Minnesota Senate abuzz with events and committee hearings
It was another busy week in the Senate with several press conferences, including the announcement of the Increase Teachers of Color Act and African American Family Preservation Act, a joint Senate and House press conference on Chronic Wasting Disease, one on public safety, and another on college affordability. Other topics covered in press conferences held this week include protecting net neutrality, a ban on conversion therapy, and a memorial in honor of the one-year anniversary of the Parkland school shooting. Legislative leaders and Governor Tim Walz also laid out a new set of deadlines that they say will help in achieving an orderly end to the legislative session.
With the first committee deadline only four weeks away, committee schedules ramped up and heard more high-profile bills such as opioid reforms, elderly abuse, school safety, and firefighter PTSD legislation. The Office of Legislative Auditor also released their MNLARS report this week.
One of the main jobs of the 2019 session is passing a two-year budget. Gov. Walz is expected to announce his budget proposal on Feb. 19 and lawmakers will receive the February budget forecast on Feb. 28. This information will frame the basis of formulating the state’s two-year budget.
Looking ahead, the Senate DFL is launching the “Call of the Senate” Podcast on Feb. 25. This podcast will help listeners better understand DFL Senators with personal stories about their background and defining that “aha” moment that led them to becoming public servants. The stories are personal and engaging. A link to the “Call of the Senate” will be sent in the newsletter once the podcast launches. Please tune in!
Increase Teachers of Color Act
Legislators from the Senate and House held a press conference this week to introduce legislation aiming to increase the percentage of teachers of color and American Indian teachers (TOCAIT) in Minnesota classrooms.
Minnesota African American Family Preservation Act introduced
Families and advocates gathered at the capitol this week as House and Senate legislators announced legislation to combat the arbitrary removal of black children from their homes by Minnesota’s child protection department.
Leaders introduce earlier legislative deadlines
Governor Walz met with legislative leaders this week in a bipartisan press conference to announce the implementation of additional legislative deadlines for the 2019 session.
Comprehensive plan to address Chronic Wasting Disease outbreak
Senate and House legislators held a press conference this week to outline a comprehensive plan to address the Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) outbreak in Minnesota’s white tail deer population.
Legislators renew efforts to protect net neutrality for Minnesotans
Legislators from the Senate and House held a press conference this week to announce their commitment to protecting Minnesota consumers in response to the 2017 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reversal of net neutrality.
Ethical care for all: protecting LGBTQ Minnesotans from harmful practices
DFL Members were joined by advocates, faith leaders, mental health professionals, and survivors this week for a powerful press conference announcing legislation to protect LGBTQ Minnesotans from the harmful effects of conversion therapy.
Debt-free college legislation introduced
Students and legislators joined together this week to unveil legislation that will provide two years of free tuition for low-income and middle-class families at Minnesota’s public colleges and universities.
Parkland Shooting Anniversary
One year ago, on Valentine’s Day, a 19-year-old former student walked into Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida and opened fire, changing the lives of hundreds of people forever.
Legislators aiming to increase early learning scholarships for Minnesota students
A bipartisan group of senators held a press conference this week increase introducing legislation aiming to increase early learning scholarships for Minnesota students.
Reinsurance program takes first step towards renewal in the Senate
Minnesota passed a program in 2017 that aimed to lower the cost of health care premiums for plans offered on the individual health insurance market.
Bills focus on school safety
Legislation discussed in the Education Committee this week focused on increasing school safety to ensure buildings are secure and students feel safe while learning.
School suicide prevention training bill discussed
The second-highest cause of death among teens in Minnesota is suicide.
Andover landfill cleanup bill heads to Senate Floor
Two-line fishing bill advances
Environment Finance Committee approves new fish hatchery advisory group
The Family Care and Aging Committee focuses on child care
Senate takes renewed action to hold the pharmaceutical industry accountable
Support services for firefighters, first responders, and veterans
Workforce shortage in disability services causes significant concern
Housing First presents cost study
The Builders Association of the Twin Cities’ Housing First Minnesota presented a report in the Agriculture, Rural Development, and Housing Finance Committee on the rising costs associated with home construction in Minnesota.
Judiciary Committee works towards DWI omnibus bill
The Senate Judiciary Committee heard two bills this week that work to improve the state’s DWI laws.
County reimbursement for legal costs
A bill was heard in the State Government Committee this week to reimburse Wright, Becker, and Ramsey Counties for legal fees.
Driver’s license renewal for Peace Corps members
A bill was heard in the Senate Transportation Committee this week to add Peace Corps members to a deadline exception for renewing driver’s licenses.