Dear Neighbors,
We’re now beyond the halfway point of the legislative session. Committees are wrapping up their work and we’re narrowing our focus on how to best address our state’s needs and values. I’ve appreciated the opportunity to meet with so many from our community here at the Capitol.
I enjoyed meeting with Boys and Girls Club constituents this week. This incredible organization is doing tremendous work for kids in our communities statewide. It was great to hear from them and learn how the Boys and Girls Club is helping them achieve their goals in school and at home. |
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House Approves Common-Sense Legislation with Bipartisan Support
Hands-Free
Minnesotans deserve to be safe on our roads, and we want our friends, neighbors, and relatives to be safe, too. That’s why the Minnesota House on Monday, March 18 approved the hands-free cell phone bill (House File 50).
In my line of work as an EMT, I can’t tell you how many countless crashes I’ve responded to related to distracted driving with a mobile device. I voted in favor of this legislation because if we have the chance to save more lives, we ought to take action. Click here to watch a video of my remarks about this important priority.
Opioids
Another life saving measure I supported this week addresses our opioid crisis that impacts Minnesotans in every corner of the state. The statistics are alarming: In 2017, more than 400 Minnesotans died as a result of opioid overdoses. More than 2,000 visits to emergency rooms for opioid-involved overdoses occurred the same year. The rate of opioid-related overdose deaths has steadily increased each year since 2010.
HF 400 holds pharmaceutical corporations accountable by having them pay a small fee that goes toward an Opioid Stewardship Fund to help fund addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery services.
Session Daily Coverage
The nonpartisan House Public Information office has covered two of my bills in their online publication. You can read about my tax credit proposal for volunteer firefighters and EMTs here. The story related to my legislation that honors our fallen military and public safety officers can be found here. Both have had public hearings and are being considered for inclusion into broader bills.
Stay in Touch
Please continue to reach out with questions, or ideas. Never hesitate to let me know how I can be of assistance.
Sincerely,
John |
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