Dear Neighbors,
I hope you’re having a great week! It’s hard to believe February has come and gone. I’ve had some neighbors reach out with concerns about ice dams. The Minnesota Department of Commerce offers helpful tips for how to deal with them now and how to prevent them in the future, which can also save you money on your heating bills. You can find this information about steps to take related to air sealing and ventilation here. Please reach out if I can be of any assistance.
Here’s an update from St. Paul:
State Economic Forecast
On Thursday last week, the Minnesota Management and Budget Agency announced a revised economic forecast showing a reduction in the state’s positive budgetary balance. Minnesota’s budget experts say the balance declined by a third from the previous forecast, released in early December 2018. You can read more about the budget forecast here.
The state budget forecast reflects current law, and is based on the most recent information about the national and state economic outlook. What this estimate does not include is the rate of inflation in future years.
While Minnesota’s budget remains relatively stable, federal uncertainty threatens the economic outlook for our state and Minnesota families. It’s important to exercise caution; that’s why I’m reviewing legislation that would include the rate of inflation in these economic forecasts. The goal would be to give more accurate numbers, helping us enact wise budgeting and smart investments for the future. Please feel free to share your priorities and thoughts with me to help shape this process.
Legislation for Our Students’ Health and Success
Last week, I presented a bill which allows students to have and use sunscreen at school or school events without a prescription or note from a health professional. This is a long overdue, simple but important fix to state law to protect our kids at school from developing skin cancer.
Today, the House Education Finance Committee held a public hearing on my bill to allow ISD 276 to allocate existing funding to the design, construction, furnishing and equipping of an early childhood classroom space. All our students deserve a great start in life and I’m excited to sponsor this opportunity for the kids in our community.
Thanks to Minnetonka Schools Superintendent Dennis Peterson and Executive Director of Minnetonka Community Education Tim Litfin for testifying in support of the bill. |
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‘Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act’ Update
My bill to create more transparency around prescription drug prices will receive its first public hearing on Friday in the Health and Human Services Policy Committee. This is a great first step and I look forward to earning the support of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle.
Constituent Spotlight
I had a great meeting with constituents this week from Tonka Bay and Chanhassen. I appreciate them making the trip to St. Paul to advocate for affordable housing and bipartisan improvements to real estate policies. |
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Stay in Touch
Please continue writing, calling and emailing about the issues most important to you! I appreciate your ideas and input.
Have a great week!
Sincerely,
Kelly |
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