Legislative Update – April 14, 2023
Dear Neighbors,
Here at the Capitol, committees are concluding as we put together major budget bills to pass on the House Floor. From the House, to the Senate, to the Governor’s office, we are looking towards our future through historic investments in education, health care, transportation, climate, and more! As these budget bills pass, I will keep you updated on the great work we are doing to help Minnesotans thrive.
Yesterday I was able to attend the White Bear Lake Chamber of Commerce annual meeting, with U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar speaking! It was great to be in community and talk about how we can make our district an even better place for us all.
North Metro Town Hall
I am excited to share that I will be attending a North Metro Virtual Town Hall this Sunday, April 16 from 3:00-4:30pm alongside Senator Heather Gustafson Senator John Hoffman and Rep. Matt Norris. RSVP here or contact nick.roth@senate.mn. I hope you can make it!
Protecting Our Democracy
In 2022, with democracy squarely on the ballot, Minnesotans of every race, generation, region, and background showed up to participate in democracy and to protect it. And the best way to protect democracy is to expand it. That’s why we voted this week to pass the Democracy for the People Act, which expands voter participation and limits the influence of dark money in our elections. These are just a few of the policies that will help us ensure that every Minnesotan has the freedom to vote and power is firmly in the hands of the people.
House Floor Votes - Higher Education and Legacy Funding
On Wednesday, the House passed the largest investment in higher education in nearly four decades. Whether it’s a tuition freeze across the Minnesota State system, addressing the U of M’s tuition shortfall, investing in our tribal colleges, or ensuring today’s students are prepared for tomorrow’s jobs, our Higher Education budget is a crucial component in making Minnesota an Education State. The cost of higher education has been skyrocketing for decades and I was proud to support this bill to help students gain the skills they need to succeed in life.
We also passed legislation investing over $820 million to continue the important work of restoring, enhancing, and protecting Minnesota’s most treasured spaces and places and increasing access for all. With investments in our outdoor heritage, clean water, parks and trails, and arts and cultural heritage, there is something in this bill to help all parts of our state, and I was glad to vote yes.
Stay Connected!
Unfortunately, due to technological constraints, replies to this newsletter won’t reach my email account. To share your input or ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to reach out at rep.brion.curran@house.mn.gov or 651-296-4342, and I will be happy to help. If you were forwarded this email and you’d like to subscribe, click here. If you have a friend or neighbor who would be interested in receiving these, please forward this and encourage them to subscribe!
Sincerely,
Brion Curran
State Representative