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Neighbors and Friends,
While the guilty verdict in the Derek Chauvin case provides a measure of relief, our work is not done. The family of George Floyd received some sense of justice, but he is still gone forever. We will continue working on real change at the Capitol to make our communities safe for everyone.
Budget Bills Advance
Last Saturday, we were on the House floor for several hours, debating the Transportation Finance Bill. I serve on the Transportation Finance and Policy Committee and our budget addresses the long-term safety risk posed by our aging roads, bridges, and transportation infrastructure. The measure also takes advantage of federal funding for a second daily train from St. Paul to Chicago. Minnesotans expect us to improve and maintain our transportation system to keeps us safe, create good jobs at a time they are sorely needed, and make our state a better, more equitable place to live.
One week ago, the Omnibus State Government Finance Bill, passed the House and includes provisions related to the operation of state government, veterans and elections.
This week, we were in floor session several hours every day, approving many of our budget bills.
Monday, we passed the Higher Education Finance and Policy Bill and the Education Finance Bill. Both measures look to the future by preparing students for success and planning for our 21st century workforce.
We also approved the Workforce Bill, highlighting workers’ safety on the job, helping workers recover from illness or to care for a newborn or family member and delivering economic security if a worker loses their job during the pandemic.
We also approved the Agriculture, Commerce/Energy, Taxes and Environment budgets.
You can watch our live floor sessions here.
You can follow the daily legislative schedules here.
COVID-19 Vaccination Update
New data released shows more than 2.3 million Minnesotans have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Since vaccine eligibility has expanded, more Minnesotans are getting appointments every day.
It is important to get a vaccine to protect yourself and others and move toward participating in activities we enjoy and spending more time with family and friends.
If you haven’t received your vaccination, Take a look at Minnesota’s COVID-19 mn.gov/vaccineconnector, call 833-431-2053 or check with your health insurance carrier to help you find out when, where, and how to get a vaccine.
You can learn the most recent statistics on who is getting vaccinating and other key data by clicking on this link.
Rent Assistance Now Available
For renters and housing providers continuing to struggle during these challenging economic times, new funds are now available to help. RentHelpMN has opened for applications, making it possible for low- and moderate-income renters to get caught up on overdue rent and utilities dating back to March 13, 2020. It also makes provisions for those at risk of falling behind on rent payments due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Staying Connected
The Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offers nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication. Subscribe to receive these here. To track bills of interest through the legislative process, I encourage you to utilize the MyBills feature on the Minnesota House of Representatives’ website.
I welcome your questions and comments anytime. You can call me at (651) 296-3824 or send an email to rep.alice.hausman@house.mn.
Thank you for the privilege of representing you in the legislature.
Sincerely,
Alice
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