Neighbors, For the first time this session I presented a bill in the Human Services Policy and Finance Committee to modify Medical Assistance eligibility requirements of employed persons with disabilities (MA-EPD). MA-EPD is a lifeline for working people living with disabilities, but this lifeline should not be a ceiling that holds working people in poverty because of barriers in the program. The idea for the bill came from people who are using the program who have identified the problems and have come forward with the solutions. I’m advocating to do everything we can to facilitate people who have disabilities participating in the workforce. With the current workforce shortage, this is more important than ever. Creating a New Child Care Worker Premium Assistance I have co-authored a bill to help child care workers afford their health insurance. The legislation creates a new child care worker premium assistance program for child care workers. As our economy improves, more Minnesotans are heading back to work, but for many, child care is a stumbling block. And for many working in child care facilities, low wages mean they cannot return to work. By helping with their health insurance premiums, we can help boost their participation in the workforce and continue to support our economy. Stand with Ukraine In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, last night the Minnesota House unanimously passed broadly bipartisan legislation divesting Minnesota’s state pensions of Russian and Belarusian assets, and codifying Governor Walz’s Executive Order barring Minnesota from contracting with Russian companies. Minnesotans have watched the unfolding horror in Ukraine. While so many are wondering what they can do, the legislature has passed this measure, standing with Ukrainians to reject Russia’s brutal dictator. This is the right thing to do for the 17,000 Ukrainian-Americans who call Minnesota home and for all democracies worldwide. You can read more about the bill here and a video recording of yesterday’s floor debate can be found on the House Public Information YouTube channel.  COVID-19 Update Most mask mandates have been lifted, but COVID-19 is not over and it’s still important to receive the vaccination and booster to keep you and your family safe. If you’re not feeling well, get tested. Go to this link to order up to four free COVID tests for your household. _____________ Stay connected with the legislature The Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offers nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication. Subscribe to receive these here. To track bills of interest through the legislative process, I encourage you to utilize the MyBills feature on the Minnesota House of Representatives’ website here. Please continue to reach out with any input, ideas, or feedback about the issues important to you. I value hearing from you, so please don’t hesitate to call or email me any time. You can also connect with me on Facebook here. It’s an honor to represent you at the State Capitol. Sincerely, Laurie Pryor State Representative |