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The Minnesota House DFL remains committed to building a better future for all Minnesotans. While we made some progress last year, Senate Republicans blocked action on many of the issues most important to Minnesotans. House DFLers believe that all Minnesotans deserve a world-class education, affordable health care, economic security, and safe and inclusive communities. We will continue our efforts to make this better future a reality for all Minnesotans.
Our 2020 Minnesota Values Plan includes enacting paid family & medical leave and earned safe & sick time for all Minnesotans because everyone deserves the opportunity to be successful, and to take care of their family and loved ones. A House floor vote is anticipated on the legislation in the coming weeks. Read about more of our priorities below.
Great Start for All Minnesota Children Act Introduced
The 2020 legislative session kicked off with a bold proposal to invest $500 million in early care and learning targeted at Minnesotans from birth to age three. We are facing two crises: education opportunity gaps and inaccessible and unaffordable child care. In 2020, House DFLers will invest in early care and learning to support families and close education opportunity gaps -- because DFL lawmakers believe all children deserve a great start in life. Children, parents, and childcare providers all stand to benefit from our proposal. Read more in this story from the Associated Press.
Climate Action Caucus Update
My colleagues and I joined youth and organized labor last week to announce a new proposal of one-time funding appropriations to address the climate crisis. The new investments will reduce greenhouse gases and benefit public schools, homeowners, local governments, and nursing homes. We need to take all opportunities we can to respond to the climate crisis. A fact sheet with more information is available here. If you’d like to receive emails about Climate Action Caucus news and events, sign up at www.house.mn/ClimateActionCaucus.
Efforts to Remove Reference to Slavery in Minnesota Constitution
Last week, my DFL colleagues in the House and Senate launched an effort to remove references to slavery and involuntary servitude from the Minnesota Constitution. Despite being banned since statehood was achieved in 1858, the Minnesota Constitution still contains outdated permissive language regarding slavery.
If the legislation is approved by both chambers this legislative session, the question would be submitted to voters in the 2020 General Election in November. The House is ready to get this stain removed from our constitution- Republican senators have yet to weigh in with a definitive decision.
Announcing Season 2 of the Minnesota Values Podcast
Season 2 of the Minnesota Values Podcast kicked off on the first day of the new legislative session. You can listen anywhere podcasts are available, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher.
Every week, my colleagues Rep. Liz Olson and Rep. Jamie Long bring you real stories from real Minnesotans about the values that inspire action at the State Capitol and in our communities. Episodes are less than 30 minutes each, so you can easily listen during your commute, at the gym, or as you wind down at night.
Keep in Touch
Please continue to reach out with questions or input at 651-296-0173 or by email at rep.jim.davnie@house.mn. I appreciate hearing from you and value your feedback.
Sincerely,
Jim Davnie
State Representative
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