Legislative Update- April 1, 2022

Dear Neighbors,

We’re working hard in the House to meet our major second deadline to advance bills through the committee process, which is today at midnight.

I continue to advocate for the critical updates and improvements County Road 47 needs and our Plymouth residents expect and deserve. Mayor Wosje’s latest Mayor’s Minutes CCX segment covers details about the Country Road 47 project and how the completion would enhance public safety for everyone traveling on the major roadway.

Yesterday, the Minnesota House approved legislation I’ve authored with broad bipartisan support on a vote of 131-0 to protect the personal privacy of rural Minnesotans seeking advice and using mental health services. There is still a great need for mental health services in rural communities related to agricultural stress, and as a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I’ve heard firsthand testimony demonstrating the need. Minnesota families ought to be able to seek help for mental and behavioral health concerns, and it’s important they are assured their privacy will be protected.

Strengthening Minnesota’s Aging Workforce

Last week, I presented a proposal to the State Government Finance Committee to help develop plans for Minnesota’s aging workforce. As our aging population grows the demographic shift will have widespread impact on Minnesota’s economy, health care system, and social services. Proactive action now can ensure that the transition is smoother and more cohesive. My bill would establish a legislative task force on aging, charged with developing and guiding solutions to ensure older Minnesotans can thrive in our state and in our community.

Minnesota’s Lowest Unemployment Rate in 23 Years

According to numbers released earlier this month by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), Minnesota’s unemployment rate ticked down to 2.7% in February; the lowest unemployment rate in the state since 1999. The decline in Minnesota’s unemployment rate was entirely due to people moving from unemployment to employment, as the state’s labor force participation rate rose from 67.6% to 67.9% in February.

While this is great news, Minnesotans continue to struggle as we all deal with the pandemic’s economic recovery and impacts of Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine. I remain committed to enacting statewide solutions that lower costs for our Plymouth residents and families, so we can all thrive and move forward during these challenging times.

Standing with Ukraine

The Minnesota Legislature fast-tracked a bill to impose state sanctions on the Russian and Belarusian governments for their invasion of Ukraine. Last Thursday, we were able to unanimously pass the bill off the House floor. The Senate followed suit this week and the governor has signed the measure into law. You can read my statement of support here.

Keep in Touch

Please continue to reach out anytime at rep.ginny.klevorn@house.mn or 651-296-5511. Your feedback and ideas drive my work for our Plymouth community.

You’re also welcome to follow me on my Facebook page here for additional updates.

Have a great weekend!

Warmly,

Ginny Klevorn
State Representative