Dear Neighbors, I hope that you're all staying safe, warm, and healthy. With a new year, comes new laws. You can find all laws that take effect in the new year here. Below, you can find my thoughts on the anniversary of the January 6th Insurrection, a COVID-19 update, and a PSA on energy efficiency from the Department of Commerce. January 6thA year ago, many of us watched in terror as a violent insurrection took hold of our country's Capitol. Five people died that day, and many got swept up in divisive, harmful rhetoric after misinformation was spread by leaders we trusted. Something that our nation holds dear - a peaceful and fair transition of power - was put in jeopardy that day. Defending our democracy should not be a partisan issue. This is why I support the Democracy for the People Act, a bill authored by Rep. Greenman that would increase access to voting for all Minnesotans. We'll work to see that this important piece of legislation becomes law this year. Stay HealthyI encourage anyone 16 and older who is fully vaccinated to get their booster to protect against the Omicron variant of COVID-19, as well as the Delta variant. If you aren’t vaccinated, you can still get vaccinated and join the 78% of eligible Minnesotans who have received the shots. The COVID-19 positivity rate in Minnesota has now reached a record 15.6%. Omicron spreads quicker and more easily than past variants. This pandemic is not through with us, hospitals are still over capacity, and we're still losing neighbors to the virus. This holiday season, we can renew our commitment to care for one another (and ourselves), by getting the COVID-19 vaccine and booster. Continued thanks to our health care providers and all who continue to care for us through the pandemic.
How Minnesotans can get their free shot:
How Minnesotans can get a COVID-19 test:
If you have any questions about the COVID-19 resources available to our community, please feel free to reach out to me.
Stay WarmAs weather in Minnesota dips to sub-zero temperatures, the Minnesota Department of Commerce encourages Minnesotans to conserve energy and improve the energy efficiency of their homes and businesses.. “It’s important for Minnesotans to take actions now to stay warm and safe,” said Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold. “Minnesotans can take simple, inexpensive steps to make their homes warmer and their energy bills more affordable.” Actions that homeowners and renters can take immediately to reduce energy costs are explained in Commerce’s video: 12 Energy Saving Tips.
Thank YouThank you so much for the time you took to read this e-update. Please continue to reach out anytime at rep.connie.bernardy@house.mn or 651-296-5510. It’s an honor to serve the community in which I grew up at the State Capitol. Have a great weekend! Sincerely,
Connie Bernardy State Representative |