This week the house passed a public safety finance bill which, along with the senate version will be worked on in committee soon. The house also passed a funding package for jobs and housing that “includes funding for jobs, economic development and housing programs through several state agencies. The bill would temporarily increase the workforce development fee paid by employers and use the money for several new and existing employment programs, including a wage subsidy similar to the Minnesota Emergency Employment Development program of the early 1980s”.

Finally, the Early childhood finance omnibus bill also passed the house.

The omnibus early childhood finance bill was passed 84-47 by the House after a debate that featured 11 amendments offered by Republicans, just one of which was adopted. (Watch)

The bill’s short life ends here, however, as its provisions are expected to be divided in conference committee between the K-12 education finance and health and human services omnibus bills. Some early childhood programs are funded through each channel.

Its sponsor, Rep. Nora Slawik (DFL-Maplewood), said HF2088 addresses “three overarching goals” the division has maintained through the session: getting an early start on closing the achievement gap, increasing child care quality and readying children for kindergarten.

While most Republicans believe in those broad goals, they have different priorities about how best to target programs and funds to the most at-risk children, and prefer to direct funds to strengthen children within the context of their families over state-run programs.

Check the above link to see who voted for and against the bill.

There are women at every level of government from Park Board to US Senate making decisions that impact your choices as a parent. This month we would like to feature a few of the womenwinning supported candidates who are working hard to broaden your choices as a parent.

Rep. Nora Slawik Truly a champion of family issues in Minnesota, Representative Nora Slawik (District 55B) serves as the Chair of the Early Childhood Learning Finance Division and serves on the committees of K-12 Education Policy, Education Finance and Economic Competitiveness Finance Division. She authored several important bills in 2009 that will impact kids and families. In her House Informational Interview, Slawik cites her interest in politics beginning with her son entering special education, and ‘trying to figure out the maze’ of what that meant. Slawik has brought her passion for quality education to the House for five terms. womenwinning applauds Rep. Slawik for her work! Click here to watch the House video conversation.

Hon. Pam Costain Minneapolis School Board Member Pam Costain was born into a family of teachers, and grew up believing that teaching is a noble profession. Joining the school board has enabled her to set the bar for high expectations and excellent classroom instruction for all kids, regardless of family income, race or circumstances. One of her focuses is on eliminating the “opportunity gap”. She helped to found and was the first state director of Save Our Schools/Parents United Network. This important organization organizes parents to support adequate funding for public education at the legislature. Ever wondered how the school board works with the legislature and other boards to get things done? Check out Board Member Costain’s website for her vision of shared responsibility.

Come join Representative Nora Slawik and School Board Member Pam Costain to talk about how policy effects parenting at MOMS & POLITICS

Moms & PoliticsThursday, April 23, 7:30pm to 9:00pm
At the home of Courtney Cushing Kiernat
3435 Humboldt Ave South
Minneapolis

Wine & dessert will be served
Ticket Price: $25

Please RSVP to info@womenwinning.org or by calling womenwinning headquarters: 651-251-0727