Dear neighbors,
I hope everyone has been enjoying their Spring. We’ve been keeping busy at the State Capitol as we continue to debate legislation, hear from constituents, and discuss how we can continue to make life more affordable for Minnesotans as we tackle the biggest issues facing our state.
Here’s the latest from St. Paul:
Committee Hearings
Last week, the House Commerce Committee heard my bill HF 4853, which would create more oversight when nonprofit health maintenance organizations (HMOs) merge with for-profit entities, otherwise known as an HMO conversion. The pledge of nonprofit HMOs in Minnesota has always been to exist as a charitable organization for the health care benefit of Minnesotans. When a for-profit health care entity purchases a nonprofit HMO, charitable assets are commonly removed from public benefit after years of public investment, making millions of dollars for executives and nothing for working families. My bill creates robust safeguards around HMO conversions to ensure that our state avoids this loss of public assets.
Last Thursday, in the Health Committee, I presented HF 4605, which would improve operations, expand access, and reduce administrative burdens for Roundtable Rx, the entity that operates Minnesota’s medical repository program. These changes are long overdue, and will improve the crucial service that many Minnesotans rely on.
Community Coffee Hour
This Saturday, March 23rd, I will be hosting a Community Coffee Hour at Dunn Bros. Coffee in Apple Valley (15265 Galaxie Ave). This event is an opportunity for you to share any thoughts or concerns you have about issues you care about. I hope to see you there.
House Approves 101 Environmental Projects
Minnesotans take pride in our legacy of environmental stewardship. That’s why DFLers 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.
The Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources is now gathering input about the future of Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund spending and taking feedback about what environmental issues are most important to you. Make your voice heard about how to improve Minnesota's environment & natural resources.
Take the survey here.
High Demand of Universal School Meals Prompts Legislation to Meet Need
Participation in the universal school meals program has surpassed the initially anticipated increase by more than 20% across the state. To ensure we’re meeting the need and filling this gap, House DFLers approved legislation to continue these investments so no child goes hungry at school.
MPR had a great story about the program that you can read here.
Federal Assistance for Small Businesses Affected by Warm Winter
Our “winter” this year has been unseasonably warm. While many of us have enjoyed foregoing winter jackets this year, the low precipitation we’ve experienced this winter has had a real economic impact on small businesses that rely on snow and winter tourism. Federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available due to the ongoing federal drought declarations affecting 81 Minnesota counties. Small business owners should apply here for assistance as soon as possible.
Keep in Touch
Please continue to contact me anytime you have questions, need assistance, or have input to share at rep.robert.bierman@house.mn.gov or 651-296-5506. I always appreciate hearing from you. You’re also welcome to follow me on my official Facebook page for more updates.
Thank you for the honor of representing our Apple Valley neighbors at the State Capitol.
Sincerely,
Robert Bierman
State Representative