[ST. PAUL, MN] - Governor Tim Walz today appointed Laura Bishop, Commissioner of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, as Chair of the Environmental Quality Board (EQB). The EQB is made up of nine agency heads and eight citizen members and must be led by a cabinet member. In addition to other duties, it provides leadership and coordination across agencies on priority environmental issues that are multi-jurisdictional, and multi-dimensional, as well as provide for opportunities for public access and engagement.

“The Environmental Quality Board is an important platform for state leadership and coordination on emerging environmental issues,” said Governor Tim Walz. “It’s a place where the public can have direct access to state agency leaders and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of Minnesota’s environment and its connection to health and community prosperity.”

“In her role as Chair, Commissioner Bishop will help set the agenda for the EQB and connect with audiences and collaborators around the state,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “The Governor and I plan to rotate the Chair appointment throughout our term to ensure that the public benefits from a diversity of leadership voices, styles, and perspectives stewarding the work and vision of the EQB.”

“I’m excited to collaborate with Citizen Board Members from across the state and state agency colleagues to take full advantage of EQB as a public engagement platform and a forum for interagency coordination,” said Commissioner Laura Bishop. “The cross section of expertise on the Board allows for innovative approaches to the challenges and opportunities we face in protecting Minnesota’s environment.”

All EQB meetings are open to the public. For more information about EQB meetings and how the public can participate, please visit www.eqb.state.mn.us.