Dear neighbors,
Many constituents have reached out about their ongoing issues and concerns with the Water Gremlin situation. Thank you to everyone who has shared their stories, fears, and frustrations with me over the past few weeks. I’ve heard your concerns, and I’m committed to addressing them. I’ve introduced legislation to protect the health of Minnesotans and ensure that people who’ve been impacted have input on what remedies are offered to the community.
TCE Ban
The first bill I introduced would ban TCE in Minnesota and require manufacturers to replace it with a safer alternative (HF 2276). It would also prohibit producing household products that contain TCE. This won’t help those in our community who’ve already been exposed, but it will protect other communities in Minnesota from being exposed to this toxic substance.
You can watch the first public hearing regarding the bill here.
Public Input
I also wrote a bill that would give the people of White Bear Township, White Bear Lake, and Gem Lake the power to determine what solutions are best for our community and Minnesota. It requires the legislature and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to work with individuals and businesses from the area of concern to decide how the funds from the state’s settlement with Water Gremlin should be used (HF 2368). I look forward to working with community stakeholders to address concerns and move these proposals forward.
Retaining Child Care Professionals
Minnesota currently has a shortage of qualified child care professionals. They are often paid considerably less than other educators, and many end up leaving the field as a result. Yesterday I introduced a plan to help them stay in the workforce (HF 2264). The REETAIN program would provide grants to child care professionals that provide consistent care to children over time. This would create stability that benefits young children, families, and child care workers.
If you’re interested in early childhood programs, check out the latest episode of the Minnesota Values Podcast. My colleague Rep. Carlie Kotyza-Witthuhn discussed the Great Start for All Minnesota Children Act (HF 1), one of the bills that I’m supporting. Tune in here.
Support for Minnesota Math Corps
As a Minnesota Reading Corps alum, I’ve seen how impactful tutoring programs can be for students and schools. That’s why I’m proud to be carrying a bill to invest in the Minnesota Math Corps (HF 1177). This program helps students develop the math skills that they need to succeed by pairing learners with trained AmeriCorps members. More information about Minnesota Math Corps is available here.
As always, please contact me with any questions or feedback. It’s an honor to serve our community.
Sincerely,
Ami Wazlawik
State Representative