Dear Friend,

August 10th, marks 2 years since the PACT Act was signed into law. I'm committed to ensuring our nation's veterans receive the high-quality, accessible care they've earned. That's why I was honored to have Ranking Member Rep. Mark Takano of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee visit our district. This newsletter covers the key highlights from his visit, as well as updates on other important initiatives I've been advancing. I hope you find this update informative, and please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Minneapolis VA Health Care System Tour with Rep. Mark Takano

Last week, I had the opportunity to visit the Minneapolis VA Health Care System alongside Rep. Mark Takano, Ranking Member of the Veterans Affairs Committee. It was a chance to see firsthand the critical work being done to support our nation's veterans and identify ways we can further strengthen the VA healthcare system.

Our visit began with a tour of the Tele-Critical Care Hub, where we met with subject matter experts leveraging telemedicine technology to provide high-quality, around-the-clock care. We then held a listening session with union leaders and frontline employees. Their insights are crucial as they are the ones delivering care day-in and day-out and understand firsthand where improvements can be made. 

PACT Act Roundtable

In 2022, the PACT Act was signed into law, providing overdue support for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances during their service. I was honored to host a PACT Act roundtable with Rep. Mark Takano, Senator Amy Klobuchar, and Senator Tina Smith. We were joined by veterans' advocates and community leaders to discuss the importance of this landmark legislation. Currently, less than 10,000 veterans out of the more than 100,000 who qualify in Minnesota have enrolled in the PACT Act program. That's why I've made it a top priority to spread awareness and ensure our veterans get the care they've earned.

Visiting MACV supportive housing location

Too many of our nation's heroes face the devastating reality of homelessness after their service. But organizations like the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) are working tirelessly to change that, providing transitional and permanent supportive housing to help veterans get back on their feet. I had the privilege of visiting a supportive housing location run by the MACV alongside Rep. Mark Takano and Senator Tina Smith. It was inspiring to meet Dennis, an Air Force veteran, and his family who have found a safe, stable home through MACV's vital services.

Town Hall with Minneapolis City Council Member Linea Palmisano

We had an incredible turnout at our town hall meeting on Wednesday at Nico's Tacos! I'm deeply grateful to everyone who took the time to join us, including Minneapolis City Council Member Linea Palmisano. I'm energized by the discussions we had and am looking forward to continuing this important dialogue at our next town hall. If you weren’t able to join us you can watch it here. 

Introducing the Shrinkflation Reduction Act

Shrinkflation is corporate greed in action. Companies are sneakily reducing product sizes while raising or keeping prices the same, hoping we won't notice.

That's why I've introduced the Shrinkflation Reduction Act. This bill will force companies to be transparent when they reduce product sizes without lowering prices. We deserve better. We deserve honesty in our marketplace. It's time to put people over profits and end this deceptive practice. Read more here. 

Speaking at the Refugee Health Conference

I had an incredible conversation with Dr. Anisa Ibrahim at the Refugee Health Conference. We shared our experiences of fleeing Somalia as children. Her story of resilience and determination resonates deeply with my own journey. From refugee to physician, Dr. Ibrahim embodies the American dream and the immense contributions refugees make to our nation.

Touring the Blue Line Extension Alignment

I was thrilled to join Met Council Chair Charlie Zelle, Met Council Member Reva Chamblis, Hennepin Board Chair Irene Fernando, Robbinsdale Mayor Bill Blonigan, and Met Council and Hennepin County staff for an in-depth look at the progress being made on Southwest Light Rail and a tour of the Blue Line Extension alignment. I’m excited to see the final product of these projects. These light rail investments are crucial to supporting our growing population, connecting people with jobs and housing, and reducing climate emissions.

In Service,

Ilhan Omar