Dear Neighbors,
Thanks to everyone who has visited me in St. Paul, or contacted me to talk about various state issues. Session is a fun, fast-paced time that is made even more enjoyable when I can interact with folks from our area.
It’s been an eventful week early on in session. We received our budget forecast, I introduced new bills, and I had a great visit with some local heroes.
Budget Forecast
On Wednesday, we learned Minnesota should have a $329 million surplus, a jump in the right direction from our November forecast. We’re seeing the positive impact of tax relief and a responsible state budget. Minnesota’s economy continues to grow while our residents can keep more of their paychecks; it’s a win-win.
The forecast shed some light on the direction we will head with priorities like a bonding bill. There’s still lots of decisions to be made this session, and I hope you’ll reach out as we continue our budget discussions.
New Bills
With session in full swing, I’m starting to introduce some bills I hope begin to move in the legislative process. One bill, HF3190, is a bipartisan proposal to allow our schools to use extended time funds for career and technical education courses that they hold outside of the school day. I think this is good policy because it allows school districts flexibility to meet the needs of students in the career/tech areas in creative and practical ways.
I’m also co-authoring legislation to aid registrars who’ve been hurt financially from the faulty licensing system, MNLARS. The overtime and extra costs can be devastating for license centers and registrars, and it’s not their fault. These hardworking Minnesotans should be made whole for the state’s botched rollout of MNLARS.
As session goes forward, I’m hoping to have my bills heard in committee, and potentially considered on the House floor. As the process moves, I’ll be sure to keep you updated.
Firefighter Visit
It’s always a pleasure to have local residents come visit me at the Capitol, and especially so when it’s our local firefighters! I want to thank Albert Lea firefighters Jeff Laskowske and Dennis Glassel for their visit and for keeping me abreast of firefighter issues for our area and our state. Most of all, thank you, Jeff and Dennis, and all our other local firefighters for serving our communities and helping keep us safe!
Congrats, Wrestlers!
I want to congratulate the Albert Lea wrestling team on taking home the consolation championship this week in St. Paul! We’re so proud of their season, and for representing our area in front of the whole state. Again, congratulations on an amazing year!
Please Contact Me
Please don't hesitate to contact me anytime with questions or comments on any issue facing the legislature; I’m here to help. Email me at rep.peggy.bennett@house.mn or call my office at 651-296-8216.
Have a great weekend,
Peggy