Dear neighbors,
It has been a busy month at the State Legislature. Here are a few things I've been working on:
A BUDGET OF SMART INVESTMENTS
Governor Dayton has unveiled his budget plan to create a better Minnesota, and I was particularly pleased to hear it will include investments in higher education.
Once upon a time, the state used to cover two-thirds of a student's tuition. Now, we barely cover one-third. The Governor's investment in higher education will help us tackle the burgeoning problem of student debt that is slowing economic growth in Minnesota.
You can read more about the Governor's budget here.
EMBRACING A PUBLIC INSURANCE OPTION
I'm proud to report we have reached a deal to provide short-term relief to consumers on the individual health insurance market. I did not agree with everything in the bill, but we need to get premium relief out immediately. If you purchase your insurance individually and previously did not qualify for tax credits through MNsure, you should see a 25% premium reduction in the next few months.
But we cannot stop there.
I've heard from many people who still need more affordable coverage choices. That's why I support a public option for health insurance.
Our proposal, explained nicely here, will open up MinnesotaCare to anyone who wants to purchase it on the individual market. As a non-profit finance director, I'm also interested in exploring ways we can provide this same benefit to small businesses and non-profits.
WORKING FOR OUR VETERANS
On the Veterans Affairs Division committee, I continue to work hard to give back to our veterans.
Specifically, I'm looking at HF261, bipartisan legislation that provides deescalation training for veterans who are dealing with PTSD.
I also have my eye on HF127, which helps create a TPT documentary project called Vietnam: Minnesota Remembers. Over 100,000 Vietnam-Era veterans are living in Minnesota today, and we have so much to learn about their experience. I'm particularly pleased to hear the project will feature Hmong involvement in the war, as well.
SOCIAL MEDIA
One of the many ways I keep in contact with our district is through social media. Take the time today to follow me on both Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date.
THANK YOU
Thank you to everyone who came out to my town halls over the weekend. I appreciated the input I received on increasing transit options for our community, making health care affordable, and many other topics.
Sincerely,