Dear Neighbors,
It was a quiet week on the House floor as much of our focus was on getting bills through committees as the first deadline for legislation to receive a hearing is today, Friday.
Born Alive Infant Protections Act Receives Final Hearing
The Born Alive Infants Protection Act was heard and passed by the Civil Law and Data Practices Committee on Tuesday, March 17th. This marks HF 1047’s final committee hearing. It has now been placed on the General Register where it awaits a vote before the House body.
Under current state and federal law, infants born alive as a result of failed abortions are recognized as a “person”, but the law does little else. There is no clear consequence for physicians who fail to provide care to these infants despite the Born Alive Infant Protection Act passed by Congress more than a decade ago. This bill seeks to address that issue in MN, and includes civil remedies for physicians who fail to provide care to infants who are born alive as the result of a failed abortion.
Protecting our most vulnerable is one of my top priorities and I will continue to proudly stand for life as long as I have the privilege to serve. I would like to thank my colleagues who have supported this bill as it has moved through the legislative process and for their commitment to our most vulnerable citizens.
Governor Releases Supplemental Budget Proposal
On Tuesday, Governor Dayton released his supplemental budget proposal. With the inclusion of this additional spending, the Governor’s budget proposal for fiscal years 2016-17 is now $43 billion.
That is an increase of $3.7 billion from the state’s 2014-15 budget.
Among the Governor’s supplemental proposal is $68 million for welfare programs and $343 million to fully fund all day pre-kindergarten for every 4-year old in Minnesota. And while the Governor's budget does address funding for roads or bridges, rather than prioritizing transportation with existing dollars, he remains steadfast in his support of a new gas tax to pay for his transportation plan.
In the coming days, House Republicans will bring forward their spending proposals and I am confident that these proposals will more accurately reflect the values of Minnesotans.
Potential Change in Driver’s License Policy
HF 97, which would allow undocumented persons to apply for a Minnesota driver's license with a valid official form of identification from their home country, has garnered a lot of attention recently.
The Senate counter-part to this bill (S.F. 224) was heard and passed by the Senate Transportation Committee this week. I have a lot of concerns regarding this bill, which you can read here. I would appreciate any feedback you may have on this legislation.
Town Hall Recap
Thanks to those of you who attended last Saturday’s town hall meeting in Anoka, hosted by Sen. Petersen and myself. It was great to meet with many of you to hear your questions, concerns, and to have a dialogue about what we can do to make Minnesota a better place.
A big thank you to Anoka City Hall, who let us host the town hall in their building. Your accommodations helped the event run smoothly.
Staying in Touch
As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have questions, comments, or concerns on anything related to state government. It would be an honor to discuss your ideas on how we can make Minnesota better for everyone. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-1729 or via email at rep.abigail.whelan@house.mn. You can also stay up-to-date on everything that is happening in St. Paul by visiting my Facebook page and Twitter account.
Thank you and enjoy your weekend,
Abigail