Neighbors,
Happy National Library Week! I'm celebrating the contributions that libraries make to our communities - they're a great resource for entrepreneurs and retraining, and a place for Minnesotans to learn.
23 state studies confirm that the presence of certified librarians in schools leads to a measurable difference in student achievement. But like all things that benefit education, improving outcomes for our students requires investment. The House DFL is doing its part to support education for all of Minnesota's students, of all ages.
Our DFL caucus announced a plan this week to increase revenue from corporations to lower taxes for families and individuals while also increasing investments in education. Three quarters of the new revenue will go toward E-12 education with the remaining fourth going to our state's universities, freezing tuition for Minnesota students for two years.
Minnesotans have been telling the Legislature for years that the state’s commitment to our schools has not kept pace with inflation, leading to layoffs and local referendums for property taxpayers to fund just the basics. By targeting corporate tax havens and making sure big corporations pay their fair share, the investments in our schools that Minnesotans want are possible.
As vice chair of the Education Policy committee, and a member of the education finance committee, I'm proud to support this plan to level the playing field for families, senior citizens, farmers, and small businesses while providing the resources for investments in education.
REMINDER!
Speaking of taxes, don't forget to do them this weekend if you haven't yet - they are due on Monday! Remember as you do taxes that there are resources available to many people. There are free tax preparation resources available here, and nearly 65 percent of Minnesotans are eligible for free filing, you can read more about filing for free here.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is on the rise - it's a factor in one in four crashes and contributes to 59 deaths and 223 serious injuries annually in Minnesota. Minnesotans deserve safe roads. Democrats and Republicans worked together this week to pass a bill to increase drivers' safety. There are a lot of distractions out on the roads, and our cell phones are a constant cause of accidents and distraction.
I proudly voted for this bill that will make our roads safer by requiring Minnesotans to put down their phones and focus on the road - and today the Governor signed the hands-free bill into law!
The legislature will be in recess next week. I’ll be visiting Puerto Rico with my daughter to see firsthand how these resilient American citizens are rebuilding their families, communities, and economy after Hurricane Maria decimated this island. If you remember, hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria hit the USA with incredible destructive forces over a short period of time in 2017.
Despite many similarities, the storms had different effects, with 2,975 casualties attributed to Maria in Puerto Rico - far exceeding those of Irma in Florida and Harvey in Houston. I’m looking forward to this break from our extended winter; I’m planning to catch some R&R in the sun! We’re back in Session on Tuesday, April 23 where we will storm full steam ahead to final budget negotiations.
Best wishes and don’t worry; Spring really is here!
Sincerely,
Mary KP |
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