Dear Neighbor,
Here is an update from the Capitol.
New Laws
July 1 marks the beginning of a new fiscal year, and a number of laws passed earlier this year that include appropriations will go into effect on that day.
Below are a few highlights of laws going into effect:
Education
The Legislature increased the funding formula by 2 percent per year, putting more money in every classroom. There is also additional funding for early learning programming including school readiness and early learning scholarships.
Higher Education
The Higher Education law provides $3.28 billion in funding, a base increase of $210 million. That includes $1.45 billion in appropriations for Minnesota State and $1.31 billion for the University of Minnesota.
Veterans
The State Government Finance law funds agencies and essential functions of state government for the next two years. In addition, the law expands the Minnesota GI bill which covers postsecondary educational benefits, job training, and apprenticeships for both veterans and active military.
Transportation
The new transportation law appropriates $6.5 billion over the next biennium for our transportation system and infrastructure, and we were able to do this without a gas tax increase. The law also takes some transportation-related revenues allocated to the General Fund and directs those to transportation needs.
Sunday Sales
Starting on July 2, liquor stores will now have the option to be open on Sundays between 11 am and 6 pm.
You can learn more about the various laws and spending provisions that take effect this month through a House Public Information piece published here. More laws are set to take effect August 1, and I will share more on those later this summer.
Happy Independence Day!
I wanted to take a moment to wish you a Happy Independence Day! I hope you enjoy your holiday, spending time with family, enjoying great food and seeing some spectacular fireworks. There are a number of great local events to celebrate our nation, and I share more about those below.
We are blessed to live in the land of the free and the home of the brave. Happy Fourth of July!
Around the Community
Independence Day Celebrations
Anoka is holding its 20th annual fireworks display on Monday, July 3 near Castle Field. Before that the Anoka American Legion Post #102 is holding its Alumni Baseball Game. On July 4th, you can celebrate America’s independence at Anoka’s annual ice cream social. Check out more about these events here.
Anoka Classic Car Show
The Anoka Classic Car Show is a wonderful local event that runs throughout the summer with great music and food. Check out more about upcoming dates you can see these classic cars here.
Concerts in the Park
Enjoy free concerts this summer right in your own community!
Check out the dates and performances for Anoka here and Ramsey here.
Anoka RiverFest and Craft Fair
One of the largest craft fairs in the Twin Cities is right here in downtown Anoka. The event takes place from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on July 8 and includes live music, shopping and activities for the whole family. Get more details here.
Farmers Markets
The Anoka Farmers Market begins Monday, July 10 and will run through October. The market is located in the Lyric Arts parking lot (420 E. Main Street) and runs from 2-6 pm. Learn more here.
The Ramsey Farmers Market will also be starting in mid-July and run through early fall. You can go pick up some fresh local produce on Thursdays from 3-7pm at the Ramsey Municipal Center. Learn more here.
“The Draw” Summer Event Series
Every Thursday night through August, Ramsey is hosting concert style music. Food and drink will be available, along with events for kids before certain shows. See the full line up and learn more about this weekly summer event put on by the City of Ramsey Foundation here.
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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 and it is a joy! Thank you for the honor and privilege of being your state representative.
Have a wonderful weekend and summer,
Abigail