 Friends and Neighbors, Representative David Gottfried of Roseville has officially been sworn into office, bringing our Minnesota House back to a balanced 67-67 split. After months of uncertainty under Republican control, we're back on track with committees now equally divided between Republicans and Democrats. We have important work ahead, focusing on creating meaningful solutions for Minnesota families. The state budget is our priority, and we're committed to crafting legislation that supports our communities, schools, and essential services. My Bills I presented three bills in committee last week! HF1479 would provide much-needed relief for Minnesota pharmacies, like Sterling Specialty Pharmacy in Mendota Heights, by allowing them to claim tax refunds on a quarterly basis instead of just once a year. The bill would help improve cash flow for pharmacies, particularly those with significant out-of-state deliveries. By enabling quarterly refund claims, we're supporting our local businesses and reducing financial strain on pharmacies.  HF1678 would make critical improvements to the Essential Community Supports program, providing much-needed assistance for older adults and caregivers. The bill would expand eligibility to include people over 60 and those with dementia, and would add respite care services to support our caregivers. Currently, many families struggle to find and afford support for aging loved ones, and this legislation would help bridge that gap. HF2489 broadens statute that allows registered nurses in schools to obtain, possess, and deliver epinephrine auto-injectors so that it can include other delivery systems beyond just auto-injectors - for example, inhalers. In addition to the bills I authored, we continue to hear from cities, counties, and advocates about the critical housing challenges facing Minnesota communities. We're committed to developing comprehensive solutions that address affordable housing, support renters, and encourage community development. Significant moments of bipartisanship have shone through, especially in the Housing Committee, like the hearings on the Yes to Homes legislative agenda. I’ve heard from constituents across the district about the need to balance the good work around housing in Eagan and the need for more housing across Dakota County. Feel free to share your thoughts.  Constituent Corner This week, I toured the Living Well disability home and witnessed firsthand the incredible work being done to support individuals and create inclusive, supportive environments. These visits remind me why the work we do in the legislature matters so deeply. I also welcomed Girl Scout Troops from across Minnesota for Girl Scouts’ Day at the Capitol!  Disability Services Day I was honored to speak at this year's Disability Services Day rally. Our community's commitment to disability rights is unwavering, and I will continue to fight for comprehensive, compassionate support for individuals with disabilities.  Nominate a Public Health Hero Applications Open!Applications are now open for our Public Health Hero awards! Do you know someone who has gone above and beyond in protecting and improving community health? Nominate them today and help us recognize their extraordinary contributions.  Recipe of the Week  If you’re like me, the news coming out of Washington has been overwhelming lately. In between calling my congressmembers and working to protect our progress here in Minnesota, one thing that keeps me going is gathering with my family around a good meal at the end of a long day. Food connects us, comforts us, and fuels us to continue to fight extreme MAGA policies that threaten our democracy. In the name of community and longevity of our fight, I want to share some of my favorite recipes that are staples in our household. This week’s recipe is a chicken spaghetti that is a staple in our house on busy nights! You can find the recipe here. Stay ConnectedUnfortunately, 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 by email at rep.bianca.virnig@house.mn.gov, or by phone at 651-296-4192. You can contact my new Legislative Assistant, Jude, at 651-296-9476 or at jude.nair@house.mn.gov. It is an honor and a privilege to represent you at the Capitol. All my best, Bianca Virnig State Representative State Representative Bianca Virnig5th Floor, Centennial Office Building
658 Cedar St.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155 |