It’s starting to feel more like January here in Minnesota. I hope this update finds you well- and enjoying the snow.
COMMITTEE HEARINGS BEGIN
Last week, House committees held their first public hearings, which were largely informational presentations by state agencies to get new legislators up to speed on budget and policy issues (and provide updates for returning legislators).
‘HANDS FREE’ CELL PHONE BILL ADVANCES
Yesterday the House Transportation Policy & Finance Committee advanced the ‘hands-free’ cell phone bill, which would require drivers to use their devices in hands-free mode. A driver would not be required to use their phone or other device hands free if they are safely parked out of traffic or for emergencies. As a co-sponsor of the bill, I’m looking forward to voting ‘green’ on this life saving measure once it reaches the House Floor for final passage. Minnesotans deserve to be safe on our roadways, crosswalks and bike lanes.
GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION
One of the first bills I’ve introduced this year requires criminal background checks to be conducted on firearm transfer sales. At the Capitol and in our community, I have continuously heard pleas from Bloomington residents; parents, educators and concerned neighbors, to take action on the gun violence epidemic that’s sweeping across the nation. Even with our unique divided state legislature, we have the opportunity to lead by example by enacting common sense gun violence prevention measures. I’ll continue to work on these efforts to keep all Minnesotans safe in schools, places of worship or any other public space.
LETTER TO PRESIDENT TRUMP ON SHUT-DOWN
Governor Walz announced a plan last week to help the Minnesotans who are impacted by the shutdown. The federal shut-down is already impacting Minnesotans negatively by threatening the well-being of residents, creating the worst wait times in the country at MSP Airport, and putting our state tax dollars at risk. I, along with my DFL colleagues joined Minnesota House Speaker Hortman in sending a letter to President Trump to respectfully request ending the longest shut-down in history. Americans and Minnesotans alike deserve an effective and accountable government, so I was disappointed my House colleagues on the other side of the aisle chose not to sign on.
Please stay in touch and let me know if I can provide any assistance. I appreciate your input, questions and feedback. You can reach me at 651-296-4218 or by email at rep.andrew.carlson@house.mn. Follow me on Facebook here.
It’s an honor to represent you at the Capitol.
Sincerely,
Andrew Carlson
State Representative