Neighbors,

I hope you're able to spend some time with family and friends this week in between football games and Thanksgiving cooking! I want to take this opportunity to thank you for the honor of serving our Eastside community at the Capitol. I'm grateful each and every day for your trust in me to bring your voices to our state government. 

Here's a quick update:

Funding for the Kellogg Bridge

The House DFL just finished a tour of local infrastructure and public works projects around the state, which they will use to put together what's called a "Bonding Bill" to help local communities fund projects supporting clean drinking water, affordable housing, and public safety. When the Capital Investment Committee visited St. Paul, I used the opportunity to show how desperately the Kellogg Bridge needs investment. For years, lawmakers have put off funding to repair the bridge, which is partially closed because of structural deficiencies. It's time to make the investments our community requires. 

I am also planning a tour of the Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary with Legacy Chair Leon Lillie to discuss funding for the Wakan Tipi Center in partnership with the Lower Phalen Creek Project. 

After School Programs

Last week, I visited the American Indian Magnet School to learn more about its after school activities. These programs are incredibly important to help students receive support and complement their education with reading, arts, and physical activity.  We need to fund programs like St. Paul Public Schools' FlipSide to improve student developmental skills and academic performances. Thank you Zong Vang from Ignite for coordinating this conversation.

New American Leaders

All of Minnesota's communities deserve to be represented in our government - our Democracy works best when it reflects the people of our state and our country. I recently had the opportunity to join New American Leaders, a nonpartisan organization focused on bringing new Americans into the political process. It's not every day you get to hear from Stacy Abrams herself! 

Climate and Housing

Our House Climate Caucus recently held a conversation with experts and stakeholders on climate and housing -- our conversation focused on new opportunities for homeowners and renters to conserve energy, making homes as energy efficient as possible by updating existing buildings, and in supporting affordable housing. Don't miss our next meeting, focused on public health. Find more information here. 

People of Color and Indigenous (POCI) Caucus Update

My POCI caucus colleagues and I recently sat down and set our legislative agenda for next session - more details to come! 

I hope you have a great holiday and if you're doing any holiday shopping, remember to shop local, and shop small! 

Sincerely,

Rep. Jay Xiong