Dear Neighbors,
Here is an update with the latest news from the Capitol.
Bill to Protect Private Property Owners Sent to Governor
This week, legislation I spearheaded to protect private property owners and stop the expansion of trespasser rights was sent to Governor Dayton for his signature. The bill has support from a number of groups including the Farm Bureau, Farmers’ Union, AgriGrowth, as well as trade associations, chambers and businesses across the state. Similar legislation has passed in 26 states, including every state bordering Minnesota.
This bill is about protecting property owners from frivolous lawsuits by trespassers on private property, codifying previous court rulings, and I hope he will sign it into law.
Real ID Signed into Law
This week, the House and Senate passed a compromise Real ID bill and sent it to Governor Dayton who signed it into law. It passed in the House 120-11. This legislation means folks can continue to board a domestic flight at the airport and access a federal facility, including a military base, with their state-issued driver’s license. I also think it’s important to note that this bill makes Real ID an opt-in program, meaning people can either get a federally compliant ID or obtain a license under the current system.
I am glad we got this done for folks because without action, beginning in January of next year a Minnesota driver’s license would no longer work to fly. Some federal facilities, including military bases, have already began to require those without compliant licenses to provide passports or other documentation in order to be admitted.
Teacher Licensure Reform Vetoed
On Thursday, Governor Dayton vetoed commonsense, bipartisan teacher licensure reform that overhauled our badly broken teacher licensure system. The bill had overwhelming support from education stakeholders across the state and was crafted, revised and debated over a long period of time as legislators worked to take in different perspectives and make the bill better. The legislation was about increasing transparency and efficiency in our teacher licensure system, and addressing our state’s serious teacher shortage—an issue especially prevalent in Greater Minnesota. This bill was also about ensuring great teachers can teach in Minnesota, and providing every child with access to a world-class education.
I am extremely disappointed the bill was vetoed, and that Governor Dayton chose politics over good policy.
Budget Negotiations
We are entering into the final weekend of the legislative session, and House Republicans are committed to getting a balanced, responsible state budget that funds our shared priorities signed into law.
As Chair of the Environment and Natural Resources Committee, I am working to get a commonsense final agreement in this area. I am also advocating for tax relief, roads and bridges, our students and schools, and farmers.
House Republicans have been making meaningful movements in negotiations, and I hope that Governor Dayton will work with us and the Senate to come to a final budget agreement that best serves folks across the state. I will keep you updated.
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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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