Dear Neighbors,
Session continues to be productive as we work to pass bills that will improve the lives of Minnesotans. Here is what I’ve been working on.
Impact of Gun Violence on Children
Recently the Public Safety and the Children and Families committees met to discuss how children are impacted by gun violence and to pass two gun violence prevention bills. One of the bills would require firearms to be stored securely, an important step to prevent access by children and others who are ineligible to possess guns.
The second bill requires gun owners to report lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement. Lost and stolen guns are often used in crimes or end up in the hands of those who may cause harm to themselves or others. The bills we passed out of committee are important aspects of reducing gun violence against Minnesota children. We will continue to pursue policies which make our state a safer place for all children.
Protecting Victim Data
On Thursday the Public Safety Committee passed my bill to improve protection of victim data, and provide clarity on their rights in state statute. While not a monumental bill, it is one more piece in the puzzle of supporting and uplifting victims of crime. I will continue my efforts to improve victim rights and outcomes.
Constituent Bill
The Pensions Commission heard my constituent-driven bill that would allow parents and spouses who care for family members with disabilities under Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS) programs to be eligible to participate in the state-run retirement program, Secure Choice. Lynn, a constituent who utilizes CDCS to care for two adult children with disabilities, described how changes to state law intersect with federal law in a way that makes her and other similar caregivers ineligible for Social Security. The Secure Choice retirement program will offer people like Lynn a way to save for retirement and to continue working as caregivers without worrying about their future security. In addition, my bill is cost neutral and is supported by numerous organizations, including AARP, Minnesota Council on Disability, and The Arc Minnesota.
Debt Fairness Act
Medical debt is the leading cause of bankruptcy in the country. That’s why DFLers have introduced the Debt Fairness Act. Too many people are saddled with unmanageable debt, and our current laws have been insufficient at addressing this dilemma. Medical debt depletes peoples’ rainy-day funds, results in credit card debt, and causes people to forgo medical treatment altogether. The Debt Fairness Act aims to unburden Minnesotans from medical debt, and help working and middle class families make ends meet.
MPCA Small Business Environmental Loan Program
If your small business is looking to reduce on-site air emissions, clean up contamination, or generate less waste, be sure to apply for the MPCA Small Business Environmental Loan program. The program offers zero-interest loans up to $75,000 to tackle these high-impact projects. You can learn more and apply here.
Stay In Touch
Please feel free to contact me directly with your viewpoints or if I can be of assistance. My email is rep.kelly.moller@house.mn.gov and my phone number is 651-296-0141. You can learn about bills that have been introduced here and keep track of the bills I’ve authored here. If you have neighbors, friends, or family who you think would find these updates valuable, please share this with them; they can subscribe here. I also encourage you to follow me on Facebook.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you.
Sincerely,
Kelly Moller
State Representative