Legislative UpdateEvery day we are working towards lowering taxes, eliminating burdensome regulations, and building stronger supports for families, farmers, and small businesses. This week we welcomed the MN Sheriff’s Association, Watertown Mayor and Administrator, and Farm Bureau Presidents. Two of the bills I have drafted were heard in committee. Public Safety CommitteeI presented House File 130 which establishes mandatory minimum sentences for sex trafficking in the first degree (10 years) and aggravated sex trafficking in the first degree (12 years) of a minor under age 18. Sex traffickers need to be locked in a secured facility so they cannot continue to prey upon their victims, especially children. The current statute provides a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and in certain cases up to 30 years. However, there is no minimum sentence for first-degree sex trafficking. This bill was brought together at the urging of law enforcement, victims, and advocates. The Sheriff’s Association supports this bill as it will help to disrupt sex trafficking networks. The mandatory minimum is increased to 12 years if: - The offender has previously committed sex trafficking
- The victim suffered bodily harm during the commission of the offense
- The victim was held in debt bondage, forced, or coerced for more than 180 days
- The office involved more than one sex trafficking victim
This bill would make sure abusers are locked up and our children protected. Tax CommitteeIn 2023, the City of Watertown received $3 million from the Capitol Investment funds for a new water tower. The water tower is needed as the city is projected to grow from 4,500 residents to nearly 7,200 by 2038. This year the City of Watertown requested a sales tax exemption for construction materials and supplies for construction, upgrades, and renovations. The total costs for the project are $25 million. Material costs are estimated to be $11.4 million. Having the sales tax exemption will be a significant saving to the city. I was happy to work with city officials on House File 456 and have a hearing in St. Paul. Thank you to Mayor Walters and City Administrator Dan Tolsma who came to provide testimony at the hearing.  Michael Walters and Dan Tolsma from the city of Watertown MN Farm BureauOn Monday, I was invited to attend the Council of County Presidents for Farm Bureau. The event was held at the Science Museum of Minnesota. It was a great opportunity to meet with agricultural leaders from our area. It’s important to hear directly from them as to how legislation impacts their way of life. Jon Zieroth – Carver County President Pam Uhlenkamp – Sibley County President Dean Duesterhoeft – McLeod County President  Happy Valentine's DayI hope you are able to spend time with loved ones in light of Valentine's Day today. I look forward to being in district this weekend to spend time with my family and friends. |