Friends,
We’re in the middle of another stretch of beautiful summer weather in Minnesota and it couldn’t come at a better time as this weekend, June 10-11, is the annual Chalkfest at Arbor Lakes. It’s a great (and free) event for the whole family where you can learn from the pros how they create such amazing pieces of art with chalk. I’d also like to take another opportunity to say congratulations and best of luck to all those graduating from high school this week. Have a great weekend!
Taking Care of our Veterans
This session we put a priority on taking care of our veterans and men and women in uniform. Some of the key programs and reforms include:
- Enhanced funding for veterans programs.
- Expanded GI flexibility to include apprenticeships, on-the-job training benefits, and other professional and educational benefits.
- Funded programs to help veterans achieve home ownership
- Funded programs to help veterans returning from active duty with PTSD who get caught up in legal system
We also dedicated $8.4 million to the Minnesota National Guard for recruitment enlistment bonuses and educational incentives. It’s important we fulfill our commitment to those who put their lives on the line to defend our freedom and I am proud we were able to do that this session.
Rep. Smith attended the Twin West Chamber Session Review Breakfast this week
More Good News on REAL ID
This week I spoke with the Department of Transportation this week. They report that things are proceeding well and implementation of the REAL ID law is on schedule. REAL IDs will be available on October 2018 at the latest.
Developments on Dayton’s Unconstitutional Vetos
After such a productive session, Governor Dayton’s action to defund the entire legislative branch of government in order to renegotiate and get his way is extremely disappointing. The Legislature has retained an attorney to defend your voice and representation at the Capitol
Maple Grove Bus Driver Book Club
This week KARE 11 highlighted some great work done by a member of our community. Elementary school bus driver Perry May of Maple Grove started a book club for his riders. He even rewarded them for completing books with “Bus Bucks” that he would then turn around and donate $1 of his own money to the school’s library.
This session the Legislature made historic investments into our schools, including an increase in spending of $1.3 billion or 7.8%, but it’s stories and efforts like this from our local communities that truly makes Minnesota’s schools among the best in the world for students.
Officer Marshal Gardner Recognized
Marshal Gardner, the only police officer in the city of Osseo’s history to be killed in the line of duty, had his name added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial Wall on May 13 in Washington, DC. A contingent from the Osseo police force including the Police Chief went to the dedication ceremony. Gardner was killed in the line of duty in 1916. You can read more here.
Congratulations to our students!
- Maple Grove High School student Taylor Nelson on being admitted to West Point, the United States Military Academy. Taylor and 13 other students who will attend a U.S. Military academy were honored at a reception with Congressman Erik Paulsen.
- Maple Grove Crimson Softball had a great season, making it all the way to the Consolation Finale at the State Tournament in North Mankato. Congrats on a great season.
- Congrats to Maple Grove golfers Dylan Hanson and Jenn Galloway for making it to the State Golf Tournament taking place next week. Also congratulations to the Wayzata boys team of Ben Frazzini, Van Holmgren, Ian Mackenzie Olson, Peder Larson, Tristan Nelko, and Ben Schumacher for making it to the State Golf Tournament. Also Wayzata girls golfers Melanie Leminh, Hallie Greenberg, and Amy Burnham for also making it.
Please continue to share your thoughts with me about our state government; bill ideas and concerns are welcomed! I am honored to serve you at the Capitol. My email address is Rep.Dennis.Smith@house.mn, phone number 651-296-5502, and by mail: 375 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155.
Have a great weekend!
Dennis