Legislative Update - Rep. Tom Murphy

Legislative Update

The Marijuana omnibus bill has made a number of committee stops including this week in Transportation Finance and Policy. HF 100 legalized recreational marijuana use and number of other THC products. In the transportation committee we discussed the impacts this would have on our roads and railways. One of the biggest concerns is the lack of testing to make sure individuals are not operating this equipment while under the influence. See more from this committee stop in the video below:

(https://fb.watch/jktLizM0Z-/)

Over in Health Policy and Finance, we heard a bill on Nurse Staffing that would give the commissioner of labor far-reaching oversight. Supporting our nurses and their patients is important but I think there are ways that goal can be accomplished without added bureaucracy. Hospitals don’t need the strong arm of government to come in and tell them the best way to do their job.

On the Floor

On Wednesday we submitted our minority report to the education omnibus bill. In contrast to the current bill, our report focuses on providing solutions that get students back on track after nearly three years of learning loss. Currently, less than half of our students can read at grade level. Our plan provides resources to get students science-backed curriculum, train teachers on the best practices for implementing this curriculum, and provide access to tutors so that students can make up lost time. 

Upcoming Events

On March 18th at the Osakis Community Center will be a 2nd Amendment town hall to discuss the myriad of gun bills being introduced in this session. Make your voice heard and share your thoughts on these bills. The next day on March 19th there will be a town hall to discuss the Marijuana bill at the Dalton Community Center. The County Sheriff along with county health will also be there to give some perspective on the possible risks this proposal may pose to Minnesotans. Join us to learn more and share your views on this bill.

Stay Up-to-Date

Follow me on Twitter @TomMurphyMN and check out my official Facebook Page for daily updates on the important issues at the capitol.