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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Steve Sandell (DFL)

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The focus this week: Climate and Education

Thursday, February 20, 2020

Rep. Sandell

Neighbors,

With the hubub of the session, I always try to ground my work in the things that are really important for the future of our state and community. Two of those priorities are climate and education. We rolled out comprehensive strategies recently to combat the climate crisis and address education opportunity gaps. More on that below. 

Education

This session, we’ll be working to eliminate Minnesota's opportunity gaps and invest in early care and learning. As a former teacher, I understand the value these opportunities provide. Expanding the availability of early learning is a proven method to address persistent opportunity gaps Minnesota has been seeing. The earlier we focus on this, the greater the impact of the investment. That's why our proposal focuses on early learning scholarships and prekindergarten. 

We must also find ways to tackle the soaring costs of childcare. Too many Minnesotans across the state are struggling to afford the costs, which can add up to more than a college education. The Great Start for All Minnesota Children Act will work on strategies to expand access to care, help providers, and ensure integrity in the childcare assistance program. 

Early Childhood Investment

Addressing the Climate Crisis

We introduced legislation to address the climate crisis this week. Minnesotans have been telling the Climate Action Caucus, of which I am a member, about the urgent need to address climate change. We used what we heard from you during the series of community conversations that we held and other feedback you shared while preparing this package of bills.

Our proposal contains one-time investments that will enable Minnesotans to participate directly in solutions that address the climate crisis, including energy efficiency, solar energy, transportation, local government projects, and environment projects. Public schools, homeowners, local governments, and nursing homes all stand to benefit. A fact sheet with more information is available here.

bill I've authored would address water quality standards for long-lasting industrial chemicals that have serious health implications (called PFAS), which have been a concern in our community. 

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As always, give me a ring with questions and comments. You can follow my official Facebook page for more updates and take a look at my House website for contact information and an overview of the bills I'm working on.

Sincerely,

Rep. Steve Sandell