Dear Neighbors,
I hope you are enjoying this amazing weather we’ve had over the past couple of weeks, and be sure to stay cool and hydrated as we may reach record highs soon! At the Capitol, the Republican Senate Majority Leader has informed us that the Republican Senate Majority is unwilling to come back for a special session to finish our work. A lot of critical funding for things like schools, child care, and health care were left undone. This is not how we should govern, even in a divided government.
Bill Signing
While a lot was left undone this session, I am proud that my bill to create an office for a Youth Foster Ombudsperson was signed into law this year. This was a bipartisan bill from beginning to end, and the stories that brought us together on this were not easy stories to tell. Foster kids deserve to see themselves represented in their government and they deserve to be heard and for us to take action when they need it. I want to extend a huge thank you to the foster kids who advocated for their rights and to Governor Walz for signing this critical legislation into law.
Frontline Worker Pay
The application process for the frontline worker bonus is now open. The Frontline Worker Pay application will be open June 8 through July 22, 2022. Eligible workers will have 45 days to apply for Frontline Worker Pay. Remember, you don't have to be first in line when the application opens. The application will be open for 45 days and the funds are not first come, first served. Visit frontline pay.mn.gov to see if you are eligible and to apply today!
COVID Tests Available
The federal government began a third round of a free mail order program that enables people to order more rapid at-home tests at no cost by visiting this website: CovidTests.gov. Minnesotans can still order free at-home rapid COVID-19 tests through the state’s free mail order program, two test kits per home, at this website: Order your free at-home rapid tests. The website includes information on at-home rapid testing, a video demonstration and FAQ on how to use the iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test, and a link to place orders.
Stay in Touch
Please feel free to reach out to me by email at rep.jessica.hanson@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-4212. If you have a friend, neighbor, or relative who wants to receive updates about the Legislature, let them know they can subscribe to my email list here. You can also follow my Facebook page here. It’s an honor to represent our community. Please stay in touch and stay safe.
Sincerely,
Rep. Jess Hanson, District 56A
421 State Office Building
St. Paul, MN 55155