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Hello from St. Paul,
Now that we’re three weeks in to the 2019 legislative session, our work in committees has really begun to heat up.
Committee Work
It’s not too surprising that floor activity at the Minnesota House has been slow at this point, as all bills have to be approved in a committee, in some cases many committees, before all members of the House receive the opportunity to vote for or against them.
Among the bills that are moving forward quickly through committee right now is a plan I’m co-authoring. It would require hands-free cell phone use for drivers in order to reduce the number of accidents that occur due to drivers who pay more attention to their cell phones than the road. This legislation has already been approved in its first committee stop – the Minnesota House Transportation Finance and Policy Division.
Speaking of committees, I’ve requested a committee hearing for a measure I have again authored this year that would create tax incentives for health care facilities that locate in medically underserved areas in rural Minnesota.
You may recall my plan was included in our comprehensive taxes legislation last session, but that comprehensive legislation did not make it into law.
We all understand how important it is to have access to health care in our area. This proposal is not the only solution, but rather a 'tool in the toolbox' for rural communities to help encourage more health care providers, such as birthing centers, hospitals, and clinics, to locate in their area. It could very well help Albert Lea as the community seeks to bring another provider into our city.
Pro-life Support
On Thursday, I joined fellow pro-life legislators to condemn recent measures in other states to allow abortions up to the moment of birth as well as to reaffirm House Republicans' commitment to protecting life and the rights of the unborn.
The stories from New York and Virginia sicken me. Legally killing a child right after it’s born if the doctor and mother agree? Has society lost all contact with reality? This nonsense is the reason why I stood up to speak up for the life of the unborn; those who cannot defend themselves. As an elementary school teacher of 33 years and someone who dearly loves children, I find I cannot be anything but pro-life. To hear my comments at this press conference, click here.
Local Visitors
On Thursday, I was pleased to have Albert Lea Area School Superintendent Dr. Mike Funk join me at a House Education Finance Committee hearing to discuss the special education funding gap.
I also had some other local visitors in St. Paul this week, including Albert Lea Mayor Vern Rasmussen and City Manager Chad Adams, as well as motorcyclists from Blooming Prairie and Geneva who were here as part of A.B.A.T.E of Minnesota Day at the Capitol. Thank you all for visiting. I always appreciate local input!
As always, I look forward to hearing your legislative questions, concerns, and ideas. You can reach me any time at 651-296-8216 or by email at rep.peggy.bennett@house.mn.
Have a good weekend. I’m looking forward to the warmer weather, and I bet you are too!
Peggy
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