Neighbors,
We have finished another long week of debate over our House budget bills and have begun to enter into conference committee to deliberate with the Senate and reconcile some differences between their proposals and ours. As we attend floor session in the coming weeks, we will continue to tackle several stand-alone bills that have implications just as important as our budget bills.
My Bills Continue to Move Through the House
This week, two of my proposals passed the House floor. HF1843 establishes a mobile food shelf program and appropriates money for grants that will allow us to better serve those in need. This bill ensures that we continue to compassionately care for the families in our district and across the state that require extra assistance. HF1770 is a local government-friendly piece of legislation that allows conciliation courts to handle cases involving an individual who does not reside in their jurisdiction. This bill makes government more efficient and eases the judicial process for all parties involved. I’m thankful to my colleagues for their near-unanimous support of this legislation.
Update on Sunday Sales
Many of you have reached out to me to share your thoughts on the proposed legislation to allow municipalities to determine if their liquor stores can remain open on Sundays. This has been a controversial issue for years, with passionate advocates on either side of this issue. It is unfortunate that the amendment to allow local control over this matter failed in the House as an amendment to the Liquor omnibus bill. I voted in favor of this amendment because this is a decision that ought to be made locally. I look forward to continued discussions in the future and, hopefully, the legislation’s passage in future sessions.
I wore my “Stars and Stripes” tie during the debate, which was renamed the “Liberty Tie” on the House floor.
Visitors to the Capitol
Thank you to Three Rivers Park District for visiting the Capitol this past week! It was great to meet the animals that populate their petting zoo. The Park District has many wonderful activities coming up this summer. If you are looking for a way to get your children involved in our district and outdoors for some fun, educational experiences, check out their website.
Please remember to contact me if you plan on visiting the Capitol, or if you have any questions or concerns about legislation or matters within our district. I am available by phone at (651) 296-5502, or via email at Rep.Dennis.Smith@house.mn.
Have a great weekend,
Dennis