Dear Neighbors,
We’ve been extremely busy at the Minnesota Legislature the past couple of weeks with full committee schedules. Here is an update on what’s been happening and what I’ve been up to.
Corrections Division
Valuable work is happening behind the walls of our state correctional facilities, and it’s important for us as lawmakers to learn about how we can best support this work. Our prisons can’t be seen as “out of sight, out of mind.” As chair of the new House Corrections Division, I recognize that we need to take a new approach to improve outcomes for both those working as well as those residing in these facilities.
Recent events have forced us to take an even closer look. The tragic deaths of corrections officers Joseph Gomm and Joseph Parise have highlighted the need to take action improving safety. We also need to look more deeply at strategies to lower the number of Minnesotans incarcerated and reduce recidivism. The vast majority of those in our prisons will one day reenter the community. Whether it’s at the end of their shift or the end of their sentence, we need to ensure everyone is able to come home safely.
We’ve determined that the best way to examine the needs in our prisons is to go get a first-hand look inside them. Last week, our committee took a tour of the Minnesota Correctional Facility at Stillwater. We were set to hold a hearing there yesterday, but due to the weather we decided to postpone it. We look forward to rescheduling it in the near future, and as far as anyone is able to tell, would be the first legislative hearing to take place inside a state prison ever.
Hands-Free
Last week the House Transportation Committee advanced legislation that would require drivers to use a “hands-free” device when talking on the phone. Those providing testimony included members of law enforcement, who indicated the state’s current text messaging ban is difficult to enforce, along with Minnesotans telling tragic stories of losing loved ones due to distracted driving.
This bill is a step in the right direction and with broad public support, as well as bipartisan support at the Legislature, I’m hopeful we can see it become law.
Tax Conformity
Some folks have asked about the tax filing process for last year’s returns. There is some confusion because of the federal tax changes that passed in late 2017. While the Legislature didn’t address the issue of conformity last year, the Minnesota Department of Revenue has updated its forms to reflect current Minnesota law, so you should feel comfortable filing your taxes at any point. Certainly down the road, there will be a discussion at the Legislature about state conformity to the federal changes. As this takes place, I’ll be working to ensure all Minnesotans are treated fairly under any changes.
Stay Safe; Stay Warm
It goes without saying that temperatures and wind chills outside are incredibly dangerous, and you should avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Check in with neighbors and family members, especially those who may be vulnerable like seniors and those with disabilities. KEYC put together a good list of tips and local resources. Be safe!
Please stay in touch with your feedback and ideas. It’s an honor to represent you at the Capitol.
Sincerely,
Jack Considine
State Representative
Rep. Jack Considine
433 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
www.house.mn/19B
Chair, House Corrections Division
Phone: 651-296-3248
E-mail: rep.jack.considine@house.mn
Legislative Assistant: Adam Kopel, 651-296-4165