Gov. Tim Walz Signs Executive Order On Climate Change

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says the time of waiting and debating are over, and action on climate change is needed.

On Monday morning, Walz signed an executive order to create a Climate Change Subcabinet and the Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change, which he says will bring state government agencies together to "implement bold, collaborative action on climate change."

"Tackling climate change requires bold thinking and collaboration. The Climate Change Subcabinet will work across state government to create strategies that will mitigate the changes," Walz said. "Climate change threatens the very things that make Minnesota a great place to live—from our wonderful lakes to farmable land and clean air."

Walz says the state's 2007 Next Generation Energy Act has fallen short of reaching goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. So, the Subcabinet will be tasked with identifying policies and strategies that will put the state back on track to meet or exceed those goals.

"This executive order takes Minnesota to the next level of action against the devastating effects of climate change," said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. "We can only combat climate change if we do it together. This subcabinet will help ensure our Administration works collaboratively across agencies, includes the voices of Minnesotans of all backgrounds, and uses every tool available to tackle climate change head on for our children and generations into the future."

It will require new emission standards for vehicles being sold in Minnesota. Also, it will encourage a transition over to electric vehicles.

Walz says the Subcabinet will also expand on other work being implemented, like the proposal to lead Minnesota to 100% clean energy by 2050.

The Advisory Council will be made up of 15 members appointed by Walz and will advise the Subcabinet in its duties.