Dear Neighbors,
The first month of the 2017 legislative session is already behind us. Here’s an update on what’s been happening at the Capitol:
MSFA Legislative Audit Report
On Tuesday, a Legislative Audit Report was discussed in a joint House and Senate State Government Finance Committee regarding the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority’s usage of U.S. Bank’s two box suites. This report was conducted after allegations were made that public officials misused these suites. You can read the full report here.
After reviewing these findings and recommendations, I signed on to a bill that expands the ban on gifts for public officials to prohibit individuals and private associations from giving preferential admission for events held in publicly-owned facilities.
In early January, I was appointed to the Commission on Minnesota Sports Facilities. In this role, I look forward reviewing more specific policies and proposals to address these findings and comply with the recommendations of the Legislative Auditor.
Senior Fraud Prevention Legislation
I’ve renewed efforts to bring forward a bipartisan bill I authored last year, which would create a statewide education and outreach program to protect vulnerable adults, seniors and caregivers from financial exploitation. This type of abuse is a growing threat to our parents, grandparents and elderly loved ones. You may recall reading in the Star Tribune last fall about the financial advisor who swindled an 88-year old man with Alzheimer’s out of more than $200,000.
I will continue to advocate for our seniors and work with my colleagues to get the bill heard in committee. HF 879 has been referred to the Commerce and Regulatory Reform Committee.
Please always feel free to contact me on any legislative topic. I appreciate your input.
Sincerely,
Paul