With the election in the rearview mirror, it's time for everyone in Washington to work together to get some things done. For instance, clearly our broken immigration system needs to be fixed, but I'm disappointed in the President's decision to continue politics-as-usual and "go-it-alone" without building consensus.

As for me, I'm going to continue working to build bipartisan support on issues to create a healthier economy and jobs, like building the Keystone XL pipeline and repealing the medical device tax. I wrote a column in the Wall Street Journal about why repealing this tax is so critical to help our economy and spur innovation.

Also this week, I attended a ceremony in the U.S. Capitol building honoring Vaclav Havel, the first democratically elected President of Czechloslovakia and the Czech Republic. Havel was a champion of freedom and democracy, admiring the United States. Billy Gibbons, of ZZ Top, was part of the ceremony honoring the late President.

Please feel free to contact my office if I can be of help to you or your family. Also, make sure you join the conversation online by visiting my website, Facebook page, Twitter, and don't forget to watch my weekly video, Erik's Correspondence Corner.

Improving the Lives of ALS Patients

You are likely aware of the recent phenomenon that swept the nation called the Ice Bucket Challenge, which raised millions of dollars for ALS research. However, many don't know about a government agency's proposal that threatened those afflicted with ALS, cerebral palsy, or other neurological and degenerative diseases. The policy change would limit access to speech generating devices that are critical to enabling millions to communicate with loved ones.

Last month, I led a bipartisan effort opposing the agency's proposed changes and thankfully they have now rescinded their proposal. We should do more to embrace important technology in the medical field that helps so many affected by ALS.

Remembering Congressman Bill Frenzel

Congressman Bill Frenzel served Minnesota's 3rd District with distinction for 20 years in Congress. Sadly, he passed away early last week. Bill will be remembered as an expert on budget, trade, and tax issues, as well as someone willing to work across the aisle to get things done. Minnesotans also may recall his famous 'Frenzel Doodles' that he would draw during hearings and meetings. Even after retiring from Congress, Bill remained active on trade and budget issues in a number of different capacities. I honored Congressman Frenzel on the House floor in a speech as well as leading a special order where other members of Congress were able to say words in rememberance of Bill.

Stopping Invasive Species

Earlier this fall, the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District discovered zebra mussels in Christmas Lake in Shorewood. The discovery of zebra mussels in the lake is extremely troubling and could have a serious impact on the lake’s health. In fact, each individual zebra mussle can produce up to 500,000 eggs a year. Both state and local officials have worked very closely to contain the spread of zebra mussels, but are now seeking a waiver from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to use a product that has been shown to be 100 percent effective in killing the mussels. I have requested that the EPA expeditiously approve the state’s application.

Erik with Ms. Singh and Ms. Blue's 1st grade class at Elm Creek Elementary in Maple Grove.

Congressman Paulsen honoring Bill Frenzel on the House floor with one of the famous 'Frenzel Doodles.'

Congressman Paulsen speaking at a Breaking Free event about his efforts in Congress to combat sex trafficking.

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