Hello Friends,
As we approach the halfway point of the legislative session, our work will begin to enter a phase where committees are meeting later, more bills are moving, and our proposals for the state’s balanced budget are starting to take shape.
This is a busy time in the legislative session, but I want to make sure I’m hearing from you and answering your questions. We’re going to be holding a town hall event on Saturday, March 25, from 10-11am. Mark your calendars and RSVP below to receive more logistical information as we get closer to the date.
RSVP for the March 25 Town Hall
I’m looking forward to hearing from you!
Funding for Shakopee Projects
Last session, a bipartisan agreement was reached on the framework of legislation to invest in local jobs and projects throughout Minnesota (often called a Bonding Bill), but like many important proposals, Republican leadership chose to walk away instead of completing this work.
Efforts to deliver on that legislation never stopped for DFLers, and now the Minnesota House has taken the first bipartisan step in finishing the business of 2022 by approving nearly $1.9 billion in investments for local jobs and projects throughout the state.
Projects like the Minnesota Riverbank Stabilization. The Minnesota River is eroding and impacting our downtown infrastructure. In addition to working with local partners, this bill will help build out a cultural corridor from Huber to The Landing.
These and other projects are crucial to communities throughout the state, and inflation is only causing them to go up higher in cost the longer we delay. This legislation requires a supermajority to pass, meaning the Senate, like the House, will need Republican support to get this funding over the finish line.
I hope you’ll join me in calling on Senate Republicans to swiftly pass this legislation. We need to finish the work of 2022 so we can move on to the business of 2023.
Installing Anti-Theft Devices in Cars
With the rise in vehicle thefts, a multi-pronged solution is needed to keep Minnesotans safe. Yes, we need to hold those committing these crimes accountable, but we should also take efforts to stop these crimes from happening in the first place.
Minnesotans deserve safety, and that should extend to the basic peace of mind that comes with the cars they purchase. If automakers aren’t going to help consumers when their products are clearly targeted for theft, legislation I’ve introduced would require them to install anti-theft devices at no cost to the consumer. You can learn more about my bill, which has the support of the Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, via Fox 9’s coverage here.
ESP Bill of Rights Committee Hearing
I work for Shakopee’s working families. Education Support Professionals - paras, janitors, food service, bus drivers, and many others - work hard for our kids and deserve a decent wage, prep time, health care, professional development, and PUD e-learning days.
Proposed wage and benefit increases for non-licensed school staff sparked a lively debate in committee this week, and ultimately the bill was laid over for potential inclusion in the Education Finance Committee’s budget bill.
Minnesota depends on these workers, and they deserve a decent wage. With our historic budget surplus, we have to ask ourselves - if not now, when?
Sarah Rapp, a food service employee, testified in favor of my bill.
You can read more about my legislation and its impact here.
Brad Tabke, State Representative | Rep.Brad.Tabke@house.mn.gov
Jared Margolis, Legislative Assistant | Jared.Margolis@house.mn.gov