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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Sandra Masin (DFL)

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Legislative Update - August 5, 2019

Monday, August 5, 2019

Dear Neighbors,

Several of the laws that passed this session took effect recently, providing an opportunity to share information about new laws and upcoming community events. 

New Laws Taking Effect

The laws that went into effect on August 1 will:

  • Require state agencies to provide opportunities for user acceptance training when they’re transitioning to new software. This legislation, which I introduced, will ensure that problems or glitches are identified before the software is implemented.
  • Protect elderly and vulnerable adults. This law is part of a number of sweeping reforms that will improve conditions in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It prohibits retaliating against residents who file complaints.
  • Protect Minnesotans from the hazards of e-cigarette vapors. By prohibiting the use of e-cigarettes in public places, this law will also help curb youth tobacco use.
  • Ensure that patients aren’t surprised by high out-of-pocket costs by requiring provider-based clinics to disclose facility fees before starting treatment.
  • Make Minnesota roads safer. This legislation allows law enforcement to cite drivers who endanger construction workers by ignoring the instructions of flaggers or violating traffic control laws while in a work zone. The hands-free law, which I talked about in my last legislative update, also took effect yesterday.

If you’d like to read more, information about the laws that took effect last week is available here.

Night to Unite

Most of the community members who responded to my legislative survey earlier this year identified a sense of community and caring for neighbors as the thing that makes them most proud to be a Minnesotan. Night to Unite, also known as National Night Out, further strengthens the bonds that allow our communities to succeed.

Tomorrow night, neighborhoods in our community and across the nation will gather for block parties. Many of them will include visits from local law enforcement officers and first responders. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people, learn a bit about one another, and build stronger, safer communities!

If you’re hosting a get-together, I’d love to stop by and visit. Please feel free to call me at 651-296-3533 or email me at rep.sandra.masin@house.mn.

DPS Listening Session

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is hosting a series of listening sessions to help build trust between law enforcement and communities. The department is seeking input on how individuals are selected and recruited for state law enforcement agencies and how these officers can earn the trust of the communities that they serve. I plan to attend the upcoming listening session in our area, and I hope that you’ll join if you’re able.  

When: Thursday, August 8 from 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Burnsville High School, 600 E. Highway 13, Burnsville, MN 55337

It’s a privilege to serve our community. Please keep in touch.

Sincerely,

Sandra Masin
State Representative

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