¡Saludos! Greetings Neighbors,
In these past four weeks at the capitol, my colleagues and I have worked diligently to move legislation through committees and are gearing up for busy weeks ahead on the House Floor. We are building on the historic achievements of last session, advancing legislation that improves the economy for working families, increases access to affordable housing, and makes health care affordable for all Minnesotans.
This past week was particularly productive, and here are some exciting developments:
Upcoming Town Hall Event
Join me for an upcoming Town Hall meeting on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at the Lost Fox, to discuss residential tenant rights to organize, business development and support, and public safety initiatives.
Here are the details:
Date: Wednesday, March 13th, 2024
Time: 6:00 P.M. -7:30 P.M.
Location: Lost Fox 213 4th St E #100, St Paul, MN 55101
I'm honored to have Ta-coumba, a Twin Cities artist, arts administrator, educator, and community activist who focuses on public art, lead a Community Arts Vision Canvas activity.
And, my dear friend and stage icon, DJ Sophia Eris, will be spinning tunes afterward.
No registration required. We'll see you there!
Housing Justice
Minnesotans deserve an opportunity to purchase homes at an affordable rate and be able to rent in the communities they are from. Unfortunately, corporate entities have been dominating home ownership and setting unaffordable rents, contributing significantly to our state's housing crisis.
As many of you know, I am big champion of equitable housing initiatives to improve the lives of all Minnesotans. That’s why I spoke in favor of my colleague, Rep. Esther Agbaje's (DFL-Minneapolis), housing bill that would give individuals and families an equitable opportunity for homeownership in the marketplace by restricting when corporations may purchase single-family homes.
You can watch the committee recording here: https://www.house.mn.gov/hjvid/93/898262
Local Climate Action Program
$2.3 million is available to help communities take climate action! The Local Climate Action Program will fund projects that keep our homes safe and loved ones healthy — nonprofits, local governments, and educational institutions should apply by April 30: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/.../local-climate-action-grants
House Approves 101 Environmental Projects
Minnesotans take pride in our legacy of environmental stewardship. That’s why I was proud to vote ‘yes’ on legislation to fund 101 projects across our state that protect our wildlife, water, air, and soil.?
The funding, which comes from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, uses a portion of our state lottery proceeds to ensure our environment and natural resources are protected for generations to come.
Children’s Minnesota Hospital
For International Women’s Day, I had the great honor of joining Star Studio, a media programming located at the Children’s Minnesota hospital which serves patients in both their St. Paul and Minneapolis locations. I appreciate their host THE DUDE who brings fun, music, and jokes to the kids here dealing with a lot. I used to be one of those kids at Children's when I was 1st diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes as a teen. Their Children's Zone provides a way for kids to be able to be kids through the battles of illness.
This place gives hope and confidence. Thank you for inviting the #RepWhoRaps to host BINGO and rhymes. Watch the recording here.
Ramadan Kareem
Happy Ramadan! To our neighbors in Minnesota celebrating this holy month, may Allah guide you and your family always and fill your life with full of prosperity and happiness.
Keep in Touch
Please continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at rep.maria.isa.perez-vega@house.mn.gov or 651-296-9714. You can also follow my official Facebook page.
Muchísimas Gracias,
Rep. María Isa Pérez-Vega
Minnesota House of Representatives
Committee Assignments:
Children and Families Finance and Policy
Housing Finance and Policy
Education Finance