Dear Neighbors,
Spring is upon us! It looks like a great weekend to get outside and enjoy the near-50-degree temps. We’re fortunate to live in an area with great parks, trails, and outdoor activities we can appreciate as the weather warms up. As we head into the weekend, I wanted to send a short update from the Capitol.
Bill Hearing
As chair of the Civil Law Committee, part of my focus is on certain areas of family law. This year, I’m authoring a bill that allows unmarried parents to file a joint petition. Currently, joint petitions are allowed for divorcing couples. This allows the parents to work out a parenting plan and other negotiations and present it to the court. This can reduce the animosity between couples, saves them money, and generally has better outcomes for the children. Current law does not allow for this valuable method of resolving custody and parenting time matters for unmarried parents. My bill would change that.
This bill was passed unanimously out of my committee this week.
Constituent Visits
The early weeks of session are when we see lots of advocacy groups come to the Capitol so they can speak to their legislators on issues important to them. I love seeing people from our area, and hearing personal stories relating to topics facing the legislature. This week, I met with area residents from ABATE motorcycle group, advocates from Housing Day at the Capitol, automobile dealers, representatives with the American Council of Engineering Companies, and a local family who wanted a tour of our beautifully renovated Capitol. Thanks to everyone who came to St. Paul this week!
State of the State
On Wednesday, Governor Dayton gave his final State of the State address to a joint session of the House and Senate. I appreciated hearing his views on some topics, while we disagreed on others. Despite our policy differences, I respect his public service to our state for these past eight years.
Pancake Breakfast this Sunday
There is a pancake breakfast this Sunday, March 18, at the Coon Rapids VFW benefiting the Eagles Healing Nest (the new housing for homeless veterans located in Anoka). Come and eat some hotcakes for a great cause from 8-noon this Sunday.
Please Contact Me
If you have questions about my bills, or any other issue, please contact me. Feel free to email me at rep.peggy.scott@house.mn or call 651-296-4231.
Have a great weekend!
Peggy