Dear Neighbors, Last week, the House had its Easter/Passover break, and we came back this Monday for the final four weeks of the session. The budget bills we’ve passed through committee over the last few weeks are headed to the floor for final debate and passage. Because of the split house and the tie with the GOP, some of these budget bills have policies I don’t agree with, that don’t reflect the values of our district. You may see me take some votes against budget bills in the coming weeks, and I will make sure to share my rationale with you. With just four weeks left, there's a real sense of urgency and focus as we work to finalize the state budget. We also know that we are crafting this budget in the midst of deep uncertainty regarding policies coming down from the federal government. Please keep reaching out to me– sharing your stories, whether through email, meetings at the Capitol, or town halls, helps me ground my work and the votes I take in the real needs of our district.  Recent Town Halls Thank you to everyone who recently attended our Minneapolis and District 63 (with Attorney General Ellison) Town Halls! While there is chaos happening at the federal level, our community is standing together to defend democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. I spoke out at our recent town halls about the attacks on our civil liberties by the Trump administration, particularly for our immigrant neighbors living in fear. As a Japanese American, I feel it is my duty to speak out at this moment about what is happening to immigrant communities. My grandparents were unjustly imprisoned during World War II, and the government has since apologized for their actions. Yet, today we see those same laws used by the Trump administration to unlawfully detain and “disappear” immigrant neighbors. These types of actions by our federal government, with no regard for due process, are wrong and must stop.   House Passes 2025 Agriculture Budget We fought for a people-focused Agriculture Budget that feeds Minnesotans, safeguards workers and consumers from looming threats like bird flu, and supports small, emerging farmers in an economy tilted towards large corporations. I voted in favor of the 2025 Agriculture Budget bill, which passed on a bipartisan vote. DFLers won increases in funding for Farm to School and Early Care and Local Food Purchasing programs, which nourish our kids while also providing stability to local farmers. We increased workplace protections for meat and poultry workers and ensured retail milk and poultry will be tested for bird flu. We’re also helping the next generation of farmers by increasing down payment assistance for those just getting started in agriculture. Food grown in Minnesota feeds the world, and we’re committed to ensuring Minnesota remains an agricultural leader through innovation, sustainability, and resilience. Supporting TeachersOur teachers do some of the most important work in our society—educating our children. They deserve to be fairly compensated. That’s why I’ve introduced a bill that establishes a minimum salary of $60,000 for all licensed full-time teachers. Those with a master’s degree would earn at least $80,000, and educators with a master’s and 10 or more years of experience would earn a minimum of $100,000 annually. In addition, the bill ensures that our essential hourly school staff—paraprofessionals, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, and others—earn at least $25 per hour. Every member of our school community plays a vital role in our children’s success, and it's time their pay reflects that. You can read more about the legislation here. State of the State AddressThis week, Governor Walz delivered his State of the State Address. While chaos and cuts dominate the headlines out of Washington, here in Minnesota, we’re choosing a different path—one grounded in compassion, progress, and real results. As Trump and his allies continue dismantling the very programs and policies meant to help everyday people, we’re standing strong with Governor Tim Walz and DFLers to make Minnesota the best place in America to raise a child. Every person deserves security, opportunity, and freedom—and that’s why we’re fighting to protect the investments we’ve made in schools, health care, clean energy, public safety, and caring for our kids and seniors. In times like these, Minnesota is fortunate to have steady, values-driven leadership. Minnesota Making Progress on Clean Energy In 2023 and 2024, DFLers made generational investments in a cleaner, cheaper, and more efficient energy system, putting Minnesota on the path to 100% Carbon-Free Energy by 2040. The latest Minnesota Energy Factsheet shows our policies are working and our investments are paying off, creating high-paying clean energy jobs, lowering costs for families, and building a greener future: ? A new record low in carbon emissions, cutting another 4% between 2023 and 2024. ? Residents and businesses have saved more than $307 million in energy costs from the Energy Conservation Optimization (ECO) Act. ? Minnesota is ranked No. 1 in Midwest for overall energy efficiency, and No. 10 nationwide! Here at the Capitol, I’m dedicated to protecting our progress from those who are seeking to repeal the legislation that made this positive change possible. Investing In Our World-class State Parks In 2023, DFLers passed the largest-ever investment in our environment and natural resources, including improving our world class state park system. From new and upgraded bridges and trails, redesigned campsites, and improving accessibility at state parks, we’re making sure that current and future generations of Minnesotans can enjoy our great outdoors. Check out this article to learn more about how we’re strengthening the outdoor experience all around our state. Keep in TouchPlease continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at rep.samantha.sencer-mura@house.mn.gov or 651-297-7087. You can also follow my Facebook page. In community, Rep. Samantha Sencer-Mura Minnesota House of Representatives |