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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Jamie Becker-Finn (DFL)

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Legislative Update - November 6, 2017

Monday, November 6, 2017

Dear Neighbors,

Happy fall! As you probably know, the legislative session typically runs from January or February until the end of May. The time in between when we are in session is called the "interim." Many have asked me if I'm enjoying all my "free time" during the interim - the reality is that I remain extremely busy staying connected to our community and staying on top of legislative issues! I meet with constituents regularly, attend meetings at our schools, cities and community organizations, read legislative background and studies, and spend some time each week at my other job as a domestic violence prosecutor. Included here are just some of the many things I've spent time on this past month.

Election Tuesday, November 7th!

There are important local issues on the ballot throughout District 42B. Here is a link to information about finding your polling place and one where you can see what’s on your ballot.

For those in the Roseville Area School District, including Roseville, Little Canada and part of Shoreview, three seats on the school board and a school bond question will be on the ballot. Here is a link to more information about the bond and information about the candidates for School Board here.

For those in Vadnais Heights and Gem Lake in the White Bear Lake Area School District, you will be electing four school board members, and will have a school district levy renewal question as well. More info here

For the rest of Shoreview, three seats on the Mounds View Area School Board will be on the ballot, in addition to a school bond question. More info here.  
Thanks to legislation passed in 2014, you are also able to vote early, in person, without an excuse. If you would like to vote today, 
click here to find out more information.

Driver and Vehicle Registration Issues

Minnesota’s Driver and Vehicle Services Department recently rolled out a new Minnesota Licensing and Registration System (MNLARS) for driver and vehicle registration. This was a multiyear effort to replace a 30 year old system. With the driver’s license system set to go online next year, the vehicle portion of the system went live earlier this summer.
There have been some challenges for deputy registrars in the new system’s implementation. These have led to sizable backlogs in the processing of car titles, with some folks waiting several months. I’ve been working with other legislators to proactively address these issues; last month Rep. Rick Hansen and I sent 
this letter to Governor Dayton outlining several ideas for solving these problems. Last week, several of my colleagues and I sent a letter to the Department of Public Safety asking that Deputy Registrars be given additional time to complete their required audits of vehicle transaction fees and taxes collected. 
Minnesotans deserve efficient, timely, and professional services, and I empathize with these frustrating delays. If you are experiencing any problems with this system, don’t hesitate to contact me and I’ll be happy to assist.

Student Leaders Visit Capitol

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Last week, I had the privilege of hosting a group of 5th and 6th grade student leaders from Emmet D. Williams Elementary School. The students took a tour of the Capitol and then participated in a debate on the House floor! They debated "Will the Vikings go to the Super Bowl this year?" Unfortunately for the Vikings, there were only 12 ayes and 16 nays. If you are a teacher or work with young people and are interested in touring the Capitol, please contact my office and we can help facilitate bringing more youth to St. Paul!

Happy Deer Hunting!

This past Saturday marked the opening of the firearm deer season. Good luck and stay safe to everyone who participates!

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As always, please don’t hesitate to contact me with any issues, questions or concerns you may have.

Jamie

P.S: Don’t forget to forward this update to your friends and neighbors. They can sign up to receive these updates here.