Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Today, America’s pastor, the Reverend Billy Graham was laid to rest. It’s hard to put into words the impact Billy Graham had on American culture and Evangelicalism over the past six decades of ministry. It is believed that he led millions of people to Christ and prayed alongside and counseled presidents ranging from Harry S. Truman to Barack Obama.
Earlier this week, the Minnesota House of Representatives spent time honoring his legacy by reading a tribute on the House floor.
Graham was once quoted as saying, “(When I’m gone) I want to hear 1 person say something nice about me...& that’s the Lord—‘Well done, good & faithful servant!’” I think it’s safe to say that when Billy Graham entered the gates of heaven he was met with that refrain from the Lord. What an incredible legacy. His guidance and ministry will be missed.
On Wednesday, the House Education Innovation Policy Committee heard a bill that works to address the issue of sexual exploitation in our schools. House File 2421 allows school districts to include sexual exploitation prevention instruction in a health curriculum. The Minnesota Department of Education will be tasked with establishing the age-appropriate instruction for use by school districts across our state.
Most encouraging about the hearing was testimony from a group of young high school students called Girls United MN. This amazing group of young women are working hard to empower young girls and develop vital leadership skills in their local middle and high schools. The future is in good hands!
Finally, state economists released their annual February budget forecast. This forecast gives lawmakers and the public an in-depth look at the state’s financial health.
Wednesday’s report revealed that the state is looking at a $329 million surplus for the remainder of the biennium. This is outstanding news and shows just how well both the state and national economies are doing.
More specifically, the report indicated that record levels of low unemployment coupled with economic stimulus thanks to federal and state tax reform have led to an improved outlook. The state continues to see increased revenue despite lower tax rates.
This is proof positive that tax cuts are working for Minnesota families.
Thank you to the over 100 6th graders from Spectrum in Elk River toured the capitol on Monday under the supervision of Dan Zurbey and other staff and chaperones. What a great group of students!
That’s all for this week. As always, please be sure to reach out and share your thoughts or concerns regarding any matter of state government. It would be great to speak with you. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-6746 or via email at rep.sondra.erickson@house.mn.
Have a great weekend,
Sondra