Hello from the State Capitol,
Things are starting to pick up at the Capitol as the second, and first full, week here at the Legislature is wrapping up. I am excited to share with you some of the things I have been working on.
House Republicans Unveil Top Priorities for Session
Last Thursday, January 8th, House Republicans announced their first five bills for the 2015 session. These initial pieces of legislation will serves as a framework for statewide discussion on how we approach the problems that matter most to Minnesotans. The priorities include growing better-paying jobs in all regions of the state; giving every child a world-class education; protecting the quality of life for our aging residents in nursing homes and long-term care facilities; refocusing budget dollars towards road and bridge repair; and ensuring quality and fair health care access for all Minnesotans. I look forward to continuing our conversation with Minnesota as the session progresses.
Bill Introductions
I am happy to announce that I have had some additional bills introduced to the legislature. I look forward to keeping you up-to-date on the bills that I am introducing this session. Below is a brief summary of a few bills that will now begin their journey through the committee process:
HF 110- Requests a waiver from the federal government to allow the state to continue operating the public health programs that were in place before Obamacare was implemented. In particular, this waiver request is focused on allowing the MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance programs to continue to operate the Minnesota way. This will allow patients to continue to see their physicians and for the state to address health care issues unique to the state.
HF 116- Requires the commissioner of employment and economic development, in cooperation with the commissioner of human services to provide employment assistance services to individuals suffering from a traumatic brain injury.
HF 93- Establishes a hydroelectric project revolving loan fund to facilitate the revitalization of small hydro facilities.
HF 81- This bill establishes a loan program for rural municipalities to renovate and repair municipal water treatment facilities.
Property Tax Listening Session
On Thursday, January 22nd, Rep. Nels Pierson and I will be holding a property tax listening session at the Stewartville Civic Center, 120 City Center, Highway 30, from 7:00 to 8:00 pm. I encourage you to attend. A top legislative priority this session is finding ways to bring property tax rates under control. This is a problem that has been chronic, and has continued to escalate. I think it’s important to receive direct communication from area residents about their property tax situation. We need to have a better understanding of what they’re facing.
Also in attendance will be Chair of the House Property Tax Committee, Rep. Steve Drazkowski.
Keeping Connected
If you’re ever in St. Paul, please do not hesitate to contact my office to set up a meeting. I’d also be more than glad to meet with you in the district to discuss important state issues. I can be reached at rep.duane.quam@house.mn or 651-296-9236. I’m here to serve you!
Sincerely,
Duane