Dear Neighbors,
Even though it has felt like we have been in a perpetual session for the past year, this week is the official beginning of the 2021 session. I am honored to return to the Capitol where I will continue to advocate for your needs. COVID-19 will continue to play a significant role in how we approach legislating this year, and while we are a split legislature once more I am hopeful that we will be able to accomplish a lot of good.
I am truly heartbroken by the wave of mob violence and destruction at our nation’s Capitol. Violence is never an answer, and the rhetoric and misinformation that leads to this kind of violence should be condemned as well. On a positive note, I am confident in our institutions here in Minnesota and I know that we will be able to govern safely, with respect and decency.
Walz Announces New Covid-19 Protocols
Thanks to your collective sacrifice and willingness to dial back during the holidays, Minnesota has seen a sharp drop in the amount of Covid-19 cases. As a result, Governor Walz announced last week that several restrictions on certain activities and sectors will be loosened. While this is certainly encouraging news, please remember that an open Minnesota is a privilege and one we must all work for. Please continue to mask up, get tested, stay home when sick, and avoid large gatherings of people from separate households. Here are the new rules:
- Bars and restaurants can open at 50 percent capacity, with a maximum of 150 people. Parties of no more than six people must remain six feet from other parties; bar seating is open to parties of two; reservations are required; and establishments must close by 10 p.m.
- Gym capacity remains capped at 25 percent but maximum capacity increases to 150. Machines and people should maintain 12 feet of distance. Classes increase to 25 people, assuming distancing can be observed. Everyone must be masked.
- Outdoor events and entertainment continue at 25 percent capacity, but maximum capacity increases to 250 people. Social distancing is required.
- Indoor events and entertainment – like bowling alleys, movie theaters, and museums – may open at 25 percent, or no more than 150 people. Masks required. No food service after 10 p.m.
- Youth and adult organized sports have resumed practice as of Jan. 4 and games resume Jan. 14 with spectators. Inter-region tournaments and out of state play are discouraged.
- Pools opened Jan. 4 for some activity and may now open, like gyms, at 25 percent capacity.
Small Business Grants for Hennepin County
Last week, Hennepin County opened the small business grant application process for businesses and nonprofits financially impacted by the pandemic. The Minnesota Small Business Relief program, which was established as a result of the collaboration and work of the legislature and governor, contains $24.6 million in funding. The online application form is now live and can be accessed here. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need any help with the application or have questions about eligibility.
Committee Assignments & Tracking the 2021 Session
Here are the committees I will serve on this year:
- Transportation Finance & Policy
- Commerce
- State Government Finance & Policy
- Local Government (Vice Chair)
This session, I’m personally taking the initiative to introduce major bills of my own on:
- Consumer Data Privacy
- Housing Affordability
- Healthcare Pricing Transparency (both Medical Services and Drugs)
As we continue to operate under recommended public health guidelines, it’s important that we ensure openness and transparency for the public. The House is expanding the number of simultaneous committees it can webcast live from a maximum of two to five. You can use the link above to find the committee hearing you are interested in watching.
The Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offers nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication. You can subscribe to receive these here. To track bills of interest through the legislative process, I encourage you to utilize the MyBills feature on the Minnesota House of Representatives’ website here.
My updates from the Capitol are another great way to stay connected and respond with your input. If you haven’t subscribed or would like to receive my email newsletters please share this link with you neighbors, coworkers, and friends.
Keep in Touch
Now more than ever, please contact me anytime with questions, input, or ideas. Don’t hesitate to reach out if I can provide any assistance. Please follow me on my Facebook page for further updates and invite your friends and family to do so as well.
Thanks for the honor of representing you at the Capitol.
Sincerely,
Steve Elkins
Representative, District 49B
Minnesota House of Representatives
515 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55155
(651) 296-7803