Dear Neighbors,
We have been very busy at the legislature! I wanted to take this time to update you on some of the bills we have been working on.
Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention
Governor Walz recently signed a bill I co-authored to prevent the theft and sale of stolen catalytic converters. This bill will crack down on the theft of catalytic converters by prohibiting anyone from possessing a used, unattached catalytic converter unless the owner has the vehicle identification number (VIN) for the vehicle, and the date the converter was removed from the vehicle. It prohibits the sale and purchase of catalytic converters by anyone other than registered scrap metal dealers and would impose a fine of up to $10,000 for unlawful possession and sale. I know this is a really important issue for our community so I’m happy that we were able to accomplish this important measure!
School Meals for All Students
We passed a bill that the to provide school meals for all students in Minnesota public schools! Beginning next school year, breakfast and lunch will be provided to all students at no additional cost to families.
Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act
In order to address past wrongs and ensure we keep families together, Governor Walz signed a bill to enhance child welfare protections under the Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act. I’m proud to be a co-author of this legislation which will prioritize children, reunify families, and prevent future cultural harm. Watch my speech on this bill here.
This bill is one of many bills I have been working on with my colleagues Rep. Heather Keeler (Moorhead) and Rep. Alicia Kozlowski (Duluth) as part of the Native American Legislative Caucus.
Trans Refuge Bill
Last week we passed the Trans Refuge bill off the House floor. The legislation prevents unjust out-of-state laws from interfering with people receiving gender-affirming care in Minnesota. With attacks against the trans community on the rise across the country it’s critical that we guarantee the health and wellbeing of our trans neighbors and loved ones. I’m proud to have voted for this legislation and will continue to stand up for our queer community.
Earlier this month, Governor Walz signed a related executive order making Minnesota a refuge for trans and gender expansive people. You can read the full statement from the Queer Caucus on this important issue here.
Stay in Touch
As always, please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can be of assistance or if you have questions or feedback that you’d like to share. You can follow me on Facebook and you can reach me by email at rep.jamie.becker-finn@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-7153.
Sincerely,
Jamie Becker-Finn
State Representative