Legislative Update-September 29, 2021

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this email finds you and your family well.

Fall is the perfect time to explore our beautiful state and the changing colors. If you want to find out where the leaves are changing and what’s happening in our Fridley, New Brighton, or Spring Lake Park region or wherever you are headed, check out the Minnesota Fall Color Finder. Happy leaf peeping!

Capital Investment Committee Visits our Community

Earlier this month, I welcomed the House Capital Investment Committee to our community to discuss how important the Northtown Rail Yard Overpass is for our district. It would including safe biking and walking facilities. Our Fridley neighbors deserve safe and convenient access to grocery stores, services, and needed jobs. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to advocate for this important investment would make a positive difference in the lives of many.

Music of the Knight

It was fun listening to the Music of the Knight Marching Band Competition recently put on by Irondale High School Bands and boosters. Congratulations to Mayor Kari Niedfeldt for receiving an award for her support of the marching band. Fun to visit with the parents, students, teachers, Mr. Sucha Irondale High School Marching Band Director, New Brighton Mayor Kari Niedfeldt-Thomas, Public Safety Director Tony Paetznick, and City Council Member Graeme Allen.

New Higher Education Initiative

As the House Higher Education Chair, I'm pleased to share with you that we invested in a life changing initiative for our foster youth in Minnesota. You can watch the WCCO coverage of this new grant here. All of our kids deserve the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

High School Page Program

The start of the legislative session is around the corner and now is the time for high school juniors to apply for the High School Page Program. Students have the unique opportunity to learn firsthand about various aspects of the state legislature. The weeklong program allows participants to get a front row seat to the legislative process and get involved in policy and public service. You can learn about the application process and more here. The application deadline is November 23.

Pfizer Booster Shots Available for Eligible Minnesotans

According to the latest guidance from the CDC, you’re eligible to get a booster shot if you received the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at least six months ago and:

• Are 65 years old or older,
• Reside in a long-term care setting,
• Have an underlying health condition categorized as high-risk by the CDC, and/or
• Work in a high-risk setting.

There are plenty of ways to get the booster shot if you’re eligible. Free vaccines are available at pharmacies, health care providers, community clinics, and more. You can use the state’s Vaccine Locator Map to find a provider near you.

Booster shots aren’t yet authorized for people who received the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. 

Keep in Touch

Please continue to reach out to me anytime on state related matters at rep.connie.bernardy@house.mn or 651-296-5510. It’s an honor to represent you at the State Capitol!

Have a great rest of the week.

Sincerely,

Connie Bernardy

State Representative