Hello from the State Capitol, Remember during the pandemic when the legislature gave Governor Walz emergency powers and then he refused to give them up? He basically ran the state as he saw fit for 475 days. A bill considered on the House floor this week would address this problem, by preventing a governor from declaring an indefinite peacetime emergency and shutting out the voices of millions of Minnesotans through their elected representatives. Specifically, this bill makes sure that any peacetime emergency declaration that lasts beyond 14 days must have broad bipartisan support from the legislature. RALLY FOR GIRLS’ SPORTS MONDAY  On Monday, the Minnesota House will debate the Preserve Girls’ Sports Act legislation which would prevent boys from playing in girls’ sports in Minnesota. A rally will be held at the State Capitol at 11:00 AM, and several notable supporters will be in attendance. They include Riley Gaines, a 12-time NCAA All-American swimmer and maybe the nation’s leading girls' sports advocate; former Minnesota Viking Jack Brewer, who is a passionate local advocate for preserving girls’ athletics; and other state lawmakers who support the cause. NURSING HOME SUPPORT ADVANCES In our human services committee this week, we approved legislation that will help ease the mandates placed on nursing homes last session. It was a straight party line vote, with all Republicans voting in favor, and all Democrats voting against. AG WATER QUALITY BILL This session’s first hearing on my ag water quality bill will be in the House ag committee, though only on an informational basis. As there is a financial aspect to it, the taxes committee will give it a more thorough vetting. The legislation is of significant importance to many local farmers. MANDATES ON THE MINDS OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS As a former county commissioner, I always enjoy meeting with local county boards. Many of them were in St. Paul this week as part of the Association of Minnesota Counties Day at the Capitol.  Commissioners are concerned about the mandates and the continued loop of state forcing counties to provide more services, yet not providing them with adequate funding, which ultimately leads to higher property taxes. The governor’s most recent budget ideas only multiplies their burden. THE SEA OF BLUE It is truly a joy to meet with local students. FFA Day on the Hill took place in St. Paul this week, and I met with numerous local chapters, including this group from Chatfield.  As farmer and with my ag background, I really enjoy hearing stories from our rural students about what a difference FFA is making for them. KEEP IN TOUCH As always, if you ever have any legislative questions, please contact me. I can be reached at rep.steven.jacob@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651.296.2273. Have a good weekend, Steve |