discussed and briefly outlined in this newsletter. Since this is just a quick review, we highly recommend checking your invoice through the link provided to learn more about what's included. You can also find recordings of floor debates on the Senate YouTube website by simply searching the web for the bill. If you need help finding information, please contact us. We will be happy to assist you.
recently passed legislation
Environmental policy omnibus bill
While this bill addresses many aspects of the environment, one of the big concerns at the forefront for Minnesotans is regarding the wolf population. Minnesota hunters, farmers and residents have expressed concern about how the exploding wolf population threatens deer populations, cattle and pets.
There was a lot of discussion on both sides of this issue. However, although wolves were once nearly extinct until they were protected by the Endangered Species Act in 1970, Minnesota's wolf population grew to about 2,400 in the late '90s. This nearly doubles the federal government's goal of delisting gray wolves. We have successfully protected and maintained wolf populations effectively over the past several decades. Like many of you, I believe it's time to start managing wolves like we do with deer, bear, and other wildlife populations. I know there are passionate and dedicated people on both sides of this issue, but the decision to allow wolf hunting in Minnesota to maintain ecological balance is supported by science. . Unfortunately, Democrats voted against this amendment and it did not pass.
We look forward to working with the DNR to ensure a balance between our human and natural environments so that we can all live well and nature can continue to thrive. I voted for the environment bill.
higher education
Although there was a bipartisan effort on this bill, I believe it fell far short of what it should have been, and I could not vote for it on principle alone.
There are two major issues with this bill, and Senate Republicans have introduced amendments that will allow me to consider them. They want to 1) bring equity to eligible students by expanding the North Star Promise program to private schools in the state, and 2) ensure that free college benefits are legally available in Minnesota. It was to ensure that it was only offered to in-state students. These amendments will ensure that students receive assistance (if they qualify) no matter which school they choose. It would also ensure that Minnesota tax dollars are focused first on educating Minnesota children and families. Both amendments were defeated on party-line votes by the DFL. Because of these fundamental differences, I voted against this bill.
Other bills passed
HF 3436 – Omnibus Transport Policy
HF 3589 – Surrogate jurisdiction in judicial proceedings related to trust provisions
SF 4579 – Changes in regulations and regulations for single meter utility service in residential buildings
HF 3631 – Modification of other capital project allocations
HF 3454 – Minnesota National Guard Referral Bonus Program for Referrals Leading to Enlistment or Commissioning Facility Authorization
HF 3071 – Plain Language Driver Manual and Written Examination Working Group and Budget Creation
contact me
Please feel free to contact us. I truly believe that your feedback will make me a better legislator. Email Sen.Mark.Koran@mnsenate.gov or 651-296-5419. My legislative assistant Melissa in her field is also a great resource if you need assistance.Contact her at Melissa.Field@mnsenate.gov or 651-296-6200.
We look forward to seeing you in the community soon!
Sincerely,
Mark W. Colan
Minnesota State Senate, District 28
