Dear Neighbor,
Here is an update from the Capitol.
New Laws
August 1 saw a number of new policy-related laws taking effect. Highlights include a law limiting life insurance payouts to beneficiaries of those suspected of terrorism, the creation of a new, comprehensive statewide plan to address the spread of HIV/AIDS, and increased penalties for impersonating military or a peace officer.
You can learn more about new laws that took effect this month by checking out a press release put together by House Public Information here.
Capitol Grand Opening this Weekend!
Today marks the beginning of a weekend-long celebration for the Capitol Grand Opening. After several years and more than $300 million to renovate and restore our century old Capitol building, it’s now open to the public and looking better than ever.
Come down to Saint Paul for all the events including tours, fireworks, live music, kid zones and more. Go here to see the full schedule and list of events throughout the weekend.
Don’t miss this once in a lifetime celebration of the People’s House!
Republican Health Care Reforms Seeing Results
The preliminary rates for the 2018 individual market were released by the Minnesota Department of Commerce late last month, showing that reforms we passed this year including the Minnesota Premium Security Plan (if approved by the federal government) could result in premium decreases for tens of thousands of Minnesotans.
That’s amazing news considering the average rate increase was nearly 60 percent just last year! Tied in with consumer protections and work to keep current insurers in the individual market, I think this shows we are beginning to turn the state around. According to the Department of Commerce, rates could rise 25 percent or more without the reforms we passed this year.
The Speaker of the House sent a letter to U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price urging approval of the required waiver needed for the Minnesota Security Plan. I will keep you updated when we learn more and final rates are released later this fall.
MNLARS
Last month the new Minnesota Licensing and Registration System (MNLARS) was launched. It is hoped that this system (being web-based) will be much more efficient in the long run; unfortunately, there have been a number of ongoing issues and complaints since its roll out.
In response the Minnesota House Select Committee on Technology and Responsive Government launched a form to collect information. If you have had issues, I would encourage you to fill out information on this form (http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/DMV/Comment) and we will forward that information on to Driver and Vehicle Services.
I know many Minnesotans are frustrated that this system was not ready when it launched, and I am hopeful that input from those affected will not only resolve those individual issues, but also help the system function better as a whole going forward.
Please also feel free to contact my office if you have any issues or questions. I am here to help!
Around the Capitol
Had a wonderful time talking with Capitol visitors who were part of the Minnesota Family Council’s Student Statesman Institute. They had a full day at the Capitol learning about the legislative process, and it was fun to share some insight on what it is like to be an elected official serving my community.
Thank you for having me speak to the group!
Around the Community
So many great local events are happening in our community over the next couple months. Check out some of the fun things you can do with your family below!
Anoka Classic Car Show
The Anoka Classic Car Show is a wonderful local event that runs throughout the summer with great music and food. Check out more about upcoming dates you can see these classic cars here.
Concerts in the Park
Enjoy free concerts this summer right in your own community!
Check out the dates and performances for Anoka here and Ramsey here.
Cookout with the Cops & Safety Fair
On Tuesday, August 22 you can join the Anoka Police Department for its First Annual Cookout with the Cops and Fun Safety Fair from 5 to 7 pm at Akin Riverside Park. Free hotdogs, chips, water and freeze pops will be provided!
2nd Annual Movie Night in the Park
On Wednesday, August 16, the Chris Fritch Team is hosting its 2nd Annual Movie Night in the Park and screening the family-friendly film Finding Dory. The event starts at 8:30 PM at the Cor-Draw Amphitheater in Ramsey. Bring the family for a fun night! Learn more here.
Game Fair
The Game Fair is here running the weekends of Aug 11-13, and Aug 18-20. The “nation’s largest outdoors sporting event”, which is held at the Armstrong Ranch Kennels just outside of Anoka brings in visitors from all across the state. Learn more at www.gamefair.com.
Farmers Markets
The Anoka Farmers Market runs through October. The market is located in the Lyric Arts parking lot (420 E. Main Street) and runs from 2-6 pm. Learn more here.
The Ramsey Farmers Market also runs through early fall. You can go pick up some fresh local produce on Thursdays from 3-7pm at the Ramsey Municipal Center. Learn more here.
“The Draw” Summer Event Series
Every Thursday night through August, Ramsey is hosting concert style music. Food and drink will be available, along with events for kids before certain shows. See the full line up and learn more about this weekly summer event put on by the City of Ramsey Foundation here.
Happy Days Festival
The 19th annual Happy Days Festival in Ramsey is coming up! The event runs September 7-10 with events for the whole family including a Taste of Happy Days, movies in the park, family bike tours, bingo, the Ramsey Fire Department Chili Cook-Off, and much more! Learn more here.
smARTpass
Did you know your Anoka County Library card can get you into places around the Twin Cities for free including museums, music and live theater? Just visit smartpass.melsa.org for more information.
Parks and Recreation
The Ramsey Parks and Recreation Department is putting on events throughout the summer including art events, yoga classes, theater and more. Get a full list of upcoming events and how to participate here.
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Please know my office is available should you need assistance on a matter of state government. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-1729 or via email at rep.abigail.whelan@house.mn. I also welcome your input and ideas on legislation and matters moving through the Minnesota House. I am here to serve you and it is a joy! Thank you for the honor and privilege of being your state representative.
Have a wonderful weekend and summer,
Abigail