State Rep. Sandra Peterson Retires Citing Health Reasons

From a recent Peterson office press release:

Today, State Rep. Sandra Peterson of New Hope (DFL-45A) announced she will be retiring from the Minnesota House of Representatives.

During her tenure at the Minnesota House, Rep. Peterson focused on finding budget solutions to rising education costs, including the rapidly increasing costs of special education, transportation and health care. In addition, she authored numerous bills to improve education and child care options for our youngest students. In the last biennium, Rep. Peterson served on the Civil Law, Education Reform, and Health and Human Services Reform Committees.

Rep. Peterson released the following statement:

“It has been an honor to serve the communities of Crystal, New Hope, and Plymouth for the last eight years, but due to recent, unexpected health concerns, I need to refocus my energies onto recuperation and spending time with my family. I will not be able to devote the time and energy necessary to serving my constituents in the manner they deserve from their elected representative.

“I’m proud of the many education reforms we have achieved in the last several years — especially those in early childhood education.  However, much work remains to be done, including paying back the $2.4 billion we still owe our students. I hope that the next legislature will renew its focus on education and ensure that every child in Minnesota, no matter where they live, or their family’s income, will have access to a world-class education and be given opportunities to succeed.

 “I want to thank the staff, volunteers, community members, and family who have given me this wonderful opportunity to serve our district and our state. I look forward to continuing to serve our great communities in any way that I can in the future.”