Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The Legislature has gone into overdrive this week as the first committee deadline is next Friday. All of our committees are meeting well into the night to try to hear all the bills that have been introduced. The schedules are changing constantly as committees go long, so let me offer apologies in advance if I am late to a constituent meeting or you have to track me down in a committee somewhere.
Getting Things Done for Our Community
I am co-author on a bill with Rep. Kristin Bahner (DFL-Maple Grove) to request state bonding to expand the North Metro Range Regional Public Training Facility (HF 1459). This bill would enable the city to expand and upgrade the North Metro Range, which is used by 19 other law enforcement agencies and cities for training police officers, Sheriff's deputies, FBI, DEA and Secret Service agents and cadets. This facility is of great importance to public safety throughout the state and is incredibly well-run, fully funding its own operations through its contracts with other law enforcement agencies. Expanding this facility is the most cost-efficient way to continue to ensure our law enforcement professionals get the best possible training to serve our communities.
At Capitol in support of the North Metro Range expansion are Heidi Nelson, City Administrator; Police Chief Eric Werner, Rep. Robbins,
Rep. Bahner, other law enforcement supporters, Al Freng, Director of NMR
I have also authored a bill, which was co-authored by fellow freshman colleague, Rep. Patty Acomb (DFL-Minnetonka), to allow the Department of Health to issue dual licenses for outpatient surgical centers that will share a facility. This narrow bill will allow the Department of Health to allow two surgery centers to share the same facility when both parties agree and there is unused capacity (space/time) available. This bill will enable the Maple Grove Ambulatory Surgery Center to use some unused space at a surgery center in Minnetonka for the benefit of both centers and patients in both communities. The bill had bipartisan support and was supported by the Minnesota Ambulatory Surgery Center Association.
Rep. Robbins with Rep. Patty Acomb and Traci Albee of the Maple Grove Ambulatory Surgery Center
Gun Control Bill Hearing
This week we heard two gun control bills in committee and I wanted to share the testimony from Reverend Tim Christopher with all of you. I was honored to meet him after the hearing. Please take time to listen to his powerful testimony.
Democrats Move to Repeal Teacher Licensure Bill
On Monday, the House Education Policy Committee heard a bill that would undo reforms to Minnesota’s tiered teacher licensure system. These reforms were enacted last session and were a major bipartisan reform that was years in the making to address the shortage of teachers across the state and to allow professionals who work in various fields to share their expertise with students. This new system has opened doors of opportunity for out-of-state educators, teachers of color, and technical educators.
It is a shame to see Democrats move to repeal these reforms after only two years. Minnesota is dealing with teacher shortages across much of our state and this is not a step in the right direction.
Things to Know
This week I didn't make it home before 9:30 p.m., given the long committee hearings. What I learned (which I already knew), is that my youngest daughter is a fantastic cook! :) She has taken it on herself to pick up the slack, making innovative healthy meals for us! One of this week's creations was so amazing, I just had to share it with you!
Buffalo Cauliflower
Mix the oil and following spices and toss with chopped cauliflower:
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. garlic
- 1 tsp. of each: paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste
Let the cauliflower "marinate" in the oil/spice mixture for 10 minutes and then bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. Combine 2 Tbsp. melted butter and 2/3 cup buffalo sauce; Toss with cauliflower and bake an additional 7-10 minutes. Enjoy!
Photos from the Week
A few photos from some of the constituent meetings I had this week! Meeting with people from our district is always the highlight of my week!
Please Contact Me
Many of you have already been in touch to discuss your thoughts on the issues that matter most to you. Thank you for sharing your ideas! Please continue to contact me to discuss any legislation put before the House or any other matters to which I can be of assistance. You can set up a time to visit me at the Capitol by calling me at 651-296-7806 or by email at rep.kristin.robbins@house.mn. My office is located on the second floor of the State Office Building in room 225.
I hope you all have a fun weekend and stay safe in the coming snowstorm!
Kristin