Neighbors, Thank you to everyone who made their way to the Capitol on Thursday to attend Veterans Day on the Hill. The Capitol Rotunda rally was well-attended, and again showed the commitment of legislators and supporters to those who served.  The Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, which I chair, met for the last time this session on Tuesday to consider a few additional items. You can watch the meeting here. Additional Policy Bills Pass the MN HouseOn Monday, the Minnesota House approved the Human Services Policy Bill. The historic 2023 legislative session budget surplus allowed lawmakers to offer resources and support to our most vulnerable Minnesotans. This bill continues to make progress for those with disabilities, those in recovery, and others. Earlier this week the House passed the Environment Policy Bill. The policy package includes nation-leading legislation modernizing statutes on native rough fish, expanding opportunities to protect native prairies, and preparing Minnesota for a new Electronic Licensing System. Late last week, the Minnesota House approved additional policy legislation, including the Education Policy Bill, building on the historic education budget approved in 2023. The legislation focuses on giving schools flexibility, addressing students’ mental health, eliminating some paperwork, and establishing clear protected speech guidelines, among other provisions.  Also on Thursday, the House passed measures ( HF 1989 / HF 3438) cracking down on hidden, deceptive fees to ensure consumers have fair, upfront pricing for event tickets, restaurant meals, hotels, credit cards and more. This price transparency is important for seniors, single moms, and working families. Additionally, we passed a bill related to general fund surplus dollars to the disaster assistance contingency account. And we approved the Labor Policy Bill, which includes provisions to enhance worker protections, strengthen the minimum wage, ban shadow non-competes, increase pay transparency, and more. DEA Prescription Take Back DayOn Saturday, April 27, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) is holding their annual Take Back Day, encouraging everyone to clean out their medicine cabinets and turn in unwanted prescriptions. To find out more information and a location near you, click here.  Vacancies in State Boards, Councils, and CommitteesThe Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State has released notice of vacancies for various state boards, councils and committees that are accepting applications. Minnesotans are encouraged to apply and serve in these important positions. The full list of 921 vacancies / 602 positions can be found on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website Open Positions. The LCCMR Needs Your InputThe Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) needs your help in determining priorities for spending from the state’s lottery- generated Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) for the next six years. Currently, the ENRTF provides $80-90 million per year for environmental, natural resources, and outdoor recreation projects across Minnesota. Make your voice heard by taking this survey now!  ____________________________________________________________________ Veterans Crisis LineAnd a reminder if you, or another veteran is struggling with mental health issues, the Veterans Crisis Line can help in times of need. Veterans can use this option by dialing 988 and pressing 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Veterans may still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the previous phone number—1-800-273-8255 and Press 1—by text (838255), and through chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.  Stay Connected with the LegislatureIt is easy to stay in touch with State Capitol activities. The Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offers nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication. Subscribe to receive these here. To track bills of interest through the legislative process, I encourage you to utilize the MyBills feature on the Minnesota House of Representatives’ website. Please continue to reach out with any input, ideas, or feedback about the issues important to you. I value hearing from you, so please don’t hesitate to call or email me any time. You can find my information on my House website. Also, make sure to ‘like’ my Facebook page. It is an honor to represent you at the State Capitol. Sincerely, Jerry Newton State Representative |