Dear Neighbors, The 2020 legislative session began on February 11th. We are off to a busy start. This week’s email includes updates about insulin affordability legislation, my bill to establish extreme risk protection orders, what our state government is doing to address public health threats like the coronavirus, Paid Family & Medical Leave, and REAL ID. If you want to share a question, comment, or idea about the issues highlighted in today’s email, or any cause you’re working on, you can find my full contact information online at www.house.mn/52B. If you have a friend, neighbor, or relative who wants to receive updates about the Legislature, let them know they can subscribe to my email list here. I'm honored to serve you at the MN Capitol, and will continue sharing news and updates throughout the 2020 session. Sincerely, Ruth Richardson
Minnesota House approves insulin affordability bill On Feb. 26, I voted in support of the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act, which creates a safety net for people with diabetes in the form of emergency access and long-term affordability. Most importantly, it requires pharmaceutical companies to contribute financially to a solution in response to their indefensible cost hikes. For more information, read this Star Tribune story about the vote. Minnesota House approves bill to create extreme risk protection orders Click here for KARE11’s coverage of the votes.
Minnesota is well prepared for COVID-19 Click here to visit a webpage with specifics about what’s happening. You can watch a March 2 briefing with MDH Commissioner Jan Malcolm, Governor Tim Walz, and legislative leaders from both parties here. There are currently no confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Minnesota, but experts are telling us it’s not a matter of “if” but “when.” MDH’s labs are prepared to test patients for the condition. There are basic precautions we can all take to prevent the spread of COVID-19. First thing’s first: wash your hands thoroughly. It may seem like common sense, but washing your hands for at least 20 seconds is critical to effectively remove microbiological bacteria. Also, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and be sure to cover your cough with your sleeve or elbow. Lastly, if you’re sick: stay home. I will share updates and news from MDH about this very serious issue as I receive them. If you or anyone in your community is concerned or seeking more information, please get in touch with my office. You can find my full contact information online at www.house.mn/52B. Paid Family and Medical Leave. For everyone. It’s important to continue passing these bills to let Minnesotans know where we stand: I believe no one should have to choose between earning a paycheck and taking care of themselves or a family member, whether it’s after the birth of a new baby, helping an aging parent with physical disabilities, or an unexpected accident that could mean bankruptcy for Minnesotans who live paycheck-to-paycheck. Click here for coverage from the Pioneer Press. Apply for a REAL ID as soon as possible If you want to receive a REAL ID prior to this deadline, the Department of Public Safety is urging Minnesotans to submit applications no later than June 15, 2020. To save time and make sure you have everything you need before you visit a driver’s license office, you can pre-apply online at realid.dps.mn.gov. Minnesotans who have questions or concerns about the status of their license or ID card can contact DVS at dvs.driverslicense@state.mn.us or 651-297-3298. Include your full name and date of birth with your question in the email. |