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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Sandy Layman (R)

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News From Representative Layman 2-10-2017

Friday, February 10, 2017

Dear Neighbors,

It was another productive week as we continue to hear bills in committee along with agency budget presentations.

Local Bills

I am authoring a number of bills for our area and was fortunate to see two local residents in St Paul who know two of these bills well. David Marty of the Myles Reif Performing Arts Center testified in front of our Legacy Committee in support of the arts. My bill HF 335 would assist the center with recent cost overruns as a result of their expansion. The other local visitor was John Kelsch (pictured below) with the Children’s Discovery Museum. I am working with John on a bill though the Legacy Committee in support of the museum.

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Taconite Day

On Wednesday in the Subcommittee on Mining, Forestry, and Tourism, it was Taconite Day. We had a great turnout from US Steel, Cliffs Natural Resources and more. It was really the past, present, and future of the taconite industry, and spurred an informative discussion on one of Minnesota’s more important industries.

Energy

I serve on the Job Growth and Energy Affordability Committee where we are working to make energy services more affordable and help maintain energy stability in Minnesota with an emphasis on local control. Yesterday, the House passed three energy-related bills including HF 234 to provide greater autonomy for rural electric co-ops. The legislation would remove unnecessary oversight by the Public Utilities Commission, and helps keep costs down for those who go through our local co-ops. I voted for this bill and it passed on an 89-37 vote. Another bipartisan effort!

First Visitors from Cass County

I enjoyed meeting this week with Cass County Auditor Treasurer Sharon Anderson and Deputy Treasurer Karen Flier.

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CPAs at the Capitol

Amanda Dick, partner at Glorvigen, Theis, Lind & Co. in Grand Rapids stopped by to discuss issues important to our local accountants. Thanks for stopping in, Amanda!

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This Weekend

The Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association is hosting their 2017 Winter Rendezvous this weekend in Grand Rapids.  Several of my fellow legislators are traveling to our area to be part of this event. As you’re hitting the trails, have fun and be safe! If you want more information on the event, please click here.

Enjoy your weekend,

Sandy