Dear Neighbors,
With the recent wintery weather and the Easter break we celebrated this weekend, last week was shorter than usual. I still had the chance to meet with local students, small business owners, and care providers to discuss the issues most important to them. I also had some additional time to spend in-district, meeting with local leaders and family.
Legislative Update
Highlighted Legislation: Uber and Lyft Workplace Safety
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide vital transportation and jobs for many, but new legislation may be pushing rideshare services out of the state, making Minneapolis the only major city in the US without rideshare services. House File 2369 was introduced to address transportation network company operations in Minnesota. This legislation ultimately failed both times, but similar measures have recently been enacted by the City of Minneapolis, which has caused serious concern regarding the future of ride-share in Minnesota. Both Uber and Lyft have said that without any additional legislation being enacted, they would halt services starting May 1st. Without legislative preemption and a balanced approach, riders and drivers who provide over 300,000 rides per week could be left stranded. You can learn more about the Uber and Lyft situation from these Star Tribune and Minnesota Reformer articles.
Despite the Minneapolis City Council's focus on wages, some real concern lies with worker safety. This was a common theme from all the testifiers I heard from directly in the Labor and Industry Committee. After listening and speaking with those testifiers, other rideshare drivers, and their families, I introduced House File 3935, which establishes increased penalties for any person who assaults transit drivers, including Uber and Lyft drivers. I also introduced House File 3884 to address similar workplace safety concerns for healthcare workers. Nurses, physicians, and drivers are facing increased violence in the workplace and these two bills aim to protect them from such threats, ensuring their safety on the job. These are real bipartisan solutions that we can implement now.
The Passing of Spring Park Mayor and a Lake Minnetonka Legend
 | | Last week, we received the sad news that Mayor Jerry Rockvam has passed away. This is an incredibly sad time for the Lake Minnetonka Community and the residents of Spring Park where he spent decades serving our community. Jerry leaves behind his wife of 65 years, friends, family, and many in the Lake Minnetonka community. I worked with Jerry for many years and his dedication to the community will be deeply missed. I offer my condolences and prayers for his family. His obituary can be found here in the Star Tribune. |
Other News
Though it may not seem like it based on the weather we have had over the past week, spring is here in Minnesota. I wish all of you a happy and relaxing break and hope those who already had their break enjoyed their time off.
Staying in Touch
Please continue to reach out with thoughts, ideas, and priorities by emailing me directly at rep.andrew.myers@house.mn.gov or calling me at 612-615-8444. Your voice has an impact and allows me to better address the priorities of you and your neighbors. Thank you and have a great week.