Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.  Dear Neighbors, It’s hard to believe we’re halfway through February. I hope you had a nice Valentine’s Day and enjoyed the Super Bowl on Sunday. A big thank you to everyone who attended our Public Safety Listening Session last week. We had a good conversation, and I received a lot of good feedback, ideas, and questions. Public Safety in Crime Prevention The nationwide rise in crime is a problem we must act on for our South Metro residents and families. I’ve been partnering with our mayors, police chiefs, and prosecutors to address the recent rise of crime. The House’s initial, recently announced public safety proposal would dedicate $100 million in ongoing investments for law enforcement and public safety innovation. That includes funding for hiring and retaining investigatory personnel and training them to analyze violent crime, specifically regarding the use of intelligence information of criminal networks, including gangs and geographic areas. Those funds could also be used to purchase evidence processing technology and equipment, and to provide resources to victims and their families. As a member of the Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform Finance and Policy Committee, I’ve been closing monitoring the progress of these bills.   Yesterday, I presented a bill to the State Government Finance and Policy Committee that would authorize Dakota County to provide enhanced public safety services, including 911 access and county sheriff patrols, for our residents. I’ll keep you posted on its progress.  Double duty this week presenting my bill to the State Government Finance and Policy Committee and tuning in to the Capital Investment Committee. Public Safety in Transportation The House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee held two informational hearings to learn more about and how to address the growing problems associated with traffic and pedestrian safety. The committee received expert testimony from the State Patrol and the Minnesota Department of Traffic Safety showing that despite fewer cars being on the road last year, Minnesota still saw 498 deaths in traffic related crashes. 58 of those were pedestrian related fatalities, which averages more than one death a week. Speed was cited as a key contributor, but also, the lack of access to strong and safe pedestrian infrastructure.  Source: Minnesota Department of Public Safety  Source: Minnesota Department of Public Safety  State Patrol Chief Langer also testified that there’s been a slight decline in distracted driving traffic related crashes since the enactment of the “hands-free” cell phone law that took effect in 2019. The bottom line is public safety is not a partisan issue. We need an all-hands-on deck approach to addressing the rise in crime and traffic fatalities. I welcome your feedback and input always. Keep in TouchPlease don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need any assistance at rep.john.huot@house.mn or 651-296-4306. It’s an honor to represent you at the Capitol. Sincerely, John |