Dear Neighbors,
The 2019 legislative session began on Tuesday as I was joined by Keri and our six children at the Capitol in St. Paul for a swearing-in ceremony. Taking the oath of office is always a humbling experience and helps remind myself and my colleagues in the House that we have been elected to serve our constituents, the state of Minnesota, and the Constitution.
It was a joy to be joined by Keri and our six children for Tuesday’s ceremony!
This year’s session will be a little different than years' past as Democrats are in control of both the Governor’s office and the House of Representatives. I am looking forward to the challenge of serving in the minority and remain as committed as ever to making sure that the Brainerd Lakes Area is well represented in St. Paul and that your voice is heard loud and clear.
Much of my work during the first months of session will take place in House committees. For the 2019-2020 legislative biennium, I will serve as the Republican-lead on both the Subcommittee on Water and the Legacy Finance Division. I have also been assigned to the Environment and Natural Resources Finance Division and the Subcommittee on Early Childhood Finance and Policy.
Serving on these committees will give me the opportunity to work closely on issues related to water quality, the environment, and our state’s rich natural resources. Beautiful lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities are a big draw to our area and help our local economy. We need to find workable solutions that balance protecting water quality and our natural resources with that reality.
That’s all for this week’s update. I will have more information for you as the session progresses. In the meantime, I urge you to contact me to share any thoughts, concerns, or questions you may have. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4333 or via email at rep.josh.heintzeman@house.mn.
Thanks and have a great weekend,
Josh