Dear neighbors,
Today marks the end of my first month at the legislature! While there’s a great deal left to do in the remaining months of the session, I’m encouraged by the progress made so far. This week, I’m highlighting the work we’re doing to advance economic opportunity for all Minnesota families.
Fighting for Families
Research shows that the period of time from birth to age 3 is incredibly important for brain development, and that investing in children’s early years can help get them and their families off to a great start. Early childhood development is also crucial for a strong economy, as healthy kids are more likely to lead long adult lives and participate in their communities. I’m a co-author of the Great Start for All Minnesota Children Act, legislation that supports prenatal care, home visiting programs for new parents, and early care and learning programs. Learn more about this proposal—H.F. 1—here.
I’m also supporting H.F. 5, the Paid Family and Medical Leave Act. This legislation would allow Minnesotans to bond with a new baby or care for an aging parent without risking their career or financial stability. It also helps small businesses compete for workers by helping them provide benefits that many large employers already offer.
I’m proud to be a co-author of a proposal that ensures that Minnesotans get an hour’s pay for an hour’s work. Every year, more than 39,000 employees in the state experience wage theft. Some are forced to stay and clean up after clocking out. Others are paid less than minimum wage or simply not paid at all. Workers often fear recrimination or losing their jobs if they complain. H.F. 6 would support workers dealing with wage theft and make sure they get every penny in wages and benefits they deserve.
MNCASA Rally
As a survivor, advocate, and ally, I was honored to have the opportunity to speak at the Minnesota Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MNCASA) Day of Action rally on Wednesday. I will continue working with MNCASA and other allies to support survivors as they seek healing and pursue justice.
MPCA Updates
Several constituents have reached out regarding the TCE pollution in our community and yesterday’s postponed public information meeting with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. I have heard your concerns about lack of notice from the MPCA. Yesterday I sent a letter to MPCA Commissioner Laura Bishop urging her to expand the agency’s outreach efforts and send physical mail notices to residents. You can read that letter here.
I’ll be working with Commissioner Bishop and the MPCA to increase public awareness of the issue. I’ll also share details about future public meetings as soon as they are announced.
Please feel free to contact me with questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Ami Wazlawik
State Representative