Dear Friends,
We're keeping busy this week as committees put the finishing touches on our budget bills. I'm grateful that several of my bills have been included in our omnibus budget bills. Here's an update on some of my bills that have been included:
Homeless Youth Act
Funding was included for a bill I've been working on to increase funding for the Homeless Youth Act which helps struggling young people and has achieved success putting many on the path toward future success. For each young person we're able to help, we're able to save the state countless tax dollars that otherwise would be spent on public programs and other assistance throughout their life.
Minnesota Reading Corps
The House Education Omnibus bill includes increased funding for Minnesota Reading Corps, a program I've been proud to support with a great track record of achieving meaningful results in helping to get students up to reading at grade level.
Flexibility for School Funding
A bill similar to my bill to give schools more flexibility for how they spend what's known as compensatory revenue was included in the Education Omnibus bill. Schools know how to spend their dollars better than the state, and I've been working since coming to the legislature on ways to give school districts greater flexibility to invest dollars in proven programs and strategies to boost student learning.
As the budget process continues, I will keep you updated on the status of these and the other budget bills. You can contact me with your feedback at rep.anna.wills@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-4306.
Avian Flu
Yesterday the House unanimously passed $893,000 to address the growing avian flu outbreak that's impacting farms in western and southwestern Minnesota. The outbreak has not reached Dakota County, but is having a devastating impact on poultry farms in other parts of the state. The funding will help federal, state, and local officials respond and fight this outbreak. Health officials are reminding people that the food supply remains safe, and transmission to humans, even those who work with poultry, is extremely unlikely.
Constituent Visits
It was great to have students from the 8th grade social studies class at St. Joseph Catholic School visit the Capitol on Wednesday, April 15th. One of the highlights of my job is being able to talk with students about what I do as a legislator, explain the legislative process, and watch their eyes grow big when I show them the House Chamber. They help me always remember what an honor it is to work in this amazing place on behalf of our community.
Local Blood Drives
Give the gift of life! There are three upcoming blood drives in our community.
4/24/2015 8AM-2PM
Dunn Brothers on Galaxie Ave
15265 Galaxie Ave, Apple Valley, MN 55124
4/28/2015 8AM-2PM
Dakota County Western Service Center
1 Mendota Rd W, West St Paul, MN 55118
4/30/2015 12:30PM-6:30PM
South Suburban Evangelical Free Church
12600 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd, Apple Valley, MN 55124
Congratulations to the Wild!
The Minnesota Wild won their first playoff game last night against the St. Louis Blues. They will play their first home game on Monday. Best of luck as they continue their playoff run.
As always, please don't hesitate to contact me with questions or comments at rep.anna.wills@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-4306. You can also follow my updates on Facebook at www.facebook.com/repannawills or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/annacwills.
Have a great weekend,
Anna Wills
State Representative, District 57B