Legislative Update  Things are moving quickly here at the Capitol! Today, April 11, marks the third and final budget deadline—an important milestone in our legislative session. This is the cutoff point for all finance bills to be heard and approved in their respective committees before continuing through the legislative process. I’m happy to share that earlier this week, we passed our Public Safety Omnibus Bill—a major step forward in supporting our law enforcement officers and ensuring safer communities across Minnesota. And while we’ve reached our third deadline, the work continues: the Tax Committee will continue hearing bills through the end of session, and we’re working hard to ensure that no new taxes make it into the final budget. Our goal? Providing real relief for hardworking families, seniors on fixed incomes, and the small businesses that keep our communities strong. Behind the scenes, budget negotiations are in full swing. We’re laser-focused on crafting a responsible budget—one that lives within its means and puts the needs of Minnesotans first. Now more than ever, it’s time for smart, efficient spending that protects the services people depend on without digging deeper into your pockets. After today’s deadline, legislators will return to their districts for a short spring recess. I’ll be using that time to check in with constituents and visit my daughter in Milwaukee—a much-needed chance to recharge before the final push. We’ll be back at the Capitol on April 21, ready to cross the finish line. As always, I’ll keep you updated every step of the way. Thank you for the opportunity to serve and be your voice at the Capitol! Supporting Our Schools with Common-Sense Solutions As we move forward in this legislative session, I’m excited to share some of the work House Republicans have been doing to protect and support our schools. Each day, educators and students across Minnesota are face tough challenges, and I believe it’s time for us to take action. Together with my Democratic colleagues, I am eager to work towards real, meaningful solutions that give our schools the tools and flexibility they need to thrive. This is a shared responsibility, and it’s time to roll up our sleeves and do what’s right for Minnesota’s future. Why We’re Doing This: The Governor’s proposed budget has raised serious concerns. It includes cuts to critical resources like teacher training, special education funding, and essential student services. These cuts total about $240 million, all while expanding the budget of the Minnesota Department of Education. To me, this is unacceptable. We cannot continue to ask our local schools to do more with less. Our students and teachers deserve better, and we are here to make sure they get it. What We’re Fighting For: At the heart of our plan is a belief in local control and trust in our educators. We know that the best decisions for our kids are made by the people who know them best—teachers, administrators, and school boards who serve our communities every day. That’s why our proposed package focuses on giving schools the flexibility, support, and funding they need to create the best possible environment for learning. These bills are designed to give our schools the tools they need to succeed, while ensuring they have the freedom to make decisions that work for their unique needs. Here’s What We’re Proposing: House File 2318: A bill that allows teachers to retire with an unreduced pension at age 62 after 30 years of service, showing our gratitude for the hard work they’ve put in and ensuring they can retire with dignity. House File 2329: Expanding the Early Special Retirement option to allow teachers as young as 60 with 30 years of service to retire early—giving our educators the flexibility they deserve. House File 2388: Increasing per-student funding by $100 across the board—getting more resources straight to our schools where they’re needed most. House File 2201: Reallocating $112 million per year back into our schools and continuing to offer free breakfast and lunch for students in families making up to $156,000 annually—because every child deserves the chance to succeed. House File 1803: Reducing paperwork for special education teachers so they can spend more time working with students—focusing on what matters most. House File 1435: Giving schools the ability to create innovative programs at the local level without having to wait for approval from the Commissioner of Education—empowering schools to be creative in solving the unique challenges they face. House File 1052: Allowing schools to suspend disruptive K-3 students for up to three days to ensure a safe and effective learning environment for all kids. House File 957: Giving schools the ability to implement the over-65 mandate at their own pace, allowing them to meet their unique needs. House File 56: Providing schools with access to new student support funding, giving them the flexibility to prioritize the needs of their students. Even with the challenges of a looming budget deficit, we are focused on solutions that empower our local schools, respect the expertise of educators, and make sure students are at the center of everything we do. These bills are about trust—trusting teachers, trusting administrators, and trusting local school boards to make the best decisions for their students. I am proud of the work we’ve done so far, and I’m looking forward to working together with my colleagues to make these proposals a reality. Let’s put our children first, give our educators the support they need, and make sure Minnesota’s schools have the resources to succeed. Together, we can make a real difference. You can watch the full press conference on our solutions [HERE].  A Bridge That Will Carry Their Legacy One of the most meaningful moments of the session came this Thursday when the Minnesota House passed House File 2554 with a unanimous vote of 134-0. I was honored to bring this bill forward, which designates the bridge on Burnsville Parkway over Interstate 35W as the Elmstrand * Finseth * Ruge Heroes Memorial Bridge. This designation is more than just a name—it’s a lasting tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and selflessness of Officers Paul Elmstrand, Matthew Ruge, and Firefighter/Paramedic Adam Finseth. These heroes made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting their community, and with this bill, their memory will live on for generations to come. As legislators, we often talk about policy and numbers, but this bill was about people—about honoring those who served with valor and ensuring their story is not forgotten. It was truly humbling to carry this bill, and I’m grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for standing together to pass it. Their bravery deserves more than a moment—it deserves a monument. A Day of Gratitude at Veterans Day on the Hill This past Wednesday, the Capitol halls were filled with pride, purpose, and deep gratitude as we celebrated Veterans Day on the Hill. It was an incredible reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who wore the uniform—and continue to serve their communities in countless ways. I had the honor of meeting several veterans throughout the day. Every handshake, every story shared, was a powerful reminder of what true service looks like. These are the individuals who’ve faced down adversity with courage and returned home with a quiet strength that continues to inspire. As lawmakers, we have a responsibility not just to thank our veterans—but to serve them with the same dedication they showed to our nation. Whether it’s access to healthcare, mental health support, housing, or job opportunities, our veterans deserve real action, not just kind words. That’s why I’m proud to co-author House File 492, which supports Hometown Hero Outdoors, a Minnesota-based nonprofit providing outdoor recreation and mental health services for currently serving military personnel and veterans. This bill would provide critical funding to help ensure that our heroes can access the support they need, while enjoying the healing power of the great outdoors. To every veteran: thank you. You’ve protected our freedoms, and I’m committed to doing everything I can to protect your future. It was a true privilege to stand with you on Wednesday—and every day.  Lakeville Cat Fight Takes Over Target Field!Get ready for the Lakeville Cat Fight—as Lakeville South and Lakeville North square off under the stadium lights at Target Field this Saturday, April 12 at 7:00 p.m.! As part of the Twins’ High School Baseball Series presented by TRIA, this crosstown rivalry is stepping onto the big stage—and our hometown athletes are ready to shine. As someone who proudly works game day security at Target Field during the legislative off-season, I can’t tell you how thrilled I am to see our Lakeville teams step up to the plate in a stadium that represents so much Minnesota pride. It's an incredible opportunity for these young athletes to showcase their talent on a professional field—and a great way for our community to rally behind them. Let’s bring that Lakeville energy to the heart of Twins Territory and pack the stands with red and black, and maroon and gold. Whether you’re a parent, a student, or just a proud Lakeville resident, this is your chance to be part of something special. Excited to cheer on Lakeville under the big lights—Go Cats! Looking Ahead!Your thoughts, questions, and ideas are what keep me going! If there's something on your mind—whether it's about these bills or something else—please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can always reach me by phone or email at rep.jeff.witte@house.mn.gov. It’s a true honor to represent you at the Capitol. Together, let’s keep making Minnesota a better place—one idea at a time! Take care, Representative Jeff Witte Minnesota House of Representatives, District 57B |