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Neighbors,
On Friday, the Veterans & Military Affairs and Capital Investment Committees toured the Minneapolis Veterans Home and the Bloomington Armory to view capital project requests. The tour was informative, and we look forward to their presentation in committee this session.
This week, in the Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, we heard legislation that would require the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) to designate Purple Star Schools which would designate a staff member as a military liaison to help new military-connected students transition into the school. MDE would start awarding Purple Star School designations in the 2026-2027 school year. You can watch the committee here.
And a reminder if you, or another veteran is struggling with mental health issues, the Veterans Crisis Line can help in times of need. Veterans can use this option by dialing 988 and pressing 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Veterans may still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the previous phone number—1-800-273-8255 and Press 1—by text (838255), and through chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.
Any Minnesota Veteran who served between September 11, 2001, and August 30, 2021, may be eligible for a Post-9/11 Service Bonus. More than 20,000 Minnesota Veterans who served in the Global War on Terrorism have already received bonuses in recognition of their service.
The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs is distributing nearly $39.8 million in bonuses. Eligible Veterans are paid on a first-come, first-served basis, so Veterans should apply today before the funds are gone. Applications will be accepted until June 30, 2024, or until funding is exhausted. Learn more here.
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We wish all neighbors of the Muslim faith a happy Ramadan
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It is easy to stay in touch with State Capitol activities. The Minnesota House of Representatives Public Information Services offers nonpartisan recaps of high-profile bills, committee hearings, and floor sessions with their Session Daily publication. Subscribe to receive these here. To track bills of interest through the legislative process, I encourage you to utilize the MyBills feature on the Minnesota House of Representatives’ website.
Please continue to reach out with any input, ideas, or feedback about the issues important to you. I value hearing from you, so please don’t hesitate to call or email me any time. You can find my information on my House website. Also, make sure to ‘like’ my Facebook page.
It is an honor to represent you at the State Capitol.
Sincerely,
Jerry Newton
State Representative
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