Dear neighbors, As we enter this new year and legislative session, I want to take this time to reiterate my policy goals for 2022. 2021 Session Recap Last year, the House was able to pass several pieces of legislation in the realm of Health and Human Services. We Improved the state’s medical cannabis program, so Minnesotans with PTSD and other health issues can access effective treatment. We made leaps in ensuring prescription drugs are more affordable and expanded the prohibition on “gag clauses” that prevent pharmacists from informing people when they are paying prices for drugs that are greater than what they would pay out-of-pocket. We created uniform service standards for mental health providers so they can focus on serving their clients and providing high-quality services. These accomplishments were passed in a bipartisan manner, and as Chair of the Behavioral Health Policy Committee, I am happy to have worked with my colleagues from the Health and Human Services Committee to improve the lives of Minnesotans who may be battling mental health, addiction, or substance disorder. We have more work to do, and I am committed to operating in a bipartisan manner. Minnesota Management and Budget Forecast Released On December 7, Minnesota Management and Budget released their budget and economic forecast, which showed a surplus of $7.7 billion for the current biennium. This is wonderful news for our state and allows us to make significant progress on the issues facing Minnesota. What do you think should be done with the surplus? I’d love to hear your opinion!  2022 Legislative Priorities The 2022 Legislative Session begins on January 31st. This year, I will continue to work on protecting our state's natural resources and environment, including the many different animals and species that call Minnesota home. I’ll continue to advocate for ensuring our water quality is protected from pollution, and expand the use of renewable energy. We must also promote high-quality affordable housing opportunities for all Minnesotans and those who may be housing insecure. Having worked with youth experiencing homelessness for over 14 years, this is an issue I will work tirelessly for. We also must take steps to address the ongoing pandemic, particularly in the realm of education. Our teachers’ mental health has been tested the past 23 months, with previous sacrifices such as purchasing their own classroom equipment, working late hours, and responding to the needs of large class size being exacerbated by the pandemic. We must do our part and fully fund public education, and give thanks to the teachers out there.  Keep in Touch Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or if I can be of assistance. You can contact me at rep.peter.fischer@house.mn or 651-296-5363. Sincerely, Peter Fischer State Representative |