SAINT PAUL, MN—Representative Peggy Bennett, R-Albert Lea, was officially sworn-in for her second term Tuesday as the legislature began the 2017 session in St. Paul. Legislators took the oath of office administered by Chief Justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court Lorie Gildea in the House Chamber. Bennett will continue representing District 27A which includes most of Freeborn County, as well as portions of Faribault, Mower, Dodge and Steele counties.
“I’m humbled to return to St. Paul and represent my community,” said Bennett. “We accomplished lots in the last two years, but have new challenges facing our state. Reforming our healthcare system, providing middle class tax relief, and creating a responsible state budget are at the forefront of our discussions this session, and I look forward to getting to work on these, and many other, important state issues.”
Bennett, who was elected to her second term this past November, was named Vice Chair of the Education Finance Committee, and will also serve on the Agriculture Policy, Capital Investment, and Education Innovation Policy Committees. Bennett lives in Albert Lea, where she worked as an elementary school teacher for more than 30 years prior to her election in 2014.
On Tuesday, Bennett’s guest to the swearing-in ceremony was Nicholas Belshan (son of Amy and Andy Belshan of Albert Lea), a former first grade student of Bennett.
"Having one of my former students as my special guest is like having family with me," said Bennett. "Nicholas is an amazing young man and serves as a perfect reminder of why I am here as a legislator - not only for the current generation, but also for Nicholas' generation and the generations to come."
Constituents can contact Bennett by phone at 651-296-8216 or by email at rep.peggy.bennett@house.mn. Bennett's office is located on the fifth floor of the State Office Building in room 507. Mail can be sent to:
Representative Peggy Bennett
507 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55155
###