Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Thank you to everyone who came out to my listening session last weekend. It was great to see those of you who attended, and I felt we had productive conversations on some important issues.
Before the weekend gets underway, I wanted to send out a quick update with some info from St. Paul.
March for Life
On Tuesday, I had the honor of joining thousands of Minnesotans in showing our support for pro-life legislation at the March for Life at the Capitol. Thank you to all the dedicated supporters of the pro-life movement who endured the cold weather to make sure their voices were heard. Every human life has value and deserves to be protected, and the energy of this event made that known. As your state representative, I am proud to always stand up for life and tirelessly fight for the rights of the unborn.
The March for Life is organized by Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL) and is an annual event. MCCL does great work advocating for pro-life issues in our state. Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to sit down with Andrea Rau of MCCL to discuss these issues and what bills will be on the table in the months ahead
With Rep. Peggy Scott (R-Andover) on the Capitol steps at the March for Life.
Hands-Free Bill
This week, the Transportation Finance Division – on which I serve – held a hearing on the hands-free driving legislation that is already garnering a lot of media attention. This bill takes aim at distracted driving by banning the use of handheld cellphones and devices while driving – unless they are operated in a hands-free mode. This is a big, controversial issue and I’m happy to dig into it right away. I’ve never been one to shy away from or avoid challenges, and I am committed to learning as much about this issue in order to put forth the best legislation to keep Minnesota roads safe.
I have heard from both supporters and opponents of this bill and I understand the merits of each side’s arguments. Minnesotans’ input on this legislation will help us enact the possible policy and, if you haven’t already, I encourage you to please contact me to share your stance on this matter.
Anoka-Ramsey Day at the Capitol
On Monday, February 18, I will be hosting “Anoka-Ramsey Day at the Capitol” along with Senator Abeler. This is an opportunity for anyone from our communities to come to the Capitol to meet with me, share input and ask questions, experience legislative committees and a House floor session up close, tour the Capitol building, and learn more about the legislature and state government. I want to make my office and the legislature as accessible as possible to our communities, and I feel this event is a good way to help do that. Stay tuned for more details about the event soon!
Please Contact Me
Please feel free to contact me and share any questions, concerns, or ideas you have on any legislative matter. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-1729 or by email at rep.john.heinrich@house.mn. I value your input and look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
John