It’s early in the 2009 session, and the Minnesota Legislature has already taken some serious steps towards fixing the disastrous problems it foisted upon the Green Acres program in 2008. But there’s still a lot of work to do, and calls to lawmakers are needed in coming days to ensure they get the message loud and clear: repeal the 2008 changes now, and fix the program the right way this time. (more…)

This week’s update from lobbyist John Tuma:

“Please Walk on Grass”
-Theodore Wirth, Minneapolis Park Board Sign in the early 1900s*

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by Erick Boustead, RE-AMP Commons coordinator, Fresh Energy

As a new chapter is underway not only for America but for the entire world, the big question is how much can be accomplished before attention spans become strained. Hope is a very powerful feeling, but it can also trick us into becoming ignorant of history and human nature. The past few weeks, however, have been testament that the future we have been fighting tooth and nail for could be well on its way. (more…)

The Saint Paul Pioneer Press reports on an analysis by Conservation Minnesota expressing concern that Gov. Pawlenty’s proposed budget significantly reduces existing conservation funding. The constitutional amendment approved by Minnesota voters last November expressly required the new funding it raised to be in addition to existing funding. So, is the proposed budget inconsistent with the constitution?