Neighbors and Friends, The 2022 Legislative Session gets underway on January 31. Although it is not a budget year, we have an ambitious agenda to help those still impacted by COVID-19, including in housing. We have had unprecedented challenges the last two years in all areas of our society, but we also have the responsibility and opportunity to improve the lives of all Minnesotans. I look forward to your input this session. I invite you to read a recent opinion piece in the Midway/Como/Frogtown Monitor about my time in the legislature. Paralegal Pilot Program Many Minnesotans need legal representation but lack the resources to hire a lawyer. A pilot program is underway to provide help. Former legislative colleague and Speaker of the House, now Minnesota Supreme Court Associate Justice Paul Thissen, is a liaison to the implementation committee for the two-year Legal Paraprofessional Pilot Project. You can read more in this Star Tribune article. The pilot project makes available help with issues of housing, evictions, and family disputes. As chair of the Housing Finance and Policy Committee, I’m interested in learning more about this innovative program. COVID-19 Update Even after all these months, COVID-19 and its variants persist throughout the state. We can all take steps to significantly reduce the number of cases, help our health care workers and keep each other safe: - Get Vaccinated.Minnesotans aged 5 and up can be vaccinated. Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones – especially those who can’t be vaccinated and children under 5. Find vaccines for the whole family .
- Get Tested. Take advantage of one of the many free testing options the state has to offer, or head to your local clinic or pharmacy. Make an appointment at a community testing site.
- Get Boosted.All adults 18 and older should get a booster when they are due (6 months after receiving Pfizer and Moderna, and 2 months after receiving Johnson & Johnson).
- Stay Safe.Wear your mask in indoor public settings, wash your hands, and do your best to avoid crowded indoor spaces before getting together with family and friends—especially high-risk loved ones and children under 5 who can’t be vaccinated.
Effective this week, families can order up to 4 free COVID tests from the government. All you need is your name and residential mailing address, and tests will be delivered through the U.S. Postal Service and shipped within 7-12 days. Go to https://www.covidtests.gov/ to get your test kits and many more resources! ** Reminder ** You can order for anyone who may not be internet savvy. Health Care Workers Needed The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of our health care workers and the high demand for workers in our community. The Legislative COVID-19 Response Commission (LCRC) approved funding to recruit, train, and deploy at least 1,000 new certified nursing assistants (CNAs) by the end of January. The program covers costs for tuition, fees, and materials, as well as transportation and technology needs for students. Learn more by going to the Minnesota Office of Higher Education website. You’ll find a link to enroll or sign up to receive more information when new training opportunities are added. While we’re on the topic of health care careers, Ramsey County is hosting a 14 Days of Healthcare Event: January 18-31, 2022. It is an On-Line Career Fair metroregioninteractive.easyvirtualfair.com. Connect any time during this 2-week event, 24/7  __________ Staying Connected I welcome your questions and comments anytime. You can call me at (651) 296-3824 or send an email to rep.alice.hausman@house.mn. Thank you for the privilege of representing you in the legislature. Sincerely, Alice |