Dear Neighbors,
I’ll be sending out email updates throughout the legislative session to keep you informed of what’s happening in St. Paul. I want to have an open dialogue, and make sure you’re up-to-date on any big news at the Capitol.
I’m humbled and honored to serve as your voice in the House of Representatives. If there’s ever a way I can help you or your family, please call, email, or visit my office; I’d love to hear from you.
Committee Assignments
Next week, we’ll start a regular schedule for committee meetings. I feel very fortunate in my assignments as I think they fit our area very well. I was named Vice-Chair of the Legacy Funding Committee which is a great opportunity to make impactful investments around the state.
My other three committees – Environment and Natural Resources, Job Growth and Energy Affordability, and Mining, Forestry, and Tourism – all pertain to the needs of our area. It’s important to grow good-paying jobs in northern Minnesota, and these assignments will give me a greater voice to advocate for you at the Capitol.
Swearing-In Ceremony
On Tuesday, I joined other legislators for the swearing-in ceremony for the House of Representatives. It was awe-inspiring to see the renovated Capitol, and to look around and see all my fellow representatives – from both parties – standing with me for Minnesotans. It’s a moment I know I’ll never forget.
I was fortunate to be joined by my husband Bill, son Nick, daughter-in-law Erin and grandson Nash for the special day.
Tax Relief Passes
We couldn’t hear bills on Tuesday or Wednesday, but really got things going yesterday. We quickly passed a $22 million tax cut that will benefit 220,000 Minnesotans. The bill conforms our state’s tax laws to the federal standard, and teachers, homeowners, and students will see a benefit from this needed legislation. Tax relief was a top priority of mine, and I’m happy to see the Legislature take this first step in the right direction.
Healthcare Crisis
We also tried to discuss a bill to start to sort out Minnesota’s current healthcare mess. The bill would provide $300 million of premium relief for those buying insurance on the individual market. It also included much-needed reforms to increase access, transparency, and competition.
I voted to bring this bill to the floor, but the measure was blocked on a party-line vote; temporarily stalling premium relief and overdue reforms. I regularly hear how this issue is affecting families in my area, and want to take swift action to give relief to those in need. Although we didn’t pass the bill yesterday, I expect we could hear it on the House floor as early as next week.
Please Contact Me
I’ve already heard from some of you, but encourage all residents of our area to contact my office if I can help you or your family. My email is: rep.sandy.layman@house.mn, and my phone number is 651-296-4936. Also, if you’re planning to be in St. Paul, please schedule a time to meet in my office.
I know the best ideas come from you, the people of Minnesota. I’m here to serve you and represent your views, and hope to hear from you soon.
Have a great weekend,
Sandy