Minnesota Legislature 48 , CD3 DFL

Rep. Samantha Vang (HD40B) Update: January 7, 2021

Dear Neighbors,

Even though it has felt like we have been in a perpetual session for the past year, this week is the official beginning of the 2021 session. I am honored to return to the Capitol where I will continue to advocate for your needs. COVID-19 will continue to play a significant role in how we approach legislating this year, and while we are a split legislature once more I am hopeful that we will be able to accomplish a lot of good.

I am appalled by the armed violent protests that occurred in Washington DC. I am disappointed by President Trump’s lack of leadership that allowed for these protests to get as far as it did. Violence is never the answer. Safety comes before all else. It is my priority to keep our staff and members safe while getting input from the public. I expect Minnesotans to abide by the rule of law and treat legislators, staff, and each other with respect and dignity.

Rep. Erin Koegel (HD37A) Update: January 7, 2021

Dear Neighbors,

I am truly heartbroken by the wave of mob violence and destruction at our nation’s Capitol. Violence is never an answer, and the rhetoric and misinformation that leads to this kind of violence should be condemned as well. On a positive note, I am confident in our institutions here in Minnesota and I know that we will be able to govern safely, with respect and decency.

Rep. Zack Stephenson Update: January 7, 2021

Dear Neighbors,

Yesterday’s rioting at our nation’s capital was a heartbreaking day for our country. Violence is never the answer, and the peaceful transfer of power and governance of our nation- the very foundation of our democracy- must continue. We have work to do for the state of Minnesota, and I am committed to ensuring our legislative session can function respectfully and safely. Session got underway in Minnesota on Tuesday and I am humbled to have been sworn in for another two year-term representing our Champlin and Coon Rapids communities.

Although we continue to operate remotely in the Minnesota House in accordance with public health guidelines, it’s critical we ensure openness and transparency for the public. I’m pleased to share that the House has expanded the number of simultaneous committees it can webcast live from a maximum of two to five, so you can tune in and stay up to date on issues moving through committees from the comfort of your home or office.

Senator Newton Sworn-in to Second Term in Minnesota Senate

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – The 2021 Legislative Session began Tuesday, January 5 with the swearing-in of the 67 new and returning members of the Minnesota State Senate, including Senator Jerry Newton (DFL-Coon Rapids) who will be returning for his second term.

“I am honored to be returning to the senate to continue to serve the people of Senate District 37 as we get to work addressing the issues and challenges facing Minnesotans throughout the state,” said Senator Newton. “Over the next few months, I look forward to working with my colleagues in addressing the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, passing a fair and balanced budget, and ensuring a strong economic recovery for all Minnesotans.”

Senator Newton will be serving as the DFL-Lead on the Veterans and Military Affairs Finance and Policy Committee, as well as on the Energy and Utilities Finance and Policy Committee. Senator Newton will also continue to serve as Chair of the Legislative Permanent School Fund Commission and as a member on the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission.

Rep. Vang Accepts Position as Deputy Pro Tempore

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA — On Tuesday, Rep. Samantha Vang (DFL – Brooklyn Center) accepted the position of Deputy Speaker Pro Tempore where she will preside over the House should Speaker Hortman and Rep. Olson the Speaker Pro Tempore be absent. Representative Vang is the Vice Chair of the Agriculture Finance & Policy Committee and the Chair of the People of Color and Indigenous Caucus. She is serving her second term as a State Representative.

“I’m excited to take on this leadership role for the DFL House Majority,” said Rep.Vang. “As we begin the new year, the House DFL will work tirelessly to lift all Minnesotans, especially workers, families, and small businesses, up from the hardships this pandemic has brought upon us in the past year.”

Sen. John Hoffman (SD36) Update: January 5, 2021

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

The 2021 Session begins today and we have many issues before us. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Senate District 36 and the State of Minnesota. While we work on handling Covid and vaccine distribution the primary purpose of this year is a budget year. This is when we decide how we spend a majority of our budget for the following two years.

Vaccines will also be distributed over the coming months. In this Newsletter you will find information on Covid resources of all kinds, as well as information on vaccines and priority. Something important I’d like to make clear is that no Vaccine will be mandated, so it is optional once it is available to you.

Also, thank you to everyone who participated in our Toy Drive! It was a massive success thanks to all of those who donated to light up the lives of children.

Rep. Heather Edelson (HD49A) Update: January 4, 2021

Dear Neighbors,

I hope you were able to enjoy a relaxing holiday to close out 2020.

First and foremost, I’d like to share that Hennepin County is now accepting applications from small businesses who have been impacted economically by the pandemic as a part of the Minnesota Small Business Relief program. Please share with any Edina small businesses that were not included in the first round of relief grants.

Session 2021 Tool-Kit

The legislative session begins tomorrow and I’m ready to hit the ground running on a continued COVID-19 response and economic recovery for our state.

Rep. Melissa Hortman (HD36B) Update: January 1, 2021

Dear Neighbors,

2020 is behind us, ending the one of the most challenging years we’ve experienced in our lifetimes.

I believe that in 2021 we will beat COVID-19, we’ll be able to enjoy being in each other’s company again without worrying about getting each other sick, and we’ll recover the jobs we lost as we fought this disease. At the Minnesota House, we will continue our work to ensure that every Minnesotan has affordable health care, great educational opportunities from pre-school through job training, and economic security.

I look forward to working with Governor Walz and Senate Majority Leader Gazelka to reach a reasonable compromise on the state’s next two-year budget that serves the needs of the people of Minnesota.

Finally, after this difficult year, my personal New Year’s resolution is to continue to be grateful for all that I have — most especially my health and my family. Today I am grateful for fantastic cross country skiing conditions, with great snow and sunshine. I’ll be hitting the trail soon! I hope 2021 brings you joy and peace.

Best wishes for a healthy and happy New Year for you and your friends and family!

As always, please contact me anytime with your input. I appreciate hearing from you! You can reach me at 651-296-4280 or rep.melissa.hortman@house.mn. You can also keep up with what’s happening at the Capitol by liking my legislative Facebook page. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Melissa Hortman

Majority Leader Winkler issues statement about newest minimum wage increase

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA — The state minimum wage will increase on January 1, 2021, marking eight straight years of pay raises for Minnesotans with little to no economic security. It’s the result of a 2014 law that adjusts wages annually to account for inflation. Majority Leader Ryan Winkler was the chief author of the 2014 reforms and says very little has changed around the politics of the issue.

“Democrats’ efforts to raise the wage helps working Minnesotans earn a decent living, but Republican politicians are holding us back by serving corporations, the rich, and well-connected,” said Majority Leader Winkler. “We know that our annual pay raises alone aren’t enough to help Minnesotans earn a living wage, and that’s why House Democrats are determined to provide affordable health care, child care, paid leave, and a secure retirement for all who work.”

Rep. Kristin Bahner Update: December 28, 2020

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this finds you and your family well. These are tough times and we are all tired. Like many of you with loved ones serving as first responders, healthcare professionals and those in long term care, it has been a long winding road of worry and heartache. With a vaccine on the horizon there is a ray of hope as the first doses reach Minnesota.

With this news, some of us have been blessed with relief that we still have loved ones with us, relief that we were spared the pain so many families have had to endure that were not so fortunate, relief that the ache to hug our loved ones like so many families will soon be over. It feels as if a weight has lifted, a heavy burden for so many families in my community. I feel a weighty responsibility to them all.

I remain immensely grateful to the incredible staff caring for our loved ones all these months. I have unwavering gratitude for the doctors, nurses, and staff in our hospitals and clinics, the researchers who develop the vaccine, health department workers coordinating its distribution, and the workers driving this sunshine to all the facilities that make this possible.

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Session 2021 Tool-Kit

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