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961 WORDS | 7.4 MINUTE READ
Hi John,
My update begins as it has far too many times, with profound heartbreak over another mass shooting. Like so many of you, I've heard enough thoughts and prayers from the very lawmakers who are obstructing lifesaving reform. More than half of Americans now report that they have been personally affected by gun violence. We cannot let sobering statistics like this become normalized. It’s time for apologies, explanations - and most importantly, action.
I’m grateful to thousands of Minnesotans who have reached out in recent weeks, joining a majority of Americans in calling for common sense gun violence prevention measures. We can and will accomplish big things together. The work continues, so keep the faith, and in the meantime, read on for other updates from my week:
Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA
Last week, a single federal district judge in Texas ruled that Mifepristone, a safe and effective medication that more than five million Americans have used for the termination of pregnancy over two decades, should no longer be approved in the United States. If this ruling stands, the FDA's ability to approve lifesaving medicine could be challenged, and women’s freedom to access the health care they need could be further undermined.
I’m frustrated by the repeated assaults on women's health care in statehouses and courtrooms across this country. This decision is yet another blow to those of us who believe that, in a free society, there should be limits to how much the government can encroach on our personal lives. That's why I joined more than 160 of my colleagues in Congress on an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, which will be considering this case on appeal.
An Insightful Visit
Back in Minnesota, I had the opportunity to attend a FreeWriters class at the Hennepin County Jail. FreeWriters is an extraordinary organization that provides daily creative writing opportunities to incarcerated Minnesotans, helping to empower writers from all walks of life. Few experiences have been more eye-opening than this one, and I commend this incredible group for showing courage, humility, and collective optimism for a better future. I left with an abundance of gratitude for all those who shared their inspiring stories and for allowing me to do the same.
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| Remarkable talent, remarkable program, remarkable possibility, and without a doubt, the highlight of my week. |
After the FreeWriters class, I joined Sheriff Dawanna Witt for a tour of the Hennepin County Jail. It was an insightful visit, and a reminder of the growing need for investments in Minnesota's criminal justice infrastructure – both physical and human. If we are to mold a great society, we must prepare incarcerated individuals to successfully reintegrate into society – and in turn, help reduce recidivism, create safer communities, and ensure America’s promise of opportunity extends to all.
On the Job at Clothes Doctor
Our community is home to so many incredible businesses and nonprofit organizations, more than 35 of which I've now had the chance to work for as part of my “On the Job with Dean" series. Last week, I picked up a shift at Clothes Doctor in Brooklyn Park. Between tagging clothes, loading machines, steam pressing, and stain removal, I got a firsthand look at the hard work that goes into running a dry cleaning business. I left feeling inspired by the history of their business, hardworking team, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
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| While trying my hand at stain removal, I talked with owner Alvin Montgomery about the challenges and opportunities that come with running a successful small business. |
Every shift “On the Job” is a chance for me to better represent you in Washington, DC - especially as a member of the House Small Business Committee. If you own or operate a hands-on business or nonprofit organization in our community and you’d like me to know a little more about it, please click here to offer me a job!
Teaming Up with Local Leaders
Local leaders know local issues best, which is why I was excited to reconnect with Hennepin County Commissioners and their staff this past week. We discussed public safety and criminal justice reform, how our work intersects, and what I can do in Washington to amplify the work they’re doing throughout our communities.
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| Many thanks to all the businesses and city officials for their time and insightful questions! |
After our meeting, I took time to catch up with Brooklyn Park business and city officials. From discussing the need for affordable housing, transportation solutions, SBA loans, and workforce challenges, conversations like these provide me with the stories and information I need to better serve the businesses, and people, who support our community.
Congrats to our Essay Winner!
My office received some extraordinary essays from high school students across our community for our Congressional Essay Competition. All of their work has been collected into a book for display in my Minnesota and Washington, D.C. offices. Click here to read the winning essay from 2023, written by David Francischelli of Champlin Park High School, and look for it in a local newspaper, where it will soon be published!
Keep the faith, keep in touch,
Dean Phillips
Member of Congress
Bill of the Week
✔️ H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act
American workers pay into Social Security throughout their careers and expect Social Security to be there for them when they retire. It is critical that we protect the solvency of Social Security and ensure that America’s retirees receive their hard-earned benefits. That's why I am a proud cosponsor of H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act, which would repeal both the windfall elimination provision (WEP) and government pension offset (GPO). The WEP and GPO unfairly reduce the Social Security benefits of public servants and their spouses.
Resources For You
My team and I are here to serve every person and every corner of our community. I want to make sure you have the resources you need to succeed:
- Savings for homeowners: The Inflation Reduction Act created new federal tax credits for homeowners seeking to make energy efficient upgrades. Click here for a list of green tax credits.
- Look before you book: Do you have international travel plans on the horizon? Make sure you are prepared before you book! Visit https://travel.state.gov/ to check your passport expiration date, apply for a passport, and much more.
- Tax Help is Here: Don't delay, the deadline to file is April 18th, 2023. If you have questions or need help with your taxes, email the IRS or call 800-829-1040. You can also contact the Minnesota Department of Revenue by emailing [email protected] or calling (651) 556-3000.
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