Legislative Update - March 3, 2023

Dear Neighbors,

I hope you have continued to stay safe since the winter storm last week. It’s still icy, so please stay safe on the roads and sidewalks. On Monday, we were back at the House and we got straight back into the swing of things. Here’s my update!

Our Progress

This week the House passed more substantive legislation. We passed a bill dedicated to ending homelessness in our state by investing in emergency services programs, transitional housing, outreach, and a pathway to stable housing for all Minnesotans. are asking for equitable access to housing services and support systems in their communities. The Pathway Home Act provides the ongoing, collective efforts needed to disrupt the violent cycles of homelessness many people are experiencing.

My Bills

On Thursday, I presented the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). This bill proposes an amendment to the Minnesota State Constitution and would provide equality under the law based on race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, ancestry, or national origin. We know that states that have ratified the ERA have better standards of living for women and minorities, while states that have not, continue to have some of the worst outcomes. The bill would submit the question to a statewide vote during the 2024 general election. It is time to ensure every Minnesotan can thrive! You can read more about our ERA bills here.

I am a co-author of HF 1752 with Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL - Rochester). It’s increasingly difficult for independent pharmacies to succeed. We are working on a slate of pharmacy bills to make it more cost-effective for smaller pharmacies. Constituent John Hoeschen testified in support of our bill in the House Health Committee this week. Also, I was thankful to sit on a panel for the Minnesota Pharmacy Alliance this week.

At the Capitol

On Monday, we had Ethnic Studies Day on the Hill. It was an enthusiastic group advocating for the rich history of our diverse communities included in our educational curriculum. I appreciate their advocacy to make our schools a more inclusive place.

I was happy to see teachers in the Pensions Commission this week. As Chair, we heard that a great pension program for teachers is one of the keys to attracting and retaining great talent in our state. Teachers told us that the benefits, especially pension plans, simply don’t compete with other industries and they are leaving the profession. I’m committed to working on behalf of our teachers to ensure Minnesota retains the best talent for our students.

Lastly, I was glad to see The Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library and St Paul Public Library at the Capitol this week. Thank you for coming to see me and sharing your work to meet people where they are. Your investment in our community helps people follow their dreams. As a refugee, thank you for opening up my world.

Stay in Touch

If you have any questions or feedback you’d like to share, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact me by email at rep.kaohly.her@house.com or call (651) 296-8799 or like my Official State Representative Facebook Page.

Sincerely,  

Kaohly Vang Her

State Representative