Dear neighbor,
Before we get into other business, I want to pass along another reminder that precinct caucuses are 7 p.m. March 1. This is a very important part of our political process because citizens are directly involved in making decisions at the grass-roots level. Here is a caucus finder link that provides information on where your particular meeting will take place.
As for news from the Capitol, the information age we live in makes it is easier than ever for citizens to follow the Legislature throughout the year, but especially when the 2016 session starts March 8.
One new feature is a recently posted YouTube video entitled, "The Legislature: Its People and the Process." This six-minute clip produced by the nonpartisan House Public Information Services provides good information regarding how Minnesota's government operates. It includes descriptions of all three branches of government and highlights the nuts and bolts of committee work, floor sessions, the bill process and more. You can click here to view the video.
A number of other helpful links are available as well. They include:
Minnesota House of Representatives (http://www.house.mn/) -Information about the legislative process and the Minnesota House of Representatives in general.
Session Daily (http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/sdaily.aspx) -A nonpartisan publication of Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services which provides hard news from the Capitol.
New laws (http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/newlaws/newlawsmain.asp) -Compiled by the Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services.
TV coverage (http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/htv/htv.asp) -Coverage is broadcast statewide – along with Minnesota Senate television coverage – on our local PBS station’s digital Minnesota Channel available on many cable systems and is free on over-the-air channels.
Your Legislators TV program (http://www.pioneer.org/about-your-legislators.html) -Your Legislators is a live one-hour program which runs 8 p.m. Thursdays during the legislative session on public TV. The weekly panels typically include a mix of two Republicans and two Democrats joining moderator Barry Anderson. Viewers are able to submit questions during the show.
Streaming video (http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/htv/schedule.asp) -Live Internet video streaming of all television productions, plus additional coverage not provided on the broadcast channel, including evening, weekend and interim coverage.
How a bill moves to law (http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/leginfo/How_a_bill.pdf) -A 16-page booklet explaining, in a simple, straightforward manner, how a bill moves from an idea to law. Capitol Steps is intended as a resource for junior high school students.
I hope you find this information helpful and also look for my emails with personal insights on the issues throughout the session. Your input always is welcome on issues that interest you.
Sincerely,
Tom