Legislative Update from Rep. Jay Xiong

Greetings Eastsiders,     

It has been another very full week as we have made big strides of progress for Minnesotans. But first, some exciting news about a new addition to our streets.   

Welcoming Blizzo

All the “Rumors” are true... The people of Minnesota have spoken, and heading out into the streets this winter is our “Special” newly named metro area snow plow, Blizzo.   

Around this time of year, we are all usually wishing for spring. Unfortunately, the “Truth Hurts” -- we have a little longer to wait until the snow stops flying. Luckily, Blizzo will be out on the streets trailblazing a path for those behind her.  

Addressing Food Insecurity

Last night, the Minnesota House voted to pass two important bills aimed at addressing food insecurity in our schools and community. HF 5 would create a state program for schools to provide up to two free meals per day to all students, and HF 213 would provide an investment of $5 million for food shelf programs in light of record numbers of visits to food shelves last year.   

Too many families are struggling to meet basic needs, with black and brown communities being hit the hardest. Nobody in Minnesota should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from or choose between paying for groceries and paying rent. Addressing food insecurity both in schools and at home is vital to ensuring a safe and healthy community, but it is just one piece of the puzzle. We have more work to do, and DFLers are taking swift action to lift up struggling families and ensure all Minnesotans can live and thrive here. 

Prioritizing Education

This session, DFLers have introduced many impactful bills aimed directly at helping improve and support Minnesota’s education system. I am the lead author on HF 320, which will strengthen the Teachers of Color Act so the diversity of Minnesota’s students is better reflected by those teaching in the classroom. Here are more exciting bills we are working on: 

I will keep you updated as these bills progress. Many schools in our district would benefit immensely from these bills, and I am excited to see real movement under DFL leadership. 

Cannabis Legalization in Workforce Development

This week, the Workforce Development Committee heard HF 100, a proposal to legalize adult-use cannabis in Minnesota. The committee passed the bill, the seventh committee to do so. It still has a few more stops to make before it can be heard on the House floor, but I am optimistic we will get this done for Minnesota.  

Keep in Touch

Please continue reaching out at rep.jay.xiong@house.mn.gov or simply reply to this email to get in touch!   

I appreciate your attention to these legislative updates. Have a good week.  

In Solidarity,  

Jay Xiong  

State Representative