Reading a resolution on the House Floor honoring the life of Rev. Billy Graham. (I was one of several to read portions of the resolution, an effort led by Rep. Jim Nash).
Dear Neighbors,
Here is an update with the latest news from the Capitol and around our community.
Budget Forecast
On Wednesday, the February Economic Budget Forecast was released showing a $329 million surplus. This is great news for our state. I would like to see us do what we can to return some of the surplus to the taxpayers, as I do not think the state should be spending more. My focus will continue to be looking at ways we can limit government growth and spending, and protect hardworking taxpayers.
Meeting on School Safety
As we as a nation mourn with the friends and families affected by the most recent outbreak of unspeakable violence in Florida, I and many other legislators are grappling with pressing policy questions related to how we can decrease gun violence.
I have begun reviewing laws at the state and federal level to find where we may have gaps in the system, and to find ways we can improve the system to see a decrease in mass shootings and gun violence.
I also met recently with the law enforcement and the Superintendent of Anoka-Hennepin Schools on this issue, and their feedback was incredibly helpful.
Meeting on school safety with Anoka county Sheriff James Stuart, Rep. Peggy Scott, Superintendent David Law, Chief COO Chuck Holden and Patrol Division Commander Paul Lenzmeier.
At the same time, I believe we need to preserve the integrity and intent of the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees all individuals the right to keep and bear arms (I can expand on the original intent/meaning of words like militia, etc., yet the heart of the Second Amendment I believe is to preserve a way for the people to defend against a tyrannical government. Our founders, rebelling against their government, had first-hand experience with this. Many believe this is a far-fetched notion today, but consider that governments are still made of people, and people are imperfect, and as no form of government is perfect, any form of government is subject to corruptions and tyranny – even a Republic like the U.S.).
I do think there is a way to do both – pass laws that would decrease gun violence and maintain the integrity of the Second Amendment. For policy ideas, I believe we should increase funding to schools for the purposes of increasing safety and security, and I am open to some ideas proposed by President Trump, such as a ban on bumpstocks. I also believe we need to focus on mental health and encourage individuals to seek help, because at the end of the day regardless of whether one uses a gun, or a dirty bomb, or drives their car into a crowd of people, such mass violence is wrong and tragic, and we should do what we can to help prevent such horrific crimes.
I do not believe there is a single answer to this issue that will solve the problem, but I do think we can see a decrease in violence. Please know I will work with colleagues and constituents and other concerned individuals as we strive to make our state and country a safer place and preserve our constitutional rights.
MNLARS Update
This week, legislation was introduced that would require the executive branch to find the first $10 million to fix our broken licensing system, MNLARS. Governor Dayton and his administration have requested an additional $43 million to address ongoing problems with MNLARS, including $10 million which they say they need immediately.
I think this is a commonsense solution that protects taxpayers and shows that those in charge of MNLARS are serious about getting this fixed and operable for the people of Minnesota.
Safe Harbor Grant Awards
The Minnesota Department of Health announced grant awards recently for specialized services that help young labor trafficking victims. The grants will help the Safe Harbor Program coordinate its approach and expand its scope to reach labor victims in addition to sexual and human trafficking victims.
Groups awarded grants include Minnesota Southwest Crisis Center, The Advocates for Human Rights, Standpoint, and the Enitan Story.
Around the Community
Northern Suburban Home Improvement Show
The 20th annual North Suburban Home Improvement Show will be on Saturday, March 10 from 8 AM to 2 PM at the Andover YMCA. It’s sponsored by the cities of Coon Rapids, Anoka and Andover, as well as the Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce. There will be more than 100 vendors at the event, so don’t miss out! More information can be found here.
Ramsey Parks and Recreation
There are plenty of fun activities in Ramsey this month! Check out the Ramsey Parks and Recreation event calendar here for more information.
Anoka County Home Landscaping & Garden Fair
As we slowly but surely head into spring, why not check out the Anoka County Home Landscaping & Garden Fair? This annual event includes classes led by talented master gardeners, exhibitors and more. It takes place on Saturday, April 7 from 8:20 AM to 3:30 PM at Bunker Hills Activities Center in Ham Lake. You can learn more including how to register here.
Annual Ramsey EDA Business Expo
Mark your calendars for the 10th annual Ramsey EDA Business Expo on Saturday, March 31 from 10 AM-2 PM at the Fountains of Ramsey. Get all of the details on this great event that features local businesses here.
2018 Bike Helmet Clinics
Safe Kids Anoka County is offering bike helmet fitting clinics this spring including one at Blaine City Hall on April 14 from 9 AM-Noon, and one on April 24 at the Anoka Police Department from 4 PM-7PM. Check out all of the details 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,
Abigail