Skip to main content Skip to office menu Skip to footer
Capital IconMinnesota Legislature

Legislative News and Views - Rep. Jenifer Loon (R)

Back to profile

Legislative Update from Rep. Jenifer Loon

Friday, March 9, 2018

In This Edition:

  • School Security Upgrade Legislation
  • Teacher Conduct Bill
  • Business Registration Bill
  • Around the Capitol and Community

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Here is an update with the latest news from the Capitol and around the community.

School Security Upgrade Legislation

House Image

Speaking to the press about my bill on Tuesday afternoon

Earlier this week, the Education Finance Committee heard a new bill I am sponsoring that would allow school districts to fund and prioritize safety and security upgrades in Minnesota schools. The legislation expands the use of long-term facilities maintenance revenue, making more dollars and resources available for districts to make safety improvements including emergency communications, building enhancements and security upgrades. Long-term facilities maintenance revenue includes state dollars.

The safety of our students is paramount, and why I am advancing legislation this session that gives school districts more resources and the flexibility to make safety and security improvements in schools across the state. This is part of a multifaceted approach to address school safety in the House Education Finance Committee. Last week, we discussed our growing commitment to, and outstanding need for, mental health funding to ensure better outcomes for all kids, and this week we are addressing funding for school security upgrades.

On Wednesday afternoon Governor Dayton outlined a number of his ideas on school safety. I believe there is common ground and complimentary ideas between our proposals, and I look forward to working with him and others to find the solutions that best serve our children.

I am committed to working for our children, families, educators and our schools on this critical topic.

Fox 9 did a great news story talking more about my bill which you can see here.

Teacher Conduct Bill

House Image

Testifying before the Education Policy Committee on Tuesday morning.

Also this week, my Teacher Code of Conduct bill, House File 2795, was heard in the Education Innovation Policy Committee.

Some highlights in the bill include codifying the teacher code of conduct rules into state statute and adding a clause making it clear that teachers are not allowed to engage in sexual relationships with students—even if that student is 18. It also prohibits the issuance of teaching licenses to those who have been convicted of a felony or gross misdemeanor involving a minor, makes clear that the new Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board is a mandatory reporter, and requires periodic background checks of teachers.

We all hold teachers and the people who work in our schools in high regard and they do amazing work. Unfortunately, recent reports by local news reporters have uncovered some incidents that clearly indicate we need to clarify and strengthen our laws to protect students. While these instances are not common, they are happening and demonstrate why we need to do all we can to ensure that the safety and well-being of Minnesota kids is safeguarded and always comes first.

Business Registration Bill 

This week in the Government Operations Committee, my bill House File 2722 received a hearing. An idea brought to me by a constituent, this legislation would, at the request of the individual business owner, prohibit the Secretary of State from publishing the registered address of a business entity if that address is also the home of the individual operating the business.

Small business owners with home-based offices may not see clients or conduct business with customers at their home. This is a simple change that protects the privacy of small business owners who operate within their own home.

Around the Capitol and Community

House Image

With Future Farmers of America students at the Capitol. All six State FFA Officers are women—amazing young leaders in agriculture!

***

If you need assistance on a matter related to state government, or have questions, comments or suggestions about what is happening in the Legislature, please don’t hesitate to contact my office. I am here to serve you!

Sincerely,

Jenifer Loon