Posted: 1/23/07
Erickson Ropes visits Caledonia
By Jane Palen
Managing Editor
The honeymoon isnít over for Sharon Erickson Ropes, newly elected state senator from District 31.
Several times, the freshman senator from Winona referred to the atmosphere at the capitol as "collegial," emphasizing that the senate leadership is making a concerted effort to bring the new senatorsówhich represent a third of the entire bodyóup to speed.
"Thereís an effort to include all new members," said Erickson Ropes. "They are treating us as peers. They want to be inclusive, civil and respectful."
The legislature started out on a positive note by holding a bicameral, bipartisan orientation session for the new members, a first in the history of the state.
Health care bill introduced
The second bill introduced this session, S.F. 2, is a comprehensive health care package. Health care was a major campaign issue for Erickson Ropes. The bill makes health care universal, comprehensive (covering dental and mental health services as well as medical) and affordable.
The legislation would also guarantee benefits for veterans returning from active duty.
Erickson Ropes recognizes that the bill will not be passed exactly as it is written now, but adds, "We have chosen a direction."
Of particular concern to Ropes is the well-being of the 3,000 veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan who will be returning this winter and spring. A veteran herself, Erickson Ropes said that the process of assimilating back into society is more difficult than people realize. The experiences that the soldiers have had are hard for their families and friends to understand, and they need assistance in reentering society.
One possible initiative is a crisis line which would be set up for veterans.
Committee assignments
Erickson Ropes said she is "thrilled" with her committee assignments. She serves as vice-chair of the agriculture and veterans budget and policy committee and on the health, housing, and family security committee; health and human services budge division and education policy committee.
Constituents can reach Senator Erickson Ropes by e-mail at sen.sharon.erickson.ropes@senate.mn; by writing her at G24 State Capitol; 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, St. Paul, MN 55155-1606; or by calling 651-296-5649.
Caledonia Argus
314 West Lincoln St.
P.O. Box 227
Caledonia, MN 55921-0227
507/724-3475
E-Mail: editor.argus@ecm-inc.com