Hi Neighbors,
In between committee hearings and constituent meetings, I’ve been cheering on the 17 incredible Minnesotans making us proud at the Olympics this week. Of course, while passing bills requires far less athletic ability, creating consensus in Washington sometimes feels like an Olympic marathon. Like you, I’m looking forward to more meaningful progress – and Team USA victories – in the days to come. Here’s what else I’ve been up to:
Honoring Gold Star Children
As a Gold Star son, issues affecting veterans, members of the military, and their families are deeply important to me. Last week, I introduced a bipartisan, bicameral resolution to mark August 1, 2021, as Gold Star Children’s Day, recognizing the sacrifices of children of fallen servicemembers. I understand firsthand the sacrifices made by some so that ALL may enjoy the freedoms we hold dear as Americans – and so that we may continue to be blessed to live in the oldest and most successful continuous democracy in the world.
The thousands of sons and daughters of military families that have lost loved ones serving in the Armed Forces deserve national recognition for the unique burden and legacy they carry. Until now, the unimaginable sacrifices of Gold Star Children have not been recognized with a dedicated day for reflection – and that ends here.
Climate Solutions for Small Businesses
As Chairman of the Oversight, Investigations and Regulations Subcommittee of the House Small Business Committee – and a longtime business owner myself – I’m on a mission to ensure America’s small businesses are in a position to innovate and grow. Last week, I convened a hearing to examine the role the Small Business Administration (SBA) can play in fighting climate change.
The climate crisis has the potential to cost our nation 10.5 percent of GDP by 2100. I believe this issue can be addressed through bold legislation and green energy initiatives that will benefit not only small businesses and their employees, but the economy as a whole. Climate change is an existential crisis, but it is a crisis that presents numerous opportunities. By crafting programs that provide proper support for small businesses as they adapt and innovate, we can help protect our planet and lay the groundwork for small businesses to not only survive, but thrive.
Celebrating Entrepreneurs in our Community
Minnesota is home to many innovative, smart, and compassionate entrepreneurs working to make a difference in our community and beyond. We are so lucky to have one of these remarkable people right in our back yard. During her time in the healthcare industry, Hilal Ibrahim noticed a lack of hijabs in the workplace. Through ingenuity and hard work, she created a hijab with slits to accommodate stethoscopes and masks – something that has never been done before. Today, Hilal is the owner of Henna and Hijabs, and has expanded her business to provide Muslim women all over the nation with durable, breathable, sustainable, and functional hijabs.
Enjoying a Shared American Tradition
Last week, I joined a group of my Democratic and Republican colleagues for an afternoon of friendly trap, skeet, and sporting at the annual Congressional Clays Competition. As a proud Minnesotan, I value the outdoor sporting and recreational traditions of our great state and nation.
I hope that we can take the bipartisan spirit from this gathering back to Washington. It’s so important that we continue to work together to advance environmental protections, wildlife conservation, and access to the great outdoors for these and future generations of sportsmen and women.
Keep the faith and keep in touch,
Dean Phillips
Member of Congress