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Neighbors,
Thank you to everyone who attended the District 4 virtual town hall on Sunday night. Sen. Eken, Rep. Marquart and I did our best to answer your thoughtful and informed questions. We look forward to and are finalizing a plan to meet with you once a month during the legislative session. If you were unable to attend the town hall, but would like to view the video, you can click here.
Committee Work
Last week in the Preventing Homelessness Committee, we heard from the Dept of Corrections (DOC) and learned Clay County has some work to do to support our unsheltered individuals coming out of incarceration. We are in the top two worst counties in the state for Native American women, African American men, and immigrants. I am committed to working with DOC to learn more about this concerning problem and find solutions. You can watch the committee here.
In the Education Policy Committee, we are focused on understanding the importance of investing in closing our achievement gaps, through our Increasing Teachers of Color and Indigenous Teachers Act. Representation matters, especially in our school settings, and I appreciate your input as we work on a creating a more equitable education environment for all our students and educators.
COVID-19 Vaccines
I have received your messages about concerns with the COVID-19 vaccine rollout in our community. I have communicated with MDH about the importance to recognize the unique situation we are in as a border city. Over the next weeks, Minnesota will be receiving a 13% increase in vaccines delivered to the state, I am hopeful we will see in increase in our community.
MIAC Appointment
As an Indigenous woman, I'm excited to represent my community statewide as the newest member of the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council. You can follow our work here.
Affordable Health Care for all Minnesotans
Last week, legislation was unveiled aiming to make sure everyone has access to health insurance and affordable healthcare. The bill is structured to maximize federal funding to help solve the very real problem facing many Minnesotans. The measure will allow enrollees in the program to take advantage of lower out-of-pocket costs and access to a strong network of providers.
Due North Education Plan
Last week, Governor Walz announced the Due North Education Plan, a comprehensive agenda crafted with input from educators, school leaders, students, and families across Minnesota.
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Stay connected
The House has expanded the number of simultaneous committees it can?webcast live?from a maximum of two to five, so you can stay current on issues moving through committees this session.
The Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offers nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication. Subscribe to receive these here. To track bills of interest through the legislative process, I encourage you to utilize the MyBills feature on the Minnesota House of Representatives’ website here.
Contact me anytime at rep.heather.keeler@house.mn. I welcome your questions and comments anytime. Also, you are welcome to “like” my Facebook page.
Thank you for the privilege of representing you in the legislature.
Sincerely,
Heather Keeler
State Representative
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