Legislative Update

Here’s where major water-related environmental bills and issues stand at the long-delayed conclusion of the 2021 legislative session, including future water train proposals, PFAS and more.  >>

Only July 6, the Senate convened and informed the governor that they would vote to deny confirmation for Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Commissioner Laura Bishop, due to the agency’s support for the Clean Cars Minnesota rulemaking process. In response, Commissioner Bishop announced her resignation shortly thereafter.  >>

As FMR Executive Director Whitney Clark and Congresswoman Betty McCollum recently wrote in the StarTribune:  it’s time for Congress to make the same commitment to the Mississippi River as they have to Puget Sound, Chesapeake Bay, and the Everglades.

Read their commentary and join the call for a new, dedicated federal funding program for our remarkable river! >>

On the final day of the 2021 legislative session, lawmakers agreed to a $52 billion two-year state budget, but the clock ran out before they could pass any meaningful legislation. Here’s where major water-related environmental bills stand as we prepare for a special session.  >>

Earlier this week, the environmental debate at the Legislature crescendoed when the Senate threatened to block the entire Omnibus Environment Bill if Gov. Walz doesn't agree to repeal the Minnesota Pollution Control Agencies’ existing authority to regulate auto emissions.  >>