Dear Neighbors,
I hope you’ve had a great week, and are embracing our return to a Minnesota winter. Before the weekend, I wanted to send you a quick note on what’s been happening at the Capitol.
REAL ID
Last night, the House passed a bill to make Minnesota compliant with federal REAL ID law. I co-authored our bill that includes two options for an ID: a REAL ID for those who wish to fly on a commercial airplane or enter certain federal facilities, and one for Minnesotans who don’t need those privileges. We need to pass this bill to the governor or we risk hitting the 2018 deadline where the federal government won’t allow Minnesotans to board airplanes without a REAL ID-compliant license.
The passage of this bill is an important step in ensuring Minnesotans can continue to utilize air travel with their state-issued ID card. I understand there’s concern over this legislation, and we were able to include language to quell some of the fears relating to the intrusion of the federal government in the defense of states' sovereignty.
Our top priority is to get this passed so Minnesotans will have peace-of-mind when it comes to flying or entering federal facilities with their Minnesota ID card.
Sunday Sales
On Monday, we made history in the House by passing a repeal of the blue law prohibiting Sunday liquor sales. I voted for this measure because I don’t think it’s the government’s place to tell a business what day of the week they have to close. Consumers should have the option to buy liquor, beer, or wine on Sundays, and they’ve spoken loud and clear on this issue.
The bill still has to pass the Senate before the governor signs it. I’m hopeful the momentum from our wide bipartisan vote will carry over as the Senate votes on the legislation.
Mental Health
I’m authoring a number of bills relating to mental health. One of my bills helps by providing more support in the care of Minnesota’s children with mental health issues. This isn’t just a problem for teenagers and adults, it impacts our kids, too. I also have a similar bill that increases access to mental health facilities for Minnesotans under 21 years old. It’s encouraging to see Republicans and Democrats signing on to both of these bills. It’s really an issue that transcends ideology, which helps in moving legislation through the committee process.
Please Contact Me
As always, please feel free to stop by the Capitol or email me to discuss your thoughts or concerns on any legislation that comes before me in committee or in session. You can call me at 651-296-5185 to schedule an appointment, or email me at rep.tony.albright@house.mn.
Enjoy your weekend,
Tony