Friends,
It's been a beautiful fall and it looks like it will keep up for the rest of this week. Hopefully you can take some time this MEA weekend and enjoy it! Recently I have had the opportunity to visit one of our local elementary schools. We are truly lucky to have such great schools in our area and it was fantastic to get to watch our dedicated teachers teach students so eager to learn. During my visit to M. W. Savage Elementary, I was able to read "Quackers" with students as part of their Jumpstart Read for the Record in District 191. Below is a photo from that visit and a bit more about what's been going on at the state level.
Rep. Christensen reading to students at M.W. Savage Elementary
REAL ID Extension until October 2018
This week news came that Minnesota was granted a grace period by the Department of Homeland Security that will ensure Minnesota drivers licenses can continue to be used to board airplanes and enter federal buildings until at least October 2018. Earlier this month Minnesota was granted an extension until January of 2018.
This means that Minnesota is making progress towards becoming REAL ID compliant and is why getting REAL ID passed this past session was a top priority. The next focus needs to be placed on the troubled MNLARs rollout. Hopefully, the problems with MNLARs will be corrected in due time to continue the process of implementing REAL ID to any Minnesotan that would chose to have one.
High School Page Program
The House Page Program is a great opportunity for any student interested in government, politics, or the legislative process, Last session, there were juniors from our area participated in the program and had a great experience. I encourage all local high schoolers to learn more about this program, and apply before the early December deadline. The week-long program is open to all Minnesota high school students in their junior year whether they are in public school, private school, or are home schooled, and is a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of state government and Minnesota's legislative process.
Participants will assist members and staff during House floor sessions, participate in a mock committee hearing, and meet with legislators, constitutional officers, members of the judiciary, lobbyists, and media. Applications must be postmarked or emailed by December 1, 2017. Participants are responsible for all personal costs associated with taking part in the page program, but will receive a small stipend to cover a portion of meals and, if applicable, cost of lodging. More details and application information can be found on the House of Representatives website.
As always, please continue to stay in touch to share your thoughts and ideas. 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 Fall!
Drew