I hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful and extended fall! Before you head out the door to enjoy another great weekend, I wanted to pass along a couple items you may be interested in.
Cold Weather Rule
Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule is a program to help families struggling to make energy payments to keep their heat on during the winter between October 15, 2015 and April 15, 2016. This rule helps Minnesota families who face financial emergencies and have trouble paying for heat. You can find more details about this program on the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission website at www.mn.gov/puc/consumers/shut-off-protection.jsp.
Police Body Cameras
Earlier this week, I took part in a stakeholder meeting to discuss police-worn body cameras. This issue has come to the forefront of civil law, privacy issues, and public safety in our state. As we head toward the 2016 session, I expect we will continue the conversation regarding police officers and body cams.
Data Practices Commission Meeting
I am the vice-chair of the Data Practices Commission. We held our second meeting of the interim this week. Topics included an update on the Minnesota Licensing and Registration System (MNLARS), Real ID, and the recent data breach at the Department of Vehicle Services. My primary concern with all the personal data government has on its citizens is to protect it from hackers and misbehaving government employees.
Adventures Plus Program
On Thursday, I attended an open house at Andover Elementary to learn more about the school’s Adventures Plus school-care program. This is a great program to assist children before and after school. Adventures Plus helps kids develop through activities like cooking, arts and crafts, and literature. I loved seeing the different opportunities available for our young students!
Ceremonial Bill Signing
Just yesterday, I attended a ceremonial bill signing for the omnibus family law bill, HF465/SF1191. I’m proud to be the chief author of this bill in the House. This legislation benefits Minnesota parents and children by clarifying custody disputes and creating language to benefit children during this difficult time. I thank Governor Dayton for inviting me to this ceremony and for his support of this bipartisan piece of legislation.
Halloween Next Week
I can’t believe it’s almost November and Halloween is just around the corner! I can’t wait to see all the great costumes stop by next Saturday. For Coon Rapids residents, here is a short flyer with information about trick-or-treating. Be safe and take lots of photos! Kids, may your candy buckets overflow!
As always, please continue to contact my office with any questions or suggestions. You’ve provided great ideas for legislation this summer and fall and I look forward to many more. You may call me at (651) 296-4231, or email at Rep.Peggy.Scott@house.mn.
Have a great weekend!
Peggy