Dear Neighbors,
As a mother, a community leader and a state representative, my heart is heavy. The unthinkable tragedy at Annunciation Catholic School was tragic and senseless, and it should never happen again. No one should face the fear of gun violence in their daily life—whether at school, in a place of worship, or in their neighborhood. Especially not our children. Harper and Fletcher should still be with us. I am heartbroken for the families, friends, teachers, classmates, and all of the other victims and loved ones whose lives are forever changed.
Gun violence is a uniquely American crisis. It is now the leading cause of death for children in our country. We know stronger firearm laws and accountability measures save lives. While Minnesota has made progress—passing background checks, red flag laws, and other safety measures—there is much more to do. A safer future will require a comprehensive approach and ongoing conversations about meaningful action.
I am deeply grateful to those who have already reached out with ideas and advocacy. I will keep listening—centered on the voices of survivors—as we consider further measures, including restrictions on weapons designed for mass harm. We cannot accept a status quo where gun violence is treated as normal.
Governor Walz has raised the possibility of a special session. Both the House and Senate are awaiting special elections to fill vacancies, and I am monitoring this closely. I will keep you updated if the Governor moves forward.
As many of you know, gun violence prevention and creating safer communities has and will continue to be a top priority for me. Some gun violence legislation I have already signed onto includes a ban on assault weapons, a requirement to safely store firearms, and a mandate to report lost and stolen firearms. This summer, I’ve worked with Everytown for Gun Safety, joined the Legislators for Safer Communities coalition, and brought a brilliant group of student policy fellows together from Edina and Bloomington high schools to draft legislation that would prohibit—or at least require safe storage of—firearms in vehicles on school property. There is much more work to do.
A Gun Violence Prevention Community Conversation in Edina is currently being planned. When we have the details set, I will be sure to share them with you.
I am moved by the words from Matthew DuBois, principal of Annunciation Catholic School, who shared an African proverb: “When you pray, move your feet”, and hope you are too.
Resources
Additional Resources
- See It, Say It, Send It App: Report threats anonymously to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Call 1-877-996-6222 or email bca.tips@state.mn.us.
- Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs): Also known as red flag laws, ERPOs allow temporary restrictions on firearm access for individuals posing a threat. Learn more here.
As fall begins and students return to school, I am holding our kids especially close. I want them to spend their days learning, growing, and playing—free from fear. My sincere hope is that each and every student has a safe and peaceful school year.
Stay Connected
I welcome your thoughts and questions. You can reach me at rep.julie.greene@house.mn.gov or 651-296-4363. To receive regular legislative updates, subscribe, and follow along on my facebook page.
Thank you for staying engaged. It is an honor to represent you and our community.
In solidarity,
Julie Greene
State Representative
District 50A