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*May 10, 2024*






Legislative Update

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Dear Neighbors,

We are heading into the final days at the Capitol. I had a couple of great visits and a lot of hustle to get the final legislation completed.

I want to *thank our teachers and nurses* for your commitment to our communities in educating our youngsters and caring for our injured. My brother and I know how important these professionals are in our lives from our numerous trips to health care facilities in our youth. I am thankful for my niece Nurse Alli and our Mother, who was a career teacher with over 30 years in the classroom and two crystal apples presented by the governor.

Thank you, Nurses and Teachers!







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Bills, Votes & the other Chamber

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*Workforce Omnibus more spending lacking accountability*

Concerned with the lack of oversight, I wrote a bill with bipartisan support, but did not receive a hearing. Instead, I adapted it into an amendment for the *Accountability, Transparency and Effectiveness of Workforce Grants by establishing standardized success metrics* to ensure that the appropriations from the legislature to Nonprofits are *delivering on the promise to effectively train and place workers in our communities.* However, in committee, this oversight amendment was voted down along party lines…disappointing!

If we don’t get this right, we will waste resources intended to help folks achieve the dignity and independence that comes with working decent job. The lack of accountability feeds and breeds criminal activity (recall Feeding Our Future to the tune of over $250,000,000) *and breaks the trust* with our citizenry.

We can and must do better for Minnesota!



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*Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exclusion Increase*

I was proud to stand with our Veterans Committee led by our DFL Chair Newton - a Viet Nam Veteran - for our Disabled Veterans. We introduced an amendment to the Tax Omnibus bill for the *Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exclusion Increase.* After initial opposition by the DFL Tax Chair, a spirited discussion ensued and a bipartisan spirit arose. Then the Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exclusion Increase *passed unanimously with complete bipartisan support.* This was a Veterans Service Organization *Commanders Task Force top priority.* Thanks to my bipartisan colleagues for doing the right thing for our Disabled Veterans!



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*1A Rights Preserved*

I am so happy to announce that a bill was passed to correct the Minnesota Human Rights mistake of excluding the Religious Freedom Exemption. Thank you for your prayers and the hard work of our faith communities in restoring religious freedom in Minnesota. Your U.S. Constitutional First Amendment right of freedom of religion passed out of the House and Senate on Tuesday. This is a small victory for liberty!

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*What is wrong at the University of Minnesota*

Sadly, the University of Minnesota (U of M), has experienced a disruptive protest. While I support the fundamental right to peaceful protest, there is also a distinct responsibility of the protesters to respect the rules of the U of M and not threaten others, nor destroy property.

It is also vital to ensure that such protests do not unduly disrupt campus activities nor impede the rights of others. Balancing these interests requires the enforcement of consequences for unlawful behavior, while also fostering an environment where diverse viewpoints can be heard and respected. It is imperative that students who violate the campus code of conduct or the law be properly disciplined and that the U of M gets back to its primary mission – education.

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*What is right at the University of Minnesota*

I was proud to attend the ROTC Commissioning Ceremony at the University of Minnesota on Wednesday.

David Hendrickson was pinned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Military Intelligence Corps. David served as my intern this year in the Veterans Committee. Also pictured is Captain Scherck, and 2LT JR Swanson, who is my legislative assistant. I was commissioned from the same ROTC program 39 years ago at Northrup Auditorium. Minnesotans are continuing to do the right thing and serve this great state and nation. Dig it Gophers!



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*Zosia & Edmund’s visit*

I was delighted to have visitors from Liberty Classical Academy who are residents of my district. Zosia, Edmund, and members of Mrs. Johnson’s 5th grade class toured the Capitol and asked me several great questions about our government. It was my distinct pleasure to visit with these bright young people and their visit renewed my hope for our future.



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Wednesday was the 79th anniversary of *Victory in Europe Day* or VE Day. Americans fought and died freeing Europe from the grips of Nazism.

There are two events next week honoring the sacrifices of our service members:

Tuesday May 14: *Hmong Special Guerilla Unit Remembrance Day* here at the Capitol.

Thursday May 16: *Japanese American Veterans Memorial* at Ft Snelling.

I will be giving the address at the *Woodbury VFW Memorial Day Event.* Please join me or consider paying your respects to our Fallen at your *local VFW Memorial Day Event.*

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Mothers Day

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*Mothers Day and Minnesota's Fishing Opener*

Happy Mother's Day to everyone in our district! Mothers are the nurturing heartbeats of our families, providing unwavering love and support. Their endless dedication and strength inspire us to be our best selves every day. Take the time to do something special with your mom this weekend. Happy Mother’s Day and happy Fishing Opener!






Please Contact Me

Please continue to reach out if I can be of any assistance to you. You can reach me by phone at 651-296-4244 or by email at [email protected].

Have a great weekend! 

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Mark











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353 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Saint Paul, MN 55155
ph: 651.296.4244







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