 Here is an update from the Capitol. Strengthening Deepfake LawsLast year, we passed nation-leading, bipartisan legislation to combat the threat of “deep fake” technology. We have seen the rapid growth in these fake but realistic images that can spread disinformation, defame people, and influence our elections. Since that legislation has passed, the need to be aggressive and combat this technology has been evident. Recently, a deep fake using the voice of President Biden was used in the New Hampshire presidential primary to confuse voters. This bill updates our legislation from last year to prohibit candidates from using a deep fake in campaign materials. The bill passed the Elections Committee on Thursday and will now go to the Judiciary Committee. Insulin Prices Capped We are dedicated to reducing the cost of health care and protecting against price-gouging. Earlier this month, Attorney General Keith Ellison announced a landmark settlement with the Eli Lily insulin company that caps insulin at just $35 for the next 5 years. Drug companies raised the price of insulin by over 1,100% between 1990 and 2020, and this settlement ensures that Minnesotans can afford their lives and live with dignity, safety, and respect.  You can learn more about the settlement and how to get insulin for just $35 a month here: https://www.ag.state.mn.us/MNinsulin35/. Age-Appropriate Design Code Legislation Heard in CommerceThis week, the House Commerce Finance and Policy Committee passed a revamped Age-Appropriate Design Code bill, also known as the Minnesota Kids Code bill (HF 2257). This legislation is a nation-leading effort to protect children and their data online, directing companies to do a data privacy impact assessment through the lens of child safety. It also requires a mitigation plan to be put in place if a substantial risk of harm to children is found. Parents and organizations testified in support of the bill, including Holistic Ethics, Spark & Stitch, and SAVE - Suicide Awareness Voices of Education. From car seats to cribs, we have looked at child safety issues—but we’ve never applied that to online settings. Now is the time to take action to protect children’s data, health, and safety. Sports Betting Legislation HeardThis week my legislation to legalize sports betting in Minnesota was heard in the Human Services Committee. Under my bill’s framework, brick and mortar sports betting will be allowed, operated by local tribes, with the option of contracting with commercial operators. Mobile sports betting would also be supported state-wide. The bill was heard in the Human Services Committee to discuss the issue of problem gaming. While most adults can gamble responsibly, for some people gaming is an addiction as harmful as drugs or alcohol. My bill takes this problem seriously, and devotes more resources to combatting problem gaming than any other state that has legalized sports betting. I am proud to stand behind this bill, ??supported by both parties and the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association, to allow Minnesotans the same opportunities folks in over 30 states have - to responsibly wager on sports. I look forward to seeing this bill advance Keep in TouchPlease continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at rep.zack.stephenson@house.mn.gov or 651-296-5513. It’s an honor to represent our Coon Rapids and Anoka families in St. Paul. Sincerely, Rep. Zack Stephenson Minnesota House of Representatives |