Legislative Update- January 7, 2021

Dear Neighbors,

Yesterday’s insurrection at our nation’s capital was an unacceptable assault on our democratic system and foundation of government. Violence is never okay, and my thoughts are with the families of those who died amid the riot. It’s clear healing will take much more than time.

Minnesota Legislative Session Underway

A new year means new beginnings and I’m committed to working for everyone as I continue my service to Apple Valley, Rosemount, and Coates in a few new capacities. This session, I’ll be the vice chair of the Health Finance and Policy Committee in addition to serving on the Public Safety, Capital Investment, and Local Government committees. Tuesday was a historic day getting sworn in remotely for another two-year term in the Minnesota House.

I’m thrilled to continue representing you and working with you to find additional COVID-19 response and recovery strategies for our families, businesses, and health care facilities, and schools. Since the onset of the virus, I’ve been reaching out to school leaders, parents, our local businesses, and front line workers to hear directly about how the pandemic is impacting our community. The recent virtual town hall meeting I held with Rep. Bierman on December 5 was a great opportunity to hear directly from neighbors, and to learn from one another.

Please know I’m always available to chat over the phone or meet virtually to discuss what’s on your mind or how I can help.

New Public Health Guidance

Health care providers asked Minnesotans for more support for critical care beds and as a result of our collective action, COVID-19 is spreading more slowly across the state than two months ago. Recognizing our progress – but understanding we need to remain cautious – the governor is adjusting the dials and opening more activities and sectors of the economy.

Beginning January 11:

• Indoor dining at bars and restaurants can open at 50 percent capacity, with a maximum of 150 people. Parties of no more than six people must remain six feet from other parties; bar seating is open to parties of two; reservations are required; and establishments must close dine-in service by 10 p.m.
• Gym capacity remains capped at 25 percent but maximum capacity increases to 150 and classes can increase to 25 people, assuming distancing can be observed. Machines and people must maintain 9 feet of distance. Face coverings are required.
• Outdoor events and entertainment continue at 25 percent capacity, but maximum capacity increases to 250 people. Social distancing is required.
• Indoor events and entertainment – like bowling alleys, movie theaters, and museums – may open at 25 percent, with no more than 150 people in each area of the venue. Face coverings are required, and they may not offer food service after 10 p.m.
• Youth and adult organized sports have resumed practice as of January 4 and games resume January 14 with spectators, following the appropriate capacity limits for indoor or outdoor venues. Inter-region tournaments and out of state play are discouraged.
• Pools opened on January 4 for some activity and may now open, like gyms, at 25 percent capacity.
• Wedding receptions and other private parties may resume with limits. If food and drink are served at the event, then they are limited to two households or 10 people indoors and 3 households or 15 people outdoors. If there is no food or drink, they are covered by event venue guidelines. Any related ceremony – like a wedding or funeral ceremony – is guided by rules for ceremonies and places of worship.
• Places of worship remain open at 50% capacity but without an overall maximum capacity.

There is much to be thankful for and hopeful about in the New Year with vaccination administration underway. However, it’s important we stay vigilant in our efforts to control community spread of the virus, especially as a new, more transmissible variant is popping up across the country. Let’s continue working together to keep each other safe by wearing a mask, washing our hands frequently, social distancing, avoiding unnecessary trips when possible.

Keep in Touch & Stay Connected

The Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offers nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication. You can subscribe to receive these here.  To track bills of interest through the legislative process, I encourage you to utilize the MyBills feature on the Minnesota House of Representatives’ website here.

My weekly updates from the Capitol are another great way to stay connected and respond with your input. If you haven’t subscribed or would like to receive my email newsletters please share this link with you neighbors, coworkers, and friends.

Finally, please contact me anytime with feedback, questions, or ideas at rep.john.huot@house.mn or 651-296-4306. I appreciate hearing from you! You’re welcome to follow or ‘like’ my official Facebook page for additional community and Capitol news.

Thank you for the honor of serving you in the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Sincerely,

John