Legislative Update- April 16, 2020

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this finds you well and with an opportunity to enjoy the sunshine.

Here’s an update from the Capitol (currently, Apple Valley):

Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act – New Landmark Law in Minnesota

Governor Walz has signed into law the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act. The new law will ensure that Minnesotans who cannot afford their insulin and are facing an emergency need can access a 30-day supply at their pharmacy for a co-pay of $35. Eligible Minnesotans include those who are uninsured, under-insured, receiving Medicare and do not have access to low co-pays. The legislation also streamlines the process by which Minnesotans can access affordable insulin in the long-term. Insulin manufacturers would participate in the program and could be fined up to $3.6 million a year, doubling in the second year, for non-compliance. 

As a long-time supporter of #insulin4all, I was honored to cast my ‘yes’ vote on this bipartisan compromise with the Senate. You can read my full statement here.

Minnesota Legislature Approves 4^th Package of COVID-19 Emergency Response Legislation

The House and Senate approved a 4^th package of bills to address COVID-19 daily disruptions to Minnesotans during the pandemic. These focus on policy fixes and adjustments to help Minnesotans adapt to our new but temporary circumstances. Measures passed include additional support to help Minnesotans execute wills, allow local governments to meet remotely, suspend certain deadlines and expiration dates, expand use of telemedicine, allow Minnesotans to apply for marriage licenses remotely, and more. You can read an overview of the legislation from the nonpartisan office of House Public Information here.

UI Benefits Extended 13 Weeks

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development announced early this week a 13-week extension of Unemployment Insurance. Additionally, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, which will provide unemployment benefits to self-employed individuals, independent contractors, gig workers and others will be operational by end of April. If your UI benefits have been exhausted, you are encouraged to re-apply at DEED’s website.

COVID-19 Dashboard

For additional updates, the Governor has launched a COVID-19 dashboard that includes daily statistics broken down by county, available ICU beds, and several state resources to help Minnesotans through the pandemic. You can access the dashboard here.  

Please continue to reach out to let me know how I can help. I appreciate your input and questions.

It’s an honor to represent our communities at the state legislature.

Sincerely,

Robert Bierman

State Representative