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On July 1, our new state budget took effect, along with the majority of the new policies lawmakers enacted this past session. As with all of this year’s successful legislation, these new laws are the product of bipartisan compromise. While there are certainly components of the budget I wish went further, there are still plenty of things to be proud of. What’s even better is Democrats successfully protected vital programs that Minnesotans are depending on to make life more affordable, like Universal School Meals, the North Star Promise, Paid Family and Medical Leave, and Earned Sick and Safe time, just to name a few.
Statewide highlights include required access to free water at ticketed events of 100 or more people, protections for children who appear in online media, and assistance for homeowners and tenants when dealing with HOAs.
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Essentia Health's refusal to bargain with clinic nurses and APPs isn't just hurting workers - it's disrupting patient care in our communities. When a healthcare system would rather pay replacement workers a premium than negotiate fairly with their own skilled staff, something is deeply wrong. I'm calling on Essentia to end this standoff and prioritize both worker rights and patient safety. Northern Minnesota deserves better.
That’s why I signed onto this letter to Essentia CEO David Herman condemning his unwillingness to negotiate with Essentia’s clinic nurses and Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) in good faith.
In a climate marked by widespread assaults on organized labor, our state and our caucus remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding workers’ fundamental rights to organize and collectively bargain.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency announced that elevated levels of lead in the air were found in Eagan. Letters are being accordingly mailed to affected residents, and the MPCA, the Minnesota Department of Health, and Dakota County are holding a public meeting on July 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Eagan Community Center for the community to learn more and ask questions. Soil testing drop-off will also be available at the event.
One year after the North Star Promise paved the way for more Minnesotans to attend higher education at one of Minnesota’s State Universities or Colleges, thousands of families have been affected for the better. If you’re considering pursuing higher education, it’s not too late to apply to Minnesota State for the fall. Scholarships are still available for students looking to pursue careers in high-demand industries. Head here to learn more.
It’s hard to believe that the summer is more than halfway over. I’m soaking up every last bit with my family, and I hope you’re doing the same. A food truck festival is coming to Eagan and Mendota Heights on August 8th. Hope to see you there!
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Unfortunately, due to technological constraints, replies to this newsletter won’t reach my email account.
To share your input or ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to reach out by email at [email protected], or by phone at 651-296-4192. You can contact my new Legislative Assistant, Jude, at 651-296-9467 or at [email protected].
It is an honor and a privilege to represent you at the Capitol.
All my best,
Bianca Virnig
State Representative
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State Representative Bianca Virnig
5th Floor, Centennial Office Building
658 Cedar St.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
Phone: 651-296-4192
Email: [email protected] (replies to this newsletter are not monitored)
Website: www.house.mn.gov/52B
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