Dear Neighbors, I hope you had a great weekend. Our work continues at the Capitol. This Friday is our second major deadline to advance bills through the committee process- an important step for these considered legislative measures to become law. Here’s a look at what I’ve been working on with colleagues and community members: Standing with UkraineThe Minnesota Legislature fast-tracked a bill to impose sanctions on the Russian and Belarusian government for their invasion of Ukraine. Last Thursday, we were able to unanimously pass the bill off the House floor. KSTP covered the legislation and you can watch the story here. You can read my statement of support here. As I write this, I have learned the Minnesota Senate also passed this bill unanimously and it now heads to the governor for his signature to make it law.  Drought ReliefThe agriculture and food production industries aren’t just major pieces of Minnesota’s economy; they are critical to ensuring we all have healthy, nutritious food to eat. Unfortunately, due to persistent drought conditions starting last year, many farmers and ranchers have faced enormous challenges. Earlier this month, my colleagues and I supported significant drought relief legislation to help them recover, with the funding targeted toward the smallest operations, including specialty crop producers who are unable to access federal crop insurance. Worker SafetyYesterday, the Minnesota House approved a sweeping package of safety protections for workers at Minnesota warehouses, including Amazon facilities. Additionally, lawmakers approved legislation guaranteeing Earned Sick and Safe Time for all Minnesota workers, as well as a bill approving worker contracts for Minnesota state employees. You can read more about these measures from the Pioneer Press story here.  Keeping our Student Athletes and Sports Officials SafeLast week, we made progress on advancing a bill I’m authoring out of the Public Safety Committee. Coined as the “Unruly Fan” bill, my legislation would allow for a spectator to be fined a civil penalty of up to $1,000 for disrupting or physically interfering with a youth athletic event, which includes assaulting an official, game organizer, player, or coach. Many have asked what constitutes as a “disruption.” Folks can still boo or share their disappointments with referees if they choose, but slurs, swearing, and physical altercations will not be tolerated. From little league to high school, the overall goal is to bring civility back to our youth sports. This is about our kids. Kare 11 covered the story, and you can watch it here.  Keep in TouchWe’re a little over halfway through the legislative session and the pace continues to speed up. Please don’t hesitate to reach out anytime at rep.john.huot@house.mn or 651-296-4306 with questions or input. I’m always happy to see how I can help. Have a great week. Take care,
John |