Dear Neighbors,
The Capitol has been bustling with activity these last two weeks, here is an update on some of what I’ve been working on.
Covid-19 Development
This week the Minnesota House of Representatives unanimously approved a bill to better ensure that public health officials are prepared to respond to COVID-19, commonly known as the coronavirus. The bill appropriates approximately $21 million dollars to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), and was signed into law by Governor Tim Walz.
MDH has set up a public hotline that will be open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. The hotline number is 651-201-3920. You can also visit www.health.state.mn.us for up-to-date and accurate information about what Minnesota is doing to prepare for and stop the spread of COVID-19.
Minnesota is well prepared for this epidemic from a medical standpoint. However, there are some gaps in our healthcare system which must be addressed to reduce the impacts this process could have on Minnesotans who are financially vulnerable. DFL leadership introduced a set of bills this Wednesday that would help Minnesota continue to combat COVID-19 and reduce any financial consequences of mitigating the spread of the virus. I will keep you informed of any future developments on our end.
Introduction of MNCare Expansion Bill
I recently introduced a bill (HF 4119) that would expand Minnesota Care to all Minnesotans by 2025. All Minnesotans deserve the option to buy into MNCare’s affordable and quality coverage. This bill would free Minnesotans from the burden of expensive health plans that keep them from making a career change, pursuing greater education, or starting that business they always dreamed of. We know that MNCare works for those who use it, it’s time to let all Minnesotans benefit from this program
Plastic Bag Fee Bill Gets First Hearing
On Wednesday I presented a bill (HF 3847) that would implement a statewide ¢5 cent fee on all plastic bags. Similar policies in other states and countries have shown that a small fee on plastic bags can reduce overall use by as much as 90%. Plastic pollutes our environment in a variety of destructive ways and it is time to do what we can as a state to clean up our environment. This bill was passed out of the Environment and Natural Resources Policy committee I will keep you updated on any future developments.
Paid Family Medical Leave Passes
All Minnesotans deserve the ability to take time to care for themselves and their loved ones without fear of losing their job or their economic security. The last thing people who are going through a major life event should have to think about is whether they’ll be able to continue pay their bills or not. This is one of many factors I considered when I chose to join my colleagues in passing Paid Family & Medical Leave (HF 5) for all Minnesotans. No one should be forced to choose between family, health, and their job. This bill would go a long way towards ensuring no one will have to make that choice again.
Keep In Touch
What do you want to see accomplished for Minnesota this year? What are your hopes or goals? I want to hear from you! You can find my full contact information online at www.house.mn/56B.
Sincerely,
Rep. Alice Mann