Dear Neighbors,
We have just over two weeks to go in the legislative session and we have a lot of work left to do. Here are some of my big concerns as we work to wrap up the end of session.
Emergency School Funding
While Governor Dayton has made historic investments in education, the simple truth is that Minnesota schools are still trying to regain financial footing after years of former Governor Tim Pawlenty’s cuts to education.
Many schools are considering laying off teachers, staff members, social workers, and make other difficult budget cuts that impact our students’ education if they don’t receive emergency funding. The Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan District is projected to have a budget shortfall in 2018-2019 of $12 million. Governor Mark Dayton announced his proposal to provide Emergency School Aid to school districts across the state. The new funding proposed by Governor Dayton would amount to an additional $4,133,199 million for our school district.
I grew up in Apple Valley and I attended the public schools in our community. I know our teachers because they were my teachers. We know they work tirelessly so every student has an opportunity to earn an education that allows them to thrive in a competitive world. That is what Minnesotans expect and, as policymakers, we need to give our teachers and students the support they need.
School Visit
Thank you Mr. Bartosh & Class for having me today. It was great talking about our government, your school walk out, and teaching me a little bit about the Harlem Renaissance!
Voters Should Pick Their Representatives, Representative Should Not Pick Their Voters
One of the provisions the legislature recently considered would establish an Independent Commission comprised of retired judges and members of the public who have not been affiliated with any political organization to draw the legislative and congressional districts.
A different proposal tried to keep redistricting in the hands of the Legislature. The proposal creates a commission that would be comprised of 14 members: 10 legislators of the majority party and 4 legislators of the minority party.
It doesn't matter who is in the majority; legislative and congressional district boundary drawing should not be a partisan process and not in the hands of legislators. Because I want to ensure the boundary drawing process is independent of partisan politics, is transparent, and involves public input, I voted against the proposal that allows lawmakers to pick their voters. You can see how different representatives voted below.
No Coffee and Conversations This Week
Unfortunately, I am presenting at a conference on Saturday so there will be no coffee and conversations this weekend. I look forward to the next one, but please reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns.
Warmly,
Erin