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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Ginny Klevorn (DFL)

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Legislative Update- March 18, 2019

Monday, March 18, 2019
Dear Neighbors,
 
Spring is just around the corner! With the rising temperatures anticipated this week combined with our record snowfall, risks of flooding have increased. For anyone considering water damage protection, the Minnesota Department of Commerce has compiled some helpful tools to determine what is covered under flood insurance.
 
Here’s an update from St. Paul:
 

Thank you!

What a tremendous turnout we had at our most recent Senate District 44 Town Hall! Thank you to everyone who attended and participated. Some of the topics we covered included long term care, veterans’ needs, education, public safety, and public participation in government. I’m looking forward to our next opportunity to hear your input about how we can improve our community and state.

Ensuring Fair Elections

Our current redistricting process at the legislature hasn’t been working efficiently. Over the last couple of decades, courts have needed to intervene and it’s been costly in terms of time, resources, and public trust. As a result of these concerns, I’ve sponsored a bill to establish a Redistricting Advisory Commission, which received a public hearing recently. The commission would consist of twelve members of the public and five retired judges. The bill also establishes a series of principles that must be used in drawing district boundaries. My legislation has been incorporated into the Elections Omnibus bill.
 
Minnesotans deserve unbiased recommendations with the goal of producing fairly redistricted lines for future elections.

Equal Rights Amendment Passes the House

The Minnesota House approved the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) ballot question to let Minnesotans decide whether or not to give everyone full equality under our Constitution. The bill is a step forward in guaranteeing equality for women and ensuring fair treatment by the courts, employers, state and local governments, health care providers, and others. It represents Minnesota’s commitment to equality, and rejects discrimination based on gender.
 
One day after the House voted to approve Equal Rights Amendment legislation, we celebrated with our fellow Minnesotans at the Capitol on March 8 for a rally in recognition of International Women’s Day.

Minnesota House Unanimously Approves New Financial Assistance for Family Farmers

Weather-related property losses are making life extremely difficult for Minnesota’s hard-working family farmers right now. When crises occur, our Legislature has a responsibility to extend a helping hand. The Minnesota House unanimously approved new financial assistance for family farmers who are hurting after winter weather destroyed barns, livestock, and equipment. Click here to watch video of Rep. Jeanne Poppe of Austin, Chair of the Agriculture and Food Division, talk about this urgent priority. Our food security in every corner of the state depends on farmers. You can review my remarks here on why this is so vital for all Minnesotans.
 

Local Business Opens in Plymouth!

Firenza Pizza held its grand opening over the weekend. I enjoyed celebrating with owners, customers and city officials, and was honored to be a part of the ribbon cutting ceremony! Be sure to check out their amazing menu after you finish up your shopping near the Lowe’s on Vicksburg Lane- it’s worth the stop!

Stay in Touch

Please continue to call, write and email about any and all issues important to you. I appreciate your feedback and welcome your questions and comments anytime.
 
Sincerely,
 
Ginny Klevorn
State Representative