¡Saludos! Greetings Neighbors,
As we enter the final stretch of the 2024 legislative session, I'm proud of the progress we've made together, building a stronger Minnesota for working families. We're committed to securing fair wages, affordable healthcare, and investments that empower our communities.
Keeping you informed: Here are some recent developments from the capitol.
Floor Actions
The Minnesota House of Representatives passed SF3492/HF3591, the Landlord-Tenant Policy Bill on a vote of 68-61. The package included my tenant rights legislation, which grants tenants in residential buildings the right to organize.
Every Minnesotan deserves a safe, dignified place to call home, and this legislation is a major step forward in empowering tenants with the right to organize and enhance dignified housing practices. Tenants deserve to live in well-maintained homes without fear of reprisal or eviction for simply asking for basic repairs. I am proud my legislation will provide strong safeguards to empower tenants and ensure they have a voice, a safe home, and the stability to thrive.
Last year, DFLers legalized adult-use cannabis, along with the possession and growing of cannabis plants for personal, recreational use. However, buying cannabis legally at a licensed retail business in the state is not set to begin until early next year. The Cannabis Policy bill we passed is meant to expedite the process of setting up a good, legitimate marketplace for cannabis to displace that illicit marketplace that’s in place currently. You can read more about what the bill contains here.
Advocacy for Children Day
I had a wonderful time joining Early Childhood Education advocates, young learners, and their families at Advocacy for Children Day on the Hill! I cannot stress enough the importance of high-quality childcare for a thriving society. It fosters healthy development in children, empowers parents to pursue their goals, and strengthens our workforce.
As a dedicated member of the Children and Families Finance and Policy Committee, I recognize the challenges many Minnesota families face in finding affordable and reliable childcare options. My colleagues and I are committed to exploring and supporting initiatives that expand access to quality childcare for all families.
Free Park Day
Get your hiking boots ready -- Saturday, April 27 is the next free entrance day to all Minnesota parks! Minnesota state parks are open year-round, and there's a state park within 30 miles of most Minnesotans. With a free day in each season, it's a great opportunity to get out there and explore someplace new! Whether you stay for the whole weekend or just spend a few hours outside, you'll make memories that will last a lifetime. So be sure to get out and visit our wonderful parks!
Expanding Insurance to Cover Prosthetics & Wigs
DFLers are laser focused on making sure all Minnesotans can work, go to school, run errands and afford their lives with dignity. Two bills that are advancing would require insurance companies to cover the costs of wigs for people undergoing cancer treatment, and the costs for prosthetics for those who need them. As families work through a new transition in their lives or navigate a new diagnosis or health challenge, the last thing they should have to worry about is their financial security. These are common sense proposals I support and will advocate for as we continue to pass legislation that puts Minnesotans first.
Keep in Touch
Please continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at rep.maria.isa.perez-vega@house.mn.gov or 651-296-9714. You can also follow my official Facebook page.
Muchísimas Gracias,
Rep. María Isa Pérez-Vega
Minnesota House of Representatives
Committee Assignments:
Children and Families Finance and Policy
Housing Finance and Policy
Education Finance