https://iqconnect.lmhostediq.com/iqextranet/view_newsletter.aspx?id=100850&c=MNS63
Dear Neighbors,
This week I joined our DFL leadership team in announcing our legislative
priorities and offering a vision for a more prosperous Minnesota based on
values and priorities that will advance every Minnesotan, no matter where they
live.
The focus of my work these past two weeks has centered around the
reconstruction of our City, the involvement of the community in the
conversations about safety and protection of our City in days ahead, and
listening to the concerns of parents, educators and students about returning
back to school.
I’m opposed to the militarization of our City in anticipation of civil unrest
during and after the trial of Derek Chauvin. I have argued that the involvement
of community organizations, activists and neighborhood associations could play
a significant role in organizing and protecting our City, and I have encouraged
the City to do a better job of securing resources to engage these groups.
I, along with members of the POCI Caucus, advocated for more accountability,
transparency and specific criteria for the Safe Account proposal requested by
Governor Walz and the Mayors of St. Paul and Minneapolis, to pay for public
safety cost-share assistance. The House of Representatives incorporated
accountability criteria into the bill, but these changes generated significant
opposition from the Republicans who want to increase funding for law
enforcement with no accountability.
Another important announcement was made this week, middle and high school
students can return back to school. I support Governor Walz’s plan to open
schools gradually and responsibly. 85% of students went back to school this
week!
Please remember, my legislative assistant Claudia Santoyo and I are always
attentive to your calls and messages, please contact us with your concerns,
ideas or any challenges you may be facing. We’ll do our best to help you
resolve them.
Let’s hope the worst of winter is behind us, and a joyous spring is just around
the corner!
Sincerely,
Patricia