Dear Neighbors,
We’re starting to have longer days and weeks in St. Paul. Deadlines are fast approaching, and I spent much of this morning in a committee hearing. The good news is, that means we’re making real strides for our state and our area. Here’s a short rundown from this week.
Erin’s Law
One of the bills heard in my education committee this morning was my “Erin’s Law” bill. The impetus of this bill comes from a sexual assault survivor, Erin Merryn, who is working throughout the United States to end sexual abuse of children. Forms of this bill, which have been passed in 26 states, guide pre-K-12 public and charter schools to teach their students how to recognize sexual abuse and teaches them to speak up if being abused.
The bill encourages schools to educate teachers about this issue, and help parents identify abuse warning signs in children. Some schools are already doing a great job educating their students, teachers, and families about child sexual abuse. However, to better protect children, I believe more schools should be doing this.
State Budget Surplus
On Tuesday, we learned the state’s budget surplus is continuing to grow and now stands at $1.65 billion. This ongoing, large budget surplus is a sign that Minnesotans are being overtaxed, and I see this is an indicator that we need some significant tax relief in our state. I will work to promote a responsible state budget that respects taxpayers' pocketbooks and invests in key priorities like tax relief, education, and caring for our most vulnerable Minnesotans.
Visitors
It was my privilege to have some wonderful people from ARC of Freeborn County come visit me at the Capitol on Wednesday. ARC is a great organization that advocates for people with developmental disabilities and their families. One extremely important issue that this group came to speak to me about is the workforce crisis that care facilities for persons with developmental disabilities are experiencing. I am a co-author of a bill that would increase funding for these important service providers, and am hoping that we can get this critically needed funding increase passed this year.
Please Contact Me
Now that we’ve received the February budget forecast, we’ll start putting together our state’s budget. Things will start moving quickly here in St. Paul, and I hope you’ll keep me up-to-date on any questions or ideas on anything we’re discussing. Please stay in touch!
Enjoy your weekend,
Peggy