Dear Neighbors,
Here is an update on what’s been happening around the Capitol and community over the summer.
Disaster Loan Program for Farmers
For famers impacted by flooding and recent storms, I would encourage folks to check out the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s zero-percent loans to help with clean-up, repair and replacement costs not covered by insurance. The program is administered by the Minnesota Rural Finance Authority.
My office is prepared to assist in any way we can as we recover from these terrible storms. I know this is a challenging time for many of our farmers and those who rely on the agriculture industry, and I want you to know we're here for you and want to help. Kittson, Red Lake and Polk were included in a recent emergency declaration.
You can learn more about the loan program here.
PUC Approves Line 3
Late last month, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) voted unanimously to approve a certificate of need for the Line 3 Replacement Pipeline in Northern Minnesota.
This is great news for our area, and folks across Northern Minnesota rightly celebrated that after years of runarounds, roadblocks and unnecessary delays, Line 3 has finally been granted a certificate of need by the PUC. This pipeline will use the latest technology and will be much safer and better for the environment, as well as provide a significant boost to our economy.
The PUC has seen there is a real need for Line 3 in Minnesota, and I want to thank them for that. Now, we must remain steadfast and do what’s best for our state. I remain hopeful that cooler heads prevail and we allow this project to move forward, because Line 3 is a win for everyone.
Republican Reforms Help Lower Premium Rates
Also last month, 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 percent and 12.4 percent.
Folks in Northwest Minnesota have been hurt by Obamacare with years of skyrocketing premiums and fewer choices on the individual market. Under the leadership of House Republicans, we’ve implemented commonsense solutions that have helped lower costs and bring more choice to the individual market, protecting Minnesota families, farmers and folks across our state who purchase their own insurance.
Final rates are set to be released this October, so stay tuned.
Around the Community
The Blue Grass harvest is underway!
At the ALS Fundraiser walk/run to make a difference in Roseau.
Had a great time with the grandkids at the Kittson County Fair!
Canola Growers Plot Tour
I attended the 18th Annual International Legislators Forum in Biwabik with members from Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Manitoba. We toured the MinnTac Mine and Soudan Underground Mine, and also discussed environmental review, permitting and trade. It's a privilege to collaborate with other area leaders and talk about our shared priorities for our communities, states and nations.
Final Email Update
Due to Campaign Finance rules, this will be my last legislative update until after the election. Please know however, that my office will continue to be available to you should you need assistance on a matter of state government. Feel free to email, call or write a letter to my office. I am here to serve you!
*****
Dan
**Encourage your neighbors and friends to sign up for my email updates at www.house.mn/01A
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