Dan Patch

Tell me the name of a greater horse, or any horse, that represents Minnesota better than Dan Patch, there isn’t one. Born in 1896 and purchased by Marion W. Savage of Minneapolis in 1902, Dan Patch set the world record for harness racing with a 1 minute, 55-second mile at the Minnesota State Fair racetrack in 1906. Harness racing was one of the most popular sports in the country and Dan Patch was a regular celebrity, generating over $1 million in earnings and exhibitions.

As a young horse, Dan Patch was noticed for his friendly personality but had leg issues that many believed would prevent him from becoming a successful pacer. They thought he had no potential but there was somebody that believed in him. I think that speaks to the experiences of a lot of us in Minnesota. It takes somebody in our life to believe in us.

This session, I introduced legislation to make Dan Patch the official horse of Minnesota. I think Dan Patch is the perfect representation of Minnesota, in his drive, his spirit, and his ability to overcome obstacles at all stages of life.  If my bill is adopted Dan Patch would join 18 other state symbols in law and immortalizing him and preserving an amazing part of Savage’s history.

Elder Care and Vulnerable Adult Protection Act

Last week, Senate Republicans announced a new proposal to prevent elder abuse in long-term care facilities and repair the broken state reporting system that failed thousands of families by leaving serious cases of abuse uninvestigated. The Elder Care and Vulnerable Adult Protection Act is the final product of hundreds of conversations with Minnesotans across the state who experienced abuse, family members of vulnerable adults, and care providers.

The bill includes increased oversight and accountability of the Office of Health Facility Complaints, stricter abuse prevention measures, a new streamlined and transparent complaint processes, and additional protections for consumers against misleading marketing practices.

Even once these reforms are adopted the legislature will continue to search for additional measures to protect Minnesota’s aging population. The bill also establishes the Assisted Living Licensure and Dementia Care Certification Task Force, the Crimes Against Vulnerable Adults Task Force, and the Assisted Living Report Card Working Group who will continue to investigate the elderly abuse crisis until Minnesota seniors are safe.

MNLARS Reform

On Thursday we passed a bipartisan compromise bill that will add strict oversight and accountability, as well as additional funding, to fix the failed licensing and vehicle registration system know as MNLARS. The legislation appropriates $9.65 million from existing funds for driver and vehicle services for immediate I.T. related expenses. The bill also includes strict oversight measures, including a quarterly report from the Office of the Legislative Auditor, and a mechanism for the legislature to shut off all funding if development benchmarks are not met.

The bill requires the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Minnesota IT Services (MN.IT) officials to submit a proposed timeline, including quarterly benchmarks, for a fully-functional program to the MNLARS Steering Committee by May 15. As the software is developed, the committee must approve any additional quarterly appropriation, provided the quarterly benchmarks are being met.

Medical Assistance Reform

Last week, we introduced a new proposal to grow Minnesota’s workforce by encouraging able-bodied Minnesotans, currently on medical assistance, to join the workforce. The requirements would not apply to a child’s sole caregiver, or anyone with a disability, certain medical diagnoses, addictions, or other barriers to employment.

In the face of a robust economy, enrollment in Medical Assistance continues to steadily grow, encouraging more Minnesotans to rely on government aid. Our legislation counteracts this by ensuring that we continue to incentivize work, education, and community engagement in order to help individuals and families regain their independence and use their skills to benefit the community.