Neighbors,
 
I hope you enjoyed a safe and relaxing weekend! It’s hard to believe we are more than a month into session already. Here’s a quick update on these past couple of weeks.
 
Farmers
Last week we got a rare opportunity to meet with Hmong farmers from Hmong American Farmers Association (HAFA). It was empowering both to us as legislators and for the farmers that for the first time, they didn't need interpreters to speak to us as elected officials. Furthermore, I’m proud to co-author bipartisan farm-to-school legislation to get more local food into schools, which is good for the local agriculture economy and healthy for our students. The bill would create grants to reimburse schools that integrate locally grown food into their school meals and support our local farmers. You can read more about the bill here.

Infrastructure
I had the opportunity this week to tour St. Paul’s brand new soccer stadium. Soccer is a universal sport and I’m excited for the vitality and economic development that this stadium can bring to our communities. Best of all, this stadium was built almost completely through private funding, not taxpayer money. Thank you to all the hardworking construction workers, staff, and community leaders for making this building happen!

Restore the Vote
On Wednesday two bills passed hurdles to becoming law by going through committees – one would restore the right for individuals released from incarceration to vote, and another would provide free public transit on election day. Minnesotans who’ve served their time and are living in their community should be allowed to vote. Felony disenfranchisement prevents Minnesotans with criminal convictions from having a stake in their communities and a voice in decisions that affect all aspects of their lives. Read more from the Star Tribune here. I believe we should do everything we can as public officials to make it easier for all eligible citizens to make their voice heard at the ballot box.
 
Great way to end the week…
On a lighter note, the Minnesota Zoo brought some very compelling testifiers to committee last week. I have to say, this is the cutest penguin I have ever met

As always, you can reach me by email at rep.samantha.vang@house.mn and phone at 651-296-3709 and follow our Facebook page here.
 
Sincerely,
 Samantha Vang