Dear Neighbors,
I hope that all of those who celebrate had a blessed Easter and Passover. Here is an update with the latest news from the Capitol.
Conference Committees
This week, the House and Senate began meeting in conference committees to work out the differences between our budget bills. Our goal is to fund government, though we have many disagreements with the governor regarding how much to spend in various areas. It is the Legislature’s intent to work with Governor Dayton and his administration during an open and transparent conference committee process to come to a final budget agreement. In the final agreement, there will likely be provisions that we like and others that we do not.
My hope is we are able to provide some real tax relief to Minnesotans while investing well in our shared priorities like education and transportation, and that we limit the growth of state government.
I will share more on budget negotiations as we move forward in the coming weeks.
Higher Education Conference Committee
I was selected as a conferee on the Higher Education Conference Committee and will be working to advance a bill that addresses college affordability and accessibility in our state. I am also working closely with the University of Minnesota on language that would require, among a few other things, a report be provided to the Legislature on all aborted fetal tissue research. While it would not end the practice, I believe this is a step in the right direction.
As many of you may be aware, in 2015 it came to light that the University (and other institutions across the country) performs research on aborted fetal tissue. As someone who is pro-life, I do not think the University should participate in such controversial research, especially when they received over $1 billion from taxpayers in the last biennium.
I am hopeful we can come to an agreement soon.
Premium Relief
Minnesotans who purchase their own insurance and are eligible for the 25 percent premium subsidy that was enacted into law earlier this year will begin seeing that financial relief in May. House Republicans made this a top priority at the beginning of session, and now people will see some relief on their high health care premiums for 2017. If you are eligible, you will see a reduction in your bills and do not need to take any action.
Obamacare and MNsure have negatively impacted Minnesotans across the state, and premium reductions were important to provide immediate relief as we work toward long-term solutions that make health insurance more affordable and accessible for Minnesotans.
Nominate a Veteran
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2017 Veterans’ Voices Awards which recognizes veterans who “are making extraordinary contributions to their communities.”
Awarded by the Minnesota Humanities Center, nominees can fall into two categories for those On the Rise who are under 40, and Legacy for those over 40. It is open to both current and former members of the military who are making a difference in our state.
For more information and how to nominate a veteran go here.
Around the Community
This Saturday (TOMORROW!) Anoka County and the Alliance for a Violence Free Anoka County are sponsoring a Senior Expo at Lord of Life Church in Ramsey. The event takes place between 9 A.M.- 12 P.M.
For more information, see: http://abcnewspapers.com/2017/04/16/anoka-county-senior-expo-april-22/
I had a great time visiting Sunwood Home in Ramsey recently to meet with residents and hear about their priorities for state government. Thank you for having me!
Staying in Touch
Please know my office is available should you need assistance on a matter of state government. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-1729 or via email at rep.abigail.whelan@house.mn. I also welcome your input and ideas on legislation and matters moving through the Minnesota House. I am here to serve you! Thank you for the honor and privilege of being your state representative.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Abigail