Dear Neighbors,
I hope this finds you well. Several bipartisan proposals are moving forward at the Legislature. Here’s an update from St. Paul:
On Tuesday this week, my bill to raise the tobacco age to 21 statewide, received a public hearing and approval from the Health and Human Services Policy Committee.
I am upholding my commitment to improve public health, especially with the nicotine epidemic among our youth. You can read more about my bill, and other public health proposals related to tobacco use moving forward here.
Last week, I had the honor of chairing my first public hearing in the Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform Finance and Policy Division. As the Vice-Chair, it was an exciting opportunity to manage the committee as Chair Mariani presented his bills.
Prescription Drug Pricing & Transparency
Many Minnesotans are struggling with unaffordable prescription medication. As a result, families are having to make difficult decisions, such as rationing their medicine, and are having to make significant financial sacrifices because of exorbitantly high drug prices. It’s no secret that any price increase, especially with multiple prescriptions, make it difficult to pay bills, the mortgage or rent. Minnesotans deserve affordable, quality medication, and this certainly will not happen overnight; however, bills such as these are an important step toward making prescription drugs more affordable for everyone.
Medical Cannabis
Minnesota’s medical cannabis program is growing and more patients are entering the program every week. However, the program needs some changes to address accessibility and affordability challenges that potential patients are facing. Our neighbors expressed concerns over these issues to me over the course of the summer and fall.
My bill, which has bipartisan support, seeks to address these concerns. You can read more about the legislation here.
Intern for a Day Program
Our ‘Intern for a Day Program’ started today with high schools students from District 49A! We will have a total of 42 students come to the Capitol this session. Many thanks to these bright youth leaders and to Nassim and Claire for helping to run this civically engaging program!
Constituent Shout-Out
Aryanna Rossi from Edina came to the Capitol to speak on behalf of climate change action. It’s great to have our youth advocating for change on such important issues facing our community and state.
Please stay in touch on the issues that matter most to you and our community. I appreciate hearing from you and value your input! You can reach me at the Capitol at 651-296-4363 or by email at rep.heather.edelson@house.mn. Connect with me on Facebook here.
Sincerely,
Heather Edelson
State Representative