Dear Neighbors,
The legislature once again returned to St. Paul on Monday for the start of what is expected to be at least a week-long special session. Governor Walz called the special session because he is required by law to do so if he wants to extend his peacetime emergency powers an additional 30 days. Negotiations are ongoing between the House and Senate on a handful of other issues like bonding, tax cuts, police reform, and supplemental budget spending.
I have voted numerous times to end the peacetime emergency and return to regular legislative order. Sadly, the Democrat majority in the House refuses to put up the votes needed to end the peacetime emergency. Until they do so, Governor Walz will continue to extend the peacetime emergency in 30-day increments until he gives them up.
Ending the peacetime emergency would not mean an end to the state’s response to COVID-19. Instead, it would require Governor Walz to work with the legislature more closely instead of being able to unilaterally make decisions that impact millions of Minnesotans and thousands of businesses.
Finally, because of a 60-day post-session rule, I am unable to 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.josh.heintzeman@house.mn or on the phone at 651-296-4333.
Have a great summer,
Josh