Legislative Update- October 1, 2021

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Dear Neighbors,

Happy October! I hope you’ve had a chance to enjoy the beautiful start to autumn in Minnesota! We are so fortunate to have such incredible regional parks and trails in the Maple Grove and Osseo area, which is why it was important to me to successfully secure more state investments to help keep them maintained and accessible for all to enjoy.

Every year, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources compiles a “Fall Color Finder” to help connect Minnesotans to optimal leaf viewing across the state. It’s a wonderful time of the year to explore, grab a cup of hot apple cider or cocoa, and take in all the season has to offer.

Connected to Community

I’ve been meeting with our residents, mayors, local elected leaders, educators and parents, and state agencies to connect and check in. It was fun to see neighbors at the State Fair and the Osseo Lions’ Roar and Car Show this year!

I enjoyed my behind-the-scenes tour with the Minnesota Milk Producers at the State Fair!

Osseo Lions' Car Show never disappoints!

Gorgeous view from my seat at the North Metro Mayor Meeting. One of the mayors brought them from their garden for us to enjoy.

Most recently, I had the opportunity to learn more about the state’s Veteran’s Directive Care Programs. These allow healthcare flexibility to keep veterans with disabilities and older vets in their home, providing better choice and independence for vets and their families, oftentimes saving them money. For additional information on benefits for Veterans in Minnesota, visit the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs website at https://mn.gov/mdva.

It was an honor to attend the Osseo American Legion's Flag Retirement Ceremony

Pfizer Booster Shots Available for Eligible Minnesotans

According to the latest guidance from the CDC, you’re eligible to get a booster shot if you received the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at least six months ago and:

• Are 65 years old or older,
• Reside in a long-term care setting,
• Have an underlying health condition categorized as high-risk by the CDC, and/or
• Work in a high-risk setting.

There are plenty of ways to get the booster shot if you’re eligible. Free vaccines are available at pharmacies, health care providers, community clinics, and more. You can use the state’s Vaccine Connector to find a provider near you.

Booster shots aren’t yet authorized for people who received the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. 

High School Page Program

The 2022 legislative session begins January 31 and now is the time for high school juniors to apply for the nonpartisan High School Page Program. Students have the unique opportunity to learn firsthand about various aspects and functions of the state legislature. The weeklong program allows participants to get a front row seat to the legislative process and get involved in policy and public service. You can learn about the application process and more here. The application deadline is November 23.

Light of the Night for Fallen Firefighters

The City of Maple Grove is honoring fallen firefighters through Light of the Night, in memory of Maple Grove Firefighter Mike Paidar. Through October 3, neighbors are invited to share in their solidarity with our firefighting community and participate with red lights at their homes.

Firefighters are more than our hometown heroes; they are spouses, parents, neighbors, and an integral part of our communities across the state. This year, we took action to make sure we’re taking care of those who are always there for us. The new Hometown Heroes Assistance Program will help ensure all of Minnesota’s 20,000 firefighters have access to the care needed to handle cardiac issues, emotional trauma, or a cancer diagnosis. This was long overdue, and I look forward to continuning to move more positive, bipartisan iniatitives like these forward.

Keep in Touch

Please continue to reach out anytime with feedback, ideas, or questions at rep.kristin.bahner@house.mn or 651-296-5502. I’m always happy to help.

Wishing you a great weekend!

Sincerely,

Kristin Bahner

Your State Representative