Virtual File - Item

Text: Dear Neighbors,
I have the honor of serving as the Majority Leader
in the Minnesota House of Representatives. In this
role, I lead a caucus of legislators from all parts
of our state who work together to deliver better
schools, public safety, health care, and economic
security. It is my pleasure to share an update
detailing a few major developments that could
impact you and your family.
~~
Ryan Winkler
Majority Leader
Minnesota House of Representatives

Public Safety
Minnesota must do more to provide public safety
in all communities and a justice system that serves
everyone. We are dealing with immense challenges,
whether it be record-setting homicides, senseless gun
violence, juvenile justice failures, or the absence of
trust between law enforcement and the communities
they serve. Minnesota can and must do better. In a
divided government where public safety has turned
into a political football, lawmakers were in fact able to
deliver some progress. Some highlights include revamping
Minnesota's criminal sexual assault statutues
to improve justice for survivors; more funding for law
enforcement training; new regulations for no-knock
warrants; giving the POST Board more tools for accountability;
and investing in crisis teams to respond
to mental health calls.

Mental Health
To help address the rising need for mental health
services, the Legislature made a historic investment
to increase hospital bed capacity, attract new mental
health care professionals, and expand the use of mobile
crisis services. This legislation also makes improvements
to better serve those involved in the criminal
justice system who are found not competent to stand
trial. Minnesota can do more to be a national leader in
mental health, and this year's work moves our state in
a better direction.

Recreational Cannabis
More and more states are legalizing cannabis for recreational
use. Here in Minnesota, it's no longer a matter
of if we follow suit, but when. That's why for the
first time in our state's history, the Minnesota House
of Representatives passed legislation that would legalize
cannabis for recreational use, create a regulated
cannabis market, and expunge prior cannabis-related
convictions. I was proud to be the lead author of this
legislation, which was based on extensive feedback
collected during a statewide listening tour and more
than a dozen public hearings.

Frontline Worker Pay
Minnesotans who did not have the option to work
from home during the pandemic risked their health
and safety to ensure all of us could continue to receive
medical care, feed our families, depend on emergency
responders, care for our children, and so much more.
Frontline workers deserve so much more than a "thank
you," and that's why the Legislature created a new program
to deliver $750 or more in bonus pay to these
heroic individuals. The application period runs from
June 8 through July 22. To look up eligibility criteria
and apply, visit www.frontlinepay.mn.gov. For help
completing the application, contact mnfrontlinepgy@
submittable.com or (866) 333-7633.