Dear Neighbors, I hope you’re well and looking forward to the milder temperatures this weekend. We’re working quickly and efficiently to get things done for Minnesotans. Here’s a look at what’s moving at the Capitol: Protecting our Planet; Establishing Minnesota as a Clean Energy LeaderOn Thursday this week, the Climate Finance and Policy committee approved legislation to require the state’s utilities use entirely carbon-free sources for electricity production by 2040. You may recall this bill passed in the House in 2019, but did not advance in the Minnesota Senate. With a unified government and commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we can lower energy costs, create more green and clean jobs, and protect the future our kids and their kids deserve. I’m pleased to share that it's now headed to the House Floor. Protecting Reproductive FreedomPolitics have no place in a doctor’s office. However, last year the U.S. Supreme Court unraveled a half-century of legal protections guaranteeing the right to an abortion. I proudly voted for the Protect Reproductive Options (PRO) Act yesterday, which the Minnesota House of Representatives passed. This bill protects Minnesotans’ right to contraception, the right to carry a pregnancy to term, and ensures the right to privacy for personal reproductive health decisions. It also prevents interference by anti-choice politicians who seek to enact or defend medically unnecessary barriers to comprehensive reproductive health care. The recent overturning of Roe v. Wade sends a clear message that we can’t take these rights for granted. The PRO Act will codify these fundamental rights into law which is essential in guaranteeing reproductive freedom for the long term. We must act now to ensure a future state Supreme Court can’t take away the bodily autonomy of Minnesotans. Zoo After Hours-TomorrowTomorrow, I’ll be at the Minnesota Zoo for the “Zoo After Hours,” which starts at 5:00 p.m. and is for adults 18+ exclusively. The Tropics Trail, Discovery Bay Aquarium, and Education & Conservation Displays are all open until 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for members, and $15 for non-members. Hope to see you there! Virtual Community Coffee Hour-January 28A reminder that I’ll be hosting a virtual Community Coffee Hour on Zoom next Saturday, January 28th at 9:00 a.m. Everyone is welcome, and I appreciate feedback from all backgrounds and viewpoints. Please RSVP with my legislative assistant, Isabel, at Isabel.anderson@house.mn.gov to receive the Zoom information to join us. Hope to see you online! |