Dear Neighbors,
The pace at the Capitol is becoming quicker with each passing week. Here are a few things that we’ve been working on lately.
Equal Rights Amendment
Last week the House passed legislation in favor of the Equal Rights Amendment for Minnesota (HF 13). The ERA would be put on the ballot in 2020, giving Minnesotans the opportunity to vote on including gender equality in our constitution. Everyone deserves equal rights under the law, so I was proud to cast my vote for the proposal.
Minnesota Diabetes Advocacy Day
You may be familiar with the story of Alec Smith, a 26-year-old Minnesotan who died because he couldn’t afford insulin to treat his diabetes. As the cost of insulin continues to skyrocket, many Minnesotans struggle to pay for medication they need.
My plan to prevent health care companies from removing coverage of a particular brand of insulin or related equipment and supplies (HF 288) is one piece of a comprehensive plan to make sure that people have access to affordable insulin. Insulin users need to have the appropriate medication, and unplanned changes can cause serious problems.
The Commerce Committee heard and passed this legislation on Minnesota Diabetes Advocacy Day. Listen to the hearing here for more information on my bill and others like it.
Transportation Field Hearings
The Transportation Finance and Policy Division recently held a series of field hearings that took us to St. Cloud, Minneapolis, Savage, Blaine, and Mankato. On Tuesday evening, community members filled the Council Chamber for the public hearing at Savage City Hall.
While a number of testifiers talked about road improvements, the Dan Patch legislation (HF 1783) generated the most animated discussion. This proposal would study extending the existing commuter rail line so residents could board trains in Savage and easily access people and opportunities in other locations. Video of the public hearing is available here.
Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns. I can be reached at rep.sandra.masin@house.mn or 651-296-3533.
Sincerely,
Sandy Masin
State Representative