Friends and neighbors,?

Well, we knew it would come eventually! While we dig ourselves out from under this spring snow, this week has been especially busy in Saint Paul. We've continued crafting solutions to make our state work better for everyone and help Minnesotans have the economic security they deserve. This week on BRAND NEWS, bringing the classroom down to the river and the State of the State.?

This week, my bill to support watershed monitoring in the Minnesota River Valley was heard in the Environment and Natural Resources committee. The bill would grant $150,000 to the DNR to expand the water quality and watershed monitoring partnership they have with 25 schools in the Minnesota River Valley region.?

This gives our students the chance to do real field work and helps support the monitoring of less studied waterways in Minnesota. I remember participating in something similar when I was in high school, and it was one of the coolest classroom experiences. Getting young learners interested in environmental sciences is the best way to ensure Minnesota?s natural resources are protected for generations to come.?

On Tuesday, Governor Walz gave his 6th State of the State address down at Owatonna High School. He talked a lot about IVF, and how it has personally touched his family. You can watch the Governor?s full address here. ?

Minnesotans all across the state have a similar story. That?s why I?m carrying legislation to ensure insurance coverage for fertility treatment, like IVF. Governor Walz also talked about the major strides we?ve made in the past couple years, including gun violence prevention measures, reproductive rights, and historic funding for our schools. We?re on track to make Minnesota the best place to raise a family, but our work is not finished.???

Many constituents have stopped by my office at the Capitol in the past few months to say hello and to advocate for really important priorities for our District 18A. ?

Thank you for your trust and partnership in this important role as your elected legislator.?

One of the best tools I have in setting my legislative priorities is YOU!????

Take my legislative survey to make your voice heard. Submissions are open now through May 1, 2024.???

As always, I want to hear from you. Get in touch by calling 651-296-8634 to reach me, or email [email protected]. Be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram for the latest.??

Stay warm out there.??

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In solidarity,??

Representative Jeff Brand?

Minnesota House of Representatives?