Good afternoon,
Our second special legislative session began on July 13. The reason it was called was due to the Governor extending his emergency powers for another 30 days. According to our state laws, the governor must call the legislature into session when emergency powers are extended so the legislature has the opportunity to deny that extension if it chooses. With Democrats in charge of the Minnesota House, they had enough votes to not even allow a vote on the extension.
Now that we are back in special session, other legislative topics are now being discussed. These range from tax relief to capital investment, along with many others.
BACK TO SCHOOL?
We're just weeks away from learning about what Governor Walz and the Minnesota Department of Education are thinking when it comes to resuming school this fall.
They have directed schools to make plans for three separate scenarios: students head back to school five days a week, students resume distance learning five days a week, or a hybrid model that combines online learning and in-person classes.
From what I'm hearing locally from parents and teachers, a large majority support in person learning. But most of all, they want a set of guidelines and the ability to make the decisions locally for what is best for the students and families in their districts.
We've been told July 27 will be the day Minnesota learns about how school will resume. Let's hope the governor gives local school districts some leeway in how to implement their plans. A one-size-fits-all across the state is not the best approach.
WE'LL TALK AGAIN IN NOVEMBER
As this is an election year, legislative updates such as these must end 60 days after our regular legislative session adjourns. Even though we remain in special session, we have reached that 60 day deadline, so this will be my final email update until after Election Day.
That said, please know that I continue to represent you and want to hear from you about any legislative topic. I can be reached at rep.nathan.nelson@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-0518. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
I hope you enjoy the remainder of your summer. Stay healthy.
Nathan