Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty today appointed Tom Hanson as Federal Stimulus Coordinator for the State of Minnesota. Hanson serves as Commissioner of Minnesota Management and Budget.

Hanson’s responsibilities in the role include coordinating efforts among Minnesota state agencies and boards to identify the most efficient uses of federal stimulus funds, overseeing accountability measures related to the stimulus, and working with the state’s federal affairs office in Washington, D.C. to coordinate with the state’s congressional delegation.

“While the federal stimulus package hasn’t yet been finalized, we will be prepared to use any funds provided to Minnesota efficiently and effectively,” Governor Pawlenty said. “As state government’s point person on the budget, Commissioner Hanson works closely with agencies, legislators and our federal partners and is best suited to oversee these efforts.”

Hanson was appointed Commissioner of Management and Budget in December 2006. He was previously deputy chief of staff and director of legislative and cabinet affairs to Governor Tim Pawlenty. He has more than 20 years of experience in government, with approximately 15 years working in Minnesota state government.

Hanson graduated from Concordia College Magna Cum Laude in 1985 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History with Business and Political Science minors. He earned his Juris Doctorate from George Mason University School of Law in 1993 and is admitted to practice in Minnesota. He is a native of Mahnomen and currently lives in Maple Grove with his wife and son.