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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Paul Anderson (R)

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Happy Thanksgiving

Monday, November 23, 2015

Dear Neighbor,

 

Happy Thanksgiving from the Anderson family to you and yours. We hope you are able to enjoy some extra time in the company of family and friends as we give thanks. Please be safe out on the roads.

 

There have been rumblings about a special session taking place in St. Paul to extend unemployment for laid-off Iron Range workers. But right now all the talk is just that – talk. I am among those who believe a short-term fix such as extending unemployment is not enough. The long term should be a focus, namely improving the permitting process in Minnesota to help bring good jobs to our state.

 

On another note, I am getting a good number of questions regarding Syrian immigration. Citizens are expressing concerns over the potential for exposure to terrorists who may migrate to our nation. While states are unable to close their borders to refugees, House Speaker Kurt Daudt recently sent a letter to Gov. Mark Dayton, requesting him to call on President Obama to halt acceptance of refugees from Syria until the U.S. Department of Homeland Security completes a full review of security procedures and clearances.

 

While this is largely a federal issue, the House this year successfully led to passage a new law which combats the recruitment of Minnesotans by terrorist organizations such as ISIS.

The subject of buffer strips – which I have some deep concerns over – is resurfacing again as we prepare for the DNR to roll out maps. The scope of what will be included in the maps is in question. It also remains uncertain whether the buffer maps will be in place this coming July as scheduled. If not, extensions for compliance may be necessary. The Legislature may have to revisit this issue in the 2016 session to help resolve some of these issues.

 

All of these subjects are developing and I will pass along more information as details emerge. Until then, again, have a happy Thanksgiving and I welcome your continued feedback.

 

Sincerely,

Paul