Progress on Gun Violence Prevention
Dear Neighbors,
The House has begun the season of long night sessions on the House Floor as we debate and pass policy packages and supplemental budgets, continuing our work of improving the lives of working Minnesotans. I was glad to take some time to meet with advocates from our district with Moms Demand Action, a gun violence prevention organization.
Last year, DFLers passed red-flag laws and universal background checks. These were historic wins after years of gridlock, and I was proud to vote in support of them.
However, we know there is still more work to be done. This year the House is advancing legislation to increase the penalties for straw purchases (when someone buys a firearm for someone else who is ineligible), and “safe-storage” legislation to ensure firearms are stored in a manner that prevents tragic accidents.
2024 Health Committee Bill
Yesterday, the House Health Finance and Policy Committee, which I serve on, heard the 2024 Health bill. Our 2024 bill is focused on policy changes that will increase access and affordability to health care for working and middle class Minnesotans.
I am proud to report that the 2024 Health bill includes HF 3700, a bill I authored that would set requirements for notice and public hearings before a hospital closes, reduces, or ends certain services. Especially as we see rural hospitals continue to close or end services like pregnancy and delivery services, this is a critical bill to ensure Minnesotans are aware of hospital decisions that directly affect them.
You can read more about the 2024 Health bill here.
House Floor Votes
The House continues to pass policy bill packages in major issue areas building on the work of our historically productive 2023 session and improving the lives of Minnesotans. In the past week, the House has passed:
- A human services policy bill that continues to make tangible progress for Minnesotans with disabilities, those in recovery from substance use disorder, and recipients who rely on our waiver services to help them thrive.
- An environment and natural resources bill that supports native fish, expands opportunities to protect prairies, and prepares for a digital outdoor recreation licensing system.
- A commerce policy bill focusing on consumer and child protections, debt reform, net neutrality, and more. It also ensures that gender-affirming care is covered under insurance plans.
- A minor cannabis policy bill legislation that takes into account recommendations from the newly created Office of Cannabis Management.
- A housing policy bill that looks out for renters by clarifying and strengthening tenant’s rights.
Join a State Board, Council, or Committee!
The Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State recently released a notice of vacancies for various state boards, councils, and committees that are accepting applications. Any Minnesotans interested in public service are encouraged to apply! There are positions for people from all backgrounds and professions, from cosmetologists to engineers.
You can find the full list of vacancies here.
Stay Connected!
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Warmly,
Andy Smith,
State Representative