On the Floor
On Monday, we heard two bills on the House floor. Both are corrections to DFL bills from last year. HF 3613 moves up the implementation date for Metro Mobility budget reporting for the state forecast. HF 3769 is a correction to last year’s tax bill. The bill lowered the net operating loss deduction from 80% to 70% and was supposed to go into effect in fiscal year 2024. However, the bill erroneously listed FY 2023 as the implementation year and needed correction. As tax season quickly approached, my Republican colleagues and I urged Democrats to fix this issue as soon as possible to try and avoid unnecessary expenses for our businesses on amended returns. Those concerns were pushed off for weeks. So, while the bill is now fixed, the Democrat’s push-it-through-fix-it-later mentality ended up costing businesses around the state.
Health Bills
In the Health Finance and Policy committee, we passed HF 4247, which makes changes to licensing and scope of practice provisions for a wide range of fields within the medical community. These include behavioral analysts, veterinary technicians, dental assistants, physician assistants, social workers, and guest licensure for marriage therapists. One amendment, offered by Representative Schomacker (R-Luverne), aimed to extend temporary licensure for nurses from 60 to 90 days to help deal with staff shortages and allow nurses to continue working while they wait for full licensure. Unfortunately, the amendment was not passed. The bill was referred as amended to the House Ways and Means Committee.
We also heard two bills that would help with EMS staffing shortages. HF 4600 modifies ambulance staffing requirements for personnel. The bill, supported by the Minnesota Ambulance Association, would help alleviate staffing shortages in EMS and allow for better coverage across the state. HF4849 would allow firefighters to drive ambulances, freeing up additional medical personnel to staff the patient compartment. Both bills have been laid over for additional work and future consideration.
National Ag Day
| On Tuesday, we celebrated National Ag Day here at the capitol. There were many groups from around the state including Farm Bureaus and Future Farmers of America students here to visit with legislators. As a farmer, I know the work and dedication it takes to be successful in the agricultural field. Farming is the backbone of our state, and Tuesday was a great opportunity to recognize farmers for all they do. Thank you, farmers! | |  |
Please Contact Me
It’s an honor and privilege to work for you at the Capitol. Don’t hesitate to contact my office at any time this session to share your thoughts, concerns or ideas. I am here to serve you!
