Dear neighbors,
We had another busy week with more late nights at the State Capitol as we continued to debate and vote on policy packages aimed at improving the lives of hard-working families.
We passed a number of policy packages off the House floor this week, including bills relating to Environment and Natural Resources, Commerce, Human Services, and Climate and Energy.
Notable provisions include strong consumer protections, safeguards for children on social media, phasing out the sub-minimum wage for people with disabilities, and expanding opportunities to protect our native prairies. I’m looking forward to passing more bills that build on our historically productive 2023 legislative session and help Minnesotans afford their lives!
We also recently passed the House Transportation policy package, which contained a provision that I authored. This legislation would codify the rules governing driver safety courses to reduce the length of a first-time course from 8 hours to 4 hours to be eligible for Minnesota’s auto insurance discount, without compromising the quality of the content. Drivers will still be required to take the 4-hour refresher course within 3 years to continue to qualify for the discount. With traffic deaths on the rise for older Minnesotans, my bill aims to keep older drivers on the road safely by maintaining their driving skills through education.
Expanding Insurance to Cover Prosthetics & Wigs
DFLers are laser focused on making sure all Minnesotans can work, go to school, run errands and afford their lives with dignity. Two bills that are advancing would require insurance companies to cover the costs of wigs for people undergoing cancer treatment, and the costs for prosthetics for those who need them. As families work through a new transition in their lives or navigate a new diagnosis or health challenge, the last thing they should have to worry about is their financial security. These are common sense proposals I support, and will advocate for as we continue to pass legislation that puts Minnesotans first.
Free Park Day!
On Saturday, April 27, all Minnesota state parks and state recreation areas will be offering free admission to everyone– no vehicle permits needed! In Minnesota, we are lucky to have amazing state parks all across the state, and these fee-free days are a great opportunity to experience them! You can find out more information about the fee-free days here.
Join a State Board, Council, or Committee!
The Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State recently released a notice of vacancies for various state boards, councils and committees that are accepting applications. Any Minnesotans interested in public service are encouraged to apply! There are positions for people from all backgrounds and professions, from cosmetologists to engineers.
You can find the full list of vacancies here.
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