Dear Neighbors,

Earlier this month, I was honored to take the oath of office to begin another term representing the Iron Range at the State Capitol. Our state is facing some difficult times, with a public health threat that remains, and many workers, families, and businesses that continue to struggle due to no fault of their own. I remain committed to putting people before politics, and I’ll work to bring people together so we can strengthen the future for the people of this great state.

Reviewing Peacetime Emergency Authority

This session, I'm proud to serve on the Subcommittee on Legislative Process Reform, where we will take a deep dive into Governor Walz's emergency authority. We're overdue for a robust, thoughtful conversation about these powers, and it's clear the Legislature needs to be involved.

We held our first meeting last Friday with an informative overview from nonpartisan House Research about the history of our peacetime emergency law, the Minnesota Department of Health’s assessment of the situation, and a presentation from the State Emergency Operations Center about the current state of the pandemic

Like most things though, an "all or nothing" approach doesn't work, and we need to determine how to help our businesses and families succeed without jeopardizing our progress in the fight against the virus. For instance, quick, decisive action under the emergency authority has helped our state develop PPE procurement, testing, and vaccination strategies. Early on in the pandemic, it allowed unemployment insurance to be made available, implementation of a ban on price gouging, and protections for those living in our veterans homes.

However, many of the restrictions on businesses and certain activities currently in place can’t remain in effect indefinitely. Please take a few minutes to watch my comments from the hearing, and if you so desire, the meeting in its entirety here.

Stay Connected with the State Capitol

While we’re meeting remotely due to COVID-19 precautions, technology enables us to work with a full committee schedule. House Public Information Services has plenty of nonpartisan resources, including streaming video of floor sessions and committee hearings. They also produce Session Daily with recaps of high-profile bills and other news. I also invite you to follow me on Facebook.

Please contact me if I can be of assistance. It’s an honor to represent you.

Sincerely,

Dave Lislegard
State Representative