A Budget Framework

Neighbors,

Though the regular legislative session adjourned last week, we’re still focused on finalizing our state budget. Before we adjourned, we were able to reach a bipartisan agreement on a budget framework, so now we’ll hammer out the details ahead of an anticipated June special session.

The good news is that the state is on the right path to ensure our students, families, workers, and small businesses get the investments they need to bounce back from the past year - thanks in part to the federal funds we received from the American Rescue Plan.

In the final weeks of the regular session we passed several important bills, including two of mine that have since been signed into law. Both of my bills were a compilation of several proposals, including the Omnibus Pensions and Retirement bill, which ensures our firefighters, teachers, and other public employees receive the benefits they deserve. 

The other bill of mine that was signed into law was the State Government and Elections policy bill. As we continue to negotiate with the Senate on what our finance bill would look like, we ensured the bipartisan policy provisions we agreed on were passed into law, allowing us to focus on building consensus where there are currently disagreements. I’ll keep you posted as we work toward our final budget bill.

Vaccine Update

Currently, Minnesota is experiencing what may be its most significant return to “normal” since the onset of COVID-19 in our state, which is thanks in large part to the success of the available vaccines. There has never been an easier time to get a COVID-19 vaccine, and Governor Walz has recently announced that those who get vaccinated between Memorial Day weekend and the end of June will be eligible to choose from a wide range of incentives that will include state park passes and fishing licenses as well as fair and amusement park tickets.

But more importantly, getting vaccinated better ensures that we can close this dark chapter for good. Minnesotans can now use the Vaccine Connector to directly schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments at the state’s Community Vaccination Program locations. You can visit VaccineConnector.mn.gov to directly schedule appointments at Community Vaccination locations around the state. Here is how you can get your shot:

• Make an appointment through the Vaccine Connector at one of the state’s COVID-19 Community Vaccination Program locations: https://mn.gov/vaccineconnector.
  • 833-431-2053
    • Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. & Sat, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
• Use the state’s Vaccine Finder Map to find the closest vaccine provider: https://mn.gov/covid19/vaccine/find-vaccine/locations/index.jsp.
• Contact your primary health care provider or a local pharmacy.
• Employers may also reach out with information about vaccination opportunities.

While the mask mandate has been lifted throughout Minnesota, it’s important to remember that many businesses and cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul still require them to be worn indoors. As mask policies continue to update, it’s best to keep one on hand or make plans to ensure we can remain as safe and respectful as possible when patronizing businesses. 

Memorial Day Weekend

I hope you and your loved ones are able to have a safe and reflective Memorial Day this year, and take a moment to recognize and honor those who made the greatest sacrifice and gave their lives in service to our country.

The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs is again partnering with TPT to create a 30-minute Memorial Day program entitled “Reflections: Memorial Day 2021” that will be broadcast across the state on TPT’s Minnesota Channel at 8 p.m. on Monday, May 31 and again on Sunday, June 6 at 8 a.m. A link will also be available on their website to view the program online any time.

If you have any questions about the work ahead, please feel free to contact me through email (rep.michael.nelson@house.mn) or phone (651-296-3751). I appreciate hearing from you. 

Sincerely,  

Rep. Michael V. Nelson