Authored by Senators Frentz, Hawj, Bill Addresses Climate Change, Removes Harmful PFAS Chemicals, Improves State’s Outdoor Spaces
SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic (DFL-Minneapolis) said the Senate has passed an Energy and Environment budget measure that protects Minnesota’s natural resources, reduces pollution, prohibits toxic chemicals in consumer products, and improves the state’s outdoor spaces. It also bolsters Minnesota’s transition to clean, carbon-free energy sources and helps ensure those sources are affordable and reliable for people across the state.
Majority Leader Dziedzic said the bill, passed Thursday, is a priority for the Senate DFL Caucus.
“Minnesotans have always valued our state’s natural resources, our public spaces and keeping our environment clean. With this budget bill, the DFL majority continues to prioritize those long-held values,” said Majority Leader Dziedzic. “We also take on the urgent threat of climate change by investing in ways to reduce our state’s carbon emissions, which is the number one threat to our planet. This measure also supports our move toward a clean-energy future that keeps our energy sources reliable and affordable for people across the state.”
“With the passage of our Energy and Utilities budget bill, the DFL is sending a strong message that outlines the values of our state. We are committed to tackling the generational challenge of climate change with every available option in a well-informed manner,” said Senator Frentz. “The investments made in this bill will smooth our transition to clean energy, reduce our carbon footprint, and strengthen resiliency for homeowners to lower utility costs. Our budget will give Minnesota good footing in the fight against climate change and create a more sustainable future for everyone in our great state.”
“As Minnesotans, we value the health of our environment and its occupants. Our Environment and Climate budget reflects those values,” said Sen. Hawj. “We are taking big steps to reduce pollution and the effects of harmful chemicals, like polyfluoroalkyl, or PFAS, on our populations, maintain our outdoor recreational areas, and ensure that our natural ecosystems are stable and healthy. I am also proud of our omnibus bill’s efforts to address climate change by jumpstarting our transition to clean energy. By taking action and making these critical investments today, we will make future generations proud.”
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