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Neighbors,
Congratulations to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Their swearing-in this week again proved our nation is capable of a peaceful transition of power even during a difficult time.
On Thursday, House DFL leaders and legislators introduced new legislation to defend and strengthen our democracy. The measure aims to protect the right to vote and ensure the needs and voices of all Minnesotans are heard.
Committee work this week
Several of the state’s veterans’ organizations provided overviews during the Labor/Industry and Veterans committee. Their leaders outlined the scope of their work and importance of continued legislative support. I look forward to hearing more in the coming weeks.
In the Human Services and Behavioral health committees, we continued to hear about the success of telehealth options. We also learned how we are protecting the elderly, vulnerable and those with mental health challenges. Keeping those who work in challenging settings safe is also a priority.
The Transportation committee heard more testimony on the autonomous, connected, and electrified transportation of the future and how it all connects with current needed infrastructure upgrades.
Meeting with local partners
I met with city of Eagle Lake leadership this week to discuss infrastructure, their ties to surrounding communities, and the importance of local government aid. I’ll be partnering with the city to be most effective with our legislative goals.
This week, I also met with Mankato Community Education and Recreation representatives to talk about the great programs that they provide, the impact of COVID on their operation and the importance of properly funding our entire education system.
Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline
Farming is a stressful occupation and many farmers often feel heavy weights on their shoulders, due to circumstances that may be out of their control. Fear and uncertainty can lead to significant stress, often compounded this year by COVID-19.
If you or someone you know needs a listening ear, or legal or financial advice, confidential help is available. The Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline can be reached by phone at 833-600-2670, by texting FARMSTRESS to 898211, or through email at farmstress@state.mn.us. Click here for more information and helpful resources.
Investments in broadband
This week, a House committee held a hearing on a bill to improve broadband internet access throughout the state. COVID-19 has put a new spotlight on the problems many Minnesotans in rural areas are facing, but these issues aren’t new. We have heard stories of students doing their homework in parking lots and parents struggling with telecommuting because of a slow and unstable connection. The measure would invest $120 million over the next two years, the amount recommended by the Governor’s Broadband Task Force.
Contamination cleanup grants announced
The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has awarded nearly $4 million in grants to nine Minnesota cities, including Mankato. You can read more here about the local contaminated site approved for redevelopment.
Business relief payments begin
The Minnesota Department of Revenue has issued $67.3 million in COVID-19 Business Relief to Minnesota businesses, as part of the bipartisan legislation the Legislature passed in December to help restaurants, bars, gyms, and bowling centers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The legislation also delivers direct funding to all of Minnesota’s 87 counties to set up local grant relief programs.
Businesses can contact the department for information on qualifying criteria. An online inquiry process began this week, and remains open through Friday, February 5. Another round of payments will be made after Feb. 5 for qualifying businesses.
Stay connected with the legislature
The Minnesota House continues to operate remotely. The House ensures 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.
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.
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I welcome your questions and comments anytime.
Also, please visit and “like” my Facebook page for more Capitol and community updates.
Thank you for the privilege of representing you in the legislature.
Sincerely,
Luke Frederick
State Representative
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