Dear Friends,
This was another busy week at the Capitol. I presented two of my bills related to veterans in committee, final bills moved on the House floor, local constituents visited, and Governor Walz signed into law a controversial bill that will very likely lead to rolling blackouts in our state.
SERVICE BONUSES TO POST 9/11 VETERANS
Last year’s omnibus veterans and military affairs finance law included a $24 million appropriation for service bonuses to post 9/11 veterans and Gold Star families. Veterans who served honorably between Sept. 11, 2001, and Aug. 30, 2021 are now eligible for at least a $600 bonus. The $24 million was not enough to cover all of the veterans who are eligible for this program. No eligible veteran should be left out of this bonus that recognizes their important service to our state and nation. My bill would add an additional $22 million to the bonus program to ensure eligible veterans get their bonuses.
For more information on my veterans bill and the testifiers, please read this story penned by Session Daily.
Another veterans bill I’m sponsoring was also heard in committee this week. It would provide a special purple heart medal license plate that would say “Combat Wounded Vet” free of charge to those vets who apply and qualify for this by being recipient of a Purple Heart medal.
100% CARBON-FREE ENERGY BY 2040 BILL SIGNED INTO LAW
Recently, I highlighted the problems associated with the Democrats’ “blackout bill” which follows in the footsteps of California and requires Minnesota electric utilities to generate or acquire 100 percent carbon-free energy in just 17 years - by the year 2040. Despite the fact that Minnesota is already on the cusp of an electricity shortage, and grid unreliability concerns have been voiced by grid experts, Governor Walz has signed the bill into law.
This bill was approved entirely with complete Democrat support. Not one Republican voted for it because it advances our grid too quickly to intermittent energy sources that will leave us in a position where we do not have the technology to maintain sustainable and affordable power. We all support clean energy, but this unrealistic pace will put Minnesotans in a dangerous and expensive situation and rolling blackouts reminiscent to California will be coming to Minnesota. The only caveat is, when Californians have blackouts they can head to the beach; when Minnesotans have blackouts we are left to huddle in freezing, unheated homes. Not good!
TAXPAYER FUNDED BREAKFAST AND LUNCH FOR ALL MINNESOTA STUDENTS PASSES IN THE HOUSE
HF5 passed in the House Thursday on a fully partisan DFL vote. This bill would provide fully taxpayer funded breakfast and lunch for all students regardless of income. The cost of this legislation will be over $200 million a year which is equal to a 2% increase per year on the per-pupil formula.
Folks, this is a perfect example of government causing a problem and then government swooping in to “fix” the problem by creating a new and expensive program. DFL policies at the state and national level have driven up the cost of life for everyone due to high inflation. Those high costs of energy, gasoline, clothing, and even a carton of eggs have pushed more families into financial stress and they struggle to pay for student meals.
We all want to help struggling families who can’t afford to pay for breakfast and lunch for their children. I don’t think anyone would argue against that. But just saying “aw-shucks, let’s just pay for everyone no matter if they need it or not” is fiscally irresponsible and a slap in taxpayers’ faces.
I offered an amendment to increase the eligibility level for the school lunch program to pull in and pay for the students of families who are in need – but not pay for wealthy families who do not need or want this. In addition, my amendment would take the remaining funds (a significant amount) and put it on the per-pupil formula for schools to use to lower class sizes, provide remedial help for students, pay teachers more, or whatever needs local schools choose to target. Unfortunately, my amendment was voted down.
Money doesn’t grow on trees. This bill makes no sense. We should responsibly focus taxpayer dollars and smartly fund education. This does neither. I voted NO on this bill.
LOCAL VISITORS
It was so nice to see Albert Lea student Raya Roberts, at the Capitol. She was here advocating for the 4-H program. I am a strong supporter of 4-H. It builds character, practical skills, and enhances academics in young people. Thanks for visiting, Raya!
It was also great to chat with local constituents from the Minnesota Land Improvement Contactors of America. They came to the Capitol to share thoughts on issues and bills moving through the legislature that impact their field. Everything we do in government has far reaching impacts that we as legislators sometimes don’t see. It’s important to hear from the “boots on the ground” people like this. Thank you for taking the time to let me hear your thoughts and ideas!
Have a good weekend,
Peggy