Dear Neighbors,
I want to thank everyone who attended the Gun Violence Prevention Update Rep. Becker-Finn and I hosted this week. Our epidemic of senseless gun violence requires action, and there are many problems, loopholes, and shortcomings in our laws. Rep. Becker-Finn and I described popular and effective solutions, but the Senate GOP is blocking progress on these bills.
We cannot talk about public safety without talking about reducing gun violence. Gun violence is now the leading cause of death for children and adolescents. This is unacceptable and preventable. Democrats have solutions to keep guns out of the hands of people who should not have them, and I’ll continue to fight hard to pass these measures.
Earth Day
Today is Earth Day! More than a billion people in 190 countries celebrate Earth Day, and many of them use this opportunity to plant a tree, bike to work, or make lifestyle adjustments. These may seem like small changes, but together, they can make a big impact.
I’m proud to support the House DFL’s Climate Action Plan to create more ways for people to protect our planet. The plan contains investments in clean energy, public transportation, weatherization assistance, and other initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In many instances, clean energy means cheaper energy, and these initiatives will save Minnesotans money, too.
Electric Vehicle Survey
Auto manufacturers are set to significantly increase their production of more environmentally friendly electric vehicles in the coming years and we need to ensure drivers have access to adequate charging stations across the state. President Biden’s infrastructure plan, which federal lawmakers passed last year, included $68 million for charging stations in Minnesota.
In order to receive this funding, the Minnesota Department of Transportation will prepare a Statewide Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan. As part of this process, MnDOT is offering a short survey that takes about five minutes, asking Minnesotans to offer their input. This transition won’t be overnight, but we need to be prepared for the growing numbers of EVs on the road. Please take the survey to share your thoughts.
Emerald Ash Borer and Tree Diseases
As we move further into spring and trees begin to grow leaves, it’s important to keep in mind the harm Emerald Ash Borer and other tree diseases can cause. Resources for homeowners are available from Shoreview, Arden Hills, and Mounds View. Additional information is available from the Minnesota DNR.
Addressing Hunger and Food Insecurity
Over last week’s legislative recess, I had the opportunity to volunteer with a constituent at Open Arms of Minnesota, a nonprofit organization that prepares and delivers nourishing meals free of charge to critically ill Minnesotans and their families. I was glad to learn more about this organization and am proud to carry a bill to increase funding for senior nutrition services.
Our House Agriculture Budget, which we’re set to consider on the House Floor next week, contains a variety of measures to address hunger and food insecurity in Minnesota. The bill contains increased investments for Second Harvest Heartland, the Local Emergency Assistance Farmer Fund (a program that purchases fresh produce from BIPOC farmers and donates it to hunger relief organizations), Farm to School Grants, and the state’s Good Food Access program, which increases the availability of and access to affordable, nutritious food including fresh fruits and vegetables.
Stay in Touch
Please feel free to contact me directly with your viewpoints or if I can be of assistance. My email is rep.kelly.moller@house.mn and my phone number is 651-296-0141. You can learn about bills that have been introduced here and keep track of the bills I’ve authored here.
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Thank you for the opportunity to serve you.
Sincerely,
Kelly Moller
State Representative