Dear Neighbors, The week started with heavy hearts at the Capitol after the devastating news out of Burnsville. My heart breaks for the families of the young men who were killed and those affected by this senseless, horrific tragedy. I’m praying for peace, understanding, comfort, and courage to all who work for non-violence in our communities.  Our work at the state legislature continues. We have a new intern working with our district office. Please join me in welcoming Shae to the House District 48B team!  Floor ActionOn Monday, the house passed a technical corrections bill for the 2023 Tax Bill. This was our very first action on the floor this year because it will affect nearly all Minnesotans as we prepare to file taxes. This bill ensures all Minnesotans receive the return for which they’re entitled. The biggest change from last year’s bill was updating how we account for inflation, and the adjustment will save Minnesotans around $300 million dollars as they file 2023 taxes.  On Thursday, we met in floor session and recognized U of M Gopher hockey players and one of their coaches who recently won gold for the USA in the World Junior Hockey Championships in Sweden. Connected to CommunityI've had the wonderful opportunity to meet with several constituents from our Chanhassen and Chaska communities. First responders are the hometown heroes who serve selflessly and sacrifice daily to keep our communities safe. Glad to connect with Carver County Sheriff Jason Kamerud today to discuss how we can continue working together to support law enforcement in our community and across the state. Of the $300 million in public safety aid we passed last year, we were able to secure $1,474,582 in public safety assistance for the Carver County Sheriff's Office for training, equipment, and violence prevention.  It's always a great day to support the Equal Rights Amendment! I visited with supporters to discuss how by passing this amendment, we could guarantee equality for women and ensure fair treatment by the courts, employers, state and local governments, health care providers, and others.  I was glad to have County Commisioner Matt Udermann St. Paul recently to discuss how we can keep moving our Carver County community forward. Thanks, Commissioner!  PACT Act and VA Benefits The PACT Act is a new law expanding VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. This law helps the VA provide generations of Veterans and their survivors with the care and benefits they have earned and deserve. You can learn more about the PACT Act and how to file a claim, by clicking here. Insulin Prices CappedFor many years, the House Majority has worked to ensure Minnesotans can afford the essential medications they need to live healthy lives, with one example being insulin. Unconscionably, drug companies raised the price of insulin by over 1,100% between 1990 and 2020. Prior to my service, in 2020, lawmakers enacted the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act, named after a young Minnesotan who tragically died because he was forced to ration his insulin due to its high cost. In 2023, the Legislature required insurance companies to limit co-pays for prescription drugs to treat chronic diseases at $25 per month. Earlier this month, Attorney General Keith Ellison announced a landmark settlement with drugmaker Eli Lily capping the total price of insulin for all Minnesotans at just $35 for the next five years. More information is available at www.ag.state.mn.us/MNinsulin35.  Keep in TouchPlease continue to contact me anytime at rep.lucy.rehm@house.mn.gov or 651-296-5066 with input, feedback, and ideas. If you haven’t had a chance to take my legislative survey, it’s still open, and I’d love to hear from you. Thank you for the honor of representing our Chanhassen and Chaska neighbors in St. Paul. In community, Lucy |