Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The series didn’t start the way we wanted, but I’d like to wish our Minnesota Wild good luck in the playoffs; beat the Stars!
With the weather in full spring mode, we welcome the conclusion of winter and fully embrace our 70 degree days! Enjoy the awesome weather this weekend.
Here are the highlights from week six at our Capitol:
- Real ID Bill – Hearing on DPS Report
- Fireworks Passes on the House Floor
- Supplemental Budgets
Real ID Bill – Hearing this week about Department of Public Safety Report
The Governor signed the first Real ID bill that I authored and with that becoming law, the Department of Public Safety presented their report about what Real ID compliance needs to look like to satisfy the federal law. The report was completed this week, and a comprehensive hearing was held to discuss their findings. I am taking information from that report and incorporating it with other ideas for the second Real ID bill that will be introduced shortly.
The benefit of the Real ID license option for our state is we will be able to fly on commercial aircraft. In addition, the Department of Homeland Security told us they are close to completing our extension application. There’s no need to worry about flying on an airplane with your current ID; we’re taking care of it. Please contact me directly if you have any questions or concerns about this important legislation.
Fireworks Bill – Passed the House Floor
I was proud to support the fireworks bill that allows for fireworks sales in Minnesota around the 4th of July. This bill gives cities and townships the authority to prohibit the sale or use of fireworks if they choose. Some studies show our state loses about $5 million in sales tax revenue to other states because we don’t sell fireworks. This bill supports consumer freedom, and could create jobs and help Minnesota’s economy.
Supplemental Budgets
There has been considerable discussion this week about the supplemental budgets that were released in some committees. In the even years of the biennium, supplemental budgets are needed if an area is underfunded from last year’s funding. House Republicans proposed a budget with no net increase. We can fund roads and bridges and provide tax relief without hurting your family’s budget.
If you are able to visit the Capitol, please contact me so we can chat and I can hear your concerns and bill ideas. It is a privilege to represent our community – let me know if I can assist you or your family. My email address is Rep.Dennis.Smith@house.mn, phone number 651-296-5502, and US mail address: 13570 Grove Drive, #370, Maple Grove, MN, 55311.
Have a great weekend!
Dennis