Friends from Lifeworks visiting for the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities Tuesdays at the Capitol.
Neighbors visiting for Moms Demand Action Day at the Capitol on Wednesday.
OutFront Minnesota Lobby Day Rally on the Capitol steps.
THIS WEEK IN THE LEGISLATURE
FIGHTING FOR CLEAN WATER
On Monday, the Minnesota House narrowly passed the Republican-authored bill to prohibit the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) from implementing proposed rules for nitrogen fertilizer use. I voted NO on the bill.
Authorized under 1989’s Groundwater Protection Act, the rules would protect Minnesota’s water resources by minimizing nitrate pollution. Nitrates in drinking water is a serious health hazard, especially for fetuses and babies.
Governor Dayton sent a letter indicating he will veto the bill if it reaches his desk.
MPR: Bill would require legislative approval for fertilizer rules
OMNIBUS FINANCE BILLS MOVE FORWARD
As the third committee deadline passes, most finance bills have been passed out of their respective committees and are onto the next step. The Republicans’ supplemental budget targets and these bills makes it clear that they’re not interested in investing in the things Minnesotans value like expanding quality early childhood education, keeping college tuition down, making healthcare more accessible and affordable, keeping seniors safe and secure in retirement, and ensuring every Minnesotan has an opportunity to provide a better future for their family.
The finance bills that moved forward this week include: Legacy, Education, Higher Education, Health and Human Services, Environment and Natural Resources, Transportation, Agriculture, Public Safety, Jobs and Energy, and State Government. There are still several significant issues without a Republican House bill, including a tax bill and a public infrastructure jobs bill.
GUN SAFETY RALLIES CONTINUE
This week saw two rallies for common-sense gun violence prevention measures. On Wednesday, hundreds of people from Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America held their day on the hill, with legislative meetings and a rally in the Capitol Rotunda. Today, as the nation remembers the 19th anniversary of the Columbine school shooting, thousands of Minnesota students walked out and joined a rally at the Capitol calling for gun safety measures.
MPR: Students plan to walk out, rally for gun control
I encourage you to contact me with any questions, comments, concerns, or ideas on any legislative topic. Also, I am available during select hours on Monday and Friday mornings most weeks for in-district meetings, if Northside residents aren’t able to make it to the Capitol. If you would like to send me a message or set up an in-district meeting, you can reach me by phone at 651-296-4262 or by email at rep.fue.lee@house.mn. I look forward to hearing from you!