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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Kristin Bahner (DFL)

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Legislative Update- August 26, 2019

Monday, August 26, 2019

Dear Neighbors,
 
I hope you're looking forward to the Minnesota State Fair as much as I am!

The Minnesota House of Representatives has a nonpartisan booth at the Fair, and I'll be there tomorrow from 2-4 p.m! I’ll also be there on Friday, August 30 from 2-6 p.m. I hope you'll stop by to ask any questions and share any input.

The House of Representatives booth is located in the Education Building on Cosgrove Street, just north of Dan Patch Avenue.

First Day of School

For thousands of Minnesotans across the state, the first day of school is right around the corner. I want to wish "good luck" to all of the teachers, parents, students, and staff heading off for their first day and a new year of school!
 
For decades, Minnesota's financial commitment to schools has fallen short, but this year the House passed quite a few measures to support our students and schools. All of our school districts will see a two percent increase per student this year, and again next year. We also protected pre-K for 4,000 early learners, nearly 250 students in our community, and addressed a shortfall in special education funding. 

Insulin 

Nearly 1 in 4 diabetics have resorted to rationing their insulin due to the skyrocketing price of the drug. Insulin has been around for centuries, and people with diabetes rely on it to survive, yet pharmaceutical companies continue to raise the price. The House is holding a series of community conversations on the cost of insulin and the need for the Senate to take up our bill creating an emergency insulin program. I participated in the first conversation earlier this month, and we're planning several more around the state. 

Cannabis

Last week, Majority Leader Ryan Winkler announced the kickoff of statewide Community Conversations on Cannabis. The first conversation will be held outside the Farmers Union at the State Fair on Thursday, August 29. He will distribute “Be Heard on Cannabis” cowbells to fairgoers to encourage Minnesotans to join the conversation on how to legalize and regulate cannabis for adult use. I plan on attending to gather constructive input from stakeholders as legislation is being considered.
 
I hope you're having a great summer! Please always feel free to reach out with any questions, thoughts or comments. 

Sincerely,

Kristin Bahner
State Representative