On Monday, House Republicans introduced a package of bills aimed at improving public safety in Minnesota communities. Among the proposals are a bill to boost funding for the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for gang and drug trafficking efforts, increased penalties for gang members who use guns in the commission of a crime, a prohibition on cities disarming officers in good standing, and other proposals that primarily affect the Metro area.
During Wednesday’s session, House Republicans moved to suspend the House Rules so we could pass a bill that would allow the Rural Finance Authority (RFA) to continue providing loans to struggling farmers, as they will run out of funding for loans today. I know many farmers who have used these loans in the past, and some who will need RFA loans to continue farming in the next year. These loans are incredibly important for our community. Unfortunately, the Democrats voted down our motion, and farmers will have to wait until Democrats decide to act on the bill.
CONSTITUENT VISITS
Riley Dreher from Kelliher came to the Capitol and spent the day learning about the legislative process. She came to a Health and Human Services Finance hearing and joined a housing conversation while she was here! Mike Youngerberg, Joe Smentek, and Tom Slunecka visited the Capitol to talk about the Ag Innovation Campus in Crookston.
I got a visit from some Northland Technical and Community College instructors to discuss higher education. Angel Korynta, Amanda Lien, and Sarah Reese from Polk County Public Health stopped by to discuss public health issues. I was happy to visit with sugar beet growers from Minn-Dak and American Crystal this week. I enjoyed attending the Farm Bureau reception this week.
It’s an honor and privilege to work for you at the Capitol. Don’t hesitate to contact my office at any time this session to share your thoughts, concerns or ideas. I am here to serve you!
Deb Kiel
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