Dear Neighbors,
MNLARS Legislation
Since the failed rollout of the new vehicle licensing system, MNLARS, I’ve heard from Minnesotans around the state about their frustrations with the system, as well as the waste of nearly $100 million in taxpayer money. Just yesterday, we got on the road to helping the state fix this mess. We allocated emergency funding from the Department of Vehicle Services, but, more importantly, are requiring reports, benchmarks, and a blueprint from those in charge of MNLARS to show how they’ll get this working properly.
We don’t want to hand over a blank check to those who’ve already wasted millions of your tax dollars. We need to make sure the process of repairing MNLARS is transparent in order to ensure it’s accountable to Minnesotans.
Opioid Family Recovery Act
My legislation to attempt to curb the opioid epidemic passed through two more committees this week. The bill includes $20 million of funding to go toward addiction prevention efforts, treatment centers, and an integrated tool for providers to identify and stop “doctor shopping.” The Opioid Family Recovery Act is moving through the Senate thanks to Sen. Julie Rosen. Though there are some differences in our legislation, I’m hopeful we can both pass our bills and work out a final bill that’s best for Minnesota.
Capitol Visits
Thank you to everyone who made the trip to St. Paul this week! I was fortunate to see lots of faces from our area, and enjoyed spending time with residents of Kandiyohi County. Hamdia and Jessica joined me to talk about Muslim Day at the Capitol, I spoke with board members from the electric co-op about energy regulation, and chatted with Bob about economic development in west central Minnesota.
Again, thanks to all who visited this week or who came to the Capitol earlier this session. I look forward to seeing more of you in the coming weeks.
Please Contact Me
Have a great weekend, and don't hesitate to contact me about what's on your mind as session continues. You can reach me at rep.dave.baker@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-6206.
Dave