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Neighbors,
This has been a busy and exciting week beginning my legislative term. On Tuesday I joined my legislative colleagues to take the oath of office, a privilege I take seriously. I look forward to working with you to advocate for priorities of our great communities.
In accordance with public health guidelines, the Minnesota House will continue to operate remotely, as they did most of 2020. The House will ensure openness and transparency for the public by expanding the number of simultaneous committees it can? webcast live? from a maximum of two to five, so you can stay current on issues moving through committees this budget session.
I have been assigned serve on four committees encompassing a wide range of policy and finance issues. I’m especially honored to be named vice chair of the Behavioral Health Policy Division.
You can follow the committees here:
Behavioral Health Policy Division – Vice Chair
Human Services Finance and Policy
Labor, Industry, Veterans and Military Affairs Finance and Policy
Transportation Finance and Policy
Taking our oath of office in shifts via Zoom!
United States Capitol Insurrection
This week we saw an unprecedented attack on our democracy. Like you, I was saddened and alarmed by the violence and destruction at the United States Capitol. You can read my statement here.
New Public Health Guidance
Minnesotans worked together and the COVID-19 spread has slowed across the state. Recognizing our progress – but understanding we need to remain cautious – the governor announced this week the opening of more activities and sectors of the economy.
Beginning January 11:
- Indoor dining at bars and restaurants can open at 50 percent capacity, with a maximum of 150 people. Parties of no more than six people must remain six feet from other parties; bar seating is open to parties of two; reservations are required; and establishments must close dine-in service by 10 p.m.
- Gym capacity remains capped at 25 percent but maximum capacity increases to 150 and classes can increase to 25 people, assuming distancing can be observed. Machines and people must maintain 9 feet of distance. Face coverings are required.
- Outdoor events and entertainment continue at 25 percent capacity, but maximum capacity increases to 250 people. Social distancing is required.
- Indoor events and entertainment – like bowling alleys, movie theaters, and museums – may open at 25 percent, with no more than 150 people in each area of the venue. Face coverings are required, and they may not offer food service after 10 p.m.
- Youth and adult organized sports have resumed practice as of January 4 and games resume January 14 with spectators, following the appropriate capacity limits for indoor or outdoor venues. Inter-region tournaments and out of state play are discouraged.
- Places of worship remain open at 50% capacity but without an overall maximum capacity.
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I welcome your questions and comments anytime.
You can call me - 651-296-3248, write - 487 State Office Building St. Paul, MN 55155 or email - rep.luke.frederick@house.mn. You can also call my legislative assistant, Joe Lenczewski at 651-296-5486.
The Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offers nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication. Subscribe to receive these here. To track bills of interest through the legislative process, I encourage you to utilize the MyBills feature on the Minnesota House of Representatives’ website here.
Thank you for the privilege of representing you in the legislature.
Sincerely,
Luke Frederick
State Representative
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