Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Here is an update with the latest news from the Capitol.
Budget Negotiations
Conference committees continued meeting this week, working toward a compromise on everything from tax relief to transportation. While we are ahead of schedule, it is frustrating that Governor Dayton chose to change the parameters of budget negotiations from an earlier agreement, and is now withholding himself, his administration and commissioners from joining us in negotiations this week.
Last month, Governor Dayton wrote legislative leaders, asking that we set joint budget targets for conference committees by today, April 28th. Now, he is saying that he will not participate until the House and Senate move forward with bills out of conference committee, holding back on negotiating in an open and transparent process.
We all share the goal of passing a budget that works best for the people of Minnesota, and it would be helpful if the governor stuck to his word and joined us now in negotiations so we can find a workable compromise and get a budget passed and signed into law before legislative adjournment.
In an effort to find a solution, House and Senate Republicans released joint targets of their own earlier today so conference committees can continue to negotiate and get their work done for the people of Minnesota.
I will keep you posted on budget negotiations.
Congratulations to the Woodbury Math and Science Academy!
Congratulations to Woodbury’s own Math and Science Academy for being ranked the number one high school in Minnesota according to U.S. News and World. I am so proud to represent a community with strong schools and great educational opportunities for our kids. Well done!
You can read more about it here.
Around the Capitol
Great minds dress alike! With Representative Anne Neu this week on the House Floor.
Thank you to Three Rivers Park District for bringing some sweet baby animals to the Capitol this week!
With the Samuels family for Gillette Children’s DOTH
With nurses from Children’s Hospital Minneapolis and Saint Paul
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As always, if you have ideas about what you would like to see happen this session or need assistance on a matter of state government, I welcome you to contact me. Please don’t hesitate to call (651-296-1147), email (rep.kelly.fenton@house.mn) or stop by my office.
Sincerely,
Kelly
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