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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Alice Hausman (DFL)

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Legislative E-Update

Friday, February 23, 2018

Dear Neighbors and Friends:

The 2018 legislative session convened at noon on Tuesday. We have just a few, short weeks to consider several important issues. Among our priorities will be assembling a public infrastructure bill, ratifying public worker contracts and discussing how to comply with the federal tax code.

Infrastructure Bill

Governor Dayton has proposed $1.5 billion to help communities around the state fund critical infrastructure needs. I am pleased the governor released an aggressive bill. Now that we have the governor’s recommendations, the legislature can move forward and craft a robust, balanced bonding bill. Minnesota communities are counting on the legislature to help them fund and improve water infrastructure facilities, housing and higher education, among other critical requests. After viewing projects around the state this autumn, I saw first-hand that the need is great throughout the state.

State Employee Contracts

One important item that the legislature needs to act on immediately is the approval of the state employee contracts that were negotiated in good faith on behalf of the over 30,000 State of Minnesota workers. You may recall that back in October, these contracts were rejected by a legislative subcommittee. I will be pushing for us to approve these contracts as early in the session as possible so our state workers are treated fairly and respectfully.

Gun Violence

Once again, our nation has been shaken by a mass shooting – this time in another school. Americans are killed by guns at rates higher than almost any other country not at war. I’ve supported common-sense bills pushing for criminal background checks, but these have failed even to receive a hearing from the House majority. Our children should be able to go to school with the expectation that they will come home at the end of the day. I will continue to advocate for laws that will make our communities a safer place to live and have signed on as a co-author to a number of these sensible bills.

Carbon Monoxide

Winter isn’t quite over yet, so the threat of carbon monoxide is still at its height. The Department of Commerce has some helpful tips for keeping your home safe from this colorless and odorless gas. Those tips include things like making sure your CO detectors are tested and you replace batteries yearly, making sure snow and ice aren’t blocking exterior exhaust vents, and that you use space heaters safely, as well as other great tips.

As always, contact me with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Alice