Dear Neighbors and Friends, To be honest, this week was emotional and difficult. Despite all the hardships, I am grateful for our community and the support I’ve received from our district. Twice this week, House Republicans introduced harmful bills that will directly have a negative impact on our trans, non-binary, and two-spirit Minnesotans. Minnesota has always led the nation in standing up for our LGBTQIA2S+ neighbors and Democrats will continue to show up and defend the human and civil rights of all our residents. Republican politicians in Minnesota are falling directly in line with Trump’s extreme and cruel agenda by prioritizing political theatre and burning valuable legislative hours on targeting our youth and vulnerable Minnesotans rather than addressing the real and imminent issues facing our state. Minnesota deserves better than leadership that wastes time on vindictive crusades while bipartisan bills pile up and real problems go unsolved. In these past few weeks, Republicans could have brought any number of bills forward that would help increase healthcare access, support public education, or lower the cost of healthcare, groceries, and housing. Instead, GOP leaders have publicly stated their strategy is not to pass legislation, but instead to take meaningless votes on “messaging” bills that speak to their activist base. Minnesota DFLers are laser-focused on building a state that belongs to everyone, with a tent large enough to welcome all who value basic humanity. I am proud to represent our district, and I am determined to fight tirelessly to protect the civil liberties of every one of our residents. If you aren’t already, please consider following our Minnesota Queer Legislators Caucus Facebook page to stay informed on our fight against the Republican’s cruel agenda.  Trump Cuts put Minnesota’s Budget at Risk This week a new state economic forecast confirmed that Donald Trump’s policies are already moving Minnesota’s economy and state budget in the wrong direction and making life more expensive for hardworking Minnesotans. Last November, the state budget forecast showed a $3.7 billion surplus over the current budget cycle, a $616 million positive balance in the upcoming biennium, and our highest budget reserve fund ever–all due to responsible DFL governance. But as of today, Minnesota’s projected positive balance has shrunk to $456 million.?  Instead of bringing down prices as they promised on the campaign trail, Trump and Republicans in Congress are on the verge of enacting a sweeping tax cut for corporations and the ultra-wealthy, and they’re going to pay for it by slashing federal investments in health care for children, families, seniors, and people with disabilities. This will have dire consequences for the people of Minnesota and our state budget. This latest budget forecast means that the Legislature must be intentional on a state budget that helps working and middle-class Minnesotans, not corporations and billionaires who are doing better than ever. As your representative, I’m committed to fighting for an economy where everyone can get ahead. I will continue to oppose Republican bills to lower taxes for the rich, put barriers to healthcare access, and repeal policies that help Minnesotans thrive like Paid Family and Medical Leave. Community News Support the Good Acre! Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs are a great way to enjoy fresh, peak-season produce while directly supporting local farmers. Our District 66A is home to The Good Acre, Minnesota’s largest nonprofit food hub and there they work to connect communities with fresh, locally grown food from small, BIPOC-owned farms. By joining The Good Acre’s CSA, subscribers not only get delicious produce but also invest in a more resilient and sustainable local food system. Learn more about their CSA options and how to support small farmers this season by visiting The Good Acre’s website.  Town Hall Follow Up I can’t believe we had almost 200 constituents attend our SD 66 town hall. Thank you for showing up, staying engaged, asking amazing questions, and your commitment to defending Minnesota against Trump’s extremist agenda. Please continue to reach out to my office to share your thoughts, voice your concerns, or just to chat. We are in this together and I’ll do everything in my power at the legislature to advocate for our community and our needs.  Immigration Safety Town Hall In case you missed it, Rep. Athena Hollins is hosting an immigration safety town hall with Rep. Liz Lee on Tuesday, March 11 from 6PM to 8PM at the Hmong American Partnership. Learn about resources and tools available to address immigration questions from local community organizations. No registration required. For more information, follow the Facebook event page. |