Legislative Update: April 25, 2025

Dear Neighbors,

The main work of all finance committees over the past several weeks has been putting together individual budget bills that meet the targets given to them. Those bills started going through the Ways & Means Committee this week, and the House voted on its first budget bills today, including the Legacy Committee, which I co-chair.

Since 2009, the Legacy Amendment has generated more than $5.7 billion for initiatives that benefit people and communities across Minnesota. This legislation continues that legacy. Minnesotans care deeply about our state, and we are proud of Minnesota’s great outdoors, clean water, and arts and culture, and we want to preserve and enhance them. This Legacy bill invests in these priorities, which will make our state an even better place to live for current and future generations. 

As my colleagues and I continue our work this session, your participation in the legislative process remains vital. Your feedback and experiences help inform policy decisions that affect our entire state.

New American Leaders Conference

I recently had the honor of joining New American Leaders - a powerful nonprofit dedicated to building an inclusive democracy - to connect with elected officials nationwide. Together, we shared ideas, learned from one another, and are working toward real solutions to our nation’s housing and homelessness crisis.

Over the legislative Easter break, I attended their conference focused on housing and homelessness. Everyone deserves a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home. We've made meaningful progress here in Minnesota, but the challenges remain urgent. With homeownership gaps widening, a critical shortage of affordable homes for both renters and buyers, and uncertain federal policies, now is the time for bold, transformative action.

You can learn more about our discussion here.

Minnesota Making Progress on Clean Energy

In 2023 and 2024, DFLers made generational investments in a cleaner, cheaper, and more efficient energy system, putting Minnesota on the path to 100% Carbon-Free Energy by 2040. 

The latest Minnesota Energy Factsheet shows our policies are working and our investments are paying off, creating high-paying clean energy jobs, lowering costs for families, and building a greener future:

? A new record low in carbon emissions, cutting another 4% between 2023 and 2024.

? Residents and businesses have saved more than $307 million in energy costs from the Energy Conservation Optimization (ECO) Act.

? Minnesota is ranked No. 1 in Midwest for overall energy efficiency, and No. 10 nationwide!

Here at the Capitol, I’m dedicated to protecting our progress from those who are seeking to repeal the legislation that made this positive change possible.

Investing In Our World-class State Parks 

In 2023, DFLers passed the largest-ever investment in our environment and natural resources, including improving our world-class state park system. From new and upgraded bridges and trails, redesigned campsites, and improved accessibility at state parks, we’re making sure that current and future generations of Minnesotans can enjoy our great outdoors.

Check out this article to learn more about how we’re strengthening the outdoor experience all around our state.

Stay in Touch

Please reach out to my office if you need assistance with anything. I am best reached through email at rep.samantha.vang@house.mn.gov or please contact my Legislative Assistant Grace at grace.johnson@house.mn.gov. I always appreciate hearing from you. You can also follow along on my official Facebook page here. 

Sincerely,

Rep. Samantha Vang

651-296-3709

rep.samantha.vang@house.mn.gov