Friends and neighbors,
We are hours away from the first committee deadline. I wanted to provide you with an update of my legislation, and share a few great things that are going on in Maple Grove and Osseo.
Updates on my Legislation
We have spent many late nights in committee this week as we work towards tonight’s midnight deadline by which all policy bills must pass their first committee. I have been presenting several of my proposals, including:
HF1470, a business-friendly piece of legislation that reduces business filing fees, brings practices into the 21st century, and provides consistency in business filings.
HF1770, which gives conciliation courts the jurisdiction to determine civil action against a non-resident.
HF1901 modifies current state law regarding the tax obligations of an estate heir. In particular, it clarifies responsibilities in blended family situations.
I have also authored several other pieces of legislation that will be heard in future committees and on the floor as a part of omnibus bills.
Concerns About Illegal Immigrant Driver’s Licenses Bill
A bill introduced in the House this session is creating a lot of discussion in the Capitol and in our district. The bill, which would grant driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants, is one that I am opposed to for several reasons. I understand why Minnesota is an attractive place to immigrate to, but I believe that this bill will encourage illegal vs. legal immigration. Furthermore, I am concerned that this bill condones unlawful hiring practices as the driver’s licenses have the potential to be used in the job application process. Perhaps most concerning, this bill will have a large financial impact on our state. When similar legislation was introduced in California earlier this year, California had to create an entirely new office and hire new staff to process the large increase for these specialized licenses. This bill is not in the best interest of Minnesotans.
Congratulations
We have a lot to celebrate in our community. First, congratulations to Maple Grove Hospital on being named one of the “100 Top Hospitals” in the nation by Truven Health! This award was given to Maple Grove Hospital in recognition of outstanding patient care and satisfaction. We are lucky to have this fantastic facility in our district! Secondly, congratulations to Maple Grove Senior High and Osseo Senior High students Isabella Hulne (10th grade at Maple Grove), Shelby Noraas (12th grade at Osseo), David Hallstrom (10th grade at Osseo), and Asavari Tembe (11th grade at Maple Grove) on their well-deserved honors as the winners of the 2015 Art Contest. Their work is phenomenal, and our community should be very proud of their excellency in the arts.
Visitors at the Capitol
It was great to have my daughter visit me at the Capitol recently! She spent the day learning about my role in committees and on the floor, and got to help us out by serving as a page.
I am appreciative of all of my constituents who visit me in St. Paul! If you plan on visiting the Capitol, please contact me at (651) 296-5356 so that we can meet and discuss your thoughts and concerns on legislation and community issues. You can also contact me via email at Rep.Dennis.Smith@house.mn, and stay in touch via Facebook and Twitter. I look forward to hearing from you!
Have a great weekend,
Dennis