Neighbors, Our second committee deadline was on Friday, and it was a very busy week for all committees to consider bills to move on in the legislative process. Our third and final committee deadline just before the short Easter/Passover break and we will be busy up to the deadline. Getting Work DoneIn the Veterans and Military Affairs Finance & Policy Committee on Monday, I presented the Veterans & Military Affairs budget bill, funding both entities for the next two years. Highlights of the bill include an increase to veterans’ service bonuses, removal of the state burial fee for spouses, funding for the Veterans Homelessness Initiative, and more. The bill also provides funding for construction and design of the Minnesotan Military Museum at Camp Ripley. Testimony on the bill was featured in a House Public Information Services story here. You can watch video of the presentation here.  Adjutant General of the Minnesota National Guard, Major General Shawn Menke, testified at the Capitol in support of the Veterans and Military Affairs budget bill. Thursday, March 29 is Vietnam Veterans Day in Minnesota and nationally. Please take a moment to thank and welcome home our Vietnam veterans.  Feeding Our KidsGov. Walz signed the universal school meals bill into law. This is an excellent way to make sure all students are ready to learn and can thrive by providing breakfast and lunch. Looks like everyone in the photo was happy the bill is now a law!  Photo credit: Ben Hovland | MPR News Free Park DaysThe Minnesota DNR has announced the 2023 Free Park Days. The first of four days is April 22. You can find a park near you here.  Ramadan Mubarak to all who celebrate.  Stay Connected with the LegislatureIt’s easy to stay in touch with State Capitol activities. 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. To track bills of interest through the legislative process, I encourage you to utilize the MyBills feature on the Minnesota House of Representatives’ website. 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 find my information on my House website. Also, make sure to ‘like’ my Facebook page. It is an honor to represent you at the State Capitol. Sincerely, Jerry Newton State Representative |