Friends,
It's a busy time at the Capitol as we approach deadlines for bills and an even busier time in Saint Paul where we have the State Tournaments in full swing. Congratulations to the Maple Grove Crimson Boy's Hockey team on a great season despite falling to Grand Rapids on Thursday night. Everyone should be proud of making it to the greatest State Hockey Tournament in the country.
Multiple Bills Heard in Committee
One of my bills heard in committee this week, HF 732, will allow Maple Grove more flexibility in creating TIF zones in order to spur economic development. The bill had a positive hearing and was held over for possible inclusion. Another bill, HF 1542, adds stronger language to my bill that passed last year to allow businesses time to comply with the American with Disabilities Act once they are informed of a potential violation. That bill was passed out of the Civil Law and Data Practices Policy committee and referred to the House Floor.
Rep. Smith in his office with a constituent
Sunday Sales is Law
Governor Dayton signed the Sunday Sales bill this week. This means that starting on Sunday July 2nd, liquor stores are able to be open and sell alcohol on Sundays.
REAL ID
While the House passed our REAL ID bill a few weeks ago, the Senate has restarted negotiations on their version of the bill. It's imperative that we pass REAL ID this session and I am glad to see the Senate continue to work toward passage.
For further explanation, you can watch a video we put together to explain what REAL ID is and what it does.
Rep. Smith in Capitol Rotunda with young constituent
Essay Contest
In order to commemorate the restoration of our Capitol, there is an essay contest for Minnesota students to write about what the Capitol means to them. The contest will have winners for three different age levels with the winner of each winning $1,000 towards college. Visit the website here for more information and to see the subjects. Encourage your school-aged children to enter!
Please continue to share your thoughts with me about our state government; bill ideas and concerns are welcomed! I am grateful to serve you at the Capitol. My email address is Rep.Dennis.Smith@house.mn, phone number 651-296-5502, and by mail: 375 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155.
Have a great weekend!
Dennis