Dear Neighbors,
At the Capitol
Several laws went into effect yesterday, including the hands-free law that I mentioned in my last legislative update. These new laws will:
- Protect elderly and vulnerable adults. This law is part of a series of sweeping reforms that will improve conditions in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It prohibits retaliation against residents who file complaints.
- Ensure that patients aren’t surprised by higher out-of-pocket costs by requiring provider-based clinics to disclose facility fees prior to treatment.
- Protect Minnesotans from the hazards of e-cigarette vapors. This legislation, which prohibits using e-cigarettes in public places, will also help reduce rates of youth tobacco use.
- Require slow vehicles to stay on the right side of the road and move out of the left lane to allow others to pass.
More information about these laws and other policies that took effect yesterday is available here. A comprehensive list of all new legislation is available here.
In the Community
One of the best things about Minnesota is our strong sense of community. Night to Unite, which is held on the second Tuesday of each August, further strengthens the bonds that allow our communities to succeed. Next week, neighborhoods across the nation – including in our community – will gather for block parties. It’s a great opportunity to meet neighbors, have a conversation, and learn a bit about one another. Since police officers and firefighters often visit local get-togethers, Night to Unite also helps build positive relationships and make our communities safer. I encourage you to stop by a block party in your area!
Please join me for a Climate Change and Clean Energy Town Hall on August 12! I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts on these important issues and participating in a panel with Sen. Paul Anderson; Rep. Jean Wagenius, Chair of the House Energy and Climate Committee; J. Drake Hamilton, Fresh Energy Science Policy Director; and Lia Harel, iMatter Youth Leader and Minnetonka Climate Initiative. I hope to see you there!
Thank you for the privilege of serving our community. Please keep in touch.
Sincerely,
Patty Acomb
State Representative