|
| Date: | April 7, 2011 | | Contact Name: | Susan Closmore | | Contact Phone: | 651-296-5712 | | Contact Email: | susan.closmore@senate.mn | | For Immediate Release | |
|
| SENATOR BENJAMIN KRUSE’S BILL PROTECTING RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY VALUES & SUSTAINING BUSINESSES ALONG MISSISSIPPI CORRIDOR PASSES IN SENATE |
St. Paul – The Minnesota State Senate voted in favor of a bill introduced by Senator Benjamin Kruse (R-Brooklyn Park) that relieves families and businesses of possible regulations set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources by a bipartisan vote of 35 to 28 Thursday. Senator Kruse’s legislation (S.F. 0039) eliminates the rulemaking process for the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area.
"I’m thrilled that my colleagues in the Senate voted in bipartisan support of this important piece of legislation. The Mississippi runs directly through our district. Drafted regulation proposed as a result of the legislation we are repealing would damage residents’ property values and smother businesses. I have received feedback from countless constituents and businesses requesting the repeal of this statute," said Senator Kruse. “I’m committed to returning caretaking of the river corridor to the hands of the people who reside there and cherish it most.”
“The repeal of this 2009 statute would in no way diminishes the current environmental protections. When enacted, this legislation preserves the extensive state and local regulations that would continue to protect this precious natural resource. I am hopeful Governor Dayton will join me in supporting the families and businesses who have built their lives on the Mississippi.”
The legislature passed a law in 2009 that directed the DNR to establish rules and regulations for the Mississippi River Corridor. The Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area stretches from the City of Ramsey to southeastern Dakota County and has a direct impact on the residents and businesses in Senator Kruse’s district.
Senator Kruse was elected to his first term in November 2010. He serves Brooklyn Park, Champlin and Coon Rapids. Senator Kruse can be reached at: 651-296-4154 (office) or sen.benjamin.kruse@senate.mn.
