Hello from the Capitol,
I am pleased that it seems legislative leaders and the Governor are getting closer to an agreement on a special session. While there are still details and differences between the House, Senate, and Governor that need ironing out, it is increasingly likely that a special session will indeed take place sometime in late August.
I will continue to support efforts for a special session that would re-pass the urgently needed tax relief bill and a transportation, roads and bridges, dominated bonding bill. The Highway 14 Dodge County section, Oronoco, the Rochester International Airport, and several other local projects are still in the mix.
New Laws take effect August 1st
The first major change to the state’s drug sentencing guidelines in nearly 30 years go into effect August 1st along with several new laws related to the safety of law enforcement personnel. Also of note, those wishing to get married in the state, will no longer face a five-day waiting period. A summary of selected new laws that take effect August 1st can be accessed at http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/hinfo/leginfo/0816nlrelease.pdf.
A complete summary of all laws passed by the 2016 Legislature is available online from the House Public Information Services Office at http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/newlaws/#/search/2016
Earlier this week I attended the Olmsted/Rochester Police, Fire and Sheriff Appreciation Banquet. It highlighted a wonderful program that helped build a connection with at risk youth with sports ministry, SMA. We are very fortunate to have these great people serving our community.
Finally, last week the University of Minnesota named the recipients of its annual “Farm Family of the Year” award. These families are recognized by the U of M each year for their contributions to the agriculture and their communities. The agricultural industry is critically important for our communities and rural Minnesota as a whole.
Recipients from our area include:
- Behounek Dairy in Dodge County
- Towerview Dairy–Sachs Family Farm in Olmsted County
Congratulations to all that were recognized and thank you for all you do to strengthen our communities.
Please contact me with your questions, thoughts, concerns, requests for assistance, etc. Call my office at (651) 296-9236 or email rep.duane.quam@house.mn if you would like to connect.
Have a great weekend,
Duane