Dear Lakeville Neighbors,
The 2016 session is underway with a brisk pace. As we head into spring break, here is a short update on a few items from the Capitol.
Workforce & Affordable Housing Bill Passes Committee
On Tuesday, one of my bills, HF2956, passed out of the Government Operations and Elections Policy Committee. This bill supports the Dakota County Community Development Agency (CDA) and their efforts to provide affordable, workforce housing. We will streamline the process to meet federal law requirements to have a resident member input on their board and clear up unnecessary language in Minnesota statute. I look forward to advancing my bill through the legislative process and supporting the work of the CDA to help provide a hand up and help get our neighbors on their feet.
Supporting Life, Constituents at the Capitol
On Wednesday, Lakeville resident Elizabeth Bakewicz joined me in St. Paul to oppose a Senate bill to legalize “assisted suicide” in Minnesota. Elizabeth did a great job giving her moving testimony, and, eventually, the bill’s author withdrew the legislation from consideration. Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing your personal story and for helping take a stand against this dangerous bill. I will continue to support pro-life efforts from conception to natural death.
I also met with McGuire Middle School students to discuss Healthy Kids programs and physical education classes. It was inspiring to see these young people interested and involved in the process, and advocating for something they believe in.
Jobs: Unemployment Insurance Premium Relief and Iron Range Benefits Extension
One of the big stories from session this week was the House’s passage of a bill to provide unemployment benefits to struggling families on the Iron Range. Mining is an important part of our state’s economy, and we need to assist our unemployed, skilled workers during this downturn in the industry.
Along with the unemployment relief, our bill would also reform the unemployment insurance trust fund. This language would save $258 million for small businesses in Minnesota, and helps make essential fixes to this reserve. The unemployment insurance premium reductions in this bill will allow job creators to reinvest in their companies by hiring another person, paying current employees better, or improving their business with savings in this section of the bill. All of which helps strengthen our Minnesota economy.
Please Contact Me
While we’re in session, it’s busy in St. Paul, but I hope you’ll contact me and try to visit my office. I love hearing your ideas and feedback. Try calling me at (651) 296-6926, or you can email me at rep.jon.koznick@house.mn.
Have a great weekend,
Jon Koznick
State Representative, Lakeville, 58A