Another proposal would invest in WomenVenture, an organization that supports female entrepreneurs, especially in the childcare space. My proposal for statewide health standards also had another committee hearing. This legislation is a crucial step towards ensuring that all students, regardless of their location, receive a consistent education related to not only their own health, but also the well-being of their family, friends and community. Currently, health is the only required subject matter that is not standardized in Minnesota, meaning it does not have consistent benchmarks statewide. This bill utilizes the rulemaking process, which is prescriptive in – and even requires – allowing for any and all interested parties to engage the Department of Education in the process, including students, parents, advocates, and the business community. Rulemaking will allow for a transparent process that will require the input and review and utilize the expertise of varied stakeholders. Passing Good PolicyOn Monday, we passed the Elections Policy bill, which focuses on improved voter access and election transparency. It targets policy areas where the state can improve voter turnout and ensure that if voting is restricted, voters have a means of redress. Just last night, we passed legislation to provide more transparency to the hidden and deceptive fees that have become all too common when buying concert tickets, booking a hotel room, and more. We’ve all been there - you’re either hunting for the best deal or diligently waiting for popular concert tickets, only to be confronted with a final dollar amount that’s nothing close to the initially advertised price. What something costs shouldn’t be a secret, that’s why I signed on as a co-author of legislation to crack down on “junk fees” and provide upfront pricing for event tickets. Both of these bills have now passed the House, HF 1989 with broad bipartisan support, and are on their way to the Senate. MPR covered the legislation, with a nod to its Taylor Swift origins, which you can read here. Spring CelebrationsMarch and April are full of celebrations! Minnesotans far and wide recently celebrated holidays like Easter, Eid, Purim, and more in the coming weeks. No matter what or if you celebrate, I hope you are able to gather with friends and families and have a joyful celebration. Constituent CornerRecently I’ve met with neighbors advocating on Alzheimer’s awareness and youth tobacco usage, as well as a conversation with members of our local Chamber of Commerce. I also had the opportunity to ride along with Hennepin Healthcare as our first responders helped care for a variety of fellow residents in Hennepin County.  |