Dear Neighbors, The legislature has recessed for a week so folks can recharge and spend time with family, friends, and community during Passover, Easter, and Ramadan. After a particularly busy week at the Capitol, the break gave me an opportunity to get out and explore Minnesota! I took a great hike at Tettegouche State Park on Tuesday and got to see rushing waterfalls alive with the melting snow of spring. I hope you and your loved ones have a chance to enjoy this beautiful season of transition! Whether it’s a bike ride to our own Minnehaha Falls or hiking the trails of our state parks, Minnesota is full of great places to get outside and explore. When legislators return to the Capitol next week, the House will start passing omnibus bills - packages of legislation that outline our priorities for each area of the budget. I look forward to working with you to get good things done for the people of Minnesota. Reducing Costs for MinnesotansThe House DFL is laser focused on policies that will support workers, families, and kids. Our plans aim to help Minnesotans afford some of their largest expenses, including child care, housing, health care, and student debt.  While Republicans are calling for corporate tax bailouts and tax cuts that will benefit large corporations and wealthy individuals, House DFLers are focused on supporting workers and families - the people who are driving our state’s economic recovery but not reaping the benefits. We’re working to reduce large expenses so it will be easier for Minnesotans to pay for gas, groceries, and other essentials. Update on My Bills Some of the bills I championed this session were included in omnibus bills and will be heard on the House floor. The State Government and Elections bill, for example, contains legislation I authored to protect election workers from harassment, intimidation, and attempts to interfere with their duties. My bill to strengthen access to absentee ballots was included as well. While there’s much more work to be done, these bills will help preserve our democracy. A bill I authored that would create a holistic health and fitness program for Minnesota’s National Guard is part of the Veterans and Military Affairs bill. In addition to helping members of the National Guard stay fit and recover from injuries, this legislation would help with recruitment and retention. It includes $7 million for enlistment and reenlistment bonuses. I hope you’re able to spend time outdoors and enjoy some time with family and friends in the days ahead. If you have any questions or feedback for me, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact me by email at rep.emma.greenman@house.mn or call (651) 296-4200. Sincerely, Emma Greenman
State Representative |