Dear Neighbors,
The legislative recess has ended and we are back to work at the Capitol with a little over four weeks remaining until adjournment on May 22. The House and Senate majorities have passed their omnibus budget bills out of both chambers and after conferees are chosen, conference committees will meet to sort out the differences between each body’s bills. Although the Republicans control both the House and Senate, their final omnibus bills have fairly significant policy and finance differences. One example is the Health and Human Services Omnibus bill. The House version, which passed on the Friday before break, contains a $600 million cut to vital services and would eliminate MNSure. The Senate’s cut is half of the House’s and keeps MNSure. If interested, you can read about the different House and Senate leadership styles here.
I wanted to take a moment to share with you some exciting opportunities in our community and around the state.
Upcoming Listening Session
Next week, on Tuesday, April 25 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Senator Kent and I will be hosting our final community listening session during the legislative session. I’ve attached a flyer with the details and hope to see you there!
Festival of Nations
The Festival of Nations will be at the Saint Paul River Centre on May 4-7. Over 90 ethnic groups will be represented, sharing stories, cuisine, exhibits and cultural performances with participants. This is an 85 year spring tradition in Minnesota; so much to learn and enjoy! To learn more about this event, or how you can volunteer, click here.
Pollinator Garden Party
Pollinators have been in the news in recent years for good reasons. With spring planting just around the corner, this is a good time to be planting our gardens (pots, patio, or landscaping) to support these important links in our ecological life chain.
You can learn how to protect pollinators from harmful pesticides at the new Pollinator Park in Stillwater. Hands-on gardening sessions are available on May 7 and 20; gardening gloves and refreshments will be provided. For more information and to sign up, you can contact Laurie Schneider at laurie@pollinatorfriendly.org.
As budget bill negotiations begin, please keep me updated on your priorities and what is important to you and your family. I value your input.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
JoAnn Ward