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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Peggy Bennett (R)

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Disaster relief funding passes unanimously

Monday, January 26, 2015

Dear Friends,

I wanted to send a quick note to let you know that the House today approved Senate File 1 which provides $17 million in disaster flood relief funding to 47 counties, including every county in District 27A: Freeborn, Faribault, Mower, Dodge, and Steele Counties. I was proud to support this bill, and gave my first-ever floor speech in support of it.
 
Many parts of our state, but especially Southern Minnesota was greatly impacted by flooding that took place last June, wiping out culverts, washing out roads, and damaging other infrastructure that resulted in significant cleanup costs.
 
The federal government issued a disaster declaration, making Minnesota eligible for matching funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Minnesota is spending just $2.2 million in new money thanks to the canceling of some previously unspent dollars from previous disaster relief bills.
 
It's good to see once again unanimous support and quick work being done to deliver assistance for Minnesotans. With these funds, cities and counties will be able to fully recover from the floods this spring when construction season starts.
 
Colter visits the Capitol
I also wanted to pass along this photo today: I brought my dog Colter to the Capitol with me, and introduced him to many members and staff. He also took this photo with House Speaker Kurt Daudt. I'm hoping Colter will get to meet Lucy and Daisy, Speaker Daudt's two labs.
 
 
Have a great rest of your week,

Peggy