Legislative Update- March 9, 2020

Dear Neighbors,

Thank you to everyone who attended and shared input at the Community Coffee Hour over the weekend. With the snow melting and spring just around the corner, it’s nice to see neighbors out and about.

On March 6, the first case of coronavirus in Minnesota was confirmed by state officials. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has been and continues to be in constant contact with the Legislature, hospitals, clinics, and providers. Last week, the House Health and Human Services Committee held a public hearing about Minnesota’s preparedness and legislation to appropriate the necessary financial resources. Watch a video replay of the entire meeting here. 

I will share updates and news from MDH about this very serious issue as I receive them. If you or anyone in your community is concerned or seeking more information, MDH has set up a public hotline that will be open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The number is 651-201-3920. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office also at 651-296-5506.

Minnesota House approves Paid Family and Medical Leave for Everyone

Last week, the House passed legislation that gives everyone access to Paid Family and Medical Leave. The Paid Family & Medical Leave Act provides Minnesotans with up to 12 weeks of leave to recover from illness, bond with a new baby, or care for a loved one. Workers with qualifying family events and medical conditions could apply for leave to take care of a family member or get medical attention for themselves. They would receive a percentage of their regular wages while on leave.

As a small business owner, I support paid family and medical leave because it supports our small businesses in Minnesota by giving us a tool to compete with large corporations and provide for the health needs of our employees and their families. You can read more about the measure here.

Apply for a REAL ID as Soon as Possible

Beginning Oct. 1, 2020, Minnesotans will not be able to use their standard driver’s license or ID card to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. Instead, Minnesotans will need a Real ID, enhanced driver’s license or ID card, passport or passport card or another acceptable form of identification for federal purposes.

If you want to receive a Real ID prior to this deadline, the Department of Public Safety is urging Minnesotans to submit applications no later than June 15, 2020. To save time and make sure you have everything you need before you visit a driver’s license office, you can pre-apply online at realid.dps.mn.gov. I’m happy to help if you need any assistance. Give me a call at 651-296-5506.

Constituents Visit

I had a great meeting with advocates from the MN Nursing and Landscape Arboretum last week. They highlighted the need to support investments aimed at reducing the spread of Emerald Ash Borer.

Education Symposium

Legislators gathered on Friday at the State Office Building for an all-day Education Symposium focused on addressing racial inequities in Minnesota schools. We’re collaborating with and learning from experts and people who are most impacted -- because every child deserves a world-class education. Click here to download the agenda and check here for a full video replay.

The future is bright for our ISD #196 students. Thank you for participating in our Intern for a Day Program!

Keep in Touch

Please continue to keep in touch on issues important to you. I can be reached at 651-296-5506 or by email at rep.robert.bierman@house.mn.

It’s an honor to represent you at the Capitol!

Sincerely,

Robert Bierman

State Representative