|
Neighbors,
This has been a very busy week at the Capitol. Our committee agendas are packed with substantive issues to consider, and we also met in floor session twice.
In the Human Services and Behavioral Health committees, industry leaders and advocates testified about the lack of mental health bed space. Yet, the Minnesota Department of Health says many licensed hospital beds are unused. I’m learning more about this process and questioning the professionals about strategies to get services to the people who need them.
In the Transportation committee, we heard about the need to fix our failing roads and bridges. I will be working with advocacy groups and our local government partners, including Blue Earth County engineers, to author a bill to secure funding for bridge repair.
Meeting with local partners
This week, I met virtually with MNSU Mankato President Richard Davenport to talk about the some of the university needs. I’m enthusiastically supporting an upcoming bonding request the university will propose.
Affordable health care for all Minnesotans
This week legislation was unveiled aiming to make sure everyone has access to health insurance and affordable healthcare. This is a problem particularly for many small business owners. The bill is structured to maximize federal funding to help solve the very real problem facing many Minnesotans. The measure will allow enrollees in the program to take advantage of lower out-of-pocket costs and access to a strong network of providers. You can watch the hearing here.
Due North Education Plan
This week, Governor Walz announced the Due North Education Plan, a comprehensive agenda crafted with input from educators, school leaders, students, and families across Minnesota.
Governor’s budget
Governor Walz unveiled his COVID-19 Recovery Budget to support Minnesotans most affected by the pandemic. The proposed plan focuses on supporting working families, ensuring students catch up on learning, and delivering small businesses vital assistance while driving Minnesota’s economic recovery.
Business relief payments inquiry process open until Feb. 5
As mentioned last week, the Minnesota Department of Revenue has issued COVID-19 Business Relief to Minnesota businesses, as part of the bipartisan legislation passed in December to help restaurants, bars, gyms, and bowling centers impacted by the pandemic. The legislation also delivers direct funding to all of Minnesota’s 87 counties to set up local grant relief programs.
An online inquiry process remains open through next Friday, February 5. Businesses can contact the department for more information. 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.
I welcome your questions and comments anytime. You can send an email to rep.luke.frederick@house.mn or can also call my legislative assistant, Joe Lenczewski at 651-296-5486.
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
|