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Dear Neighbors,
So much has happened in the past few weeks. We have a new President at the helm, a new congress and new state legislators here at home. While we all are united in believing violence is never the answer, we respect the need for every individual to have a voice. Sometimes we agree, sometimes we don’t. And yet that is the core of our American values. The right to dissent at times, the ability to unite with one another and to engage in healthy debate - all of which make us stronger. I have always believed that. I know from talking to many of you, that people in our community across ideology or party lines, feel the same.
In a unified effort, House Democrats and Republicans of the Minnesota House of Representative joined together and passed House Resolution 1. A resolution condemning violence and violent rhetoric directed at the United States Capitol and state capitols, and affirming support for democracy, rule of law, and the certified results of our election. The resolution passed on a vote of 111-8.
Now is the time to reinvigorate the spirit that makes us who we are by reaffirming the right to free and fair elections, the will of the people to decide our leaders, and the grace we grant each other in the peaceful transfer of power. I believe that as Americans, we understand that neighbors caring for neighbors transcends any political party or ideology.
God bless and all the best to you and your family in the days ahead.
Representative Kristin Bahner
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Protecting Our Essential And Healthcare Workers
In recent weeks, MN House announced its 2021 legislative priorities for the new session, which included an initiative to protect our essential frontline workers. With a vision to create better work conditions for Minnesotans and provide care to those who care for our community.
As the daughter of an ICU nurse, I understand the incredible need to work together to care for those who care for us when we are most in need. These individual often put the health and safety of others before their own on a daily basis. The Essential Workers Emergency Leave Act (House File 41), aims to provide emergency paid leave for frontline and essential workers who do not have access to the COVID-related leave provisions passed by the federal government earlier in the pandemic. This bill would provide 100 hours of emergency paid leave to workers considered to be full-time by their employer, preventing working families from being forced to use their paid time off, sick days or going without pay for shifts missed as a result of their service.
Emergency leave for our essential workers is necessary to ensure all community members are able to protect their health and families, pay the bills, and slow the spread of COVID-19.
2021 legislative session priorities for Minnesota workers.
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Select Committee on Racial Justice Final Report
This month, in honor of Black History Month, I want to invite you to read the final report released on Racial Justice.
Over the interim, the House Committee on Racial Justice examined how racism impacts Minnesota’s laws and institutions. This committee wrote a report of their findings to guide House members to keep issues of equity top of mind as we do our work and ensure legislation has the best interest of all Minnesotans, our families, and our communities at heart.
Click here to read the full report.
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Due North Education Plan
Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan announced the Due North Education Plan for the future needs of education in Minnesota. Developed from a robust engagement effort with educators, school leaders, students, and families across the state, the Due North Education Plan is centered on ensuring every child in Minnesota receives a high-quality education, no matter their race or zip code.
As parents in our community work to fill the gaps and provide the best for our kids, I am hopeful we can find a way to make certain all of our children thrive for a brighter tomorrow.
You can watch the announcement on the Governor’s YouTube page.
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On Governor Walz's COVID-19 Recovery Budget
Minnesotans across the state were hit by the pandemic in different ways. The challenge I and my colleagues face is how to help get our families back on track, get kiddos back in school, and allow our business to once again thrive.
I look forward to partnering with Governor Walz, as well as my colleagues in the House and Senate to strike a balance that meets the needs of our communities across the state.
Read more about the budget details here.
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Our Veterans and Communities of Color
Minnesotans are asking the Legislature to safely and responsibly legalize adult-use cannabis. H.F. 600 will create a better Minnesota by:
Addressing Racial Disparities
Legalizing adult-use cannabis will help address criminal justice inequities created by our current system. Instead of enforcing low-level cannabis offenses, law enforcement could focus on more serious issues.
Improving the Medical Cannabis Program
Minnesotans are telling us that our state’s existing medical program doesn’t work well for most people. House File 600 improves access and affordability for Minnesotans who live with serious illnesses such as cancer, seizures, and chronic pain.
Helping Veterans
Most veterans cannot access or afford medical cannabis, and no vets can legally receive it from the VA. Making cannabis legal for all adults will provide these veterans with better access to medical cannabis that can alleviate their pain and help them cope with PTSD.
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Mark Your Calenders!
I want to highlight the town hall coming up on Saturday, February 20th, at 10 A.M.
You can email me your questions at rep.kristin.bahner@house.mn prior to the event or comment your questions during the Facebook live event and I will be happy to address the issues important to our district.
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While we overcome the COVID-19 crisis, welcome a new administration, and create a better Minnesota, I urge you all to stay in touch with me through e-mail, and help make our community a place for unity.
Thank you for the honor of representing our Maple Grove and Osseo residents and families in the Minnesota House!
Sincerely,
Kristin Bahner
State Representative
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