Legislative Update- March 19, 2021

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this finds you well. We’ve reached the halfway point in the 2021 legislative session and the pace hasn’t slowed down. Committee deadlines are upon us, which help legislators narrow the focus on priorities in which bills will continue to advance. You can see the bills I’m working on and view their progress here.

Last week, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to help thousands across the country and in Minnesota recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you want to learn more about this robust assistance package, the nonpartisan National Council of State Legislatures (NCSL) has an excellent overview of the measure you can check out here.

With incoming federal funds, and a revised state budget ‘forecast’, Governor Walz has revised his state budget proposal. I am still reviewing the details but am encouraged to see tax cuts are included for Minnesotans on unemployment benefits during the pandemic, and additional small business support. You can read more about the governor’s proposal here. Please feel free to share with me your thoughts on what should be prioritized as we continue to craft a balanced budget.

Minnesota’s Insulin Safety Net

Last summer, we passed the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act into law. This was legislation I was proud to support. Since going into effect and establishing the state’s insulin safety net program, 465 Minneotans have taken advantage of it, potentially saving their lives. So far, insulin manufacturers have provided a total value of $2,148,564.74 in insulin through this program.

This is just one of the many ways we’re fighting for affordable health care for Minnesotans. If you or anyone you know is in urgent need of a 30-day or long-term supply of affordable insulin, please visit MNinsulin.org where you can see if you qualify, download the application, and learn how to apply today. 

Community News

Hwy 55/Doyle Path Project

I wanted to share a schedule update for the Hwy 55/Doyle Path project. I’ve been in touch with the Minnesota Department of Transportation and they have been able to confirm that they can deliver the project earlier than originally anticipated. MNDOT’s plan to construct the Hwy 55/Doyle Path improvements will start mid-July 2022, which is a year earlier than originally planned. There is a lot of work left to finish, but we’re marching towards 2022 construction. You can learn more here.

Arts Grant Recipients in District 57

Our community has received several grants through the Regional Arts Councils and Minnesota State Arts Board. The grants were made possible by the voters of Minnesota through the clean water, land, and legacy amendment to the Minnesota Constitution passed in 2008. Here’s a look at few recipients in District 57:

Keep in Touch

Please contact me anytime with questions and input at rep.john.huot@house.mn or 651-296-4306.

It’s an honor to serve our Rosemount, Apple Valley, and Coates neighbors at the State Capitol.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend.

Sincerely,

John