Neighbors, This is an exciting time as students and teachers head back to the classroom. I wish a successful school year to all students, families, and teachers! Here are some of the many reasons to anticipate the new school year: - Free breakfast and lunch for all student saving families hundreds of dollars annually.
- Better access to mental health services by helping districts hire more school counselors, psychologists, nurses, and social workers.
- Record funding for local school districts to ease reliance on property taxes as a funding source.
- $44 million in additional state funding for Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, and Hopkins schools
- More prekindergarten opportunities to help our youngest learners get a great start in life.
 Storm Damage AssistanceMany of you may have damage from recent area storms in our community. It is important for you to know where to turn if you need help. The Minnesota Department of Commerce has a Disaster Response Guide to help walk you through next steps. New state funding for local care facilitiesOn August 1, significant new state funding for nursing care facilities was received as part of a bipartisan agreement to stabilize a sector of the economy facing financial hardship. It is vitally important we help nursing homes navigate difficult financial times. I was pleased we passed this record funding to invest in our local facilities, and the workers who care for our loved ones. Of these initial investments, $411,767 has been delivered to nursing homes in the Southwest metro, including: - $257,094 to Flagstone in Eden Prairie
- $154,673 to Lake Minnetonka Care Center/Hope Springs of Minnetonka
Facilities will also receive another significant one-time payment of the same amount on Aug. 1, 2024. Beauty all aroundWe all know Minnesota is a state rich in natural resources and places to explore. I have been visiting some of the parks in our own district and I hope you can have time to enjoy the beauty in our own back yard!  Stay connected with the legislatureDuring the legislative interim, you can still turn to the Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services for the latest news. Please continue to reach out with any input, ideas, or feedback about the issues important to you. I value hearing from you, so please don’t hesitate to call or email me any time. You can also connect with me on Facebook here. It is an honor to represent you at the State Capitol. Sincerely, Laurie Pryor State Representative |