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Dear neighbors,
It was another busy week at the State Capitol. Here’s the latest news from St. Paul:
Paid Family & Medical Leave Act Passes the House
Too many Minnesotans are forced to choose between a paycheck and taking care of a loved one or themselves. Yesterday I voted to approve the Paid Family & Medical Leave Act, which would give workers time to bond with a new baby, help an aging parent, care for a sick family member, or get medical attention for themselves. This bill would provide greater economic security for millions of hardworking Minnesotans and their families.
More information about paid family and medical leave is available here.
Constituents Testify for Local Bonding Bills
On Wednesday evening, two constituents joined me to present two new bills to the House Capital Investment Committee. Brad Mielke, the Mayor of Mendota, testified in favor of HF 3038. This bill would extend a water main so Mendota residents can connect with the Saint Paul Regional Water Services system. Karen Zumach, the Vice President of the Minnesota Shade Tree Advisory Committee, testified for HF 3930, which would help local governments plant shade trees on public land.
If you’d like to learn more about these bills, audio of the committee hearing is available here.
Community Members at the Capitol
One of my favorite parts of the legislative session is meeting with people who come to the Capitol to fight for various causes. Here’s a few of the issues that I discussed with Minnesotans this week:
I met with Mark Giorgini, a constituent from Mendota Heights, on AARP Day at the Capitol.
Yesterday was History Matters Day. This event helps increase public awareness of efforts to preserve historic sites and structures across the state.
Max, a 22 year-old bald eagle from the Raptor Center, visited the Environment and Natural Resources Finance Committee yesterday. Max suffered from lead poisoning after eating an animal shot with toxic ammunition. He’s healthy now, but we’re taking action to protect other eagles from lead-based ammo.
I know in-person meetings aren’t realistic for everyone, but please don’t hesitate to touch base on issues that are important to you. You can contact me at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or 651-296-6828. I look forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative
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