 Commerce Committee Votes to Ban PFAS This week the Commerce Committee (which I chair) heard several pieces of legislation to regulate the use of harmful PFAS chemicals. These man-made chemicals can be found in soil and water at waste sites, food packaging, household products, and even in our bodies. PFAS chemicals have been linked to several health issues such as cancer, developmental, and reproductive issues. We heard powerful testimony from community members, which you can see here. I thank them for their courage and advocacy. Minnesota has the opportunity to be a leader in preventing further human exposure and environmental contamination by banning the use of PFAS in these products. Lowering the Price of Prescription DrugsLast week the House voted on my legislation to ban the immoral practice of price gouging during times of emergencies. This week, we took another step to protect consumers, as the Health Finance Policy Committee heard my bill to ban price gouging of prescription medication. I often hear stories of people having to ration medication or choose between their prescriptions and other necessities. The cost of prescription drugs is high and growing higher, including older drugs and new drugs entering the market. While drug manufacturers create life-changing and life-sustaining medication, these medications are useless if people can’t afford them. We have seen egregious examples of pharmaceutical companies increasing the price of prescription drugs, including a 400% raise for EpiPens. Minnesotans deserve to have access to these live-saving medications, and I am determined to see this bill pass the floor this session. Preventing Car Thefts On Monday the Commerce Committee passed legislation to require vehicle manufacturers to offer anti-theft devices on certain vehicles at no cost to the consumer. Recent news reports have chronicled how certain Hynudai and Kia manufactured cars lack important safety equipment (found in almost all other cars) making them very easy to steal. Videos showing people how to quickly steal these vehicles are circulating widely on social media, leading to a massive spike in thefts, particularly by juveniles. Minnesotans deserve safety, and the basic peace of mind that comes with the cars they purchase. If automakers aren’t going to help consumers when their products are clearly targeted for theft, it’s up to the state to step up and do right by Minnesotans. You can watch our press conference on the issue here. This measure is just one of many the Legislature is considering this year to address the increase in auto thefts. I also support bills to increase resources to local law enforcement, including police and prosecutors, as well as measures reforming the way we handle juvenile offenders, ensuring that such offenders don’t re-offend over and over again. As a working prosecutor, I believe everyone should be accountable for their actions. That means that if a person steals a car, they should be held accountable for that action. It also means that if an auto manufacturer builds a car with a known safety defect, and refuses to correct it, they should also be held accountable. Keep in TouchPlease continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at rep.zack.stephenson@house.mn.gov or 651-296-5513. It’s an honor to represent our Coon Rapids and Anoka families in St. Paul. Sincerely, Rep. Zack Stephenson Minnesota House of Representatives |