Neighbors,
Progress is being made as the legislature assembles the two-year budget. We have already passed several budget bills and expect to be at work all day Saturday and Sunday approving more compromise bills to finalize our budget before the end of June.
Earlier today, the Environment budget was approved 99-34 and is heading to the Governor for his signature. Minnesotans can be assured that state parks, the zoo, and museums will remain open. The bill also contains Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) recommendations for allocation of lottery money to fund research and habitat preservation. Stronger protection against harmful PFAS chemicals is also part of the budget.
The Jobs and Labor budget was also approved today and provides $8 million in childcare grants to increase the number of providers throughout Minnesota.
This week, we also approved the Housing and Transportation budgets.
The bipartisan Housing agreement invests in affordable housing and establishes an orderly off-ramp to Minnesota’s COVID-19 eviction moratorium, resulting in more stability for both renters and landlords.
The bipartisan Transportation budget invests in all modes of transportation across the state by funding improvements for pedestrian and bike infrastructure, transit development and services, road safety improvements, bridge replacements, as well as freight and passenger rail projects.
Pollinator Week
Pollinator Week is a worldwide event to promote and celebrate pollinator health. Take a moment to read about all the incredible resources available to all of us in our efforts to make Minnesota a better place for our bees, birds, and all living things!
COVID-19 Vaccination Update
The Minnesota Department of Health reports more than 3 million of our friends and neighbors have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Check out Minnesota’s COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, call 833-431-2053 or ask your health care provider to help you find where you can receive your vaccine.
Stay connected with the legislature
The Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offers nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication. Subscribe to receive these here.
Please continue to reach out with any input, ideas, or feedback about the issues important to you. I value hearing from you, so please don’t hesitate to call or email me any time. You can also connect with me on Facebook here. It’s an honor to represent you at the State Capitol.
Sincerely,
Laurie Pryor
State Representative