 Legislative Update from Representative Katie Jones
Dear Neighbors,
Next week on Wednesday, February 18 at 7:30 p.m., Rep. Long, Sen. Dibble, and I are hosting a town hall in the district. For safety purposes, we are asking folks to RSVP ahead of time; the location will be sent to participants 24 hours before the event.
 In anticipation of the start of session on February 17, House DFLers are currently working on over 80 ideas for legislative proposals to address ICE’s impacts and combat unlawful/unconstitutional activities. A few of these include prohibiting masks and unidentifiable enforcement actions, providing housing assistance to those besieged by ICE allowing Minnesotans to sue federal agents for civil rights violations, and limiting collaboration with federal immigration enforcement actions that violates civil rights. A constituent from our area also inspired an idea for a bill that would limit window tinting in the front of law enforcement vehicles. Your input matters; always feel free to email me directly with ideas at [email protected].
Local law enforcement has the role of arresting and holding suspects in jail while they await a conviction or trial, and they may imprison individuals convicted of breaking local laws. In this case, local jurisdictions like Minneapolis may choose to not inquire about immigration status and choose not to disclose it to federal authorities. Evidence has shown that fewer people come forward about crimes if immigration status is tracked.
If people do not come forward about crimes, there is less accountability and safety in the community. Minneapolis’ Separation Ordinance ensures that the City does not participate in immigration enforcement.
Help for Minneapolis’ Economy
It’s no secret our local economy is struggling in Minneapolis due to rampant and relentless ICE activity. New data shows our city is losing $10 to $20 million every week. Our Lake Street businesses are especially hurting. That’s why I’m grateful Lake Street Council is organizing weekly Wednesday “You Belong Here” Cash Mob events. You can sign up to be notified of each weekly Cash Mob event by clicking this link. Click on the video below to see which local spot I had the opportunity to support.
Promise Act and Latino Economic Development Center Grants
If you’re a business owner and have been economically harmed by ICE, please consider applying for a Promise Act Grant. This initiative was originally passed in the aftermath of George Floyd’s killing to help rebuild our small business and city infrastructure. Funds are available for struggling businesses, check out if you’re eligible to apply by clicking this link.
The Latino & Immigrant Business Emergency Relief Fund was initially set up to serve the East Side of Saint Paul, but is encouraging all POCI businesses to apply, regardless of geography. You can learn more by clicking this link.
I’d also like to re-share these resources and reminders as well:
- Check in with your neighborhood organization, local school, Monarca, or this list organized by SWAE for local networks to plug into.
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Joyce Uptown Foodshelf is supporting many mutual aid networks. Please consider donating.
- Consider donating cooking oil, Aldi’s gift cards, rice, boxed pasta, and shelf stable fresh items like apples, oranges, potatoes, etc. to the Ella Baker School Grocery Donation Drive at the Wedge Neighborhood Association’s office at 1017 W. 24th St. Minneapolis, MN 55405. They are open MTW 9am-1pm, Thursdays and Fridays 2pm-5pm.
These are challenging times for our communities, and we’re no doubt tired. But the thing that makes Minnesota special is that we don't give up on our neighbors. We look out for one another. We are resilient and we will get through this, together.
Take care,
Katie Jones
State Representative
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