Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Like many of you, I’ve had a busy couple weeks leading up to the holidays. I know I’m ready for a few quiet days with my family to unwind. Before you head out for your Christmas celebrations, here’s a quick update from St. Paul.
CARE Act
On Monday, I joined my fellow House Republicans for a press conference to unveil a package of proposals aimed at improving the quality of life for Minnesota's aging adults. Titled the CARE Act, these reforms will build on the historic, bipartisan efforts in 2015 to assist our aging population around the state.
The demographics of Minnesota are changing and elderly care must be reformed to provide the kind of flexibility needed to keep pace with this shift. These proposed policy changes aim to improve options in health care, financial security, housing, transportation, nutrition, and careers for Minnesota’s growing population of aging adults. If you have any suggestions of ways to improve elderly care in our state, please don’t hesitate to contact my office.
REAL ID
You may have heard in the news that Minnesota was not granted an extension by the Department of Homeland Security to become REAL ID compliant. Although we did not receive an extension, Minnesotans can still board commercial airplanes without worry. DHS must provide 120 days’ notice prior to the enforcement of this policy, meaning the earliest this could be an issue is in April 2016. If you and your family are flying for the holidays, rest assured, you will be able to fly with your current identification card. This is an important issue and I am committed to making sure REAL ID does not become a headache for families who are traveling in the coming months.
Around Town
Recently, I spoke to my fellow winter 2015 University of Minnesota graduates at our commencement ceremony. Graduation was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate with my family and friends, but to also encourage my fellow graduates that our work as innovators and problem-solvers is just beginning.
Just last week, I was honored to tour the Gentle Doctor Veterinary Clinic in our area. I’d like to thank Dr. Jenny Aldridge for showing me around! It was eye-opening to see some of the issues she faces as both a veterinarian and a small business owner.
On Monday, I joined a number of other legislators in Willmar for the groundbreaking ceremony of a Poultry Testing Lab. Farmers across our state were hurt this year because of Avian Flu. This new facility will lead the fight against this disease that has caused so much hardship throughout Minnesota.
Merry Christmas
Christmas Eve is already tomorrow and I’d like to wish you and your family a joyous Christmas. I hope you have big plans to spend time with those closest to you.
Although we are approaching the holidays, please continue to contact my office with any questions or suggestions. You can reach me at (651) 296-4212 or rep.drew.christensen@house.mn.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Drew