Dear neighbors,
I was honored to be a part of a few bill signing ceremonies last week. We worked hard to craft legislation that will improve the lives of Minnesotans this session, and I’m pleased with what we were able to accomplish.
I’m particularly proud of the Legacy bill that Governor Walz signed last Tuesday.
New Laws Taking Effect July 1
Several new laws will go into effect on Monday, July 1 this year. You can read more about the new laws here, but here are some of the highlights:
- An E-12 education plan that contains an annual two percent increase in per-student funding. It addresses the growing gap between special education costs and the state and federal funding that school districts receive and preserves access to voluntary pre-kindergarten for 4,000 of our youngest learners.
- Increased funding for the University of Minnesota and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, which will help support our students. It also expands benefits for students enrolled in the state grant program and expands program eligibility.
- The Legacy bill protects and enhances Minnesota’s natural resources, preserves our arts and cultural heritage, and supports our parks and trails.
- The strongest wage theft prevention and enforcement law in the country, which will ensure that Minnesotans receive an hour’s pay for an hour’s work.
- A bill that addresses the opioid epidemic by holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for their role in creating and profiting from this crisis. Fees paid by drug manufacturers and distributors will go towards prevention and treatment strategies while also helping communities manage soaring public safety costs.
- Repealing the marital rape exception, which shielded rapists from prosecution if they were married to their victim.
- Legislation that protects Minnesota’s environment and natural resources. It provides innovative solutions to long-term environmental issues, protects the health and well-being of Minnesotans, and provides people with greater access to the outdoors.
- Funding to help maintain our roads, bridges, and transit system.
- Support for veterans and current service members, which includes funding for veterans’ homes and cemeteries, the Armed Forces Service Center, and community-based services.
Red Blue Build
I recently participated in the first-ever Red Blue Build with Habitat for Humanity. I had a blast working with colleagues from both sides of the aisle to build homes for those in need.
Please feel free to email me at rep.ami.wazlawik@house.mn or call me at 651-296-3018. I always appreciate hearing from fellow community members!
Sincerely,
Ami Wazlawik
State Representative