SEPTEMBER 1, 2023

Dear Fourth District Constituent,

As we gather for Labor Day weekend, it’s important to take a moment to celebrate American workers and the proud history of the Labor movement. Unions built the middle class, establishing the bedrock values we often take for granted: the minimum wage, the 40-hour work week, and health and safety protections in the workplace. These milestones provide the foundation of the American Dream, and were achieved through long and tireless organizing and collective bargaining efforts. I stand united with all workers to protect this progress. In Congress, I’m a cosponsor of the PRO Act to usher in a new era that prioritizes working families, as well as legislation to raise the minimum wage to keep up with the cost of living.

Forecast high temperatures could break records, please stay safe in the heat during the long weekend.

Also remember to practice food safety! A cookout, beach day, or camping trip shouldn’t be ruined by a foodborne illness. Learn more here.

Public Media

This week I stopped by Minnesota Public Radio and TPT (Twin Cities PBS). Minnesota is fortunate to have excellent public media, and as Republicans seek to zero out funding this year, I’m working hard to ensure they have the resources they need.

From providing educational programming for children and engaging and informative news stories, to alerting the public in emergencies, this work is important and our investments in it must be protected.

Supporting Minnesota Farmers

On Monday, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced new investments to give Minnesota’s farmers the tools they need to be leaders in our nation’s agricultural sector. Thanks to the Good Acre food hub for hosting us and for empowering Minnesota farmers.

As they say: No farmers, no food!

And of course, we had to show the Secretary around the best state fair in the union!

Congressional App Challenge

I’m excited to announce my office’s participation in the 2023 Congressional App Challenge! Middle and high school students with an interest in coding are encouraged to create and submit an app that solves a problem or showcases creativity. Learn more about the rules and important deadlines here.

Fourth District Update

Reminder: Join me for a virtual update on Thursday, September 7 at 6:30pm as I head back to Washington to ensure the federal government remains open and working for the American people. Zoom registration is required.

As always, don’t hesitate to reach out with your policy opinion or if you need help with a federal agency.

Thank you for being an informed and engaged constituent.

Sincerely,

Betty McCollum
Member of Congress