Dear Neighbors,
The legislature returned to St. Paul on Monday for another special session. While the legislature is expected to address several issues including bonding, tax cuts, police reform, and supplemental budget spending, the real reason we’re back is so that Governor Walz can extend his emergency powers.
On Tuesday evening, I once again voted to end the peacetime emergency and return the state to regular legislative order. After more than 120 days, it’s clear that the immediate emergency is over. It is time for Minnesota to transition away from a peacetime emergency and focus our efforts on “managing” COVID-19.
Ending the peacetime emergency does not mean ending the state’s response to COVID-19. Instead, Governor Walz needs to abandon his unilateral powers and work with the legislature.
Sadly, the House Democrat majority refused to put up the votes needed to end the emergency. Therefore, Governor Walz now has another 30 days of special powers.
Because of a 60-day post-session rule, I cannot send out any additional email newsletters until November at the earliest.
Although I won’t be sending out newsletters for the foreseeable future, you can still call or email my office if you need anything. You can reach me via email at rep.brian.daniels@house.mn or on the phone at 651-296-8237.
Have a great summer,
Brian