Hello Neighbors,
Here are a few updates from the Capitol.
Guns Legislation
As many of you know, the House Public Safety Committee has been hearing testimony and debate this week on several DFL bills related to gun violence. We met for nearly 12 hours from Tuesday to Thursday and heard many perspectives.
Hundreds of concerned citizens from across the state descended on the Capitol to voice their concerns about the bills which they believe violate the Second Amendment. I have serious concerns with many of these bills. Some would allow confiscation without compensation. Others would cause regulatory problems for our law enforcement departments. And still others would create unfunded mandates on our cities.
Environment Meeting This Saturday
The MN Environmental Partnership will be holding a meeting with Senator Susan Kent, Rep. JoAnn Ward and myself this Saturday, Feb. 9 at 10am in Woodbury. We plan to discuss clean energy, runoff pollution, groundwater testing, and transit. Please RSVP to Luke Johnson with the Minnesota Environmental Partnership at 651-290-0154 or LukeJohnson@mepartnership.org for more details.
I’m also happy to announce I have been appointed to the Governor's Workforce Development Council. This is a federally mandated task force that focuses on education and skills training of unemployed and underemployed Minnesotans to meet job demands in the state.
Bills Moving Ahead
I have signed on to a bill which will allow school districts to begin the school year before Labor Day (HF261). Additionally, I’ve introduced a bill that would decrease the number of voters one person can vouch for on election day from 15 down to 3 (HF269). It appears this issue has bipartisan support as we try to further protect our election process.
I met with several groups this week, including CPA’s, Bankers (for Bank Day), Physical Therapists, and many concerned citizens with questions about Governor Dayton’s budget proposal. Please contact me if there’s an issue of importance to you.
Wishing you a good week ahead.
Sincerely,
Andrea
651-296-1147 or rep.andrea.kieffer@house.mn