Dear neighbor,
It’s been a busy week at the Capitol. I’m happy to announce that I have been appointed to serve on the Health and Human Services Policy Committee. Much of the discussion and implementation of the health insurance exchanges will occur in this committee. I’m deeply concerned about how these exchanges, mandated on the states by Obamacare, will affect the health care system in Minnesota. Our health care system is the most competitive in the world because it was built in a competitive, free-market environment. Minnesota has been a leader in providing quality health care at competitive rates. I do not want to see us go down the road of having the government control our healthcare decisions. I plan to use my position on this committee to fight against such an infringement on our personal liberty.
I also serve on the House Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee. Next week, the committee is going to hear testimony relating to gun control and limitations on the Second Amendment. If this is an issue that is important to you, I encourage you to come testify before the committee to share your thoughts or concerns on the legislation. Please know that I am a strong supporter of the Second Amendment and, as your voice in St. Paul, will fight to protect it.
The Governor’s tax proposal remains the biggest item on our agenda in St. Paul. As I noted last week, I am troubled by much of what the governor is proposing. It will hit hard-working middle class Minnesota families in the course of their every-day lives. If you have not seen my column on how this tax plan will affect your family, you can read it here on the Stillwater Patch’s website.
I have been quite busy meeting with constituents, local public officials, and various other folks who have an interest in upcoming legislation. I am always interested in your feedback. Please feel free to contact me by e-mail at Rep.Kathy.Lohmer@House.MN or contact my office at 651-296-4244. You can also send mail to my office address: 239 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155.