Dear Community,
Last week, we introduced driver's licenses for all legislation once again. By denying the right to a driver's license we're denying people living in our communities access to jobs and opportunity, endangering public safety, and criminalizing families' efforts to participate in civic life. This denial hurts families, businesses, and all of Minnesota. We have worked on this issue for years and shown repeatedly how this would benefit our state, it’s time to finally make roads safer, and reject a politics that would divide people living side by side as neighbors. I encourage you to watch our press conference which was filled with fantastic testimony. You can read the bill here.
SAFE Act
The House voted on, but did not pass the Governor’s ‘SAFE’ act which would provide $35 Million in funding for police. This was a hard vote, but without long term solutions, reforms, and significant aid for the communities impacted by police violence I could not vote for this bill. Temporary solutions that perpetuate this flawed system are not acceptable. You can read my extended thoughts on this issue here, and the full statement of the DFL Legislators who voted no, here.
Vaccine Connector
The state of Minnesota launched a new tool to help let Minnesotans know when they are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We have all been eager to receive a vaccine as soon as possible, and luckily there are reasons to be optimistic that distribution will greatly accelerate soon. In the meantime, the new Vaccine Connector will alert Minnesotans when they are eligible, connect you to resources to schedule an appointment, and notify you about vaccine opportunities near you. Learn more and sign up here. Assistance is also available over the phone at 833-431-2053.
Middle and High Students Back to the Classroom
Governor Walz announced a plan to have all middle and high schools offer in-person learning by March 8. The direct engagement students have with their teachers and peers is critical toward both their academic achievement and their development into young adults. This plan is possible thanks to the precautions we have all taken to slow the spread, and progress we’ve made to get folks vaccinated.
Having students back in the classroom is only one step toward rebounding from the pandemic. We must also work together to address learning loss over the past year, invest in critical wrap-around supports, and deliver necessary funding for school districts.
Keep In Touch
As always, feel free to reach out with any feedback or questions you have for me! I always appreciate working in partnership with you. You can also follow me on my Facebook page. Everything is moving quickly right now so be sure to stay connected.
In solidarity,
Aisha Gomez
651-296-7152
rep.aisha.gomez@house.mn