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State Representative Andrew Falk
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-4228
For more information contact: Matt Swenson 651-297-8406
NEWS COLUMN
CIVILITY IS NOT A SIGN OF WEAKNESS, IT IS THE STRENGTH OF OUR DEMOCRACY
Each week, I truly enjoy the opportunity to write an update about what is happing at the Minnesota Legislature and how the decisions and policies affect the lives of all Minnesotans. I want to thank you for taking the time to read these updates and for the responses I receive in return. Whether they are questions, comments, thoughts, or opinions, I read each and every one, and as diverse as they are, they are all appreciated. Once again, thank you.
This week however, I want to take a slightly different approach and offer a bit more of a personal editorial about political discourse. Throughout the last two years, much of our nation’s dialogue has been focused on the health care reform debate. In my opinion, the passage and signing into law of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), otherwise known as Federal Health Care Reform, was a monumental step in the right direction. For the first time in our nation’s history, real, enforceable, consumer protections have been instituted to reign in the abuses in the health insurance industry. Is the law perfect? No. But in my opinion the new law does significantly more to improve health care in this country than not. That is my own opinion and I understand if you or other people disagree with me and I personally welcome the debate.
Which brings me to civil debate. That is what our country and our system of government offers. The ability for two or more parties to fundamentally disagree and through shared values and mutual respect, the ability to reach compromise that brings forth the best ideas – which can all be accomplished with civility and respect.
For that reason, I am disappointed and frankly insulted by the tone and conduct of Speaker John Boehner, Majority Leader Eric Cantor, and the GOP members of the US House of Representatives. I respect their right to disagree with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). However, renaming the measure, “The Job-Killing Health Care Law Act" in their motion to repeal the law or commonly using the slang term “Obamacare,” denigrates the fundamental premise of debate and is an insult to our civic process.
The Minnesota House of Representatives and, to my knowledge, every other state legislature, operates under a set of rules known as “Mason’s Manuel of Legislative Procedure.” It is similar, in a sense, to “Robert’s Rules of Order,” which is the book of parliamentary procedure most people recognize. Chapter 13 in Mason’s is titled, “Decorum in Debate,” this chapter specifies the proper and civil way to debate an issue, often times a controversial one, without bringing personalities or invective into the discussion. It is fundamental to our legislative process to have differing viewpoints and strong opinions on the issues; personally, I believe conflict is inherently built into our system of governance. So also is civility. For that reason, I am absolutely ashamed with the lack of decorum by the leadership in the US House of Representatives.
As I’m stepping down from my soapbox, I welcome your thoughts, comments, opinions, and questions on this matter or any matter. All I ask for is civility.
Throughout the weeks and months to come, your input is crucial as the legislature makes decisions that will shape the course of our future and impact the lives of all Minnesotans.
You can reach me by phone at (651) 296-4228 or by email at rep.andrew.falk@house.mn. You can also reach me by mail at 239 State Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155. As always, I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Andrew Falk
State Representative
District 20A
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