Dear Neighbors,
I hope this finds you well! We have passed our halfway mark of the legislative session.
Here’s an update from St. Paul:
House Approves Hands-Free Cell Phone Bill to Save Lives
The Minnesota House of Representatives approved the hands-free cell phone bill this week with my support. Current state law bans emailing, texting, and using a web browser while driving. The hands-free cell phone bill applies the same enforcement and penalties to drivers who do not use their cell phone in a hands-free mode. There are exceptions for emergencies and one-touch activation functions.
Minnesotans deserve to be safe on our roads and we want our friends, neighbors, and loved ones to be safe, too.
Addressing the Opioid Epidemic
In response to heartbreaking personal stories and alarming statistics I am hearing from Minnesotans and public safety leaders throughout our state, I was proud to vote in favor of the bill I co-authored, in order to hold pharmaceutical corporations accountable for their role in the opioid crisis. HF 400 would establish an Opioid Stewardship Advisory Council to fund addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery services. These services will be funded by grants from a new Opioid Stewardship Fund, resources for which would come from fees paid by pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors.
Youth Climate Initiatives
Last week on Friday was Youth Climate Strike, and I had the pleasure of meeting several of Minnesota’s young leaders on the issue. This rally was part of a nationwide school walkout, and St. Paul students said their goal is to send a message to lawmakers that they want immediate change to protect their future. I couldn’t agree more that change needs to happen. You can read more about Friday’s event here. |
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ERA
The House recently approved the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) ballot question to let Minnesotans decide whether or not to give everyone full equality under our Constitution. |
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| It’s a significant step forward in guaranteeing equality for women and ensuring fair treatment by the courts, employers, state and local governments, health care providers, and others. It also represents Minnesota’s commitment to equality, and rejects discrimination based on gender. I was glad to support this long overdue legislation for my mother, sisters, wife and daughter. |
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Upcoming Community Coffee Hour
As a reminder, we will be having another Community Coffee Hour this weekend. These events have been excellent opportunities for me to learn about what is important to you, and how I can help bring your ideas to the Capitol. I hope you will join us again, the details are below:
Saturday, March 23 at 9:00-10:30 a.m.
Dunn Brothers Coffee in Apple Valley, 15265 Galaxie Ave, Apple Valley, MN 55124
Keep in Touch
Never hesitate to reach out with any questions, comments, or concerns. I appreciate hearing from you and value your input!
Sincerely,
Robert Bierman |
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