Legislative Update - March 31, 2023

Dear Neighbors,

This last week included hearing a lot of committee budget bills with a thorough breakdown of their contents. Nothing is set in stone yet, but we are ensuring our work improves the lives of all Minnesotans during each stage of the policy-making process. 

Here’s my update from the Capitol.

Our Progress

The House passed The Reproductive Freedom Defense Act (RFDA). The overturning of Roe v. Wade has led to a flood of cruel and harmful laws attacking not only abortion rights but also individual liberties and privacy around the country. The RFDA would create strong protections for Minnesota’s own healthcare providers and citizens against legal attacks and criminal penalties imposed by anti-abortion extremists in other states. I was proud to vote ‘yes’ for this vital health care.

Early last Friday, the House passed the Trans Refuge Bill. We have seen a wave of legislation targeting trans folks over the past couple of years - including efforts seeking to restrict and criminalize life-saving, gender-affirming care. In 2022 this included states like Texas investigating supportive families of trans youth, Florida taking action on care standards through its state medical board, and multiple states proposing bans on gender-affirming care for both youth and young adults. 

The standards of gender-affirming care are evidence-based, well-researched, and supported by all major medical and psychiatric associations. Minnesota has an obligation to protect youth, their families, and the care providers who serve them. I was proud to co-author this legislation and vote “yes!”

At the Capitol

This week, I was so grateful to meet Gabby Giffords. As a congresswoman, Gabby was shot during a constituent event in Tucson, Arizona. Since then, she has made a miraculous recovery and began her gun safety advocacy organization, Giffords. I’m inspired by her work to ensure gun violence prevention around our country. Great to see local gun safety advocate Bob at the Capitol too!

Celebrations

Last week and next week brings some major religious holidays.

During this time of celebration, I want to wish all who celebrate Ramadan Kareem or Chag Sameach!

Stay in Touch

If you have questions, ideas, or feedback that you’d like to share, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can email me at rep.jessica.hanson@house.mn.gov or call (651) 296-4212. For more regular updates, you can subscribe to these regular legislative updates if you haven’t already, here, and you can also “like” and follow my official State Representative Facebook page.

Sincerely,

Jess Hanson

State Representative