Dear Neighbors,
At the Capitol, we are now focused on the budget, passing budget bills on various topics through the Ways and Means Committee (in the House) and the Finance Committee (in the Senate), before expected marathon floor debates on each bill. Once the House and Senate pass our respective bills, we’ll meet in conference committees to assemble the final budgets. These must be repassed (without amendment) in each body and then on to the Governor for his signature.
My Work at the Capitol
A great deal of my daily work at the Capitol is chairing the Health and Finance and Policy Committee and supporting the work of my colleagues who are doing critical work on issues within our committee’s jurisdiction. Right now, we are hard at work putting the finishing touches on our budget bill for the next two years. I’m very excited about our bill, which will improve the health of Minnesotans, make healthcare more affordable, accessible, and equitable, and better prepare our state for future pandemics.
Trans Refuge Bill
With attacks against the trans community on the rise across the country, it’s critical to protect the health and wellbeing of our trans neighbors and loved ones. That’s why the Minnesota House recently passed the Trans Refuge bill. This legislation prevents out-of-state laws from interfering in the practice of gender-affirming health care. I’m proud to have voted for this legislation and will continue to stand up for our queer community and the right of everyone to make private health care decisions in consultation with health care providers.
Protecting Our Democracy
In 2022, with democracy squarely on the ballot, Minnesotans of every race, generation, region, and background showed up to participate in democracy and to protect it. And the best way to protect democracy is to remove barriers to participation. That’s why we voted this week to pass the Democracy for the People Act, which makes it more convenient for voters to participate and limits the influence of dark money in our elections. These are just a few of the policies that will help ensure that every eligible Minnesotan has the freedom to vote.
House Higher Ed Budget Proposal
Last Wednesday, we passed our proposed Higher Education budget. With declining enrollment across higher education, we’re providing a record increase in investment for Minnesota’s colleges and universities to hold tuition in check. Our budget prioritizes a higher education system that is accessible, affordable, and effectively building the skilled workforce Minnesota needs.
Whether it’s a tuition freeze across the Minnesota State system, addressing the U of M’s tuition shortfall, investing in our tribal colleges, or ensuring today’s students are prepared for tomorrow’s jobs, our Higher Education budget is crucial to Minnesota’s future.
2023 Legacy Budget Bill
In 2008, Minnesota’s voters passed the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment because all of us want our state to be a great place to live, work, and play. On Wednesday, House DFLers passed legislation distributing these funds, over $820 million, to continue the important work of restoring, enhancing, and protecting Minnesota’s most treasured spaces and places and increasing access for all.
With investments in our outdoor heritage, clean water, parks and trails, and arts and cultural heritage, the 2023 Legacy Budget Bill will make our state a better place to live for current and future generations, including by expanding free parks days and arts and cultural education programs. DFLers are expanding opportunities so all communities can access Legacy funding.
Stay in Touch
Please contact me with your questions, comments, and concerns, or if I can ever be of assistance. The best way to reach me is to email me at rep.tina.liebling@house.mn.gov. Please be sure to include your postal address so I’ll know you are my constituent. If you call my Capitol office at 651-296-0573 and leave a message, please include your email and street address. I also encourage you to follow me at my official Facebook page here.
Thank you for allowing me to represent you.
Warmly,
Tina