Legislative Update – March 13, 2024
Dear Neighbors,
There has been a flurry of action at the Capitol the last couple of weeks, especially with constituent and advocacy groups holding their “Day at the Capitol” where Minnesotans can meet with their representatives on the issues that matter most to them.
I’ve been glad to meet with members of our community on affordable childcare, healthcare, education priorities, reproductive rights, taxes, city issues, and so much more! I want to thank you all for taking the time to make your voice heard.
House Floor Votes
Recently, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed legislation updating the state’s school resource officer policy. By codifying guidance provided by the Attorney General’s office into law, we are providing law enforcement and school districts the uniformity and clarity they’ve sought to ensure SRO services can continue in schools that choose to utilize them.
We worked closely with all affected parties to craft a bill that secured broad bipartisan support, passing 124-8. You can read more about that bill here.
The House also passed legislation to fund 101 projects across our state that protect our wildlife, water, air, and soil. The funding, which comes from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, uses a portion of our state lottery proceeds to ensure our environment and natural resources are protected for generations to come.
Climate and Energy Meetings
The Climate and Energy Committee, which I chair, has been hard at work hearing legislation to lower energy costs for working Minnesotans, support cleaner energy sources and ensure that we meet our goal of 100% clean energy by 2040.
We held a hearing on legislation that would improve existing energy transmission lines using “grid enhancing technologies” which allow for extended capacity and flexibility for utilities at a relatively low cost. Some utilities are already using this technology and seeing increased capacity of 10 to 40%, and we’re working to make sure we address transmission congestion across our state.
One of the biggest consumers of energy in our state are our buildings themselves. That is why projects like this bill helping install geothermal air systems can help us transition existing buildings to more efficient energy sources—especially in areas that haven’t had the support for such projects in the past. Our committee also passed my technical correction bill supporting our state’s popular Solar to Schools program, which you can learn more about here.
EMT Training/Paramedic Scholarships Available
DFLers are working to address the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) statewide shortage. One of these initiatives, that I supported, funds a one-time appropriation of $3 million for up to 600 scholarships of $5,000 starting in the fall of 2024 to be awarded by June 30, 2026.
If you or anyone you know might be interested in this opportunity to serve the public and give back to the community, you can find eligibility information here.
Staying in touch
Please reach out if you have any questions or feedback you would like to share. You can contact me by email at rep.patty.acomb@house.mn.gov or call (651) 296-9934.
Sincerely,
Patty Acomb
State Representative