Legislative Updates

A new environmental learning center at Watergate Marina?

update

March 15, 2018

If all goes well at the state Capitol this session, the City of Saint Paul could begin designing a new environmental learning center on the river at Watergate Marina as early as July. >>

Environmental groups release statement on draft groundwater protection rule

update

March 15, 2018

FMR joined eight other conservation organizations in a statement on the state's proposed groundwater protection rule. >>

Governor announces changes to draft Groundwater Protection Rule

update

March 6, 2018

Tuesday, March 6, Gov. Mark Dayton and Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Dave Fredrickson announced revisions to the states proposed groundwater protection rules.

While the final rule language won’t be released for public comment until May, the announcement outlined some major changes to the state’s preliminary draft, with improvements in some areas and major risks to public health and saftey in others. >>

Budget Forecast means $22 million repaid to state’s Clean Water Fund

by Trevor Russell

update

February 28, 2018

The forecast shows a projected budget surplus of $329 million for the 2018-19 biennium. As a result, $22 million will be repaid to the Clean Water Fund to hlep protect our state's waters.

Multiple bills undermine state drinking water protection authority

update

February 27, 2018

We can all agree that clean, safe drinking water should be accessible and affordable for everyone regardless of geography or income. Unfortunately, no fewer than five bills have already been introduced this session that undercut state authority to protect public and private wells from contamination through the 1989 Groundwater Protection Act. >>

Environmental policy & budget defense

primer

February 20, 2018

At FMR, we stand with Minnesotans from all walks of life who believe that clean and healthy rivers, lakes, streams and drinking water supplies must not be compromised for political gain. As the Minnesota Legislature sets to work on its two-year budget, we'll be keeping an eye out for unfair cuts, raids and rollbacks. Learn more and sign up to be a River Guardian to take action when it's needed most. >>

Our 2018 legislative priorities

by Trevor Russell

article

February 12, 2018

Budget uncertainty, election-year politics and a sometimes-heated debate on environment and conservation issues should make for a fascinating legislative session. Here are our priorities for the 2018 session, which kicks off Tuesday, February 20.