Legislative UpdateDear friends and neighbors of district 7B, It has been an exciting yet challenging week at the Capitol. I have much to share about the obstacles that we are facing and what we are doing to overcome them, along with news of some district residents that I got to meet here! Democrat ShutdownWith the Supreme Court ruling last week that the House needs 68 members present to conduct official business, our previous progress in sessions and on committees has been rendered not valid. Even though that ruling went in favor of the Democrats, they have still not shown up for work. Republicans are blocked from doing official business, and all we need is ONE Democrat member to show up for work so that we can continue House sessions, committee meetings, and other vital work for the people of Minnesota. This Democrat shutdown is unacceptable, and not only is their absence keeping them from working, it is now preventing House Republicans from doing what we have been elected to do. Republican ActionRegardless of what the Democrats are doing, I am still here and doing everything that I can to work for you. One of the things that we are continuing to work on is the permitting reform bill, which is part of one of my committees: Environment and Natural Resources. I was looking forward to getting this bill through the legislature as soon as possible, which will now have to wait because it can't be moved without my Democrat colleagues here. Every major project in our district depends on this legislation being done. The consensus is that this is what we need for our regional economy and to provide meaningful opportunities for our kids and grandkids for years to come. Capitol VisitorsIt was a pleasure to be joined at the Capitol by St. Louis County Township Officers at the Minnesota Association of Townships 'Day at the Capitol' event. These officers represent the townships of Colvin, Cotton, Ellsburg, Industrial, and White. I thoroughly enjoy meeting folks from back home, and hearing the issues that they face in their communities adds so much valuable insight as I seek to serve all constituents in our region.  |