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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Todd Lippert (DFL)

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Legislative Update - Vaccine Eligibility Increases, Heroes Week

Friday, March 26, 2021

Rep. Lippert

Dear Neighbors, 

Today, Governor Walz shared the exciting news that all Minnesotans age 16 and over will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine starting on Tuesday, March 30. This is in anticipation of an increased supply of vaccines from the federal government in early April. While many of us will be eager to get our first dose, the demand is still incredibly high, outpacing our ever-increasing supply. We’ll have to remain patient, even with new eligibility, as priority will still be given to those most at risk.

Vaccine Eligibility

It’s important to remember that a vaccine is only one (very powerful) tool in our fight against this pandemic. We’re not out of the woods yet, and it’s important to continue following public health guidelines. Also, if you haven’t been vaccinated yet, I highly encourage you to check out Minnesota’s COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, a tool to help people find out when, where, and how to get a vaccine. It can let you know when you’re eligible to be vaccinated, connect you to resources to schedule a vaccine appointment, and alert you if there are vaccine opportunities nearby. To sign up, visit mn.gov/vaccineconnector or call 833-431-2053. Minnesotans can also contact their healthcare provider, local pharmacy or use the Vaccine Locator Map to search for vaccine providers in their area.

 


 

Legalize. Expunge. Regulate.

This week, I voted in favor of legalizing adult-use cannabis as HF600 had a public hearing in the Ag committee. Angela Dawson of the Forty Acre Co-op said the bill will improve racial equity in the criminal justice system, and in agriculture too. 

She also spoke about the potential for rural economic development. The bill includes a thoughtful regulatory framework, and a great deal of effort has gone into making sure that small businesses can start and succeed when adult-use cannabis is legalized. As this industry begins, HF600 will create equity, rather than more racial injustice. It’s a bill I’m proud to co-author.

Cannabis Graphic 2


 

Heroes Week

It’s been Heroes Week in the Minnesota House as we work to pass legislation that supports the frontline responders, working families, and Minnesotans that have sacrificed and struggled during this pandemic. So much of the past year has laid bare inequities that always existed, and driven home the importance of providing Minnesotans with the economic security they deserve. Last night, we passed several bills off the House floor aimed at helping these Minnesotans.

sicknsafe

For the families that have to choose between a paycheck and caring for themselves or a loved one, we passed Earned Sick and Safe Time for all Minnesotans. For the women who make less than their white male counterparts, we passed the Preventing Discrimination Act. For the countless hospitality and service workers who were laid off from their jobs during this pandemic - we passed assistance to help them regain those jobs. For the health care and public safety workers that continue to work in some of the most exposed positions  - we passed legislation extending their access to workers’ comp in the event they contract COVID-19. 

These are the policies that are going to help Minnesotans bounce back from this pandemic and thrive. It’s time the Minnesota Senate passed them as well. 

 


 

Stay Connected

The Minnesota Legislature is on a break from committee work next week in observance of the Easter and Passover holidays, but the work still goes on! Now is a great time to touch base on any questions or comments you have on our work in the Minnesota House. You can also visit my legislative page for the latest on my work and how to contact me. I also invite you to “like” and follow my official Facebook page and Twitter

The best way to reach out to me is by email at rep.todd.lippert@house.mn, or by calling me at (651) 296-0171. Also, please feel free to share and subscribe to these legislative updates, which you can do here. I look forward to hearing from you. 

Sincerely,

Todd Lippert