Legislative Update
Friends,
I have been busy working on several bills aimed at improving public safety, supporting individual rights, and promoting economic growth in Minnesota. Below, I’d like to share some highlights of what I’ve been working on.
First, I’ve introduced HF 81, a bill to exempt off-highway vehicles, snowmobiles, and electric-assisted bicycles from restrictions on PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances). This change amends Minnesota Statutes to clarify that these vehicles and bicycles are not “juvenile products” under the law, ensuring that manufacturers and consumers can continue to operate without excessive regulatory burdens, while still prioritizing PFAS controls in more relevant consumer goods, such as mattresses and cleaning products.
Next, HF 282 focuses on protecting political affiliation rights. This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to include political affiliation as a protected characteristic in employment, real estate, public accommodations, education, and business services. In a time when political division is growing, this legislation ensures that individuals are not discriminated against because of their political beliefs.
In support of our state’s outdoor traditions, I’ve also introduced HF 302, a bill creating a tax holiday for firearms and fishing equipment. This legislation provides a seven-day tax exemption for firearms (excluding handguns) before the opening of deer hunting season and for fishing gear leading up to Memorial Day weekend. This bill is designed to stimulate local businesses and encourage participation in outdoor activities, while providing relief to Minnesota residents.
One bill that is especially close to my heart is HF 341, which I have been working on for nearly 10 years. This bill enhances penalties for repeat offenders of driving without a valid license, a cause I’ve championed with Sue Vanic. Sue’s daughter was left in a persistent vegetative state, and her granddaughter spent many weeks in the hospital after being struck by a driver who had multiple prior license suspensions. Sue and I have worked together to craft this legislation to ensure that individuals who continue to drive despite having their licenses revoked, suspended, or canceled, are held accountable. The bill introduces harsher penalties for repeat offenders, especially when their actions result in serious injury or death. This measure will help make our roads safer and prevent further tragedies like the one Sue and her family endured.
These bills reflect my continued efforts to support common-sense solutions for Minnesotans. I remain committed to working on policies that enhance public safety, protect individual freedoms, and promote economic growth in our state.
Thank you for your continued support. If you have any thoughts, questions, concerns regarding these bills, or input on future legislation, please feel free to reach out. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-6206 or via email at rep.josh.heintzeman@house.mn.gov.
Have a great day,
Josh