Sen. Jerry Newton Update: April 21, 2017

 

Preemption Bill is a Bad Deal for Minnesotans

A bill that strips power away from local governments passed the Senate on Thursday by a thin party-line vote.

I am strongly opposed to this legislation because it takes away local control from our communities and strikes down worker protections and benefits for 150,000 hardworking Minnesotans. The preemption measure bans local employment regulations on minimum wage, unpaid leave and scheduling requirements. The state legislature’s job is to set minimum standards, not maximum standards. We should not be restricting the authority of local governments to implement what is best for their communities. This bill strips away local decision making power and will hurt working families. Continue reading “Sen. Jerry Newton Update: April 21, 2017”

Sen. Jerry Newton Update: April 19, 2017

Dear Neighbors,

After last week’s recess to observe the Easter and Passover holidays, the Legislature is back in St. Paul for the final five weeks of Session.  Conference Committees have been appointed to compare the differences between the Senate and House versions of budget bills. It is my hope that reasonable budget proposals that work for all Minnesotans will be brought forward for a vote before the April 28th deadline.

As we move forward with our work, Representative Erin Koegel and I want to give community members an opportunity to share their viewpoints and ask any questions about what’s happening at the Capitol. You’re invited to attend a Coffee and Conversation meeting this Sunday at 1:00 p.m. at Sticks and Stones Restaurant located at the Fogerty Arena in Blaine. Everyone is welcome, and I hope you can attend. Continue reading “Sen. Jerry Newton Update: April 19, 2017”