Dear Neighbors,
Here is an update from St. Paul.
Jobs Omnibus Bill
Last week, the Job Growth and Energy Affordability Committee began to hold hearings on their omnibus bill which works to provide Minnesotans with cleaner and cheaper energy. The legislation will fund a number of state agencies including DEED, DOLI and Explore Minnesota Tourism.
I am pleased that the jobs portion of this bill includes several workforce housing provisions that will help bring more housing to Greater Minnesota where it is desperately needed.
Additionally, the bill also includes net metering reform, an important issue for rural and municipal electric co-ops in Northwest Minnesota.
This legislation works to check rising energy prices and puts a larger emphasis on the needs of all Minnesotans both in rural communities and the metro. I will keep you updated on the Jobs Omnibus Bill, as well as other omnibus legislation as they begin to move out of committee and onto the House Floor for debate in the coming weeks.
State of the State
On Thursday, Governor Dayton gave his State of the State address to the legislature. In his speech, he offered more of the same, asking us to spend $43 billion this session and dramatically increasing state spending.
Additionally, I was disappointed that he continued to push his one-size-fits-all Buffer Zone plan which will negatively impact farmers around the state. We all support clean water, but this plan is too far reaching.
My guest for the State of the State was Roseau County Commissioner Todd Miller who also serves on the Drainage Work Group, and I have relied on him for input about buffer zones. I believe this working group which is comprised of agriculture, environmentalists, local officials and business leaders would be a great resource for state leaders to form a better buffer zone plan that would allow for more local control and enforcement.
It was great Commissioner Miller was able to come down to the Capitol, and I appreciated hearing his thoughts on issues being proposed by the governor and state legislature.
Electronic Insurance ID
On Thursday, my bill HF 307 unanimously passed on the House Floor. This legislation clarifies state statute to ensure that electronic insurance identification cards can be used as proof of insurance.
I am pleased this common sense provision was passed in the House. It's a simple change to modernize state statute and makes it more convenient for drivers who use smartphones.
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My door is always open to the needs and priorities of our area. Please feel free to let me know if I can be of assistance to you and your family. I am here to serve you!
Dan
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