Dear Friend,

We’re back in Washington for another week of session. On the docket this week: a sweeping appropriations bill that includes spending in transportation, housing and urban development, climate change and more.

It has been clear that Speaker Pelosi is choosing to prioritize social issues, which she sees as divisive. Instead, we should be voting on real solutions to the issues Americans care about most: high prices, a crisis at the southern border, and rampant crime.

Read on to hear what we’re working on this week…

The Price of Rising Crime

If you visit the Twin Cities often, you have seen the toll rising crime takes on our communities. In 2021 alone, Minneapolis saw 8,522 assaults, 11,707 thefts (including 4,262 carjackings) and 2,546 burglaries.

Watch Congressman Emmer speak to Brian Ingram in the House Financial Services Committee above.

Brian Ingram, a chef and owner of Purpose Driven Restaurants in St. Paul, has seen the impact of violent crime firsthand—his restaurants and offices have been robbed seven times. This week, I invited Brian to speak before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations and share how this crime has impacted his business.

Brian’s story is all too common. Small business owners across the country have been forced to cut their hours, buy expensive security systems and pay for damages as a result of high crime. Brian and I agree: we must support law enforcement and empower them to make our cities safe.

Investing in Ag’s Next Generation

The hard work of the men and women in our ag sector is essential to keeping our grocery shelves stocked and plates full. However, a concerning trend has emerged. The average age of workers in the ag industry is climbing higher, and not enough young farmers and ranchers are filling their shoes. In fact, farmers under 35 make up only 9% of the ag workforce.

Congressman Emmer visits Hess Farms in Foley

There are many challenges facing young farmers, producers, and ranchers, with high land, equipment, and fertilizer costs chief among them. To ensure the long-term strength of our ag workforce, we must invest in its next generation.

Today, we introduced the ASPIRE Act. This bicameral, bipartisan bill will establish a work-based training program within the Department of Agriculture’s existing Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. This program will fund apprenticeship and internship programs, expanding the training available to beginning farmers and ranchers.

The ASPIRE Act will provide an important resource to young people looking to make their start in the ag industry. You can read more about the bill here.

Crisis Intervention at the Push of a Button

For those experiencing a mental health crisis, even small barriers to care can feel insurmountable. It is crucial that in an emergency, there is a straightforward, easy-to-remember way to get help. We are proud to announce that as of this weekend, the 9-8-8 Suicide Lifeline will be available nationwide.

For every individual who dies by suicide, 316 people seriously consider it. Through easy-to-navigate, accessible care, we can save lives. I was proud to serve as a cosponsor and supporter of the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act, which made the number’s switch to 9-8-8 law.

If you or someone is struggling, you are not alone. Dial 9-8-8 for immediate support, and learn more about the National Suicide Lifeline here.

Securing American Energy Independence

Strong domestic energy production doesn’t just drive down costs, it protects our national security. While we’ve long advocated for increased oil and gas production, we cannot turn our backs on any type of American energy. You can read more about our all-of-the-above energy strategy here.

Until next week, if you are in need of assistance or would like to share your thoughts with me, please write me an e-mail here.

To keep up with what we’re doing in Washington, follow me on Twitter and Facebook for more updates!

Sincerely,