Legislative UpdateDear Friends and Neighbors, We’re now in the thick of session, and let me tell you—it’s been a whirlwind! Between committee hearings, floor votes, and connecting with incredible folks from across the state, there’s never a dull moment at the Capitol. This week, we’ve been tackling some big issues, from protecting taxpayer dollars to ensuring our communities are safe and supported. I’ve got plenty of updates to share, including the latest on key legislation, some fantastic meetings with local leaders, and, of course, a few lighthearted moments along the way. So, grab a cup of coffee (or maybe a shamrock shake if you’re still feeling the St. Paddy’s Day spirit), and let’s dive in! As always, I appreciate hearing from you—your input and ideas make all the difference. Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Giving Minnesotans Their Money Back: The Fight for HF 4 When the government collects more than it needs, that money should go back to the hardworking Minnesotans who earned it—not be stockpiled for more government spending. That’s exactly what House File 4 was about: letting the people decide whether future surpluses should be automatically returned to taxpayers. Unfortunately, House Democrats voted against this bill, rejecting the opportunity to give Minnesotans a say in how their tax dollars are handled. This bill wouldn’t have changed tax policy—it simply would have given Minnesotans the chance to vote on a constitutional amendment in 2026. If this policy had been in place when we had an $18 billion surplus, taxpayers would have seen $5 billion in direct relief. Instead, the entire surplus was spent, taxes were raised by another $10 billion, and now we’re staring down a $6 billion deficit. That’s not sustainable. This isn’t a partisan issue—it’s about fairness and fiscal responsibility. Families, farmers, and small business owners across Minnesota are feeling the weight of higher costs, and they deserve relief. House Republicans will keep fighting to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and, when there’s extra, that money is returned to the people who earned it. Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at the Capitol! Monday marked my favorite day of the year—St. Patrick’s Day! I had the incredible honor of offering a speech and prayer before the start of our floor session, setting the tone for a day filled with faith, tradition, and a little Irish luck. As a proud Irishman, it was a special moment to reflect on the values of resilience, community, and heritage that this day represents. A huge thank you to our Chief Clerk for the opportunity to present the St. Patrick’s Day resolution, recognizing the rich history and contributions of Irish Americans. St. Patrick’s Day is more than just a celebration—it’s a reminder of the strength, faith, and perseverance of those who came before us. Wishing you all an abundance of blessings, good fortune, and maybe even a little extra luck this year! May your days be filled with joy, your troubles be few, and may the road always rise to meet you. Defending Disability Services—Because Everyone Deserves Support! What a fantastic day at Disability Services Day at the Capitol! I had the privilege of meeting with an amazing group of individuals and staff who are on the front lines, making a real difference in our communities. Their passion and dedication were contagious! With potential cuts to disability services on the table this session, these conversations couldn’t be more important. Policies should uplift, not create more hurdles for those who rely on these essential services. I’ll keep fighting to make sure their voices are heard loud and clear. A huge thank you to everyone who joined the discussion—your stories matter, and I appreciate all you do! Let’s keep pushing for solutions that work! |