Neighbors, This week, I joined my House DFL colleagues to pass consequential legislation. Here is my update from the Capitol: Earned Sick and Safe TimeThursday night, legislation was approved to expand Earned Sick and Safe Time benefits to all Minnesota workers. The bill passed on a vote of 69-54. The legislation would ensure, at a minimum, one hour of paid Earned Sick and Safe Time for every 30 hours worked, up to at least 48 hours per year. Over 900,000 Minnesota workers – a third of the state’s workforce – lack access to any paid time off when they or a family member are ill or need to see a doctor. Video of the floor session will be available on House Public Information Services’ YouTube Channel. The legislation is advancing in the Minnesota Senate where it awaits a hearing in the Finance Committee  Literacy Measure HeardOn Tuesday, the Minnesota House Education Policy Committee, which I chair, heard HF 629,the Read Act. This measure is a legislative effort to take what we know now about research, human development, and cognitive science on how people learn to read – and apply it to meaningful public policy. The bill appropriates a $100 million to the Minnesota Department of Education, $30 million of which would provide grants to train teachers in the science of reading. The remaining funds would cover the costs related to implementing the law and hiring literacy specialists who would be charged with supporting the implementation and integration of the science of reading into professional development for teachers and other staff, effective instructional practices, data collection, and feedback.  Childcare AssistanceOn Monday night, I voted with all my DFL colleagues to pass a pair of bills to deliver investments to stabilize childcare and early learning in the state. HF 13, increases the maximum rates for all childcare assistance (CCAP)-eligible children. A review of state rates shows Minnesota is currently near the bottom. The rate change would apply to Minnesota children of all ages. The second bill, HF 150, delivers $12.25 million in emergency investment in childcare stabilization grants. It also includes $40 million in early learning scholarships, with expanding eligibility to start at birth, rather than the current age of three. This will provide early learning and care to an estimated 4,000 additional children. Video of the floor debate can be viewed on the House Public Information’s YouTube Channel.  Visitors to the CapitolPhysical therapists were among the groups to stop by during their “Day on the Hill” this week.  The Mom’s Demand Action anti-gun violence group also held an advocacy day this week. I assured them of my support for common-sense gun safety measures.  Stay Connected with the LegislatureThe 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. 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 |