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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Julie Sandstede (DFL)

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Legislative Update - January 15, 2019

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

Dear Neighbors,

Last Tuesday the 2019 Legislative Session convened. It was an honor to take the oath of office for my second term representing our region in the Minnesota House, and I carry deep gratitude for the constituents who have given me this opportunity. I’m excited to get to work to improve the lives of Minnesotans.

Committee Assignments

This session I’ll be serving as Vice Chair of the House Education Finance Division. As a teacher, I couldn’t be more thrilled to begin this work to improve opportunities for all of our students to achieve. We have wonderful schools in Minnesota, and it’s absolutely critical that we make the investments necessary to keep them that way. Districts throughout the state are faced with tough choices, like increasing class sizes, laying off teachers, and limiting programming. Our schools face other challenges in the way of limited support staff for students – like counselors and psychologists, and keeping their buildings safe. We will also be looking closely at closing the achievement and opportunity gaps and taking a deep dive intro addressing student homelessness.

I’m also excited to serve on the Capital Investment Division and Greater Minnesota Jobs and Economic Development Finance Division, both of which will give me an opportunity to advocate for needed infrastructure investments and the creation of economic opportunities, along with good-paying jobs. The full list of House Committees and Divisions can be found here.

Remembering Tom Rukavina

While the first week of the legislative session is normally a week of celebration, this was also a week of sadness as on Monday, we lost former Representative Tom Rukavina. He fought passionately for what he believed in and there was no bigger champion for working people. He was able to effectively work alongside members of both parties to get things done for those on the Iron Range and all Minnesotans. As a Ranger, I have personally benefited from, and I am grateful for his tremendous advocacy for the Range. Now as a legislator myself, he has set the bar high.

In August, I enjoyed getting to spend some time with him and Rep. Frank Hornstein of Minneapolis.

House Image

Several colleagues and I shared stories and anecdotes on the House floor Thursday; you can watch video of this memorialization here. Remembering Tommy, I’m left with the impact of this quote from him: “Hate helps no one. Love solves everything.”

We’re all going to miss him, and my heart goes out to his family.

Thanking Law Enforcement

This past Wednesday was National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Every day, our police officers, sheriff deputies and other law enforcement personnel put their lives on the line to protect us and keep us safe. I’m grateful for their contributions to our communities.

Throughout the legislative session, I’d love to hear any ideas and feedback you may have. Feel free to call my office at 651-296-0172. It’s an honor to represent you in Saint Paul.

Sincerely,

Julie Sandstede

State Representative