Rep. Linda Slocum (50A) – Legislative Update
Dear Neighbors,
With just over a month left in the session, we have our third bill deadline Friday at midnight, by which point committees must act on finance bills. While we’re not sure if the omnibus bills will go to the floor separately or as part of one large package, we’ll have a better idea of where things stand in the coming days. Here are some updates from the Capitol:
Fighting for Clean Water Protections
On Monday, the Minnesota House passed a Republican-authored bill 69 to 57 to prohibit the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) from implementing proposed rules for nitrogen fertilizer use. These rules were authorized in 1989’s Groundwater Protection Act and would protect Minnesota’s water resources by minimizing nitrate pollution. Too many Minnesotans face unsafe water supplies, so having a few ground rules on how and when to apply fertilizers is necessary for public health.
Even some Republicans split with their party to vote against
it. Thankfully, Governor Mark Dayton delivered a letter indicating he’d veto the bill.
Republican Budget Shortchanges Education
Last week, the Republican majorities finally announced their
budget targets. It comes as no surprise that they have prioritized tax cuts for corporations instead of investing in the things Minnesotans value, like expanding quality early childhood education and making college more affordable.
Gov. Dayton’s supplemental budget proposal rolls back tax
giveaways for corporations, focusing on tax cuts for Minnesota families and important investments in education and other vital areas.
Moms Demand Action Day
Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America held a rally on Wednesday to show support for common sense gun safety improvements in Minnesota. In fact, a recent poll released shows that 90 percent of gun owners favor background checks for all gun purchases.
I’m committed to delivering gun safety measures that will make our families and communities safer.
Minnesota Values Project
In the months leading up to the legislative session, my House
DFL colleagues and I spoke with Minnesotans all around the state about our future. Based on those sessions, we’ve put forward the Minnesota Values Project — our goals, principles, and commitments to the people of Minnesota. Our shared values bring us together and can serve as a guide for how we move forward and how we make Minnesota work better for all of us. You can learn more and add your voice by clicking
here.
As always, please feel free to reach out with any comments or concerns.
Sincerely,
Linda Slocum