Legislative Update - The 2023 Legislative Session Begins

Dear Neighbors,

We hit the snowy ground running to kick off the 2023 legislative session this week, with several hearings and events to highlight our legislative priorities to move Minnesota forward. I’m pleased to share I’ve been re-appointed by House Speaker Hortman as the Chair of the Commerce Committee. Having previously served in this position, I’m excited to finish what we started and pass good legislation for our state. 

Additionally, the recent Minnesota budget outlook shows that we have a significant opportunity to improve economic security and invest in students, workers, our communities, and more - building a Minnesota where everyone has a chance to thrive.

My colleagues and I are ready to work hard, work together, and work quickly to deliver on the issues that matter most to Minnesotans. I am honored to be given the opportunity to return to work for the families of Coon Rapids and Anoka.

Protecting Reproductive Freedom

Politics have no place in a doctor’s office. However, last year the U.S. Supreme Court reversed a half-century of established law allowing reproductive freedom. This week, the Protect Reproductive Options (PRO) Act received its first committee hearing in the Minnesota House. This bill protects Minnesotans’ right to contraception, the right to carry a pregnancy to term, the right to abortion, and ensures the right to privacy for personal reproductive health decisions. It also prevents interference by anti-choice politicians who might seek to enact or defend medically unnecessary barriers to comprehensive reproductive health care. 

Minnesotans overwhelmingly support the fundamental right of individuals to make their own healthcare decisions. The overturning of Roe v. Wade last summer sent a clear message that we can’t take these rights for granted. The PRO Act will codify these fundamental rights into law which is essential in guaranteeing reproductive freedom for the long term. We must act now to ensure a future State Supreme Court can’t take away the bodily autonomy of Minnesotans.

Legalizing Adult-Use Cannabis

This week, my House DFL colleagues and I held a press conference illustrating our legislation to legalize adult-use cannabis.

Minnesota’s current cannabis laws are doing more harm than good, and over the last 3 years, DFLers in the legislature have worked and listened to build a Minnesota-specific model for cannabis legalization. Our bill creates a safe, well-regulated legal marketplace, including best practices for consumer protection, health, and public safety. It also includes a robust expungement program, so people who have disproportionately been caught in the criminal justice system due to cannabis can move on with their lives. Minnesota is ready for legalization.

You can watch the full press conference here.

Keep in Touch

Please continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at rep.zack.stephenson@house.mn.gov or 651-296-5513.

It’s an honor to represent our Coon Rapids and Anoka families in St. Paul.

Sincerely,

Rep. Zack Stephenson

Minnesota House of Representatives