Dear Neighbors,
Here is an update from the Legislature! It’s been a busy month of work, so lots of things to share.
Gun Violence Prevention
Recently the Public Safety and the Children and Families committees met to discuss how children are impacted by gun violence and to pass two gun violence prevention bills. One of the bills was HF 4300, which I chief authored, and would require firearms to be stored securely. This is an important step to prevent unsafe access by children and others who should not have access to guns. Several testifiers shared their stories of unsecured firearms leading to tragic deaths of loved ones.
As a gun owner myself, I understand the importance firearms play in many of our family traditions, but the safe storage of firearms is a needed step to help prevent tragedies and keep our loved ones safe. The leading cause of death of children in our country is guns and we must do more to keep kids protected.The vast majority of unintentional shooting deaths of children occur at home. In addition, most school shooters obtain their weapons from their home or homes of their relatives.
Ending Predatory Ticket Fees and Pricing
The House Judiciary Committee, which I chair, heard HF 1989, which would reign in predatory ticket pricing. The bill would require ticket sellers to disclose the full price of a ticket, including fees, before you make the decision to purchase a ticket, and was brought forward by Rep. Moller after attempting to buy tickets to see Taylor Swift last summer. I’ll continue to support this bill as it works its way through the process, and you can read more here.
Stopping the Sale of Human Bones
My bill to ban the sale of human bones has made its way through the committee process. The practice of buying and collecting human bones is currently unregulated in our state. You can watch my presentation on this bill here, and read more about it here. The bill was also highlighted by the Star Tribune editorial board. Their take can be read here.
Swan Deaths Survey
For years, we have known of swan and other bird deaths occurring near the channel on the northside of Sucker Lake in Vadnais - Snail Lakes Regional Park due to the use of lead sinkers. Ramsey County Parks and Recreation staff are considering possible solutions and want to hear from you if you live in the area or visit the park. Please fill out this survey to help them find a workable solution.
The Legislature is currently considering the Get the Lead Out Act, which I support, to help address this issue and decrease the number of swans dying from lead poisoning.
Lawns to Legumes Program
Minnesota residents can now apply for fall 2024 Lawns to Legumes funding. The Lawns to Legumes program aims to increase habitat for at-risk pollinators in residential settings across the state by providing people with cost-share funding, workshops, coaching and gardening resources.
Anyone can apply to be reimbursed for up to $400 in costs associated with establishing new pollinator habitat in their yards. Applications will be accepted through May 15, 2024. If you previously applied for the program, you will need to reapply to be considered for fall 2024 funding. Find more information 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 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