Dear Neighbors,
Here’s an update from the State Capitol as we end a week that’s been extremely challenging for our community.
This Week’s Tragedy in Duluth
I’m incredibly devastated by the tragedy Wednesday in the East Hillside neighborhood that shook Duluth to its core. Our entire community is grieving, and the trauma as a result of this situation is unimaginable, especially for the loved ones of those we lost. My heart goes out to them, as well as the first responders who arrived on the scene.
Here’s a statement about the incident from Rep. Jen Schultz, Sen. Jen McEwen and me. I hope we can all continue to support one another during this difficult time.
A State Budget that Delivers for Minnesotans
This week, the House returned from a weeklong recess in observance of Easter and Passover. The House Ways and Means Committee, of which I’m vice chair, has begun advancing pieces of our House DFL budget to the floor. With a $9.25 billion budget surplus, we have the ability to address the significant challenges people are facing, including high costs of major expenses like child care, housing and health care. We recently announced a robust plan to help Minnesotans tackle these increased costs. The proposal targets resources from our surplus where it will have the biggest impact, with measures to help working families, seniors, and people with student debt.
We also have the opportunity to help Minnesota students recover after a couple of challenging years of learning. House DFLers making historic investments in student mental health, including additional critical personnel like school counselors, social workers, and psychologists. We’re also delivering resources to help school districts cover special education and English Language Learner costs, helping recruit more teachers of color, and strengthening early learning opportunities. Read more here.
Climate Action
While I wish it was a nicer day to enjoy spring outside, today is Earth Day! I’m proud of the progress we’ve made in Minnesota toward a cleaner, greener energy future with a reduced carbon footprint. Still, the threat of climate change requires more urgent action, and for all of us to recognize what’s at stake if we fail to move forward with solutions to protect our planet.
In the House, I’m proud to support the DFL Climate Action Plan. The proposal contains numerous investments in clean energy, public transportation, weatherization assistance, and other initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In many instances, clean energy means cheaper energy, and these initiatives will save Minnesotans money, too. Further, new, good-paying jobs often accompany clean, renewable energy development, so these investments will strengthen our state’s economy overall.
As always, I invite you to reach out to me with your input, ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance. It’s an honor to represent you.
Sincerely,
Liz Olson
State Representative