Legislative Update: March 17, 2023

Dear Neighbors, 

On Monday, the Minnesota House and Senate held Sovereignty Day at the Capitol. It was an educational opportunity for legislators that included tribal history and culture, sovereignty, and the interplay between federal, state, and tribal law. It was an honor to have the opportunity to listen and learn from the leaders of the eleven federally-recognized sovereign tribal nations in Minnesota. In Minnesota, we live on 100% ceded land, and it is important for us to engage in government-to-government relations with our state’s Native tribes and first peoples.

Youth Employment  

This week, I brought forward multiple bills in the workforce committee to fund youth employment programs for Pillsbury United Communities, YMCA of the North, and Minnesota Youth Program which partners with counties across the state to provide youth employment. These appropriations focus on partnering with youth from underserved communities, connecting them to early employment on a path to careers in high-demand fields. Coming out of the pandemic, we know that so many of our young people need positive outlets and activities. I believe that opportunities for youth are key to healthy communities and public safety, and I am happy to be carrying these important bills. 

Investing in a Clean Economy Workforce

The clean economy workforce in MN is growing. According to Clean Energy Economy Minnesota, nearly 58,000 Minnesotans worked in energy efficiency and clean energy in 2021. The biggest sector of the Minnesota clean energy industry is energy efficiency, representing almost 73 percent of the state’s clean energy workforce.

With such a quickly growing workforce, it is vital we make the necessary investments to ensure BIPOC communities are included. Last month, Minnesota took a major step forward toward a clean economy when the Legislature passed and the Governor signed into law the bill to reach 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040. This week I introduced a bill to create a new grant program to support organizations with the skills, ambition and strong networks within communities of color to develop and implement green workforce readiness programs. The funds would help prepare individuals for careers in construction, clean energy, and energy efficiency by supporting workforce training, career development, employment placement, and culturally-appropriate job readiness. 

This bill is similar to those passed by other states, and puts equity at the center of the clean energy workforce transition in our state.

Funding Indian Health Board

On Friday, the Capitol Investment Committee heard my legislation to fund the Indian Health Board (IHB) for the purpose of constructing a new medical facility on Franklin Ave. The Indian Health Board provides primary medical, mental and behavioral health, and dental care for American Indians and Alaska Natives who reside in the metro area. IHB serves thousands of patients annually and their existing facilities are not meeting the needs and demands of the community.

7 out of 10 American Indians and Alaska Natives reside in urban settings, oftentimes because of government policies, lack of economic opportunities elsewhere, or limited access to healthcare and other services. IHB is providing critical care and services to so many, and an expansion with the state’s help will increase their patient visit capacity by 38%.

Community Conversation on Transit Safety

Content Warning: Violence, Discrimination, and Assault. 

Last month, a transgender woman was violently attacked at the Lake Street Light Rail Station. Trans individuals are facing attacks across our country at the same time that our transit systems are becoming increasingly dangerous for all riders. This attack should never have happened-- all community members should be able to get around our community safely. 

I have been working with city and state officials on these important issues, and I want to invite you to a community conversation on how we can ensure safety on our transit system. This will take place at the Corcoran Recreation Center (3334 20th Ave. South Minneapolis, MN 55407) on March 21, 2023 starting at 6:00PM. Joining me will be city councilmember Jason Chavez, Metro Transit, Hennepin County, the City’s Trans Equity Council, and other community partners. Together, we can work to ensure our trans siblings are protected and loved in our community, and that our public transit is inclusive and welcoming. 

Keep in Touch

Please continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at rep.samantha.sencer-mura@house.mn.gov or 651-297-7087. You can also follow my new Facebook page. 

In community,

Rep. Samantha Sencer-Mura

Minnesota House of Representatives