Legislative Update- Mini Survey, CNAs & Blood Donations Needed

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this message finds you well and staying warm today! Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule took effect on October 1 (two weeks prior to previous years as a result of legislation we passed last year) and protects people from electricity and natural gas shutoffs during the coldest part of the year. If you or anyone you know may need assistance with energy bills, please check out the Public Utilities Commission website for more information.

Mini Survey

The legislative session is just around the corner, set to begin January 31. Please take a moment to share your input on priorities important to you by responding to this email with your thoughts. I appreciate your feedback.

What is the most important priority you’d like to see the legislature accomplish this session? 

A. Expanded health care access

B. Bonus checks for frontline workers

C. Infrastructure investments

D. Enhanced public safety

E. Closing gaps in workforce shortages

F. Mental health and additional educational support for students

G. Other

Certified Nursing Assistants Needed

One of the most in-demand jobs in Minnesota right now are nursing assistants. With the ongoing pandemic and the recent wave of cases due to the Omicron variant, the State of Minnesota has set a new goal to recruit, train, and deploy at least 1,000 new certified nursing assistants by the end of January for our long-term care facilities experiencing staffing shortages.

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a nursing assistant, enroll today and the State of Minnesota will pay for qualifying expenses associated with your CNA courses (i.e. tuition, fees, books, technology needs, test fees), ensuring the training is available at no-cost to you.

You can find more information on the Certified Nursing Assistant training program here.

Blood Donations Needed 

January is the National Blood Donation month. As we continue to grapple with the ongoing pandemic, we're also facing a serious blood donation shortage-the worst in nearly a decade. If you're able, please consider donating at a location near you: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive.

Minnesota Main Street Economic Revitalization Program Accepting RFPs

Administered through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, the new $80 million Minnesota Main Street Economic Revitalization Program is a bipartisan initiative the legislature passed into law last year to help our main street businesses recover from the pandemic's impact. A total of $41 million will be available in this round of funding.

Request for proposals (RFPs) will open at 3 p.m. on January 27 and be due by 4 p.m. February 28 for the second round of Main Street Economic Revitalization Program funding.

Learn more about eligibility and how to apply here.

Keep in Touch

Please continue to reach out anytime with feedback, questions, or to let me know how I can provide assistance. Email is the quickest way to get in touch at rep.john.huot@house.mn.

Thank you for the honor of serving our Rosemount, Apple Valley and Coates families in the Minnesota House of Representatives!

Sincerely,

John