Dear Neighbors,
Yesterday, the 2016 Minnesota Legislative Session began. As you may know, our time this year in session is limited to just about 10 weeks due to the ongoing restoration of the State Capitol. Other than the House Chamber itself, the Capitol is closed to the public, and access is extremely limited with only a few seats inside the chamber for members of the public and press. Other challenges are presented, as, for instance, inside the facility there is no running water.
Taking steps to protect the environment is a major priority of mine this session. With the significant steps backward we took last year, it’s important that we look to the future and ensure we enact wise policies making sure things like safe, clean drinking water are available and our other precious resources are protected for generations to come. Some good news cameMonday when Gov. Mark Dayton announced his opposition to the proposed Twin Metals mining operation near Ely. I share the Governor’s concerns about this project which could potentially lead to massive pollution of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. The BWCA is a national treasure, and these activities in such close proximity put Minnesota's treasured wilderness at risk for generations to come.
Yesterday, I introduced the Toxic Free Kids Act, an initiative previously carried by former Rep. Kate Knuth, to require the disclosure of any harmful chemicals in products marketed to children. There are many chemicals which the Minnesota Department of Health has determined there to be “compelling evidence” of adverse health effects to children exposed to them. The Toxic Free Kids Act would simply give parents the tools they need to make informed decisions as they choose products for their kids.
An additional environmental measure I’m supporting this session is reinstatement of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Citizens’ Board. Last year this panel, composed of interested citizens charged with reviewing proposed agricultural projects, was eliminated because of a provision tucked into a larger finance bill, which I opposed. This language was added at the urging of corporate special interests at the last minute of the session. This was a short sighted move, and I will work to correct this action.
My other priorities this session include a caregiver provider tax credit – with an emphasis on those providing care for children and their elderly parents, expanded early childhood education, making college more affordable, and a sustainable transportation system and reforms, and property tax relief for homeowners, renters, and seniors.
Last week, the Office of the Legislative Auditor released an evaluation of the mental health services in our county jails. As a member of the Legislative Audit Commission, I was pleased to have collaborated with Sen. Barb Goodwin to get this important topic selected for evaluation. The report summarized the findings in the following manner: “when police encounter a person who may be suffering from a mental illness, services available in jails and in communities are often inadequate. In addition, many persons deemed mentally incompetent to stand trial do not receive treatment in a sufficiently timely manner, if at all.” The report makes several recommendations, and I look forward to working toward solutions and enacting important legislation.
With the House back in session, I invite you to share your story, concerns and ideas. Please contact me any time by phone at 651-296-5510 or email at rep.connie.bernardy@house.mn. It’s an honor to support the community I grew up in at the State Capitol.
Sincerely,
Connie Bernardy
State Representative