Friends,
I hope you are having a great summer. Here is a quick update about recent developments at the Department of Human Services, information about the new hands-free law as well as the other law changes effective August 1st, and workforce scholarship opportunities. Have a great week!
Chaos at DHS Demands Answers
The quick, unexplained departures of the top four officials at the Department of Human Services (DHS) in the past week—and then two of them “rescinding” their resignations— is deeply concerning and reveals a significant level of chaos at our largest state agency.
Prior to all of this, Carolyn Ham, the Inspector General for DHS, was put on paid administrative leave following revelations of inaction related to child care fraud. She has been on leave for four months, collecting $42,000 to date, and the investigation did not even begin until last week. This is unacceptable.
Getting to the bottom of the issues at DHS will require transparency from the Walz Administration. We need to know what went wrong so we can figure out how to make this important government agency eliminate fraud and abuse of taxpayers’ dollars and work as efficiently and effectively as possible.
Hands-Free Law
The Hands-Free Law goes into effect on August 1st. The new law allows a driver to use their cell phone to make calls, text, listen to music or podcasts and get directions, but only by voice commands or single-touch activation without holding the phone.
At no time may a driver hold the phone in their hand unless it’s to obtain emergency assistance, if there is an immediate threat to life and safety, or when in an authorized emergency vehicle while performing official duties.
More information about the new law is available here.
Among the other laws going into effect are EpiPen administration, racially restrictive covenants on property titles, predatory offender penalties, and license plate fee increases. A full list of laws going into effect is available here.
Apply Now for Workforce Development Scholarships
This year, the Legislature approved a $7 million appropriation to the program. These scholarships are targeted to students entering the college in these areas: Agriculture, Early Childhood Education, Health Care, Information Technology, Manufacturing, and Transportation.
These scholarships are available at ALL Minnesota State campuses, so I encourage all parents and interested students to look into this great opportunity to support your education and career interests!
Scholarships are available for this upcoming fall semester with many deadlines in early August. To learn more, click here.
Please Contact Me
Even though the legislative session is completed for this year, I would still enjoy meeting with you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. I encourage you to please contact me, to share any legislative questions or suggestions. I can be reached at 651-296-5066 or rep.greg.boe@house.mn.
Have a great summer!
Greg