Legislative Update Dear Friends and Neighbors, We’ve made it—the final stretch of the 2025 legislative session is here! After months of hard work in committees (and yes, things definitely got heated in there), it’s time for the main event: floor debates. If you thought the committee action was intense, buckle up—this is where the real fireworks happen. As of today, April 4th, we’re hitting not one, but two big budget deadlines. First, all policy bills have officially made it through their House committees. Then, the same bills passed through the Senate—check and check! We’re making some serious progress. Our next big deadline is April 11th, when all finance bills need to be approved by their committees. We’re moving fast! With the House locked in a 67-67 tie, we’re in a strong spot to push back on extreme proposals and stop unnecessary tax hikes in their tracks. This balance of power gives us a chance to fight for the policies that really matter for Minnesota’s future. Just imagine what we could achieve if we keep this momentum going for the next two years! Thanks for being a part of this journey. It’s about to get interesting—stay tuned! Budget Breakthrough: A Step in the Right DirectionIt’s not every day that Republicans and Democrats find common ground on the budget, but over the weekend, an agreement was reached—one that represents the largest total spending reduction in Minnesota state history. That’s right, this budget framework includes a $3.9 billion reduction compared to the last budget. This is a big step toward fixing the financial mess left behind by Democrats, who, in just two years, spent an $18 billion surplus, raised taxes by $10 billion, and expanded government spending by 40%. While we can’t undo the damage overnight, this agreement takes a major step forward, cutting $2.6 billion from the projected 2028-2029 budget deficit and reducing it from $6 billion to $2.2 billion. House Republicans remain firmly opposed to tax increases and are committed to right-sizing government—making it smaller, more efficient, and focused on delivering core services Minnesotans actually depend on. Given the divided nature of the House, this budget framework is a win for fiscal responsibility and a step toward a more sustainable financial future for our state. We’ll keep fighting to ensure Minnesota taxpayers are prioritized, not burdened with more reckless spending. Building Stronger Foundations: Supporting Mental Health in Construction When we think about the construction industry, we picture hard hats, steel beams, and the incredible workers who build the roads, bridges, and buildings we rely on every day. But what we don’t always see is the mental toll this demanding profession can take. That’s why I’m proud to author House File 2468, a bill dedicated to promoting mental health and suicide prevention in the construction industry. This legislation provides $500,000 per year to fund outreach, education, stigma reduction, and worksite strategies—ensuring that workers get the resources they need to navigate the challenges of their field. The sad reality is, construction workers face some of the highest rates of suicide among all industries. Long hours, physically demanding labor, and the pressures of job uncertainty all contribute to a mental health crisis that can no longer be ignored. We owe it to these hardworking men and women to break the stigma and provide meaningful support. With HF 2468, we’re laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient workforce. Because strong buildings start with strong workers—and that includes their mental well-being. Let’s build a better future together. Please Reach Out!As always, I am so grateful for your continued support and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to represent you. As always, my door is open to you. Please feel free to stop by my office for a meeting or reach out via email at rep.nathan.nelson@house.mn.gov. You can also stay updated and follow my work by visiting my Facebook page here. I’m here to listen and work together for our community's success! Sincerely, Representative Nathan Nelson Minnesota House of Representatives, District 11B |