Dear Neighbors,
Legislative activity has picked up as we’ve reached the second month of the 2017 session. A fair amount of the work we accomplish is on a bipartisan level, however there’s been a lot of partisan posturing we’re sure to see in the coming months. With that said, I’m committed to working with all of my DFL and GOP colleagues to get the job done.
Here are a few news items from this week:
Preemption in Committee
Last week, the House Jobs Committee and the House Government Operations Committee heard a “preemption” bill that would stop local communities from setting their own policies. For example, this Republican initiative would stop communities from implementing pro-worker policies such as sick leave, family leave, or a higher minimum wage. This legislation will even roll back sick time for 200,000 people working in Saint Paul. This is a continuation of the anti-worker legislation we’ve seen around the country. Minnesotans deserve a fair chance to get ahead and this isn’t it. I came to the Capitol to help people get ahead, not make it even harder for people to get by. I’ll oppose the bill if it comes before me for a vote.
Bills I’m Authoring
I’ve introduced a number of bills this session. They vary in issue, addressing things like transportation, childcare, education, seniors’ medical expenses, environmental and local issues. You can review the full list of bills I have authored here.
Two specific bills of mine were introduced today related to education. The first one, HF 1067 would make it easier for teachers to earn graduate credits so they can teach college courses. High school students are offered opportunities to gain college credit before they even graduate from high school. I was pleased to work with both Republican chairs of the K-12 Education and Higher Education Committees to sign on as co-authors.
The second bipartisan bill, HF 1157 increases the ratio of Minnesota education counselors to students. According to the Minnesota Department of Education, the most current data from 2013-2014 places Minnesota 48th out of 50. Our school counselors assist with a diverse array of student needs. Counselors help assist and guide students with decisions about college and career plans. Mental health cases are also on the rise and it is essential our students have access to support and resources. My bill would ensure the ratio does not exceed a 400:1 student to counselor ratio.
Constituent Visits
Last Thursday, I was honored to meet with K-12 teachers from a local school district. I was grateful they could take the time out of their busy school schedule to come advocate for their students.
Forward this to your Friends and Neighbors
Don’t forget to forward this update to your friends and neighbors so they can keep up with what’s going on at the Capitol. There’s a lot going on here and if people don’t know about it, they won’t be able to have their voices heard on the issues most important to them. People can sign-up for my weekly e-updates here.
As always, please don’t hesitate to contact me with any ideas or comments you may have. I can be reached at 651-296-5510 or by email at rep.connie.bernardy@house.mn.
Sincerely,
Connie Bernardy
State Representative