Dear Neighbors,
Last week I had the pleasure of meeting with students from AFSA High School for Agriculture Day at the Capitol. Their annual Plant Sale is coming up in early May, and it’s wonderful to see young people engaged in our democracy.
As the House works hard to meet its committee deadlines, I wanted to give you an update on what we’ve been up to the past month.
Supporting Workers
This week, the Minnesota House passed legislation approving worker contracts for over 39,000 Minnesota state employees, legislation guaranteeing Earned Sick and Safe Time for all Minnesota workers, as well as a sweeping package of safety protections for workers at Minnesota warehouses such as Amazon facilities.
Minnesota has amazing workers who have carried a very heavy load during this Covid battle. They deserve to operate in safe environments where their work is rewarded. I am proud to vote in favor of these bills.
Standing with Ukraine
The tragic images from Ukraine over the past few weeks have been heartbreaking. Our thoughts are with the people of that sovereign nation as they are under attack by an autocratic regime. During this crucial period, it is vital that we stand up for freedom, democracy, and peace.
The legislature took a stand against the Russian invasion by passing a bill requiring Minnesota to divest all direct holdings of Russian assets. This was passed unanimously.
The bill also codifies an Executive Order Governor Walz issued to bar state agencies from contracting with Russian companies.
Redesigning our state flag
A few years ago, several high school students in my district came to my office and proposed something unique: a redesign of our state flag. Their argument was compelling - the flag is similar to almost 20 other state flags with a blue base and the state seal in the center. The flag isn’t simple or memorable enough that a child could draw it from memory and importantly, the seal depicts a white settler while a Native American is being pushed out on a horse in the background. This is a cruel depiction that fails to come to terms with Minnesota's history of violence against Native Americans.
My bill to change these designs will establish a 14-member commission made up of lawmakers, members of the public, and members of the state's ethnic and indigenous councils. This legislation is a perfect example of the positive change young people can make in their communities.
Student Loan Borrower’s Bill of Rights
Knowledge is power! Know the protections you have through Minnesota’s Student Loan Borrower Bill of Rights. For example, as you repay your student loans, you have the power to require the company servicing your loan to respond and be responsible. Learn about more protections you have through Minnesota’s Student Loan Borrower Bill of Rights here.
ALS Funding
This week, Governor Walz signed into law bipartisan legislation investing $20 million in research of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), as well as caregiver support and respite services grants. ALS affects about 30,000 Americans and every year, roughly 5,000 new cases are diagnosed.
State Senator David Tomassoni is the author of this bill in the Senate and came public with his own diagnosis in 2021. Senator Tomassoni has dedicated his life to public service and has worked tirelessly to advocate for additional funding to find a cure for the cruel disease. We owe Senator Tomassoni much for his steadfast commitment to future generations.
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