Dear Friends,
It’s been great seeing some of the impressive artwork created by Little Falls High School students on display this month at Great River Arts. It’s an exciting opportunity for some of our community’s young people to have their talents recognized by the public. If you have some free time, by sure to stop by to check it out.
Foster Care Day at the Capitol
I had the honor of speaking at a rally during Foster Child Day at the Capitol on Monday. This important event featured advocates and children from across the state coming to the Capitol to promote improvements in Minnesota’s foster care system. I’d like to emphasize my gratitude for foster parents’ positive influence and commitment to caring for kids facing difficult circumstances.
MNsure Tax Reduction
My colleagues and I are continuing our work to lower health care costs in the state and last week a bill to would reduce the MNsure tax from 3.5 percent to 2 percent was introduced. This reduction is expected to save Minnesotans $30 million. The bill also does away with active purchasers to increase options on the MNsure exchange and seeks a waiver allowing people receiving tax credits to purchase insurance outside the MNsure exchange. Reducing this burdensome tax will be an important component of our ongoing efforts to further decrease healthcare costs for Minnesota’s families.
Sex Trafficking Prevention Bill
On Thursday, we unanimously approved a bill in committee which would significantly strengthen Minnesota’s sex trafficking prevention efforts. The bill would require employees of hotels, motels, and resorts to receive training on how to recognize potential victims of sex trafficking, as well as activities commonly associated with sex trafficking. Because hotels and motels are common sites for sex trafficking to take place, it is important that we empower employees to join the fight against sex trafficking. I can imagine there have been countless sex trafficking victims in hotels that have been hopelessly longing for help that never came. Better preparing employees to recognize the signs of these criminal activities will allow them to intervene or alert law enforcement, and ultimately save lives.
State of the State Address
On Wednesday, Governor Dayton delivered his annual State of the State Address. All legislators are allowed to bring a guest for the event, and I had the opportunity to welcome my daughter, Amelia, to the House floor for the occasion. This was a highlight and proud moment for me as a father and legislator.
Last session we were able to work with the Governor to provide the largest tax relief bill in 20 years as well as the largest investment ever in roads and bridges without a tax increase. I am hopeful that the legislature can continue working with him this session in order to build on last year’s historic accomplishments.
Fish Fry Friday
If you’re hungry tonight, be sure to swing by the Royalton American Legion for a fish fry from 5:00 to 8:00pm. If you would like your local fish fry mentioned in future email updates, please send me the details and I’ll make sure I include it.
Please Contact Me
As the pace of session picks up, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any thoughts or questions on any legislative issues. I welcome your feedback and input as it allows me to best represent our communities.
Have a great weekend,
Ron