Friends and neighbors,
I’m sure you’ve heard by now that a major winter storm could bring over 20 inches of snow between now and Friday. I want to share important information and resources with you to prepare for the interruption the storm will bring and how to navigate snow emergency procedures.
SNOW EMERGENCY PARKING
The City of Brooklyn Park has declared a snow emergency.
That means no on-street parking beginning at 11:00 p.m. TONIGHT, Tuesday, January 21, until a street has been plowed curb to curb. Vehicles that remain on the street after 2:00 a.m. may be ticketed and towed.
Plowing will begin at 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 22.
Off-street parking is available at various Parks parking lots. For a map with locations, visit http://ow.ly/VE3T50MhzHA
Remember: Even after streets have been plowed, there is no on-street parking from 2:00 - 5:00 a.m.
Follow the Brooklyn Park Facebook page for updates.
Staying safe
During a blizzard, it becomes increasingly difficult for emergency vehicles to travel, so the importance of being cautious is heightened. The Red Cross has a great guide on how to stay safe during the storm and prepare for an emergency.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFT
Last night, the Minnesota House passed HF 30, a bill that would address the ever-present issue of catalytic converter theft. This crime has been increasing all across the state, and I proudly supported this legislation.
This bill adds additional requirements that scrap metal dealers must follow when purchasing catalytic converters, including a requirement that any catalytic converter be marked with an identifying number that connects it to the vehicle from which it was taken. The bill also requires registration with the Department of Public Safety before purchasing scrap metal. It also establishes criminal penalties for the unauthorized possession or purchase of a catalytic converter.
BANNING CONVERSION THERAPY
Last night, the Minnesota House passed HF 16, which bans conversion therapy for minors and vulnerable adults. Conversion ‘therapy’ is a dangerous and discredited practice that has traumatized many LGBTQ+ youth. I’m thankful that we were finally able to do our part to put a stop to this harmful practice. Some of my colleagues across the aisle even joined us in supporting this bill. I thank them for joining us to do the right thing for Minnesotans.
EARNED SICK AND SAFE TIME
All Minnesotans deserve the opportunity to be successful, but too many must choose between work and taking care of a new baby, a loved one, or themselves. The time to act is now, and DFLers have been taking firm action to address these problems. Last week, we passed legislation that would guarantee, at a minimum, one hour of paid Earned Sick and Safe Time for every 30 hours worked, up to at least 48 hours per year. I was proud to vote in favor of this bill. It is currently working its way through the committee process in the Senate, and we’re hopeful that under full DFL leadership, it will be headed to the Governor’s desk soon.
STAY CONNECTED
To stay up to date with our important work at the State Capitol, you can see the Minnesota House of Public Information Services’ nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication.
To share your input or ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to reach out at rep.michael.nelson@house.mn.gov or 651-296-3751, and I will be happy to help.
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Have a great weekend.
In solidarity,
Michael V. Nelson