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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 saddened by the wave of mob violence and destruction at our nation's Capitol. I can't fathom how so many people could do such a terrible thing. 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. 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.

Committee Assignments & Tracking the 2021 Session
In addition to chairing the Local Government Committee, I will also be serving on the following committees:

• Transportation Finance & Policy
• Higher Education Finance & Policy
• State Government Finance & Policy

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 your neighbors, coworkers, and friends.

Stay in Touch
Please feel free to reach out to me by email at rep.sandra.masin@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-3533. If you have a friend, neighbor, or relative who wants to receive updates about the Legislature, let them know they can subscribe to my email list here. You can also follow me on Facebook here. It's an honor to represent our community. Please stay in touch.
 

Sincerely,

Sandra Masin
State Representative

I wish you all a very Happy New Year 2021! We will all undoubtedly remember 2020 as difficult (or worse!) and while Minnesota seems to fare a little better than other states, and there are now at least two vaccinations being made available (slowly!) - we are DEFINITELY NOT out of danger. Each of us must continue to be vigilant about our own behavior and keep our masks on when in public, maintain at least 6ft. from other people, wash our hands often, and minimize the amount of time we spend in spaces where the virus may be lingering. This is a dangerous virus and health consequences of infection may be long-term and quite debilitating.

Minnesota's Department of Health (MDH) has extensive information available with guidelines to study and follow. Please make a habit to read this material.

The Legislature is scheduled to convene again on January 5, 2021. The session will follow Covid-19 Protocols. It will be streamed from the House so please check the schedule here.

At this time, some of the Legislative Committee assignments have been made, but not all. I know I will chair the Local Government Cmte, and I will serve on other committees as well. I will find out very shortly.

My campaign is now back in full operation, and there is much work to do in the upcoming Session to protect Minnesotans' health, improve their lives, and help businesses weather the pandemic.

If you are able to contribute to my campaign, please use this link to make your contribution via PayPal and find more information.

I also wish to remind you that the PCR Program (Political Contributions Refunds) is now in force and as of today (1 January 2021) a single person is eligible for a refund of $50 ($100 per couple) of their donation per year. You will receive a receipt (Form EP-3) from our campaign and then fill out an application for the refund, attach the receipt and submit both to the State. The PCR Program is described here. The PCR Application is here (this form is fillable on line, then print, attach EP-3, and send.)

Dear Neighbors,

New Covid-19 Rules as Virus Reaches Record Levels

Unfortunately, Covid is spreading at record levels throughout the country, and here in Minnesota where we have reached our capacity to manage the virus. Governor Walz has announced a number of new actions designed to rein in the virus.

Today, Governor Walz announced the following restrictions:

• Restaurants will be take-out only for the next 4 weeks
  (If you have the funds, please continue to get takeout from your favorite local restaurants, they are going to need your help more than ever.)


• Gyms and fitness centers will also close for 4 weeks


• Theaters, movie theaters, bowling alleys, museums, and arcades will all be closed


• Wedding receptions, celebrations and private parties are put on hold as well


• Limit all social gatherings with people outside of you household


• All youth sports are on pause, there have been too many cases connected to sports for them to continue safely


• It is also advised that you avoid interstate travel

No one wants to see increased restrictions; we are all fatigued by the ongoing fight against COVID-19. But these restrictions are necessary to help reverse the spread of this virus and save lives. We aren't at a point where we can return to normal.

The increased spread of the virus and these restrictions are a direct result of Minnesotans returning to too many pre-covid activities without taking the proper preventative measures. I understand that this is difficult, but we must remain strict when it comes to managing this virus. For everyone's sake, please continue to limit gatherings, wear masks, and social distance.

It is increasingly clear that Minnesota needs federal assistance. We need immediate action on a new COVID relief package, and an extension on flexibility to utilize resources allocated to state and local governments in the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Our state and local governments can't combat this devastating virus alone, we must come together as a nation to fight for one another.



Actions Taken to Increase Testing and Provide Financial Relief
Last Week, Governor Walz announced the addition of more than a dozen new testing locations opening across the state over the next two weeks. All of the new testing sites will continue to offer free, "no barrier" COVID-19 testing. Testing will be free and available to anyone who wants to be tested whether they have symptoms or not, and it will not require insurance. These sites will be open at least through the end of the year with logistical aid provided by the National Guard. It is critical that we test as much as possible so we can trace how the virus is spreading and implement the necessary isolation.For more information on how and where to receive a COVID-19 test, visit mn.gov/covid19/. An updated list of community testing sites is available here.

Lastly, Governor Walz announced $10 million in Small Business Relief Grants to support businesses that are struggling as they do their part to combat the spread of COVID-19. This funding will support an additional 1,000 businesses that have applied for the grant program.



Stay in Touch
Please feel free to reach out to me by email at rep.sandra.masin@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-3533. If you have a friend, neighbor, or relative who wants to receive updates about the Legislature, let them know they can subscribe to my email list here. You can also follow me on Facebook here. It's an honor to represent our community. Please stay in touch.

Sincerely,

Rep. Sandra Masin
 

Dear Neighbors,

Updates Return
With the campaign season ending we can return to our regular email updates covering everything happening at the Legislature and around Minnesota. Thank you all for choosing me to represent you again over the next two years. The next two years will be difficult for Minnesota, and I plan to stand up for our community every step of the way.

New Covid-19 Rules as Virus Reaches Record Levels
Unfortunately, Covid is spreading at record levels throughout the country, including here in Minnesota where we are approaching our capacity to manage the virus. Governor Walz has announced a number of new actions designed to reign in the virus. First, Governor Walz announced the addition of more than a dozen new testing locations opening across the state over the next two weeks. All of the new testing sites will continue to offer free, “no barrier” COVID-19 testing. Testing will be free and available to anyone who wants to be tested whether they have symptoms or not, and it will not require insurance. These sites will be open at least through the end of the year with logistical aid provided by the National Guard. It is critical that we test as much as possible so we can trace how the virus is spreading and implement the necessary isolation.For more information on how and where to receive a COVID-19 test, visit mn.gov/covid19/.

On Tuesday, Governor Walz announced new restrictions on bars and restaurants. This includes a 10 p.m. curfew, no bar seating, and an indoor cap of 150 people at 50% total capacity. Weddings, funeral attendance, and large private gatherings will also be curtailed in a phased approach to a 25-person cap. No one wants to see increased restrictions; we are all fatigued by the ongoing fight against COVID-19. But these restrictions are necessary to help reverse the spread of this virus and save lives. We aren't at a point where we can return to normal. These restrictions are a direct result of Minnesotans returning to too many pre-covid activities without taking the proper preventative measures. I understand that this is difficult, but we must remain strict when managing this virus. For everyone's sake, please continue to limit gatherings, wear masks, and social distance.


Veterans Day
Wednesday, November 11th, was Veteran's Day. We extend our most heartfelt thanks and deep gratitude to all those who have served our country. All veterans deserve to be honored and supported by the government, where needed, for the sacrifices they have made. We have to do what we can to support veterans where possible. That is why I support the Veterans Restorative Justice Act, which diverts most veterans with service-connected trauma, substance abuse, or mental health conditions from serving jail-time towards probation and social services. This is an important step to help these troubled veterans break from the recidivism cycle and truly reform.



Mayor for a Day Essay Contest
The League of Minnesota Cities is running a “Mayor for a Day” essay contest. This would be perfect if you are a teacher or have a child or grandchild interested in government! Open to fourth, fifth, and sixth graders. Enter the Mayor for a Day Essay Contest for a chance to win and be published. Visit the League of Minnesota Cities for details.

Stay in Touch
Please feel free to reach out to me by email at rep.sandra.masin@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-3533. If you have a friend, neighbor, or relative who wants to receive updates about the Legislature, let them know they can subscribe to my email list here. You can also follow me on Facebook here. It’s an honor to represent our community. Please stay in touch.
 

It is important that we remember our Veterans, now more than ever. Our veterans have paid the price so that we all can enjoy the freedoms that this country offers.
 

At DEED, Every Day is Veterans Day

 
  

Today is Veterans Day, a day to remember the service and sacrifice of current and former U.S. military members. I like to believe that every day is Veterans Day at the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), where we work hard year round to offer veterans the priority employment services they have earned.

Veterans Day is of course a day when all of us should thank our fellow Minnesotans who have served or are currently serving our state and country in the armed forces, especially during these difficult times. The selflessness of our service men and women allows us to enjoy the freedom and liberty our country was founded upon. Today is a day to salute them for their service.

I urge you to take a moment to thank veterans you know. There are 312,000 current and former military members who call Minnesota home. Roughly 20,000 of them are currently serving active duty, in the National Guard or in the reserves. So chances are you know someone who deserves your thanks today!

The State of Minnesota is committed to honoring those who have served and are serving in our military. That's why Governor Tim Walz proclaimed November 2020 as Veterans Month. In the Governor's proclamation he notes that 138,000 Minnesota veterans are of working age and almost 9,000 of those Minnesota veterans are currently unemployed. At DEED, we're focused on getting veterans the services they need to find fulfilling employment.

Current and former military members receive priority services through DEED's CareerForce Veterans Employment Services. Throughout the state, 24 veterans employment representatives offer career exploration, skills transfer and job search services to current and former military members.

In addition, we provide services, resources and referrals to National Guard soldiers returning from various deployments. And the Disabled Veteran Outreach Program (DVOP) provides intensive employment services that include job-readiness assessment, job search strategy and job placement assistance to eligible veterans.

CareerForce Veterans Employment Services also focuses on providing services to traditionally underserved groups of veterans, including intensive employment services and small business assistance for veterans being released from correctional facilities, female veterans, Native American veterans and homeless veterans. And Local Veteran Employment Representative staff provide assistance and guidance to businesses to help them recruit and hire veterans.

Many Minnesota employers recognize that veterans bring the skills, passion and commitment they need in their workforce — and that hiring a veteran is a great decision for their organization's success. DEED has partnered with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs to offer the Minnesota Veterans Virtual Career Fair from 2-6 p.m. on November 19 as part of our efforts to honor veterans this month. You can find out more and register on the CareerForce website.

Veterans served our country, and it is our honor to serve them in finding fulfilling employment and reaching their career goals. If you are a veteran, we look forward to serving you and your family. Thank you for your service.

- Ray Douha, CareerForce Veterans Employment Services Director
 

My sincere appreciation to everyone who voted!

This has been a long election process with many challenges along the way. I want to commend my opponent for ensuring that our 51A race was held in a civil and courteous manner. It is comforting to know that here in Minnesota, so many people made sure their votes were cast, and their voices heard. I know that some people stood in line for hours to vote.

Our election officials went to great lengths to make sure the voting process was as convenient for us as possible. As one official said right before Election Day, "We are ready for this." We owe them a debt of gratitude. Our law enforcement officials were prepared to keep our elections peaceful and safe, so our appreciation goes out to them as well.

I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who voted for me. Your confidence in me means so very much. Thank you for your vote - and a special note of appreciation to everyone that took part in our campaign or volunteered with us. I have been so impressed by everyone who helped us win.

I am honored and eager to serve District 51A once more.

Representative Sandy Masin

Eagan-TV recorded (Thank you, Eagan-TV and Dan C.) this message from Rep. Sandra Masin to all her constituents and supporters! Please watch - this is an important message.

It is a special honor to share that the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, and Tranimen endorsed Rep. Sandy Masin on Sep. 28, 2020.

Rep. Masin provided the following message:

I am delighted and honored to be endorsed by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen. (I have always been fascinated by trains.) This organization is the sole representative of all Locomotive Engineers and also represents Conductors, Brakemen, Hostlers and other Train Service Employees on numerous railroads in the United States. It is North America's oldest rail labor union, it was founded in 1863

 

It gives us a special pleasure to announce that SEIU MN State Council endorsed Rep. Sandy Masin on Sep. 28, 2020.

Rep. Masin provided the following message:

I am honored to receive the endorsement of the SEIU Minnesota State Council. This is a very large organization that provides us with care and support in public schools, hospitals, higher education, nursing homes, in our homes, as well as in the Twin Cities' largest public and private buildings. They advocate for issues that will improve the lives of all Minnesotans.

Rep. Masin received the endorsement of UFCW Local 1189 - United Food and Commercial Workers Union. She released this statement:

I am delighted and honored to received the endorsement of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union - Local 1189.



The members of UFCW are essential workers in retail grocery and meat establishments, medical cannabis, food processing & manufacturing, health care and long-term care. UFCW Local 1189 represents over 10,000 members in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.

They are on the frontline during the COVID-19 epidemic and make it possible for all of us to get through our daily lives with the food and basic services we need.

I am very grateful to have the confidence of the members of UFCW Local 1189.

We are honored by their trust!
 

The SMART-TD endorsed Rep. Masin!

I am honored to have received the endorsement from the SMART-TD Minnesota Legislative Board.

Their members work on our rail lines round the clock and in all kinds of weather to keep people moving and the economy functioning. Efficient, safe, and reliable transportation is essential to move people, resources, and finished products.

(SMART-TD stands for "Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers - Transportation Division")
 

LiUNA MN & ND [website] has endorsed Rep. Sandy Masin.

On this occasion, Rep. Masin released the following:

I am very pleased and honored to receive the endorsement of LiUNA Minnesota ∓ North Dakota.

This is Minnesota's largest Infrastructure Labor Union. They have an impressive training facility in Lino Lakes to enhance workers skills and promote workplace safety. LiUNA operates Minnesota's largest and most diverse skilled construction apprenticeship program.

 
 

We are delighted to announce that NARAL has endorsed Rep. Sandy Masin. Their endorsement energizes and renews our commitments to Minnesotans!

Rep. Masin released this brief message late yesterday after a long day meeting Constituents:

I am very pleased to receive the endorsement of NARAL, a prominent organization working to ensure everyone has the right to reproductive freedom.

 

Rep. Masin received the endorsement of Planned Parenthood! She released this statement:

I am very pleased and honored to receive the endorsement from Planned Parenthood.

This organization does incredible work to provide health care to people, particularly those that may not have adequate insurance or financial resources.

 

Conservation Minnesota tracks legislators' voting record on issues of environment, clean air, clean water and so on. See their website for Rep. Masin's record here
 

Rep. Masin just received an important endorsement from Minnesota Nurses Association. On the occasion, Rep. Masin released the following statement:

I am extremely pleased and honored to receive the endorsement of the Minnesota Nurses Association. Nurses are the core of our health care system.
We rely on them for out day-to-day care and so so much more. They are strong advocates for their patients and for better healthcare for all of us.

We are grateful for this honor! Thank you MNA!
 

Rep. Masin just received an important endorsement from Clean Water Action organization. She released the following statement:

I am extremely pleased and honored to have the endorsement of Clean Water Action. This organization does incredible work to protect our environment.

They were instrumental in keeping a burner out of Dakota County. We know that there is a lot of work that still needs to be done to ensure clean water.

Thank you for honoring Rep. Masin and her work with your endorsement!

Rep. Masin received Sierra Club's endorsement for 2020 Election. She released this statement on the occasion:

I am so proud to receive the endorsement of the Sierra Club, one of the premier environmental organizations. Their membership has long been relied on to protect our environment.

THANK YOU, Sierra Club!

We just found out!!!

The League of Minnesota Cities recently named Rep. Sandy Masin me as a Legislator of Distinction. Thank you to the League for honoring Rep. Masin in such a great way and recognize her hard work.

This award is given to lawmakers who successfully work with local officials to meet the unique needs of their community.

More information about the award is available here.
 

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