Hello Friends and Neighbors,
Best wishes to you and your family in 2019!
On Tuesday, lawmakers returned to the Capitol to gavel in the 91st Legislative Session. What a privilege to take the oath of office and be officially sworn-in to continue serving as your state representative. Representing you in St. Paul is an amazing honor and I am thankful for everyone who has placed their trust in me. I am eager to get to work to address some of the important challenges facing our state this year.
New Governor
In addition to being sworn-in myself, this week I also attended the swearing-in ceremony for Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan. Working with our new Governor and his team in setting the new two-year budget will be a priority but I will also continue to work on health insurance reform to lower rates while ensuring access to quality health care in rural communities. Issues integral to our region are a top priority and I will look to find common ground with my colleagues and the new administration.
Committees
The majority of the legislative work early in the session will take place in House committees. Committee work, including hearings, will begin next week. One of the committees I will be serving on this year is the Jobs and Economic Development Finance Division. Serving on this committee gives me the opportunity to continue working on workforce development, providing better prepared students for career opportunities and ensuring we have skilled workers to fill jobs in manufacturing and other industries. I have also been assigned to serve on the Commerce Committee, Health and Human Services Finance Division, and Water Division.
Staying in Touch
If you ever have any questions, comments or concerns regarding any issue related to state government, I urge you to contact me by email at rep.barb.haley@house.mn or by phone at 651-296-8635. I look forward to hearing from you.
Have a great weekend,
