Legislative Update Here we are, folks—the final weeks of the 2025 legislative session! After months of committee hearings, policy debates, and plenty of back-and-forth, we’re heading into the home stretch: floor debates. If you thought committee discussions were intense, buckle up—things are about to get even more interesting. Today, April 4th, marks two major budget deadlines. All policy bills have officially cleared their House committees and made it through the Senate. We’re moving fast and checking off milestones! But we’re not done yet—next Friday, April 11th, is the third and final deadline, when all finance bills must be wrapped up and approved by their committees. In other words, the pressure is on, and the pace is only picking up. With the House split 67-67, we have a real opportunity to collaborate on policies that benefit all Minnesotans. That’s a huge win for our state! And if we can keep this momentum going, just imagine what we can accomplish in the years ahead. The finish line is in sight, and I’m grateful to have all of you following along. Stay tuned—this session is far from over, and there’s plenty more to come! A Step Toward Fiscal Responsibility & Protecting Our CommunitiesCounties, cities, and schools are already feeling the strain of the reckless spending from the last legislative biennium. With tax hikes, increased government spending, and the unfunded mandates that followed, local communities are now facing the consequences—property tax increases. I’m hearing reports of double-digit hikes in my district alone, and that’s just unacceptable. This is a direct result of the state’s reckless spending, and it’s time we start focusing on keeping people in their businesses and homes, not raising taxes. But here’s the silver lining: over the weekend, Republicans and Democrats came together to reach a historic budget agreement—one that includes the largest total spending reduction in Minnesota’s state history. This framework delivers a $3.9 billion reduction compared to the last budget and tackles the looming $6 billion deficit head-on, reducing it to $2.226 billion. House Republicans held firm against tax hikes and fought to make government leaner and more efficient, ensuring Minnesotans continue to receive the services they rely on. Is this budget perfect? No. But given the divided House, this is a major win for fiscal responsibility and a crucial step in getting Minnesota’s finances—and our local communities—back on track. We need to stop the cycle of reckless spending and start prioritizing what matters: stable communities, lower taxes, and a government that works for the people, not against them. Please Reach Out!As always, I’m here to serve you and make sure your voice is heard loud and clear at the Capitol. If you ever have questions, concerns, or just want to chat about what’s happening in St. Paul, don’t hesitate to reach out! You can call my office at 651-296-6829 or send me an email at rep.jim.joy@house.mn.gov—I’d love to hear from you. Stay connected and follow along for updates on Facebook here! Wishing you a fantastic weekend!  Representative Jim Joy Minnesota House of Representatives, District 4B |