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Dear Neighbors and Friends,
It’s been a busy ten days getting settled into the routine of the legislative session. Committee meetings begin early in the day and many continue into the evening. It is very interesting work and I’m building on my knowledge of legislative issues facing our district and the state.
Increasing Teachers of Color Act
I was a ‘yes’ vote this week as the Education Policy Committee approved the Increase Teachers of Color Act. The goal of this measure is to support and strengthen existing programs to help attract, prepare and retain teachers of color and American Indian teachers. The bill goes next to the Education Finance Division for consideration. Read more here.
Insulin
The Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act HF3100, was approved by the State Government Finance Division and Health & Human Services Finance Division and was referred to Ways & Means, the last stop before being debated by the full House. I was honored to vote ‘yes’ twice in these two committees. The measure creates an emergency insulin assistance program. Eligible people could get up to a three-month emergency supply of insulin. Pharmacies would be reimbursed for the cost of emergency insulin and administrative costs by insulin manufacturers through a registration fee.
Important Democracy Dates
There are important dates ahead including the Precinct Caucuses this coming Tuesday, February 25 and the Presidential Preference Primary on March 3. I hope you can participate in grassroots democracy!
Another key date is April 1 - Census Day. Making sure everyone is counted will help guide the distribution of billions to Minnesota’s communities and help policymakers decide how to invest resources.
Firefighters visit the Capitol
I enjoyed visiting with firefighters at the Capitol this week. We talked about the legislative issues impacting our Minnesota Fire Service including the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program. We appreciate the bravery of our firefighters and their efforts to keep all of us safe.
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