Hello neighbors!
I wanted to pass on a few quick notes from the Capitol.
PREMIUM RELIEF- Deadline Extended
As a result of the premium relief bill signed into law last week, MNsure has announced an additional week to the special enrollment period. The extra week allows Minnesotans additional time to purchase health insurance during open enrollment. The premium relief legislation will provide a 25% instant rebate to those purchasing health insurance on the individual market who don’t already qualify for MNSure tax credits.
The new deadline is Wednesday, February 8th. It is open to all Minnesotans; however, they must purchase health insurance through MNsure or directly through Blue Plus or Health Partners. For more information, go to the MNsure web page.
ANTI PROTEST BILL
On Tuesday, the House Civil Law Committee passed a bill that would make the public responsible for any costs while participating in protests or rallies. The bill would allow units of government to re-claim public safety costs by suing protestors convicted under unlawful assembly or public nuisance laws. This legislation sets a dangerous precedent for Minnesotans wishing to exercise their First Amendment rights. Our constitution is in place to protect our rights and allow people to express their opinions in a peaceful way.
The bill’s next stop is the House Public Safety and Security Policy and Finance Committee. There is no companion bill in the Senate.
ANTI WORKER BILL
Last night the House Jobs Committee advanced a Republican bill called “preemption” that would block local communities from setting their own polices for workers. The legislation would stop communities from passing policies that protect and support workers like paid sick leave, family leave, or a higher minimum wage. This legislation will also revoke sick time for hundreds of thousands of people working in the Twin Cities.
I am very disappointed that this proposal was even introduced. As legislators we should be looking at how we can solve problem to provide more access to healthcare, paid sick leave and family leave – not looking for ways to provide less of it. I’ve always focused on polices that help people, not big corporations. I will be opposing this legislation when I hear it in committee next week.
Please let me know if you have any concerns or issues that I can help you with.
Sincerely,
Mike Freiberg
State Representative