Update from the Capitol

Dear Neighbors,

The Minnesota Legislature continues working. My House colleagues and I have reached agreement with the Senate on bipartisan ‘targets,’ or the framework in each major area of the budget, that prioritize students, families, workers, and small businesses. These targets are a roadmap to finish the legislative session. After a year of unimaginable challenges, and with American Rescue COVID relief funding here, we have the resources to help the Minnesotans who have sacrificed and suffered the most while investing in a state that works better for everyone.

Yesterday the House passed compromise policy language in the areas of Agriculture, State Government Finance, Veterans and Military Affairs Finance, and Elections, and Health and Human Services. A big win in the HHS policy compromise includes adding cannabis flower to the medical cannabis program in Minnesota. This will contribute to lower costs for patients and expand access to those who are eligible.

We also passed important legislation yesterday that improves mental health access and increases clean energy opportunities in Minnesota.

Minnesota will join a PYSPACT

The House approved legislation on a vote of 133-0 that would allow Minnesota to join PSYPACT, an interstate compact under which licensed psychologists may practice telepsychology and conduct temporary in-person psychology across state boundaries. The compact became operational in 2019 when a seventh state enacted it. Right now, 20 states have enacted the compact, additional states are joining soon, and there is pending legislation to do so in others. At a time when mental health support is needed now more than ever, passage of this measure will help address psychologist shortages and get Minnesotans the care they need.

ECO Act

The Minnesota House of Representatives also approved the House/Senate Conference Committee Report with my support to improve energy efficiency and cost savings opportunities across the state.

The Energy Conservation and Optimization Act of 2021 updates the conservation and improvement program (CIP) statutes, providing utilities with flexibility to meet energy savings goals instead of conservation spending goals. The new focus on outcomes, instead of spending, will allow utilities to pursue more effective energy savings opportunities. You can read more about the bill here.

Federal Aid for Summer School Programing

The Governor and Lt. Governor announced today they will utilize and allocate $75 million from the American Rescue Plan dollars to fund summer school opportunities for Minnesota students to help them catch up academically and emotionally. This is a critical investment in our kids and our families and I applaud the Walz Administration for prioritizing Minnesota students.

Keep in Touch

Please don’t hesitate to reach out anytime at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn or 651-296-4201. I’m always happy to provide assistance when I can.

Have a great week, Eastsiders.

In solidarity,

Jay Xiong

State Representative