Dear neighbors,
It’s been another busy week here at the Capitol! With less than six weeks remaining in the session, our focus will be on crafting a state budget for the next two years.
Minnesota Values Budget
My House colleagues and I recently announced the framework of the Minnesota Values Budget. Our budget reflects the values we share as Minnesotans. It includes honest investments to expand education opportunities, improve health care, and support families and communities across the state.
Each committee will draw on months of hard work and what we’ve heard from our community as we discuss the details and put together finance bills – legislation that contains funding priorities. Two of the committees that I serve on have already approved their budget bills. The proposals will travel to the Ways and Means Committee before going to the House floor for a vote.
Protecting Minnesota’s Environment and Natural Resources
As a member of the Environment and Natural Resources Finance Division, I’ve spent months discussing methods to protect, restore, and enhance our environment and abundant natural resources. Our budget (HF 2209) would reduce the use of toxic chemicals and pollutants; strengthen protections for fish, wildlife, and pollinators; support efforts to research and control invasive species; and fund outdoor environmental and ecological programs for children.
I’m particularly pleased that my proposals for improving road salt application training and practices (HF 1502) and supporting soil and water conservation districts (HF 1624) were included in the final bill!
Safe, Affordable Housing
All Minnesotans deserve to live somewhere that is safe and affordable. In the Housing Finance and Policy Division, we approved a budget (HF 1151) that would support both homeowners and renters. The bill includes funding for programs to prevent homelessness, provide rental assistance to those struggling with mental illness, strengthen protections for tenants, and help working Minnesotans pay the rent or buy a home. My bill to establish a lead safe homes program that would increase lead testing and ensure that rental units are safe for children (HF 1007) was incorporated as well.
Upcoming Town Hall
I hope to see you on Tuesday, April 16 for my next town hall! All community members are welcome to join me and share stories, comments, and questions. We’ll meet from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. in the Bruening Room (E1421) at Century College East Campus.
If you can’t make it to the town hall, please call or email me with your feedback and concerns. You can reach me at 651-296-5363 or rep.peter.fischer@house.mn.
Sincerely,
Peter Fischer
State Representative