Governor Tim Walz’s reforms to Minnesota’s clean energy permitting process could make him a key player in national climate policy if Kamala Harris wins the 2024 election.
Jennifer McDermott and Isabella O’Malley report for The Associated Press.
In short:
- Walz signed legislation to streamline permitting for clean energy projects in Minnesota, eliminating some of the biggest bureaucratic hurdles.
- The new law is seen as a model that other states could follow, though replicating it federally may be challenging.
- Walz’s experience with these reforms could shape his role in climate policy if he becomes vice president.
Key quote:
“Any permitting bill that makes it easier to build clean energy infrastructure and getting connected is really vital to all of our climate goals.”
— Ben Pendergrass, vice president of government affairs at Citizens Climate Lobby
Why this matters:
Speeding up the clean energy transition is vital in meeting climate goals. Walz’s legislative experience could be influential in shaping national energy policies.
