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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Erin Koegel (DFL)

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Legislative Update - February 9, 2017

Thursday, February 9, 2017

Dear Neighbors,

The first month of the Minnesota Legislative session is behind us. A full schedule of committee hearings are taking place, and we are starting to consider more and more bills on the House floor. When I’m not in committee or on the House floor, much of my time is spent visiting with community members about issues important to them.

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Recently, I had the opportunity to chat with members of the Coon Rapids Fire Department for Fire Service Day at the Capitol. They shared with me their legislative priorities including grade separations at railroad crossings – particularly those at Hanson Blvd. and Foley Blvd., prohibiting the use of certain cancer causing chemicals in flame retardants, and incentive programs to help recruit more professional and volunteer firefighters.

I’ve also been working on a series of bills to help expand economic opportunities in our local communities. Several of these initiatives are aimed at enhancing our area transportation infrastructure, including a bill to fund reconstruction of 105th Ave. by the National Sports Center and an underpass at the Highway 65/109th Ave. NE intersection in Blaine.

I’ve also introduced a bill to fund preliminary analysis and design for a Northstar commuter rail station at Foley Blvd. With the grade separation from the BNSF tracks on the horizon at this location, this investment will enable us to expand access to jobs and educational opportunities throughout the region. Moreover, I’m excited about the potential to utilize this location as a stop for Northern Lights Express high-speed rail service to Duluth in the future. I’ll be sure to keep you up to date on developments as I continue work on these measures.

I hope you’ll stay in touch with your feedback and viewpoints. Please feel free to call or email me anytime; it’s an honor to serve you in St. Paul.

Sincerely,

Erin Koegel

State Representative