Dear Neighbors,
There are only a few days left in the legislative session before we must adjourn. I know we have a lot ahead of us if legislators are going to complete the work Minnesotans expect.
Yesterday, House Republicans blocked a proposal to ban cell phone use while driving a vehicle, unless the driver is using a hands-free device. We’ve all heard tragic stories about families losing loved ones because of a distracted driver on their cell phone. This was a bipartisan proposal that 80% of Minnesotans support. However, every Republican House member present voted to block the proposal- it was shameful. If you want to help stop distracted driving, consider calling Speaker Kurt Daudt and Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka and tell them to vote for this bill.
Here is their contact information:
House Speaker Kurt Daudt: rep.kurt.daudt@house.mnor 651-296-5364
Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka:sen.paul.gazelka@senate.mn or 651-296-4875
This morning, Governor Dayton followed through on his warnings to Republican leaders that their tax bill favored corporations and the wealthy over working families and vetoed their tax bill.
I have serious concerns about the Republican majority’s values because they insist tax cuts for corporations are more important than providing emergency school funding for schools. Right now schools across Minnesota are facing a crisis and are preparing to cut programs, fire teachers, and increase class sizes.
It is clear Republicans in the Minnesota legislature don’t share our values when they won’t prevent teachers from being laid off, they won’t stop important school programs from being cut, and won’t stop class sizes from growing.
I will continue working to make Minnesota a stronger place for people to live, work, and raise a family. Please contact me with any concerns that you may have.
Sincerely,
Michael V. Nelson
State Representative