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Dear Neighbors,

We are approaching the fifth week of the federal government shutdown in Washington D.C. With Republicans controlling the Presidency and both houses of Congress, the party holds full authority to fund the government and end the shutdown. To date, no resolution has been reached despite this unified control of government.

The shutdown comes at a challenging time for millions of American families facing affordability concerns. Federal employees are working without pay or have been furloughed, and the extended closure threatens to disrupt health insurance markets and nutrition assistance programs that millions of Americans rely on. With single-party control of the federal government, 440,000 Minnesotans’ food access on the line, and millions of families facing astronomical spikes in health premiums, Republicans must work with everyone to resolve the impasse and restore government operations.

Although state legislators have no control over federal budget decisions, I’m working with our partner in Congress U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison and our state agencies to track the impact on Minnesotans, particularly these public workers who no longer have paychecks. Rep. Morrison has resources here. 

If the federal shutdown continues into November, funding will run out for these critical food benefits. If you or someone you know needs help with food this fall, Hunger Solutions has a list of statewide food shelves and additional resources here. Please also consider making a contribution to a local food shelf if you can. They’re already struggling to meet the demand, and the longer the uncertainty around SNAP continues, the more pressure they will face.

As I write this, two judges have ordered the Trump Administration to continue paying for food assistance during the government shutdown. We'll have to wait and see how the administration chooses to act.

This potential pause in food aid is on top of the new paperwork requirements for SNAP recipients while previous exemptions for veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and youth aging out of foster care have been eliminated. I’m concerned that redundant and burdensome hurdles will serve as a barrier to Minnesotans getting the food they need. 

In true North Star state fashion, Minnesota has played a large role in shaping federal food aid programs, like SNAP and WIC. SNAP was enacted federally in 1964, but has been around since 1939 its first pilot program after the Great Depression. 

Walter Mondale and Hubert Humphrey served on the Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs in 1974.

An article from St. Cloud Times on December 11, 1973 discussing a Special Supplemental Food Program for women, infants, and children.

I’m hopeful Congress can work together to protect the most vulnerable in our communities; and utilize initiatives we’ve had in place for nearly 100 years.

Connected to Community

Thank you to everyone who attended and participated in our recent Plymouth Legislative Town Hall. It’s always great to hear your voices and learn your priorities!

It was great attending the ribbon-cutting of the opening of the Plymouth Northwest Greenway Trail! A project 20 years in the making, I'm proud to be a part of this incredible regional gem's celebration. Grateful this true community asset is protecting natural habitats while providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Keep in Touch

Please continue to contact me anytime with input, or to let me know how I can help you during these challenging times. Your voice drives the good work we can do together in St. Paul.

It’s an honor to serve our Plymouth and Medicine Lake neighbors at the Capitol.

Sincerely,

Ginny Klevorn
State Representative