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Dear Neighbors,
I hope you are taking good care in this turbulent moment.
As I was sworn in as our State Representative from District 63B, I feel the weight and responsibility of taking office as we address a global pandemic, an economic crisis, and attacks on our democratic institutions. I also feel hope and resolve for the work ahead at the state capitol and in our community to secure a brighter future for all Minnesotans.
One thing I never expected was that I would have to start my first legislative update by responding to an armed insurrection at our nation’s Capitol in D.C. Last Wednesday, we all witnessed an attack on our democracy, encouraged by a president who refuses to accept the will of voters, the rule of law, and a peaceful transition of power. These events occurred because the encouragement of some and the silence of many sowed seeds of division and violence and perpetuated the spread of dangerous misinformation and conspiracy theories.
This didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of years of efforts to undermine faith in our government and the will of the people in our democracy. As Minnesotans and Americans, we must condemn what happened in Washington, D.C. and the echoes we see here in Minnesota and hold accountable those who fan the flames of violence and insurrection. We must choose to fight for each other and our embattled democracy – to defend it, repair it, strengthen it, and perfect it.
In the wake of these events, I’m more committed than ever to working with each of you to build an inclusive, participatory democracy. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at rep.emma.greenman@house.mn or 651-296-4200 and let’s get to work building a brighter, more equitable future for all Minnesotans.
Here’s the latest news from the Capitol:
2021 Legislative Session Begins
Last Tuesday, I was officially sworn in (on Zoom!) for my first term in the Minnesota House of Representatives. I’m honored and humbled to represent South Minneapolis and Eastern Richfield at the Capitol and ready to get to work!
I’m excited to announce that I’ll be serving on the Labor, Industry, Veterans and Military Affairs Finance and Policy Committee; the Redistricting Committee; the State Government Finance and Elections Committee; and the Workforce and Business Development Finance and Policy Committee this session.
Updated Public Health Guidelines
Thanks to the actions Minnesotans have taken over the past month, COVID-19 cases in our state are trending downward. In response, Governor Walz announced that some of the current restrictions will be loosened. Here are some of the changes that will take effect today:
- Indoor dining will be allowed to reopen at 50 percent capacity. Reservations will be required, and bars and restaurants must close by 10 p.m.
- Indoor event and entertainment venues may open at 25 percent capacity. The maximum capacity for outdoor events and entertainment will increase.
- Gym capacity will remain capped at 25 percent, but maximum capacity and class numbers can increase. Pools can open at 25 percent capacity.
- Wedding receptions and other private events may resume. Capacity limits and other restrictions will vary depending on where the event is held.
- Youth and adult sports may resume games with spectators on January 14.
Stay Connected
While most of our work will be done remotely this session due to COVID-19, there will be plenty of opportunities to follow and participate in the legislative process. All public hearings and floor sessions will be broadcast on five House live stream channels. House Public Information Services is a great resource for nonpartisan news from the Capitol. You can follow their page on Facebook or subscribe to Session Daily to receive updates.
I’ll send these emails regularly throughout the legislative session. If you have a friend, neighbor, or relative who may want to receive these updates, please let them know that they can subscribe here. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, ideas, or feedback or if I can be of assistance. You can contact me at rep.emma.greenman@house.mn or 651-296-4200.
Sincerely,
Emma Greenman
State Representative
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