Dear Neighbors,
We have just three weeks remaining in the legislative session. Focus has shifted from the House Floor to conference committees, where new budget targets are set and bills are reconciled. Here is an update from the State Capitol.
GOP Budget Targets/Conference Committees
Today the House and Senate unveiled their joint budget targets. The Governor set his own budget targets earlier this year.
The Republican targets are extremely disappointing, and move Minnesota in the wrong direction. Serving on the Health and Human services budget conference committee, we will now be faced with a $504 million cut. This represents an improvement from the $599 million cut that passed off the House floor, but represents significant harm to health care for Minnesotans, including the most vulnerable in the state.
Instead of prioritizing tax cuts for the richest we should be investing in education, infrastructure and health improvement.
Town Hall Meeting
Here is one more reminder about the Town Hall Meeting Sen. Simonson, Rep. Olson and myself are holding tomorrow. Everyone is welcome to come and share thoughts on this year’s legislative session, and to ask questions about the status of various issues. With the wonderful turnout last time, we know just how engaged our community is, and hope you all join us tomorrow if you’re able.
WHAT: Legislative Town Hall Meeting
WHO: Rep. Jennifer Schultz, Rep. Liz Olson, Sen. Erik Simonson, members of the community.
WHERE: Ordean Middle School, 2900 E. 4th Street, Duluth, MN 55812.
WHEN: Saturday, April 29 from 10:00 a.m. – noon.
Climate March at Leif Erickson Park
After the town hall meeting, if your schedule allows, I hope you and your family will join us for the People’s Climate March and Rally, sponsored by Sierra Club and the Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light. We will gather at 1:00 p.m. at Leif Erickson Park, marching along the Lakewalk to Lake Place Park (about 3/4 of a mile). This will coincide with a march in Washington, D.C and others around the world. For more information, please visit the event on Facebook here.
In these final weeks, I hope you will keep contacting me with your input on these important issues. I welcome your calls and emails anytime.
Sincerely,
Jen Schultz
State Representative