|
Here's a quick update from the Capitol:
Youth Vaping
Last week, my colleagues announced a comprehensive plan to combat youth vaping. In 2017, the number of young Minnesotans using tobacco rose for the first time in 17 years due to a surge in e-cigarette use. Since then, the crisis has only gotten worse. Vaping-related injuries are being reported in Minnesota and across the nation, but many young people remain unaware of the health risks associated with e-cigarettes.
Here are some details of the plan:
It was a fun to have a constituent shadow me at the Capitol for a day!
Right now it seems progress for our immigrant and refugee communities at the federal level is going backwards, but at the state, city, and local level, we can make a real impact. Issues like the census, language access, and driver's licenses are just a few examples of impactful issues we can champion to support our immigrant and refugee neighbors. I'm grateful the American Bar Association invited me to speak at the Refugee and Immigrant Communities panel.
Veterans Day
Looking ahead, remember that Veterans Day is on Monday, a time to recognize the service of those who have risked their lives for our country. This year, we passed a historic bill ensuring that Hmong Secret War veterans in Minnesota will be honored for fighting alongside American soldiers for our shared values. Though we ran into GOP opposition to using the term “veteran,” their service is now valued and recognized on May 14 of every year.
Remember as the temperature drops that there are resources available if you, family or friends are struggling with the heating bill. Minnesota's Cold Weather Rule (CWR) helps protect Minnesotans from having their heat shut off between October 15 and April 15. You can find more information about it here.
Have a great week!
Sincerely,
Rep. Samantha Vang
|