Dear Neighbors,
It’s been busy at the Capitol as we’re approaching the third and final committee deadline, where most finance bills need to be passed out of committees. A lot is happening; here is an update from St. Paul:
Republican Budget Shortchanges Education
With one week before finance committee deadlines, Republicans finally announced their supplemental budget targets. Instead of investing in the things Minnesotans value, like expanding quality early childhood education and making college more affordable, they’ve indicated plans to continue prioritizing tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy.
This is in stark contrast to Governor Dayton’s supplemental budget proposal, which rolls back tax giveaways for corporations and the wealthy to fund tax cuts for Minnesota families and important investments in areas such as education. I’ve heard from you and will continue to ensure the things our community values are a priority at the Capitol.
Minnesotans Continue to Demand Action on Gun Violence Prevention Measures
Today, Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America held a rally to demonstrate there’s still significant pressure to pass common sense gun laws in Minnesota. In fact, a recent poll released shows that even 89% of gun owners favor background checks for all gun purchases.
I’ll keep fighting for common sense gun safety measures that will make our families, communities, and Minnesota safer. There’s still time to act before session ends. Call Speaker Daudt’s office and tell him you want to see background checks and protective orders: 651-296-5364 or email him at rep.kurt.daudt@house.mn.
Fighting for Clean Water Protections
On Monday, the Minnesota House passed a Republican-authored bill 69 to 57 to prohibit the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) from implementing proposed rules for nitrogen fertilizer use. These rules protect Minnesota’s water resources by minimizing nitrate pollution. Far too many Minnesotans are facing unsafe drinking water, so it’s of vital importance that in areas highly susceptible to pollution there are a few ground rules for how and when to apply fertilizers. Even a large number of Republicans voted against stopping these groundwater protections.
Thankfully, Governor Mark Dayton delivered a letter indicating he’d veto the bill.
Mark Your Calendars-Water Action Day
I hope you can attend the second annual day of public action and advocacy for clean water protection on May 2. The all-day event will include complimentary breakfast and lunch, trainings on the issues, and a rally in the Capitol Rotunda. Learn about the most important water issues facing Minnesotans today, meet with legislators, or join the rally! Come for all or part of the day — whatever works for you and your schedule.
Learn more on the event page or sign up now.
Anti-Immigrant Bill Considered
Today, a bill that would remove access to legal services for undocumented immigrants was presented in the Property Tax Division. The hate-filled legislation wouldpenalize cities for spending money to help immigrants fight deportation.
We are fortunate to have such a vast diversity of immigrants in our city and state. They are parents, neighbors, friends, teachers, business owners and so much more. I am proud to represent a community in which we protect our own; the Republicans have no business penalizing Minneapolis for choosing to keep immigrant families together through a fair and legal process.
Although I do not serve on this committee, I’ll continue to track the bill and let my colleagues know it’s unacceptable.
Final omnibus bills are coming together; I’ll keep you updated on the progress of this work and the various provisions that impact our community.
Please keep in touch; I appreciate hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Raymond Dehn