Dear Neighbors,
I hope this finds you well and that you’ve had a chance to explore our state’s gorgeous fall colors. Nature is healing and with everything going on in the world, it’s a good time to take a break from the news and get outside for a brisk walk.
Our family had two wonderful family events this summer, two of our children having weddings! At the end of July, our youngest son Jacob married Kayli in a beautiful ceremony in Stillwater. It was truly a family affair; Jacques performed the ceremony, I did the centerpieces, and Kayli’s folks helped with the slideshow. It has been great getting to know Kayli’s family and seeing the incredible group of friends that they have surrounded themselves with.
In September, our daughter Madeline married Anna in an incredible destination location wedding in France. These two amazing women did a ton of organizing to put a beautiful and magical ceremony together. Madeline and Anna’s brothers performed at the ceremony, provided the music, and were part of the wedding party. We were so thankful to all the family who made the trip across the ocean to celebrate including Anna’s incredible family, both Jacques’ and my parents, and all of Madeline and Anna’s friends.
Although state legislators have no control over federal budget decisions, as we enter the third week of a federal government shutdown, I’m working with state agencies to track the impact on Minnesotans, particularly the thousands of federal employees that no longer have paychecks. I have also been closely tracking the changes at the U.S. Department of Education and the impacts including the firing of most of the staff that handles funding for our student’s with special needs.
Our congressional representatives Dr. Kelly Morrison, and Ilhan Omar have resources for impacted constituents here and here respectively. Minnesota is home to 20,000 federal workers and most of us rely on some federal service in our day-to-day lives. I’m in close contact with the Minnesota congressional delegation representing our district as they work to prevent crushing insurance premium increases for the 389,000 individuals and small businesses across the state.
Serving on the NCSL Committee on Education
I’m honored to share that the National Conference on State Legislatures has appointed me to serve as a vice chair on the NCSL’s Standing Committee on Education.The Committee educates Congress about state concerns and serves as a forum for state legislators and legislative staff to learn about and share information regarding initiatives in other states. The Education Committee has jurisdiction over a vast variety of education issues, including early childhood education, K-12 education and teachers, special education and higher education.
I’m looking forward to serving in this role, collaborating with other state elected officials to help us deliver solutions that meet our kids where they are academically and emotionally. You can read the official press release here.
Survey on Gun Violence
The Minnesota DFL has passed laws that reduce gun violence in Minnesota and is working on additional legislation. As a part of that effort, we created a survey where you can tell us your personal experience with gun violence. Many of the ways in which gun violence impacts our society occur on more personal levels and don’t get a lot of media attention. We are hoping to shine a light on these stories to raise awareness of the full cost of gun violence. Please take the time to fill out our survey if you have been impacted by gun violence.
Strong Job Growth in Clean Energy
The latest clean energy jobs report continues to show that DFLers’ investments in clean energy are working–creating good paying jobs, spurring innovation, and outpacing the overall economy.
Whether they work in energy efficiency, clean fuels, batteries, or construction, almost 64,000 Minnesotans now work in the clean energy economy. That’s a 2.6% increase from last year, and growing faster than the overall growth rate! The report shows job growth across the state, and I was glad to see that 11% of our clean energy workforce are veterans, compared with 4% statewide!
Though this report does show that Minnesota’s clean energy policies are working, we also know that the Trump Administration is targeting energy programs for cuts, causing energy bills to go up and costing Minnesotans jobs and economic security.
While DFLers won’t be able to fully make up for Trump’s cruel cutting of these projects and jobs, I’m committed to fighting for a strong clean energy economy that lowers energy prices, helps our climate, and creates good-paying jobs that help Minnesota families.
Preventing Invasive Species
Calling all lake property owners and lake service provider businesses – the health of Minnesota waters depends on you! Invasive species threaten our local ecosystems, and you can take common-sense steps to protect our water from threats like zebra mussels and faucet snails.
As fishing, boating, and cabin season come to a close, remember to clean, drain, and dry (for at least 21 days!) docks, lifts and swim rafts to prevent the spread of invasive species when removing equipment for seasonal storage.
For more information on how you can help protect our waters from invasive species when moving shoreline equipment, visit the DNR’s website here.
Hopkins Digital Access Initiative Survey Now Open
The Hopkins Digital Access Initiative wants your feedback. We all know tech can be hard and scams are real. In Hopkins, the Hopkins Digital Access Initiative is trying to make real change and connections for those who need it by planning for more digital learning opportunities and tech help throughout the community. Digital access isn’t just about technology – it’s about unlocking opportunity, building connections and creating a stronger community where everyone can thrive. Learn more and take the survey.
Connected to Community
Last week was a busy one! Tuesday I met with Hopkins Police Chief Johnson and Fire Chief Specken to get an update on all things public safety in the City of Hopkins.
I also had a chance to talk with two amazing constituents to talk about fun violence protection and technology integration. I finished off my Tuesday meeting with the President of the Edina Teacher’s Union, Jason Dockter, to learn about the incredible work of our Edina teachers.
Later in the week I met with folks from the Minnesota Broadcaster’s Association to discuss the importance of local radio and television, as well as the Minnesota Catholic Conference.
I’d like to extend a big congratulations to Julia Lorenzen, St. Louis Park High School, and Reece Kyran Joshi, Southwest High School, for being named Presidential Scholars! They are two of 161 students across the country acknowledged for their accomplishments. Learn more about the program here.
As always, the Hopkins Fire Department Open House is a fall favorite! We’re going to miss Chief Dale Specken! This is his last open house before he retires in December.
Keep in Touch
Please continue to contact me anytime at rep.cheryl.youakim@house.mn.gov or 651-296-9889 with questions or input. Email is the quickest way to get in touch.
Have a great week,
Cheryl Youakim
State Representative