Week of April 30 – May 7
Backroom Deals Lead GOP Legislators to Remove Internet Privacy Provisions
Earlier this year, the House and Senate voted in favor of provisions that would limit what internet service providers could do with their customers’ data. Now, these provisions have been entirely removed from the conference committee report in a backroom deal between just two legislators. I am incredibly disappointed that my Republican colleagues are sacrificing Minnesotan’s privacy. There’s still a chance that these provisions could make their way into the final bill so I am holding out hope.
Keeping Big Money Out of Politics
Senate and House Republicans on the State Government Finance Conference Committee voted to eliminate the campaign-finance laws that allow people like me to get elected. The campaign subsidy program is intended to keep Minnesota’s elections more affordable so people from all walks of life can get elected to serve in public office. Without the support from public subsidies, I would not have been able to run my campaign.
Campaign subsidies keeps big money out of politics since candidates must agree to spending limits in order to qualify for the subsidies. Funding for this program is based on the number of taxpayers in a district who voluntarily check off the box on their Minnesota taxes to have the state commit $5 to the fund. This program creates an affordable and fair playing field for all candidates in statewide campaigns. If this program is eliminated, only those who have access to wealth or special interest dollars will be able to run for public office.
Ms. Ali Wachutka’s 3rd grade class at Scenic Heights Elementary came for a tour of the Capitol earlier this month. Now, it was my turn to visit them!
EPHS students Connor Lynch, Shelby Evans, and Jack Benik interviewed me this past week. They asked some really great questions about lobbying and its effect on government.
I had two great visits with students from Eden Lake Elementary along with Representative Loon, one on Tuesday and the other on Thursday. It gives me great joy to see so many young people learning about government.
Tuesday night, former student of mine Nasir Nourkadi recieved an award from the Eden Prairie Human Rights Council. I know that he is destined to change the world.
Southwest LRT Moves Forward With Critical Funding from Federal Government
Earlier this week the temporary federal budget was released, which included $10 million for the Southwest light-rail line.The Metropolitan Council believes this is a positive sign that the Federal Transit Administration will move forward with the project and allocate the full $928 million grant later this year. The only obstacle that remains is to block any provisions Republicans have in the Transportation bill. As the project moves forward, I am confident that Southwest LRT will prevail.
Education Budget Nowhere Close to a Compromise
Voluntary Pre-K: Every Child Deserves A Good Start
I am very disappointed that Republicans want to eliminate a program that has proven to be effective. Voluntary Pre-K is an important investment in the lives of thousands of children who deserve to attend preschool. The map above shows districts that received funding last year in blue, with those applying but not receiving funds in green. With demand being so high, it is a shame to see efforts to cut this program.
Research confirms that Minnesota is already on its way to narrowing achievement gaps, thanks to investments made in voluntary preschool. In addition, this program relieves the financial burden from parents who do not have to worry about paying out of pocket for preschool. Minnesota receives a huge return on its investment as these children grow up and begin contributing to our economy.
1.5% Increase in Per Pupil Funding Is Not Enough
With a $1.6 billion budget surplus, it is astounding to see an education budget that shortchanges Minnesota’s youth. A 1.5% per pupil funding increase is nowhere near enough to keep up with costs and inflation. More students are entering the system, and we cannot afford the shortchange students.
Additional areas of concern
Also under this plan, grants for promoting civic engagement would be cut, including the Minnesota Youth Council, where I serve as the Legislative Liaison. This bill would also mean that the Perpich Center for Arts school would be forced to shut its doors in 2020. These are two provisions that I cannot support.
Town Hall Listening Session
Join me on Saturday, May 13th from 9:00-10:00 am at Eden Prairie High School (17185 Valley View Road) for a Town Hall Listening Session. Be sure to stop by for thoughtful conversation and a chance to meet some of your neighbors!
Arts in the Park
Saturday, May 20th, 2017
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Purgatory Creek Park
13001 Technology Drive
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Browse and shop for artwork while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Purgatory Creek Park.
Visit local and regional vendors selling glass, jewelry, paintings, wood, photography, sculptures and more! Also enjoy live entertainment, face painting, kids activities, beer tasting and food trucks.