Friends,
It’s been a busy week in Saint Paul and we’ve gotten a lot of good work done for hardworking Minnesota families. After passing a $1.35 billion tax relief package, an education funding bill with $1.1 billion in increased funding for our schools, and a $2.1 billion transportation plan focused on roads and bridges were all passed last week, this week we passed more budget bills that will help to make Minnesota a better place to live and work. Read about the Higher Education bill and a provision I authored in the Public Safety bill below and have a great week!
Protecting Jewish Community Centers & Other Soft Targets
My bill to create a security grant program to better protect soft targets from terror threats passed as part of the public safety bill that passed this week. Nonprofit organizations that are eligible for funding through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s nonprofit security grant program, which have been approved by Homeland Security are eligible for grants. These grants will help make sure Minnesota’s vulnerable targets receive the security upgrades they need to keep people safe. I am proud this important program was included in the public safety bill.
Rep. Christensen speaking about the Higher Education bill on the floor this week
Higher Education Bill
As a recent graduate of the University of Minnesota and vice chairman of the Higher Education Committee, I know the important roles the University of Minnesota and Minnesota State play in our state. The House plan is a strong step forward toward making higher education more accessible and affordable for all Minnesotans. It also works to ensure institutions of higher education are accountable and using their resources to better serve students and benefit all Minnesotans. Our plan includes:
- A provision I offered to prohibit mandatory student activity fees at public post-secondary institutions.
- Funding a program for student debt counseling through the Department of Education.
- Creating an academic program for students with intellectual disabilities at Minnesota State.
Rep. Christensen with a high school student from his district serving as a page at the House.
As always, please continue to stay in touch to share your thoughts and ideas on the bills heard in committee and in session. You can schedule a time to meet with me in my office any time by calling my office at (651) 296-9463, or share your thoughts via email by emailing me at rep.drew.christensen@house.mn.
Have a great weekend,
Drew