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Dear neighbors,
I was deeply disturbed and saddened by the attack on our nation’s Capitol this week. What we saw on Wednesday was an attempt to undermine our democracy, fueled by the spread of misinformation. Tragically, five people have died, including a Capitol police officer.
Those who engaged in violence or intentionally provoked it should be held accountable, and the dangerous and divisive rhetoric that led to these events needs to end. We must stand together to protect our democracy and reject efforts to undermine the will of voters.
2021 Legislative Session Begins
On Tuesday, I was sworn in for another term in the Minnesota House of Representatives. It's an honor to continue serving the people of Minnetonka, Plymouth, and Woodland. I am ready to work hard for our community and the state of Minnesota!
I’m excited to announce that I will be Vice Chair of the Climate and Energy Finance and Policy Committee this session. I will also serve on the Environment and Natural Resources Finance and Policy Committee, the Legacy Finance Committee, and the Preventative Health Policy Division.
Join Us for a Virtual Town Hall
Sen. Ann Johnson Stewart, Rep. Ginny Klevorn, and I are holding a virtual town hall next week to hear your feedback and discuss the 2021 legislative session. On Saturday, January 16 at 10 a.m., you can join us via Zoom by clicking the following link: https://zoom.us/j/98163177895?pwd=dHc0UCtaSFlrNUJ3MS9FTVNkc0Y5QT09. You can also join via phone by calling 312-626-6799 and entering the meeting ID (981 6317 7895) and passcode (733138) when prompted. We hope to see you then!
Small Business Grant Applications Open
As a result of bipartisan collaboration between the House, Senate, and Governor, additional economic support is now available to Minnesota’s small businesses. Hennepin County recently opened the grant application process, and the online form can be accessed here until January 14. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any assistance or have questions about eligibility.
Updated Public Health Guidelines
Thanks to the actions Minnesotans have taken over the past month, COVID-19 cases in our state are on a downward trend. In response, Governor Walz announced that some of the current restrictions will be loosened starting on January 11. You can find more information about the new guidelines here, but these are some of the changes that will take effect:
- Indoor dining will be allowed to reopen at 50 percent capacity. Reservations will be required, and bars and restaurants must close by 10 p.m.
- Indoor event and entertainment venues may open at 25 percent capacity. The maximum capacity for outdoor events and entertainment will increase.
- Gym capacity will remain capped at 25 percent, but maximum capacity and class numbers can increase. Pools can open at 25 percent capacity.
- Wedding receptions and other private events may resume. Capacity limits and other restrictions will vary depending on where the event is held.
- Youth and adult sports may resume games with spectators on January 14.
How to Stay Connected This Session
Most of our work will be done remotely this session due to COVID-19, but there will still be plenty of opportunities to follow and participate in the legislative process. All public hearings and floor sessions will be broadcast on five House live stream channels, and House Public Information Services will continue providing nonpartisan news. You can follow their page on Facebook or subscribe to Session Daily to receive updates from the Capitol. I’ll continue to send these emails regularly, and you can follow my official Facebook page for more frequent updates.
I always appreciate hearing your questions and feedback, so please don’t hesitate to reach out! You can contact me at rep.patty.acomb@house.mn or 651-296-9934.
Sincerely,
Patty Acomb
State Representative
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