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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Kelly Moller (DFL)

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Legislative Update - March 22, 2019

Friday, March 22, 2019

Dear Neighbors,
 
Here’s a reminder about my next “Chat with Kelly” coming up on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at Shore 96 in Shoreview. These are informal conversations about what's happening at the Capitol, and I look forward to hearing about your values, priorities, and ideas as well. Please join us if you’re able.

 

Stopping Sexual Harassment

 
Yesterday was an extremely rewarding day at the Capitol as the Minnesota House overwhelmingly approved HF 10, my bill to strengthen protections against sexual harassment. For decades, courts have upheld an unreasonable “severe or pervasive” threshold when applying sexual harassment law, making it extremely difficult for those who have experienced harassment seek justice and accountability. This bill removes this roadblock by providing an overdue clarification to Minnesota’s Human Rights Act.
 
It’s abundantly clear that workplace culture needs to change, and this bill is necessary to ensure that all Minnesota workers can go to their jobs without experiencing harassment. Unfortunately, we’ve heard stories from many survivors who’ve demonstrated it’s nearly impossible for those who have experienced this reprehensible conduct to receive justice. The #MeToo movement has given a powerful voice to survivors, and I’m deeply inspired by those who have courageously come forth to share their stories, which made our action possible.

Shortly after the vote, I got to visit with Charlie Schumer, a junior at Irondale High School, who was at the Capitol this week participating in the House High School Page Program.

 

Stopping the Opioid Crisis

 
Earlier this week, the House took a bold step forward to address our state’s ongoing opioid crisis by passing HF 400, a bipartisan bill with comprehensive education prevention, treatment, and recovery strategies. Too many families have experienced the heartbreak that comes with addiction and overdoses, and data was released this week highlighting the number of opioid-related overdose deaths increased for the seventh consecutive year. As a prosecutor, I’ve worked on overdose cases and recognize the need for action to deal with this crisis. Communities across the state have been calling for a bold approach, and in this legislation, we’re able to fund these initiatives through new fees on pharmaceutical manufacturers and contributors.
 

Stopping Distracted Driving


Minnesota Department of Public Safety statistics show one in five Minnesota crashes comes as a result of distracted driving, tragically resulting in 53 deaths each year. All Minnesotans on our roadways deserve to be safe, but far too often cellphone use behind the wheel puts this safety at risk. This week, I was proud to support HF 50, a bill to require all phone calls behind the wheel to be in “hands-free” mode. The law would add handheld cellphone use to emailing, texting, and using a web browser as prohibited activities while driving. We’ve heard from many Minnesotans who have lost loved ones due to distracted driving, and I’m hopeful this measure will save lives.
 

Let’s Stay Connected

 
I am working on many important issues at the Capitol. Often I tweet about them or post them on Facebook. To see the bills I've authored and co-authored, please click here. To follow bills through the legislative process, you can use the MyBills service on the Legislature’s website. Additionally, Session Daily provides regular nonpartisan recaps of legislative activity.
 
If you have any questions for me or concerns about issues, please feel free to email me or call to schedule a meeting. I also hope to see you at my next "Chat with Kelly" at Shore 96 in Shoreview this coming Sunday from 1:30-2:30. I hold these the fourth Sunday of each month during the session.

It’s an honor to represent you at the Capitol.
 
Sincerely,
 
Kelly Moller
State Representative
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