WC Minnesota News

The Minnesota Senate has passed legislation that will make environmental protections a priority in the state, according to a press release from the Minnesota Senate Republican Caucus. 

Sen. Carrie Ruud (R-Breezy Point) is strongly supporting the bill, which is authored by Sen. Bill Ingebrigtsen (R-Alexandria). 

“The LCCMR does great work to protect and preserve our state’s precious environment and natural resources,” Ruud said in the press release. “I am disappointed that we could not get this funding passed this year, but I remain committed to advocating for the LCCMR’s projects to conserve the resources we often take for granted while providing jobs and opportunities for countless Minnesotans.”

The bill includes $62 million for a Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources project and a smart Salt Applicator Program Establishment training program, which will help ensure salt deicer isn't overused. 

“We know chloride deicer is the best way to keep our roads and sidewalks safe,” Ruud said in the press release from the Minnesota Senate Republican Caucus. “When used sparingly, it can be effective without damage. Too much chloride though is devastatingly toxic to our watersheds, lakes and drinking water. We have to ‘Stop Over Salting (SOS)’. One teaspoon of salt permanently pollutes five gallons of water. That is why this training is so important. We can protect our water and keep people safe at the same time. Education is a great start, and I will keep advocating to keep our lakes, wetlands, wildlife, and water clean!”