Neighbors, The 2022 legislative session convenes on January 31 and although not a budget year, we have an ambitious agenda. COVID-19 response and economic recovery are key priorities. I'll continue to work hard for our frontline workers who are helping keep us safe every day. I will also be focused on a bill related to the jury selection process. As mentioned last month, a bill I’m crafting would make changes in the selection process in specific cases, especially if a potential juror is a sexual assault survivor. You can read more about my efforts in a Mankato Free Press article. Since the article in the Free Press was published, I've had people from across the state reach out and share their experience of being traumatized by being forced to relive a tragic part of their past. I'm hopeful – determined – we can find a way to have fair and impartial juries without retraumatizing Minnesotans in the process. Seeking CNA Applicants The Legislative COVID-19 Response Commission (LCRC) approved funding to recruit, train, and deploy at least 1,000 new certified nursing assistants (CNAs) by the end of January. Nursing assistants are the sixth most in demand job in Minnesota, providing frontline care to patients across the health care spectrum. This staffing initiative, led by Minnesota’s Office of Higher Education in conjunction with Minnesota State, will offer resources and support to those pursuing a CNA credential from the first day of class to the first day on the job.  The program covers costs for tuition, fees, and materials, as well as transportation and technology needs for students. CNA programs throughout the state are ready to enroll and train students as soon as possible. Once trained, the CNAs will be eligible for employment at Minnesota long-term care facilities that are facing severe staffing shortages. Learn more by going to the Minnesota Office of Higher Education website. You’ll find a link to enroll or sign up to receive more information when new training opportunities are added. COVID-19 Update COVID-19 and its variants continue to infect Minnesotans and disrupt our everyday lives. To keep yourself and each other safe, here are some steps we can all take to significantly reduce the number of cases and ease the burden on our exhausted health care workers: - Get Vaccinated.Minnesotans aged 5 and up can be vaccinated. Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones – especially those who can’t be vaccinated and children under 5. Find vaccines for the whole family.
- Get Tested. Take advantage of one of the many free testing options the state has to offer, or head to your local clinic or pharmacy. Make an appointment at a community testing site.
- Get Boosted.All adults 18 and older should get a booster when they are due (6 months after receiving Pfizer and Moderna, and 2 months after receiving Johnson & Johnson).
- Stay Safe.Wear your mask in indoor public settings, wash your hands, and do your best to avoid crowded indoor spaces before getting together with family and friends—especially high-risk loved ones and children under 5 who can’t be vaccinated.
You can check the Nicollet County website for important COVID-19 information. View the Blue Earth County website for information here. You can also call the Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Public Hotline, Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. & Sat., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. at 1-833-431-2053. Our best protection is to be vaccinated. _________ Stay connected with the Legislature 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, Blake Wilcox , at 651-296-8803. 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 |