Dear neighbors,
This week I’ll be highlighting some legislation that the House has passed recently, including one of my bills! I’ll also be sharing details for some of the plans that I’ve introduced.
Open Meeting Law Bill
The House voted nearly unanimously in favor of my open meeting bill (HF 281), legislation that allows people to participate in city council meetings via Skype or other tools if they are serving in the military or if they are directed by a doctor not to be exposed to the public. Currently, folks aren’t permitted to call into a meeting with Skype or other tools if the place that they are calling from is not open to the public.
Equal Rights Amendment
All Minnesotans deserve equal rights under our Constitution. The House recently approved Equal Rights Amendment (HF 13), which states “equality under the law shall not be abridged or denied on account of gender.” If the proposal is approved by the Senate, Minnesotans will have the opportunity to vote on whether or not to adopt the ERA in 2020. I was proud to cast my vote for gender equality as we recognize Women’s History Month.
Veterans Suicide Awareness
Veterans are 1.5 times more likely to end their own lives than civilians. Last Monday, the House passed a proposal to designate the first Saturday of each October as Veteran Suicide Awareness Day (HF 586). Bringing public awareness to this issue is just the first step. I’m committed to working with veterans and their families to provide better mental health resources to those who serve our country.
National Sports Center Funding
Thousands of Minnesotans use the National Sports Center in Blaine for a range of activities. The National Sports Center is the world’s largest amateur sports facility and welcomes nearly four million visitors each year. The facility has hosted world-class athletes, but also serves thousands of local families and Minnesotans. Maintaining the fields, rinks, golf course, and other buildings for all visitors to enjoy requires a great deal of work. I’ve introduced legislation to invest in a new maintenance building for the National Sports Center (HF 2118), as well as asset preservation legislation to ensure that the National Sports Center can make much needed repairs (HF 2484).
Blaine Public Safety Facility
I recently introduced a plan to bring a greater Twin Cities public safety training facility to Blaine (HF 773). This facility would bring jobs to the area and make our communities safer. The bill has received a public hearing. Stay tuned for updates as it goes through the legislative process.
I always appreciate hearing from constituents, so please feel free to share your questions or opinions.
Sincerely,
Erin Koegel
State Representative