Friends and neighbors,  It’s been another exciting couple of weeks in the Minnesota House. As a first-term Representative, it’s important to build relationships and get to know colleagues on both sides of the aisle. That’s why I arranged a “Freshman bonding” dinner with other first-term members from both caucuses. The best work for Minnesotans comes when we find common ground, and there’s no better way to build a strong foundation than breaking bread and learning about each other as people first. I also joined the Civility Caucus for a similar event, this time with legislators old and new. This group, led by a Democrat and a Republican from the House and the Senate, exists for the same reason – to build relationships and find common ground despite divisiveness on the House Floor. I greatly value these conversations with folks of opposing viewpoints – its reminiscent of the political diversity yet respectful dialogue I get to have with the people of our district every day.  One thing DFLers and some Republican legislators have found common ground on is concern over cuts to Medicare and Medicaid by the Trump administration. A small handful of Republican legislators sent a letter to their DC counterparts urging them to stand up to these cuts, as they’ll hurt people who depend on these services in all corners of Minnesota. I hope this show of support for public health means they’ll join us this session in strengthening healthcare and MinnesotaCare, rather than cutting it as some have proposed. As legislators, our job is to listen to constituents and work to reduce costs and make life easier for our communities. I’m looking forward to working on bills to do just that. In committee, we’ve been hearing a lot of legislation. In the Veterans committee this week, I voiced support for HF194, a bill authored by Republican Rep. Knudson to help support disabled veterans. It allows for an increase in the property tax exclusion amounts which is needed to keep our disabled vets and their spouses in their homes. Many are struggling due to the rise in the market values of their homes which translates to large increases in their property taxes. This bill is an important one for our veterans and their families, and I will be proud to support it on the House Floor.  In the Housing committee, some of my colleagues and I have been partnering with our “Yes to Homes” Coalition and are working together to make a difference on the high cost of housing. Currently, the biggest issue is a statewide shortage of housing, and our Coalition has a goal to build more homes, both to rent and to own, in order to increase the supply and bring down the costs. This bill package will roll out soon, and I’m looking forward to seeing it through committee. I’m also particularly excited about a few bills I authored – one supports the Minnesota Math Corps, which yields a huge return on investment thanks to their great volunteer tutor network. This bill will help support foundational education in math for our students. Adopt me!To help combat the chaos in the news and from the White House, I want to take a moment for positivity each week. The Coon Rapids Humane Society is right here in our district and does great work to ensure animals in need find loving homes, provide affordable care for pets in our community, and initiate animal education. Meet Chewie! Chewie is a nearly 2-year-old shepherd mix who loves being busy and play time. He needs to go to a home without cats, but would be a great addition to any household who loves fetch, frisbee, and other active outdoor activities as much as he does. Head down to the Coon Rapids Humane Society to meet him!  P.S. - Sgt Peppers from my last newsletter has found his forever home! 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.kari.rehrauer@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-1729. You can contact my Legislative Assistant, Chloe, at 651-296-5486 or via email at chloe.keller@house.mn.gov. It is an honor and a privilege to represent you at the Capitol.?? All my best,?? Rep. Kari Rehrauer |