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Neighbors,
The first legislative committee deadline passed on Friday. Several of the bills I authored were approved and will continue their legislative journey. These measures must now clear a Senate committee by the second deadline this Friday, March 19.
My top priority at the Capitol is to sponsor and vote for bills which reflect the values of our community. Every week, I am inspired by the commitment of our local partners to advocate for the health and success of our region. Here is an update from the Capitol:
Turning the Dials
Governor Walz has announced new public health guidance. These are welcome changes, but until more Minnesotans are vaccinated, it is important to continue to follow safety guidelines.
Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program
Alec Smith was a 26-year-old Minnesotan who, after aging off his parents’ insurance, could not afford the $1,300 monthly cost of insulin and died rationing his medication. The law in Alec’s memory provides an emergency safety net to individuals with an urgent need for insulin, as well as a long-term assistance program. If you or someone you know is having trouble accessing emergency insulin, go to this website for helpful information.
SURVEY
Please take a moment to share your legislative priorities by completing my legislative survey. Your name and address are requested to make sure only constituents are weighing in directly. Thank you for your time and I appreciate your input! [This this survey was created prior to the February forecast announcement and question #3 does not reflect the current $1.6 billion projected positive balance].
The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021
Last week, President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to help thousands across the country and in Minnesota recover from the impact of the pandemic. If you want to learn more about this historic assistance package, the National Council of State Legislatures (NCSL) has a summary of the measure.
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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.
Also, 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
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