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State Representative Jerry Newton
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-5369
For more information contact: Matt Swenson 651-297-8406
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NEWTON PASSES NEW MEASURES TO HELP DISABLED MINNESOTA VETERANS
ST. PAUL, MN - The Minnesota House approved several measures authored by retired U.S. Army Sergeant Major Jerry Newton that will improve the lives and businesses of disabled veterans. State Rep. Newton’s measures offer state contracting preference to disabled vets and allow disabled veterans to ride free statewide on buses and commuter trains.
“These are guys and gals that gave more than their share to preserve freedom and liberty at home and abroad," said Rep. Newton. “They deserve our gratitude and respect, and in many instances they need our help.”
One of Newton’s efforts included in the House State Government Finance bill would give bidding preference to businesses owned by disabled veterans when competing for state, Met Council, and University of Minnesota projects. Disabled vets who own businesses in Minnesota already receive preference when bidding for contract work with the federal government - but currently the State of Minnesota has no such system in place. Under Newton’s provision businesses 51% owned by disabled veterans would be able to bid up to 6% higher on a contract and still be considered the low bidder.
“It’s hard enough for disabled vets to find a job when they come home,” said Newton. “But some disabled veterans come home and start businesses that employ dozens and even hundreds of people - doing a service to their country and their community. Passing this initiative is a way for us to say thanks, and to make life just a little easier for those who have served our country in more ways than one.”
Another measure authored by Newton included in the House Transportation Finance bill would extend free ridership privileges to disabled Minnesota veterans on Metro Transit and outstate buses and commuter trains. Newton hopes that letting disabled vets ride free will give them easier access to VA Medical Centers and provide more convenient access to transportation throughout the state.
“This provision just makes sense,” said Newton. “Many disabled veterans have no way to get to and from one of the state’s two VA Hospitals other than the Disabled American Veterans transportation service or relying on the generosity of fellow vets at their local VFW or American Legion. Providing disabled vets free fare on buses and trains will give them more mobility and freedom. That’s a service we can provide them, and something they most definitely deserve.”
More information about Rep. Newton’s efforts to help disabled Minnesota veterans can be found online at www.house.mn.
News Items
- LOCAL LAWMAKERS HELP DELIVER NEEDED RELIEF TO FLOOD, TORNADO VICTIMS - (Posted: 2010-10-19 00:00:00)
- REP. NEWTON STANDS UP FOR SCHOOLS - (Posted: 2010-05-12 00:00:00)
- A SAFE PLACE FOR ALL KIDS TO PLAY - (Posted: 2010-04-21 00:00:00)
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