Rep. Melissa Hortman (36B) – Legislative Update
Neighbors and Friends,
The 2017 legislative session ended a few weeks ago. I want to provide an update on what happened in the E-12 education budget area this year.
Despite a budget surplus, the Republican majorities repeatedly proposed underfunding our E-12 schools and eliminating free, voluntary pre-K, which would have led to teacher layoffs, increased class sizes, and fewer opportunities for students. With a budget surplus, it was extremely disappointing that funding education was such a low priority for the majority. I worked with Governor Dayton and DFLers to increase the education funding target, and the final result was an increase in school funding of 2% in each of the next two years. As a result, Anoka-Hennepin Schools will see an increase of $192 per pupil next year, and Osseo Area Schools will see an increase of $135.
After much deliberation, the proposed cuts by the majority to voluntary, all day Pre-K were avoided as well. School districts will be given one-time funding to implement either voluntary all day pre-K or a hybrid program to fit their needs. This means more Minnesota children will have access to a quality early childhood education, which is proven to help students do better throughout their academic lives.
Save the date: Capitol Grand Opening
After four years and a $310 million restoration, the Minnesota State Capitol is now open to the public. Our beautiful Capitol has been returned to its former glory and is ready for the next 100 years.
To invite Minnesotans back to the People’s House, there will be a Grand Opening Celebration on August 11, 12, and 13. The celebration will have something for everyone – fireworks, concerts, demonstrations by the artisans that worked on the restoration, behind the scenes tours, and much more. With featured events to entertain Minnesotans of all ages from all corners of the state, the Grand Opening weekend will be, educational, interactive and fun. Most of the events are free, or offered at a very low cost.
Please mark your calendars and plan to celebrate the People’s House this August.
For detailed information on the weekend, please visit us at mn.gov/mymncapitol or connect with us by Facebook, Twitter and Flickr.
Please contact me with any questions or concerns. I appreciate hearing from you!
Sincerely,
Melissa Hortman