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Neighbors,
This week, Governor Tim Walz, House Speaker Melissa Hortman, and Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka announced a bipartisan agreement on an outline for a new two-year state budget. The outline sets up the framework and a roadmap for final negotiations to finish the legislative session, enacting a state budget focusing on our students, families, workers, and small businesses.
The pandemic has been difficult for everyone, but Minnesotans have been hit unequally. Our bipartisan budget prioritizes those most impacted by COVID-19.
Through the final budget process, I will continue to advocate for our regional legislation, such as the local option sales tax, flood mitigation and the river watch program.
Minnesota House advances bill to legalize adult-use cannabis
Thursday night, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed House File 600, which would legalize and regulate cannabis for adult use, and expunge the records of those convicted of nonviolent cannabis-related crimes. The legislation passed on a bipartisan vote of 72-61. The Minnesota Senate has not taken any action on this proposal.
Vaccine Update
Following CDC guidance, Governor Walz announced Thursday the end of the statewide face covering requirement for vaccinated Minnesotans. It is recommended those unvaccinated continue to wear face coverings indoors, and many businesses are still requiring them for the time being.
It is easier than ever to get a vaccine. The Minnesota Department of Health reports more than 2.7 million of our friends and neighbors have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to protect themselves and others. Check out Minnesota’s COVID-19 mn.gov/vaccineconnector, call 833-431-2053 or ask your health care provider to help you find a vaccine.
Stay Connected
The Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offers nonpartisan recaps of legislative action with their Session Daily publication. Subscribe here. You can track bills of interest through the legislative process by utilizing the MyBills feature on the Minnesota House of Representatives’ website here.
Contact me anytime at rep.heather.keeler@house.mn. I welcome your questions and comments. Also, you are welcome to “like” my Facebook page.
Thank you for the privilege of representing you in the legislature.
Sincerely,
Heather Keeler
State Representative
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