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Last week, the legislature reconvened to pass three pieces of key legislation, all of which have been signed into law by Governor Walz. Read about them below:
Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act
The new law will ensure that Minnesotans who cannot afford their insulin and are facing an emergency need can access a 30-day supply at their pharmacy for a co-pay of $35. Eligible Minnesotans include those who are uninsured, under-insured, receiving Medicare and do not have access to low co-pays. The legislation also streamlines the process by which Minnesotans can access affordable insulin in the long-term. Insulin manufacturers would participate in the program and could be fined up to $3.6 million a year, doubling in the second year, for non-compliance.
As a long-time supporter of access to affordable insulin, I was honored to cast my ‘yes’ vote on this bipartisan compromise with the Senate. You can read my full statement here.
COVID-19 Response Legislation
Lawmakers approved a fourth set of COVID-19 response legislation to help Minnesotans adapt to and ease daily operations during the pandemic. Measures passed include additional support to help Minnesotans execute wills, allow local governments to meet remotely, suspend certain deadlines and expiration dates, expand use of telemedicine, allow Minnesotans to apply for marriage licenses remotely, and more. You can read an overview of the legislation from the nonpartisan office of House Public Information here.
Takeout Beer & Wine
On Friday, the legislature approved a bill to allow bars and restaurants with liquor licenses to sell one six-pack of beer, cider or hard seltzer, and a bottle of wine with food orders. The alcoholic beverages must be sold in their original, unopened containers. You can read my full statement of support here. This is one small way we can help our small businesses bring in additional revenues during these challenging times.
I continue to collaborate with my House and Senate colleagues to find more creative, adaptive solutions that address the financial hardships Minnesota families and businesses are experiencing.
Homemade Masks Needed
Governor Walz recently launched a week-long statewide homemade mask drive to encourage Minnesotans to create homemade masks for donation and highlight the importance of workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. On Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Plymouth residents can deliver homemade masks to the Plymouth Fire Department. The department will then deliver the masks to local congregate living facilities for their employees and residents to wear.
Keep in Touch
Please contact me anytime to let me know how I can be of assistance. Your input and questions are important, and I value hearing from you.
It’s an honor to serve our Plymouth neighborhoods at the state legislature.
Sincerely,
Ginny Klevorn
State Representative
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