Dear Neighbors,
This week started off strong as we passed nearly $1.9 billion in investments for local jobs and projects throughout the state on Monday. As Chair of the House Capital Investment Committee, this legislation that I authored was the culmination of our work from the last few years.
The package of legislation we passed addresses hundreds of critical infrastructure projects that have gone unfunded for too long, including those in our own community, and takes efforts to prioritize other BIPOC communities that have historically been ignored when it comes to state investment.
There are leaky roofs in state buildings, an outdated campus chemistry laboratory, unstable riverbanks, kids taking unsafe routes to schools, housing that needs to be built for our most vulnerable and failing wastewater infrastructure.
These and other projects are crucial to communities throughout the state, and inflation is only causing them to go up higher in cost the longer we delay. This legislation requires a supermajority to pass, meaning the Senate, like the House, will need Republican support to get this funding over the finish line.
I’m extremely proud of this work, and I hope you’ll join me in calling on Senate Republicans to swiftly pass this legislation. We need to finish the work of 2022 so we can move on to the business of 2023.
Judges Listening Session
The Weber-Camden Neighborhood Organization is hosting a “Judges Listening Session” on Wednesday, March 29, from 6:30-7:30pm at the Patrick Henry High School Media Room.
Judges will listen to residents and business owners describe Northside communities impacted by crime, judicial process, and policies.
Town Hall Recap
If you weren’t able to join us for our recent Town Hall, you can watch a recording of our conversation here.
I appreciate you taking time out of your busy evening to attend our event and share your feedback with me and your Senate District 59 team. Always feel free to reach out with any questions or comments you have on our work!
Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act
Yesterday, the Minnesota House unanimously passed the Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act, protecting Indigenous children and ensuring they continue to have a lifeline to their culture.
There’s a dark, ugly history around separating children from their tribal nations. This legislation is an important part of having honest, educational conversations about the experiences of Indigenous people. The erasure of Indigenous people and Tribal Nations isn’t only in our past; it is firmly in our present.
You can read more about this bill, which is now on its way to Governor Walz’s desk, here.
Stay Connected
If you have any questions about the bills we’re working on, please feel free to contact my office. You can contact me at rep.fue.lee@house.mn.gov or 651-296-4262, and I will be happy to help.
I look forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely,
Fue Lee
State Representative