Friends,
Yesterday was officially the first day of summer! It's time to get out and enjoy the few months of warm weather here in our great state!
Preliminary Individual Market Rates Announced
Last Friday, the Minnesota Department of Commerce released preliminary rates for the 2019 individual insurance market, revealing that for the second consecutive year, Republican-led reforms have helped reduce or hold flat individual market health insurance rates after years of double-digit increases following the implementation of Obamacare in Minnesota.
All five of the carriers on the individual market are projected to decrease premiums for 2019, with average preliminary rates dropping between 3% and 12.4%. The individual market serves Minnesotans who buy health insurance on their own, not through an employer or the government.
This news is another positive sign that our reforms are working, helping to bring down health care costs and boost health care choices. I'm proud to have supported these nation-leading reforms that are fixing Minnesota's health care system and helping to make insurance more affordable and accessible.
From 2014-2017, average rates increased by double digits every year, including nearly 60% for 2017. Thanks to these reforms enacted in 2017, individual market rates for 2018 remained flat or were reduced for most Minnesotans on the individual market. The Minnesota Department of Commerce confirmed last year that without the reforms, rates would have risen by 20% or more.
Wall that Heals
We have an amazing opportunity for Minnesotans to learn more about the Vietnam War and honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. The Opening Ceremony took place on June 21 and there will be events honoring and remembering all who served in the Vietnam War over the next few days.
So please come to the Capitol and visit The Wall that Heals, a traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. The wall will be at the Capitol until June 24, and there will be a number of events including a daily reading of the names of Minnesota’s fallen, museum exhibits, film screenings, a mobile education center, and more.
The wall will be open 24 hours a day. You can learn more about the Wall that Heals Event here.
MNLARS Update
After the disappointing roll-out of MNLARS, the computer system used by Minnesota's DMV, the House and Senate passed legislation to increase accountability and oversight. As part of the legislative oversight put into place, MNLARS provides regular reports with key information on their progress. You can see the latest quarterly report here.
2017-2018 Legislative Review
This year's legislative Session wrapped up one of the most productive bienniums in recent memory. I am proud of what we accomplished and you can see highlights from the 2017-2018 biennium here or by clicking the image below.
Reminder: Teaching Licensing Rules
The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) is in the process of developing rules as a result of the reforms passed by the legislature to change the way we license teachers in the state of Minnesota. These reforms were done to help address teacher shortages across the state, as well as correct the subjective and inconsistent licensing process that out-of-state teachers had to go through to get licensed here in Minnesota.
There was a hearing on the proposed rules on June 8th, but the comment period was extended and will close on June 28th at 4:30pm. I personally submitted comments and I wanted to share this link with you in case any of you are interested in submitting your own comments, or in case you know anyone who would be interested in submitting comments.
My Deepest Condolences
On Saturday, June 16th, there was a fatal car accident that was responded to by the Dakota County Sheriff. This tragedy breaks my heart. Jon was my friend's brother and Jared was one of my constituents. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones during this difficult time. Hug your family a little tighter today, you never know if it will be the last time.
Children Separated from Families at the Border
As a mother, it breaks my heart to see children separated from their families. There have been problems with our immigration process for many, many years and it is clear that improvements need to be made. However, as a State Representative, I have no jurisdiction over federal issues such as this. I have reached out to Congressman Jason Lewis to express our shared concerns, and I encourage you to reach out to our federal elected officials as well.
IN THE COMMUNITY:
Rosemount Safety in the Park
On Tuesday, June 19th, my kiddos and I had a great time (even in the rain!) at the Rosemount Public Safety in the Park. Thank you to all of the amazing men and women who keep our community safe!
Dakota County Legislative Breakfast
Today, Friday, June 22nd, I joined my colleagues from both sides of the aisle at the Dakota County Legislative Breakfast. We discussed several legislative successes, such as the SMART Center funding included in the Bonding bill signed into law, as well as work yet to do for Dakota County.
Music in Kelley Park
Every Friday evening this summer in Kelley Park in Apple Valley, there will be a free concert in the park! This fun concert series is sponsored by the Apple Valley Arts Foundation, Uponor, and Think Mutual Bank. For the full line-up of concerts and additional details, visit: http://avartsfoundation.org/events/
Rosemount's 6th Annual ArtBlast
The 6th Annual ArtBlast, sponsored by the Rosemount Area Arts Council and several local businesses goes through Sunday, June 24th, with activities and concerts for the whole family! Most events are free. For the full schedule celebrating the arts in Rosemount, visit: http://www.rosemountarts.com/Products.html
Apple Valley Freedom Days
Bring your family out to enjoy the 52nd Anniversary Apple Valley Freedom Days celebration, starting next week on Wednesday, June 27th. Festivities will continue through Wednesday, July 4th. Details and a daily schedule are available at this link: http://www.avfreedomdays.com/
Keep in Touch
Thank you to so many of you who have contacted my office! I receive hundreds of emails weekly and value all of your feedback. Thank you also for your patience as I work to respond to each of you. It is truly an honor to serve you in the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Have a great weekend!
Sincerely,
Anna Wills
State Representative District 57B