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On May 19, 2026, Minnesota Governor Sarah Reynolds signed into law a groundbreaking piece of climate action legislation that positions the state as a leader in the fight against climate change. The bill, known as the Minnesota Climate Action and Resiliency Act (MCARA), sets ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and building resilience to the impacts of climate change.Under the new law, Minnesota commits to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The state will also phase out the use of coal-fired power plants by 2035 and prioritize the development of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. In addition, the MCARA establishes a Climate Resiliency Fund to support communities in preparing for and adapting to the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events and sea-level rise.Governor Reynolds, who made combating climate change a central theme of her campaign, hailed the passage of the MCARA as a historic moment for Minnesota. In a statement issued after signing the bill, she said, "Today, we have taken a bold step towards a more sustainable and resilient future for our state. By setting aggressive targets for reducing emissions and investing in clean energy, we are not only protecting our environment but also creating jobs and boosting our economy."The MCARA has received widespread support from environmental advocates, renewable energy companies, and community organizations. Jennifer Martinez, the Executive Director of the Minnesota Environmental Alliance, praised the legislation as a "game-changer" in the fight against climate change. "With the passage of the MCARA, Minnesota is showing the rest of the country that ambitious climate action is not only necessary but achievable," Martinez said.The signing of the MCARA comes at a time when the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly visible in Minnesota, from more frequent heatwaves to more intense storms. The new law represents a major step forward in the state's efforts to combat these impacts and build a more sustainable future for all Minnesotans.