Week of February 17 – 21
New year. New bills being introduced.
We’re through the second week of session, and lots of interesting bills have been introduced as the intensity picks up. Some that I have introduced are:
- A bill to allow 17 year-olds to vote in a primary if they turn 18 before the general election.
- A bill to educate parents on screen use with young children, and help them understand how that can affect brain development.
- A bill to protect Minnesota birds from lead poisoning.
Taking care of our youth’s mental health
Yesterday I met with constituents who worked at Hennepin Technical College, who were here for Minnesota State College Faculty’s day on the hill. Much of our conversation focused on the mental health crisis currently facing our youth, and the impact school budget cuts have had on our ability to help. We can do better. You can view my weekly video on this subject by clicking HERE.
Learning about healthcare from constituents
Many constituents came to lobby me on health-related issues this week, and I was thrilled by their passion for educating me on their issues. The first meeting was with a group of physical therapists, where we talked about increasing access and reducing the need for physician referrals.
A group of physician assistants visited later that day to talk about their scope of practice and improving employment opportunities within their field.
Then on Thursday, a group of pharmacists and pharmacy students at the University of Minnesota came in to talk about patient access to necessary medications, such as insulin and naloxone.
Immediately after that meeting, a group supporting health freedom visited my office. I greatly appreciated their passion and enthusiasm.
To complete the week, earlier today I toured the headquarters of Starkey Hearing Technologies alongside Rep. Pryor and Rep. Kotyza-Witthuhn. The work they are doing is incredible.
It also turns out that a former student of mine Maggie Venell, works at Starkey. It’s awesome to see former students in their professional environment.
Restoring the vote for disenfranchised Minnesotans
Thursday was Second Chance Day at the Capitol, and a rally was held to support restoring voting rights to Minnesotans who have finished serving their time in prison. You can view my speech during the rally by clicking HERE.
I also met with Alex Frank, a constituent and retired member of the United States Marine Corps Reserve who was here to lobby me on this issue. I’m incredibly grateful for his service and his activism.
Fire Service Day at the Capitol
Minnesota firefighters held their day at the capitol this week, and I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Braden Khol, a former student of mine. Also attending was Minnetonka Fire Chief John Vance and former Eden Prairie Fire Chief George Esbensen, who is now leading the MN Fire Initiative, which helps firefighters suffering from PTSD and physical injuries.
Appreciating youth involvement
I met with this week’s House High School Pages on Tuesday, and asked them what issues they are most passionate about. Many of them expressed a thoughtfulness beyond their years that gives me hope for future generations.
The House Page Program does such great work getting young people involved in government, and I am incredibly appreciative of the effort put in by the person who runs it, Tom Holien.
This week also included a meeting with Cooper Lillquist, a student at Eden Prairie High School who wanted to learn more about careers in politics and government. Looking forward to seeing him help change the world.
Young people were also present this week for the State College Student Association’s day at the capitol. Connor Lynch, a former student, and Henry Ritzinger, also an EPHS grad, talked to me about making higher education more affordable.
Breakfast with Minnetonka Schools
Earlier today I had breakfast with members of the Minnetonka School Board. We discussed their legislative priorities, and what we hope to accomplish this legislative session.