On the Issues

Environment

Last year Minnesota passed legislation creating some of the strictest renewable energy standards in the country.  This was a huge step in the right direction, however there is much more work that needs to be done.  We can lead the nation in this area through creating environmental policies that improve the environment and create new jobs to support our local economy.

In Minnesota we must further invest in alternative energy resources including wind power, geothermal, and solar to insure the sustainability of our great state and decrease our dependence manufactured energy.

We should further explore tax incentives for individuals and families that practice energy conservation including the purchase of alternative fuel vehicles and the purchase of energy efficient appliances.  We need explore and support businesses that choose to pursue Leadership and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for their facilities.

We must continue to invest mass transit and make commuting on these systems a reality and environmentally conscious option for more Minnesotans.  With continued dependence on foreign oil and congestion on our roads we must increase the system of mass transit to meet the needs of our growing state.

Protection of wetlands, keeping our lakes clean and ensuring our air is not polluted is as important today as it has ever been.  We must insure that these are priorities and continue to make this state a great place to enjoy for our children and future generations to come.