Neighbors, From now until July 22, workers who were on the frontline of the pandemic can apply for a bonus of up to $750. The funds are not first come, first served and the money set aside for this program will be split equally among all approved applicants. Eligible workers have 45 days to apply. Spread the word to your friends and family who put themselves in harm’s way during this challenging time. Apply here.  Greater Mankato Growth Forum This week, I attended the Greater Mankato Growth forum to discuss the recently adjourned session. I said a short special session could resolve many of the bills for which we are close to agreement. We could pass these measures and take full advantage of matching federal funding to improve our roads, help make Minnesotans safer, support our schools and pass a robust bonding bill to enhance infrastructure throughout the state. The other panelists are content to wait until next year to resolve our unfinished business. There are too many important pieces of legislation to wait. Noteworthy, also, were the business and community leaders attending who are asking for a special session.  Free Admission to State Parks on Saturday Minnesotans can visit state parks and recreation areas for free this Saturday, June 11. Check out the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ ParkFinder tool. It has information about all 75 state parks and can help you find places with certain kinds of trails or facilities.  COVID-19 Update Every home in the U.S. is now eligible to order a third round of free at-home COVID-19 tests. Click here to place your order. You can also call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489). Also, a reminder Americans over 50 and those 12 years and older who are immunocompromised can receive a second COVID-19 booster shot. More COVID-19 updates are available through the Minnesota Department of Health website, or the U of M Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP). _________ Stay connected with the Legislature 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. I welcome your questions and comments anytime. You can send an email to rep.luke.frederick@house.mn or can call my legislative assistant, Blake Wilcox, at 651-296-8803. Also, please visit and “like” my Facebook page for more Capitol and community updates. Thank you for the privilege of representing you in the legislature. Sincerely, Luke Frederick State Representative |