Legislative Update We’ve made it, folks—the final weeks of the 2025 legislative session are upon us! After months of heavy lifting in committees (where the real political fireworks have been popping off), we’re now shifting to the main event: floor debates. And if you thought committee meetings were wild, just wait until you see what’s coming next. Today, April 4th, marks not one but two major budget deadlines. The first deadline means all policy bills have officially cleared their respective House committees, and the second means those same bills have made it through the Senate. We're checking boxes and moving fast! Next Friday, April 11th, is the third and final deadline—by then, all finance bills must be approved by their committees. Translation: the legislative gears are turning at full speed. With the House locked in a 67-67 tie, we have the numbers to block radical left legislation and stop overbearing tax hikes dead in their tracks. That’s a huge win for Minnesota! And just imagine—if we keep this momentum going for the next two years, what else could we accomplish? The future is looking bright, and I’m grateful to be in the thick of it with all of you cheering us on. Stay tuned—it’s about to get interesting! 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. Now, let’s talk about the mess we’ve been working to clean up. Remember, just a couple of years ago, Democrats spent the entire $18 billion surplus, hiked taxes by $10 billion, and increased government spending by 40%—which left us staring down a $6 billion deficit this session. This new negotiated framework takes a huge bite out of that problem, reducing the future deficit to $2.226 billion—a major step toward getting Minnesota’s finances back on track. House Republicans held firm against tax hikes and fought to “right-size” government, making it leaner and more efficient while still ensuring Minnesotans get the services they rely on. Is this budget perfect? No. But given the divided House, it’s a major win for fiscal responsibility and a step toward undoing the damage of reckless overspending. Supporting Our Teachers Long After the Bell RingsTeachers shape our future—and now, it’s time we shape a better future for them. I’m proud to author House File 3052, a bill that if passed by the House and Senate and signed into law by the Governor, would put some well-earned respect (and resources!) back into the retirement plans of our Minnesota educators. This is a clone bill of HF 1582 that had reached its maximum of 35 co-authors. Here’s the scoop: HF 3052 (and HF 1582) would make it possible for teachers with 30 years of service to retire at age 60 without any reduction to their pension. That’s right—no more working extra years just to earn what they’ve already worked decades for! HF 3052 would also tweak early retirement penalties to be a bit more forgiving (because let’s face it, anyone who’s taught middle school deserves an early exit). And we’re giving post-retirement adjustments a little boost too—because pensions should be able to keep up with the cost of groceries and grandkids. On top of that, the bill would provide a pension adjustment revenue to school districts, helping them support these changes without breaking the bank. In short: we’re saying thank you to the folks who’ve spent their careers saying "eyes on your own paper," "use your inside voice," and "you can’t eat glue." This is about showing our teachers that we see them, we value them, and we want them to enjoy a well-earned, dignified retirement. More to come as this bill moves through the process—but for now, let’s hear it for our educators! Finally… a Real Spring! After what felt like the longest game of “just kidding” from Mother Nature—complete with surprise snow dumps and fake-out warm spells—we’re finally getting those soft spring drizzles that actually stick around! And let me tell you, there’s something about that gentle rain and the budding trees that makes the Capitol grounds look straight out of a postcard. I’ve been soaking in the picturesque views from the Capitol—yes, even between committee hearings and budget meetings. There’s something about spring’s slow arrival that brings a renewed sense of appreciation for the work we get to do here. We’re not just serving Minnesotans—we’re doing it in one of the most beautiful buildings in the state. Here’s to brighter skies, greener grass, and a season full of good policy and even better weather!  Big News for Conservation in Our District!On April 1, 2025, the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) opened its FY27 Call for Funding Requests, with $150 million available for habitat restoration, protection, and enhancement projects! This is a huge opportunity for local governments, Parks & Rec departments, SWCDs, Watershed Districts, Tribal entities, and nonprofits to secure funding for projects that will protect and improve Minnesota’s fish, game, and wildlife habitats. Let’s work together to bring this funding home and make a lasting impact on our local environment! Learn more [HERE].
Contact LSOHC Staff [HERE]. If you're interested in discussing a project, don’t hesitate to reach out—let’s make the most of this incredible opportunity! Back to Work with a Grateful Heart It’s good to be back at work, surrounded by colleagues and friends who feel more like family. The kind words, thoughtful cards, and heartfelt messages I received after the passing of my wife have meant the world to me. In a time of deep sorrow, your support has been a source of comfort and strength. We may come from different backgrounds and viewpoints, but moments like these remind me that what truly binds us together is our shared humanity and care for one another. I am deeply grateful for each and every one of you—for your kindness, your prayers, and your unwavering support. Thank you all for being a blessing in my life! Stay Connected!Thank you so much for subscribing to my newsletter. It’s truly an honor to represent you and our wonderful community here in St. Paul. I genuinely want to hear your thoughts, questions, and concerns—your voice makes a difference. My door is always open, whether you’d like to meet in person or simply reach out to chat. Feel free to email me at Rep.Steve.Gander@House.MN.Gov or give me a call at 651-296-5091. Just a quick note: replies to this newsletter won’t reach my inbox, so be sure to use the contact info above. You can also now follow my official representative page on Facebook here for updates and more! Looking forward to hearing from you and continuing to work together for our community! Sincerely, Representative Steve Gander Minnesota House of Representatives, District 1B |