Dear Neighbors, I hope you were able to enjoy the holiday break with family and friends. Despite our erratic weather lately, it looks like we are heading for warmer days. We are back at the Capitol after our holiday break. The next seven weeks are going to be packed with hearings and floor sessions as we wrap up the 2024 legislative session State of the StateLast week, Governor Walz delivered his State of the State address at Owatonna High School. The governor celebrated our efforts to make Minnesota the best place in the country for families. Our investments in expanding access to pre-k and affordable childcare are showing results statewide. Our families are also benefiting through our investments in better roads and bridges, housing, clean water, and safer streets. State leaders are partnering with all Minnesotans to build a state where everyone can succeed and thrive, no matter where they live. The Impact of Universal School MealsOur state’s public education system provides teaching, books, and transportation for all kids. Last year, we approved meals at school, with the understanding learning isn’t possible when a child is hungry. This change has led to healthier school meals, as you can read in this MPR News piece. And there is new evidence it will also reduce child obesity, improving lifelong health. Healthier, better educated young people will benefit all of us for years to come. Veterans Day at the CapitolVeterans are invited to participate in the annual day at the Capitol on Wednesday, April 17. See the information below on how you can talk to legislators about your priorities. I hope to see you at the Capitol on April 17!  Stay in TouchIt is easy to stay connected to news from the State Capitol. 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 call (651) 296-5363 or email any time at rep.peter.fischer@house.mn.gov. You can find my information on my House website. You can also like my Facebook page. Sincerely, Peter Fischer |