Dear Neighbors,
Spring is here! After a rough last weekend, it looks like we may have finally turned the corner to nicer weather. Based on the forecast, we could even start to enjoy all the great outdoor activities our area has to offer.
As spring hits, things tend to get busier at the Capitol. This week was no exception. We’re starting the process of hearing our large bills in each subject area which makes for interesting committee hearings. Over the past few days, I found out some of my provisions were included in these bills, and I think they have the potential to really help our area and our state.
Mental Health Bill
Last week I wrote about my bill, HF4198, to increase mental health services in school. Just a few days ago, I found out my legislation would be included in our larger health and human services proposal.
My bill helps schools set up mental health services for students using telemedicine. I think this is one way we can help connect students with the mental health professionals they need, especially where that’s more difficult in rural areas. It’s encouraging my bill is included in our broader health and human services bill where I think it has a good chance of becoming law.
Increased Vocational Education
I’m happy to say our education proposal includes my bill to provide state aid for students taking vocational classes outside of the school day. My language allows students to take vocational classes outside of school hours similar to how Fairmont is seeing success offering a welding class on Saturdays. I want to see as many avenues as possible for Minnesota students to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to enter a career of their choice after graduation. There’s a demand for skilled workers and vocational trades, and I see this as one way to help students be prepared for these good-paying jobs.
Future Proposals
My legislation to help keep siblings who are in foster care connected was previously amended to another foster care related bill carried by my colleague, Rep. Ron Kresha. Our proposal helps fill some of the important gaps we see in the foster care system and, by unanimous assent of the House Health and Human and Services Committee, was sent to be scheduled for a vote on the House floor. I'm hopeful this bill will be up for a vote soon.
In the coming days, the House will also have a tax proposal and a bonding bill. I’m advocating for important local bonding projects, as well as my tax incentive to help hospitals move to rural Minnesota. I’ll be sure to keep you updated as these bills are introduced and discussed.
Interesting Visit
Earlier in the week, I had the opportunity to have a tour of the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s building with fellow Capital Investment Committee colleague Rep. Linda Runbeck. The Medical Examiner's Office is asking for some bonding dollars to help finance their proposed project to construct a new building in Minnetonka because of overcrowding and other issues at their current site in Minneapolis. This office serves Hennepin, Dakota, and Scott counties, as well as special cases for our entire state. They also help train future medical examiners, which is a shortage field in our state and nation.
I want to thank Chief Medical Examiner, Dr. Andy Baker, for the very informative tour. I found the entire tour very fascinating and learned so much. (It would definitely not be a tour for anyone who’s squeamish!) The things I get to learn with this job are pretty amazing!
Please Contact Me
As always, please feel free to reach out via phone or email if you ever need anything. I’m here to help and would love for you to contact me!
Enjoy the spring weather this weekend!
Peggy