Neighbors,
A good soaking in central Minnesota this last week signaling the early start of growing season. It is nice to see the tractors in the fields, tulips blooming, and boats coming out of storage. This is also a special time for our high school seniors who are preparing for prom, banquets, and ultimately graduation. I guess, most of all, this is a time to be thankful.
At the Capitol, we are working through our final omnibus bills. On Wednesday in the Jobs, Agriculture, and Environment bill, the House passed an increase of $40 million in broadband funding aimed at our hardest-to-reach areas of Minnesota. I have been working on this bill to make sure areas in Todd County are included in the grant process and receive some priority because of the lack of high-speed access.
On Monday, the House passed the Education Omnibus bill that included more remote internet access for students in rural Minnesota. Using the innovation of mobile hotspots, schools will be able to apply for grants to offer mobile internet devices so students without access are able to complete their digital homework. I am honored to be a champion for students using the internet and communities expanding economic development efforts.
One disheartening comment this week from Governor Dayton suggested that we don’t need to pass any budget bills. It seems that Governor Dayton is giving up on fighting for a tax bill or a transportation bill. Personally, I am not good at throwing in the towel. So if the governor is done fighting for Minnesotans, he can stand by himself.
I hope you get a chance to enjoy the soon-to-be 80-degree weather, spring sporting events, and garden planting.
As always, it is an honor to represent you.
Warmest regards,
Ron