Dear neighbors,
I hope you’re enjoying the first days of spring. It’s hard to believe that we’re already halfway through the legislative session. Here’s an update on the progress that we’ve made so far and a preview of the work ahead:
Minnesota Values Budget
The legislature’s chief responsibility for the second half of the session is to build a state budget for the next two years. Instead of continuing on the path to future budget gaps, we’re making honest investments in the people of Minnesota and the things they value. Minnesotans want affordable health care, world-class schools, jobs that support families, and safe communities. We care about our state and want to see one another succeed. The House DFL budget framework reflects these values and invests in a state that works better for everyone.
I’m particularly excited by the $32.558 million increase in investment for the environment and natural resources.
Protecting Minnesotans from Sexual Harassment
All Minnesotans deserve to live and work in an environment free from sexual harassment, but more than 80 percent of women report being harassed in the workplace. Last Thursday, I cast my vote for legislation that would allow more people who have experienced sexual harassment to seek justice (HF 10). The House overwhelmingly supported this improvement to state sexual harassment statutes. The Republican-controlled Senate is now responsible for determining if it moves forward this session.
Packinghouse Workers’ Bill of Rights
Everyone should know the rights they have under the law. In 2007, I led a successful effort to establish certain rights for workers in the meatpacking industry in a Packinghouse Workers’ Bill of Rights (see HF 643 from 2007). Employers are required to provide this information to employees.
In 2015, the Office of the Legislative Auditor (OLA) found that meatpacking workers still weren’t receiving adequate protection. This year, I’m working to improve these protections by making sure that the rights of workers are communicated in a language they speak fluently (HF 1860).
Bernie Hesse, a representative of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), and David Kirchner, an OLA staff member, testified on the proposal this morning. The OLA report on state protections for meatpacking workers is available here.
Please keep in touch as the legislative session continues. You can reach me at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or 651-296-6828.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative