Legislative Update- February 2, 2023

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this email finds you well. The work continues, introducing legislation and vetting it in committee ahead of House Floor votes.

Here’s a look at what we’re working on at the Capitol:

Last week, the House passed the 100% by 2040 bill to help our state prepare for a carbon-free future. It ensures the state’s utilities use entirely carbon-free sources for electricity production by 2040. This would put us on track with over 20 other states that have also adopted similar goals.

This measure is not only critical for protecting our environment and natural resources, but it also makes sense economically. When we remove barriers to setting up a carbon-free and renewable power sources system, we can grow and invest in jobs right here in Minnesota. I see this as a win-win for our environment, infrastructure, and health.

Labor folks supporting Minnesota's transition to 100% clean energy

Improving Public Safety in our Communities

I’ve been working on legislation to improve safety on a broad spectrum, not only in our community, but across the state.

Addressing Catalytic Converter Theft

This week, we heard legislation in the House Public Safety Committee to help thwart the persistent catalytic converter theft we’re seeing in Minnesota. The bill, which I’m co-authoring, strengthens requirements that scrap metal dealers must follow when purchasing catalytic converters, including a requirement that any catalytic converter be marked with an identifying number that connects it to the vehicle from which it was taken. It also creates criminal penalties for the unauthorized possession or purchase of a catalytic converter.

EMS Recruitment

Just today, I presented my bill to the House Education Finance Committee that would direct grant funding to Minnesota schools so high school students can enroll in emergency medical services courses that prepare them to take the emergency medical technician certification test.

The ongoing pandemic and extreme weather events in our state have presented many challenges for Minnesotans and the EMS community, who are already stretched thin. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the public to ensure prospective first responders are supported, and Minnesotans are getting the reliable emergency medical services they need.

Grateful for Randy Fisher and Lee Anderson's expert testimony in EMS and education.

Prosecuting Violent Crime

Next week, my bill is on the House Floor for a full vote to boost funding for violent crime prosecution statewide. With additional funding, county prosecutors could expand their scope to charge violent crimes like attempted murder, kidnapping, assault, sexual assault, robbery, and burglary; human trafficking/sex trafficking; and criminal vehicular homicide.

Town Hall Meeting this Saturday

I hope you can join Senator Maye Quade, Rep. Bierman, and me for a town hall meeting this Saturday, February 4 at 9:00 a.m. at Falcon Ridge Middle School in Apple Valley. We’ll start with a Capitol update and then go to questions. Everyone is welcome to attend this nonpartisan event.

Keep in Touch

Your input is important, and I hope to see you on Saturday morning! Even if you can’t make it, please don’t hesitate to reach out anytime with input, questions, or to let me know how I can be of assistance at rep.john.huot@house.mn.gov or 651-296-4306. 

Thank you for the honor of serving our Rosemount, Apple Valley, and Eagan neighbors at the State Capitol.

Stay warm,

John