Dear Neighbors,
We’re now a quarter of the way through the legislative session. Governor Dayton has released his two year budget proposal, but the leaders of the House and Senate Republicans have not yet released their plans. Once they do, we can begin working on crafting a two year state budget. Here is some great information on the budget from nonpartisan fiscal analysts.
Please feel free to forward this email to a neighbor so they know what’s going on and can sign up for future updates here.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Today I was able to visit some wonderful constituents who live in a group home. They presented me with this beautiful handmade valentine and thanked me for my support. There is a critical need for increasing the reimbursement rate so homes like this one can maintain experienced, trained workers.
Town Hall Meeting
Thank you to everyone who joined Senator Jason Isaacson and me for our town hall meeting this past Saturday! The turnout was great and we discussed many important issues. I am already planning more opportunities to stay connected with all of you.
694 / Rice Street Interchange Update
Last week, I met with the Ramsey County project manager for the 694-Rice Street Bridge project, as well as other area legislators and several engineers. I expressed the concerns I have heard from many of you regarding roundabouts, and asked a lot of questions about the safety of both pedestrians and those traveling by car. We received a lot of information, much of which is available online and will be available at the open house.
I encourage you to visit the project website at http://www.sehinc.com/online/rice694. This website includes a link to a survey. If you are curious or have concerns, please also plan to attend the public Open House on February 21, 2017 from 4:00 to 7:00pm at Vadnais Heights Commons. Staff will be available to answer questions and there will also be presentations, maps and interactive materials related to the project.
Bills, Bills, Bills
Many of you know that I care deeply about reducing domestic violence. I am now the co-author of two bills that will help address this issue. HF 1148 expands the ability of police officers to serve restraining orders and HF 728 would provide additional support for veterans’ services, including domestic violence programming. I am also the co-author of HF 660, which would provide funding for youth intervention programs. Youth intervention programs help young people become productive adults versus consumers of public services later in life, including preventing criminal activity.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any issues or concerns you have. It’s an honor to be your voice at the Capitol.
Sincerely,
Jamie