Neighbors and Friends,
The second year of the biennium is usually a shorter session and we don’t have quite the activity level in committees as we do in a budget year, but the pace is picking up. This Thursday marks the first committee deadline, for committees to act favorably on bills in the house of origin – meaning a bill must either be heard in the House or Senate to continue its journey in the legislative process.
As always, advocacy groups are making their way to the Capitol every week. I enjoy the visits with constituents and invite you all to tour the renovated Capitol and to sit in on committee hearings and floor sessions. Here are a few events from last week at the Capitol:
Second Harvest Heartland bonding request
Last week, Second Harvest Heartland presented their request for a new, larger facility in Brooklyn Park to the Capital Investment committee. They are requesting $18 million to improve services to reach hungry Minnesotans across the state. The facility will create 100 new jobs, generate 68 million meals for 375,000 Minnesotans and keep people healthy, working and contributing to our growing economy. I am co-author of their bill.
Veterans Day on the Hill
Last week, veterans from across the state made their way to the Capitol to meet with legislators about various issues.
Two members of Veterans for Peace discussed assault weapons and their lethality.
These Vietnam veterans spoke of their first-hand knowledge of the damage these "weapons of war” can inflict.
Bruce Branigan stopped by to discuss the Minnesota Commanders’ Task Force 2018 legislative agenda.
State of the State
Gov. Dayton delivered his final State of the State Address on Wednesday night in the House chamber. The governor spoke about the progress made under his administration and looked ahead to the work before us this legislative session.
Roseville Area High School student Henry Holien joined Sen. Marty and me for the governor’s speech.
Town Hall Meeting
What: Town hall meeting
When: Saturday, March 24 from 3-4:30 p.m.
Where: Cameroon Community Center
1020 Bandana Blvd W.
St. Paul, MN 55108
I hope to see you there!
Your Legislators
Last Thursday night I was a panelist on the public affairs program Your Legislators, along with Rep. Paul Torkelson (GOP- Hanska) and Sen. Sandy Pappas (DFL-St. Paul). Click HERE to view the program.
As always, please contact me with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Alice