Dear Neighbors,
Here is an update from St. Paul.
Autocycle Legislation
Earlier this week in the House Transportation Committee, my legislation to create a new vehicle category of autocycles was heard. Vehicles like the Polaris Slingshot which have three wheels currently require a motorcycle license to operate. I would change that to only require a Minnesota driver's license.
Right now, the problem is that if a person who did not previously have a motorcycle license purchased a three-wheeled vehicle, current DMV motorcycle courses aren't built to accommodate that type of vehicle for the test. I am working with the Department of Public Safety and examining federal requirements and similar statutes in other states to make this common sense change to Minnesota law.
Steelworkers and Unemployment Insurance Legislation
On Thursday, the House passed legislation to offer relief to steelworkers and provide a boost for small businesses so they can reinvest and hire more people across the state.
The first part of the bill extends unemployment benefits for eligible out-of-work Iron Range steelworkers for an additional 26 weeks. It also proclaims that mining is an important part of a diversified Minnesota economy.
The second part of the bill right-sizes our overfunded Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund which is currently sitting at about $1.5 billion. By crediting the businesses who pay into this by approximately $258 million, we reduce the future obligations of businesses to help them save money so they can hire, expand and grow in their communities. Also important to note, this bill has no General Fund impact.
As the governor continues to place roadblocks to economic growth in Greater Minnesota like his recent moves to stop the Twin Metals mining project, the House is passing legislation that is committed to improving the economic outlook on the Iron Range and across our state.
National Ag Week
March 13-19th is National Ag Week, and it's a great time to celebrate all the contributions that agriculture and farmers have made to our state and nation.
Minnesota has nearly 75,000 farms across the state, and we rank first in the nation for sugar beet and turkey production. A vast majority of our farms are family or individually owned, and I am thankful for their contributions to our strong rural economy.
So during National Ag Week, if you see a farmer, don't forget to thank them for their hard work!
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My door is always open to the needs and priorities of our area. Please feel free to let me know if I can be of assistance to you and your family. I am here to serve you!
Dan
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