 Dear Neighbors,
I continue working with state agencies to mitigate damage to Minnesotans from the longest, man-made GOP federal government shutdown in U.S. history. If you’re able, swing by Curiouser Coffee (14889 Florence Trail, Apple Valley, MN 55124) tomorrow from 9:00-10:00 a.m. for an update and to share what’s on your mind.
 The Minnesota Department of Youth, Children, and Families (DCYF) is evaluating new USDA guidance to determine how federal disruptions may affect Minnesotans’ access to food assistance. While the state remains hopeful that at least partial SNAP and MFIP benefits will be available in November, the latest guidance from DCYF is to continue accepting and processing new applications. Each month, 440,000 Minnesotans rely on SNAP benefits across all 87 counties and tribal nations. The USDA has also confirmed that households may continue using existing benefits on their EBT cards, and there is no current indication that EBT retailers will be de-authorized.
You can help our neighbors in need by using Hunger Solution’s Find Help Map to find a food shelf or food bank to donate to.
House Capital Investment Committee Visits Apple Valley
The House Capital Investment Committee visited Apple Valley Wednesday during its regional tour to review two major funding requests. The city is seeking $40 million in state funding toward a $100 million water treatment plant upgrade that will expand filtration systems to remove harmful PFAS chemicals and improve water quality for residents.
 The committee also toured the Minnesota Zoo, which is requesting $30 million investment for critical infrastructure repairs including the heat plant boiler, roof, aquatic life support system, and various habitat improvements. It’s been an honor to work with the zoo to help make it more accessible for all with our work on the Treetop Trail and more.
 Keep in Touch
Please continue writing and calling with your thoughts and questions. These are certainly challenging times, and I want to hear from you and how I can help.
Thank you for the honor of representing you at the State Capitol.
Sincerely,
Robert Bierman
State Representative
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