Legislative Update- April 22, 2020

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this finds you well and staying safe and healthy. 

Our first week back after our brief Easter/Passover recess was a busy one. Read below about the latest laws that have been enacted as a result of the legislation we passed in the House and Senate.

Voting remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic

Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act

Last week, the Legislature approved the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act, which I also call the Insulin 4 All Law. This was a victory for insulin warriors, like Abigail Hansmeyer and Mary Jo Malecha, as well as Nicole Smith-Holt, Alec's mom. They have been advocating day in and day out for affordable insulin. Alec, Nicole's son, lost his life because he was forced to ration this essential drug. You can watch the speech I gave on the House Floor in February when the House passed the bill.

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.

Abigail Hansmeyer and Mary Jo Malecha joined me on the House Floor when we passed the #Insulin4All bill in February.

COVID-19 Emergency Response Legislation

The House and Senate approved a 4^th package of bills to address COVID-19 daily disruptions to Minnesotans during the pandemic. This legislation focuses on necessary adjustments to help Minnesotans adapt to our new but temporary circumstances. 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.

Happy Earth Day!

Today, on the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, we’re celebrating the progress made by those who came before us and are committed to acting on behalf of those who will come after us. As a member of the House Climate Action Caucus, I’m working hard to protect our planet for future generations of Minnesotans. A few of my colleagues had an opportunity to interview Vice President Walter Mondale to reflect on his experience voting as a U.S. Senator to establish Earth Day. Listen to the conversation here.

Mask Drive

The Governor recently launched a 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., you can deliver homemade masks to your local fire department. The department will then deliver the masks to local congregate living facilities for their employees and residents to wear.

New Brighton Fire Station

Fridley Fire Station

Spring Lake Part Fire Station

CTV Interview

I recently had the opportunity to check in with CTV about the latest legislation we’ve been working on to support our college and trades skills students during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can watch the interview here. 

Keep in Touch

Please contact me anytime with questions or input at rep.connie.bernardy@house.mn. 

You can also follow me on Facebook for breaking news and additional updates. 

Enjoy the sunshine today, while practicing safe social distancing of course. 

Sincerely,

Connie Bernardy

State Representative