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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Steve Green (R)

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Legislative Update from Rep. Green

Friday, January 20, 2017

Dear Neighbor,

Another busy week in St. Paul has led to more good progress for our district.

Passage of House File 1:

On Thursday, the House passed House File 1: the 2017 Health Care Emergency Aid and Access bill on a bipartisan vote of 73-54. We are now one step closer to getting people the premium relief they need. I look forward to this bill going to conference committee with the Senate next week and I am hopeful for the Governor’s signature.

To review, some highlights of this bill include:

  • 25% premium reduction for those Minnesotans who earn between $35,640 & $95,040 and families of four who earn between $72,900 & $194,400
  • Allows for patients with serious illnesses or those receiving end-of-life care to continue seeing their doctor
  • Increases affordable options through timely reforms that stand independent of impending federal action

Buffers and Ditch Mowing Update:

Once again, we are witnessing the overreach of Government agencies and their rulemaking authority. Minnesota Department of Transportation has enacted by rule, law that requires permitting and state policy rules for private citizens wishing to mow the ditches adjacent to their property. In many of these cases, the land owners pay taxes on this property. This is the state taking private property without compensation. I have two bills that would correct this problem.

The buffer laws passed in the last session are already proving to be unworkable. State agencies have used their rulemaking authority to change the intent of the law. Additionally, I have been informed by constituents that the maps they have made are incorrect. For example, a map shows a lake in the middle of a yard and a river a few miles away that shows no buffers at all. I have heard that most policies similar to this one get 10 years to implement, not two. People feel that this is a slap in the face to NRCS; they should have written the policy. I have a bill to repeal the buffer language. I am seeking hearings on these three bills.

If you ever have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding any issue related to state government, please feel free to contact me at either 651-296-9918, or rep.steve.green@house.mn.

Sincerely,

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