Dear neighbors,
The fast-paced action continues at the Capitol. Here’s a brief update on what’s been going on and the new bills that I introduced last week.
Paid Family Leave
On Tuesday, I stood with Minnesota families, faith leaders, and small business owners to introduce paid family and medical leave. The Family Medical Leave Act—H.F. 5—would allow Minnesota workers to take the time to bond with a new baby or care for a sick parent, while still retaining a percentage of their salary. You can watch coverage of the press conference here.
I’ve been meeting with lots of stakeholders to ensure broad input on this proposal. The first public hearing regarding the Family Medical Leave Act will be next Wednesday, January 30. More information on this Labor Committee meeting can be found here.
Federal Shutdown
Last week, I met with federal government workers impacted by the federal shutdown, including a TSA worker from Eagan who hasn’t received a paycheck since December. At a press conference last Friday, she spoke about not being able to have a birthday party for her kids or sign them up for spring sports. I think we can all agree that our federal workers should not have to endure such financial and emotional strain.
Tomorrow, we will hear H.F. 319 in the Commerce Committee. This proposal would allow short-term, no interest loans for federal workers who are experiencing financial hardships due to a federal shutdown.
I encourage you to watch the full press conference here.
Insulin Affordability
Many of you may be familiar with the tragic story of Alec Smith, a young Minnesota man who died because he couldn’t afford his insulin. I joined his parents Nicole Smith-Holt and James Holt on Tuesday to advocate for insulin affordability. My colleagues from the House and Senate introduced several bills that would help the many Minnesotans who, like Alec, struggle to afford the insulin that they need to survive. I have introduced H.F. 284, which would authorize a review of the cost of insulin products and reimburse Minnesota consumers who are being charged excessively.
Free Radon Testing
The Minnesota Department of Health has released a new map that shows radon testing rates across the state. This map shows that two out of five Dakota County homes are likely to have dangerous levels of radon; however, only one percent of Minnesota properties are tested each year.
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that occurs naturally in soil. It enters homes through cracks or openings in walls or foundations and can build up during the winter. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind smoking.
The City of Eagan is encouraging residents to take advantage of National Radon Action Month and test their homes. Dakota County Public Health will loan test kits to residents at no cost. Please visit their website or call 952-891-7500 to check on device availability.
Stay in Touch
Finally, I want to make sure you know you can contact me about any issues that are important to you. Please don’t hesitate to contact me to schedule an appointment or share your concerns via phone or e-mail.
You can call my office at 651-296-4128 or email me at rep.laurie.halverson@house.mn.
Sincerely,
Laurie Halverson