Dear neighbors,
I hope you and your loved ones are safe, healthy, and enjoying the holiday season!
The past few weeks have kept me busy. In addition to connecting with Minnesotans in our community and throughout the state, I’ve been drafting bills and preparing for the 2022 legislative session. I’m looking forward to returning to the Capitol next month.
Connecting with Minnesotans
As a member of the House Capital Investment Committee, I spent several weeks traveling across Minnesota this fall. In November, my colleagues and I spent three days visiting communities in the suburbs and the metropolitan area. I had the opportunity to share my support for a project along the Minnesota River Greenway that would provide a key connecting point between the Cedar Avenue Bridge and the Big Rivers Regional Trails. I’ll keep advocating for this initiative and other projects that would benefit Eagan residents.
I attended a Student Empowerment Forum hosted by the Minnesota Justice Coalition, Journey to Justice, and Minnesota Teen Activists last week. I’m grateful to the young Minnesotans who shared their stories at this event.
Nobody should experience racism, bullying, or sexual harassment and assault. I’ll work relentlessly to address these issues and ensure all children are safe and able to thrive in school.
I recently joined a roomful of businesswomen and legislators – also all women – for a Chamber of Commerce luncheon. We had great conversations during the event, and I appreciated the speech made by Chief Justice Lorie Skjerven Gildea.
New Economic Forecast
Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) released a new economic forecast last week. It projects a $7.7 billion positive balance, with an estimated $3.1 billion of one-time money and $4.3 billion of ongoing funds. This means we have resources to invest in education, housing, health care, addressing racial disparities, and eliminating structural problems that hold Minnesotans back. While the budget forecast suggests our economy is recovering, we know many people and communities are still facing significant challenges. The projected surplus gives us the chance to help Minnesotans overcome these difficulties and ensure everyone can thrive.
COVID-19 Update
I hope you and your family stay safe and healthy as we continue dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. As you may know, ICUs across Minnesota are at or nearing capacity, putting enormous pressure on doctors, nurses, and other health care workers. The new omicron variant could exacerbate this crisis. If you haven’t already, please get your vaccine and a booster shot if you’re eligible. Health officials also recommend wearing masks when you’re inside businesses or in public settings.
Finally, I want to wish you all happy holidays! No matter how you celebrate, I hope you’re able to enjoy this season and spend time with family and friends.
Sincerely,
Liz Reyer
State Representative