Dear friends, The Minnesota House entered our co-governance agreement last Monday, following a special election in Roseville. Now, committees will have equal numbers of members from each party and co-chairs who will share the gavel - for me, that means becoming the co-chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. The committee has broad jurisdiction over the state budget and appropriations and is the final committee stop before any bill with a fiscal impact reaches the House Floor. I’m dedicated to working with our colleagues across the aisle to ensure our state budget reflects the values we all share, so everyone in Minnesota has the opportunity to thrive. We have our work cut out for us, but I have faith in this committee to move Minnesota forward.  Protecting Kids in Online SpacesThe evidence is clear that social media is linked with poor mental health outcomes, particularly among children. Last year, the U.S. Surgeon General called for social media platforms to have warning labels. Last week, I joined advocates to announce bipartisan legislation to require these mental health and warning labels, as well as an occasional pop-up timer tracking their time spent on the social media website or app. As policymakers, we have a responsibility to address this growing crisis. This common-sense legislation is a crucial step toward fostering a healthier digital environment for all Minnesotans. You can view our press conference here. This bill was heard Thursday in the House Commerce Committee, where it advanced on a bipartisan vote. You can watch here.  Meeting with ConstituentsLast Tuesday was Disability Day on the Hill! Hundreds of people filled the state capitol for an inspiring rally, advocating for disability services. I had the pleasure of meeting with AARM (Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota), a nonprofit association of nearly 200 provider organizations, businesses, and advocates dedicated to leading the advancement of home and community-based services supporting people living with disabilities in their pursuit of meaningful lives. I’m committed to protecting these vital services. Thanks for coming to the Capitol!  Real ID Taking Effect in MayBeginning May 7, 2025, Minnesotans 18 years of age or older will not be able to use their standard driver's license or identification card to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. Instead, they will need one of three options: - Minnesota REAL ID driver's license or identification card.
- Minnesota Enhanced driver's license or identification card.
- Other federally approved forms of identification. They include:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Foreign government-issued passport
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
If you are not sure which license type is right for you, check out the Driver Vehicle Services’ website here. Keep in TouchPlease continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at rep.zack.stephenson@house.mn.gov or 651-296-5513. It’s an honor to represent our Coon Rapids and Anoka families in St. Paul. Sincerely, Rep. Zack Stephenson Minnesota House of Representatives |