Legislative UpdateFriends, I hope you’re all doing well! This past week brought a big shift in the Minnesota House as the Roseville special election officially returned us to a 67-67 tie. While this doesn’t drastically change the work ahead, it does mean that starting next week, committees will have equal membership, and committee chairs will alternate between Republicans and Democrats. This will bring new challenges but also opportunities for more debate and bipartisan cooperation. I remain focused on common-sense policies that put public safety, veterans, and families first—and I hope our colleagues across the aisle will do the same. HF 16 – Protecting Minnesotans from Violent CriminalsThis week, I strongly supported HF 16, a bill that bans sanctuary city policies and requires local governments to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement when violent criminals are in the country illegally. Under this bill, individuals who commit violent crimes—such as murder, assault, carjacking, or kidnapping—must be reported to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for potential deportation. Ignoring immigration laws has real consequences, and we’ve seen tragic examples here in Minnesota. A woman was beheaded in broad daylight in Shakopee by a man who should not have been in the country. This horrific crime should have never happened, yet sanctuary policies protect criminals instead of law-abiding Minnesotans. HF 16 ensures that public safety comes first by making sure dangerous offenders don’t get the chance to harm more innocent people. Supporting Veterans by Fixing Minnesota’s Broken Charitable Gambling TaxMinnesota’s VFWs, American Legions, and other veterans’ organizations have long relied on charitable gambling to fund their services, maintain their buildings, and support veterans in need. But under the current system, the state takes more money from these organizations than they are able to reinvest in their mission. Right now, charitable gambling proceeds are taxed at about 33%, often resulting in the state collecting more revenue than the veterans’ organizations themselves. This is money that should be going to support housing, mental health services, and assistance for those who served our country—not into government coffers. That’s why I support HF 169, a bill that simplifies the tax structure and ensures veterans’ organizations can keep more of their own money. These groups serve those who served our nation, and they shouldn’t have to fight just to keep their doors open. I will continue working to ensure they receive the fair treatment and financial relief they deserve. Supporting Mothers and Restoring Common-Sense ProtectionsOn Thursday, we heard two important bills focused on protecting newborns and supporting mothers: HF 24 and HF 25. HF 24 reinstates the Born Alive Infant Protection law that was removed last biennium. This does not change abortion law but ensures that if a baby survives an abortion, doctors must provide life-saving care—just as they would for any other newborn. This bill simply restores a basic medical safeguard that should never have been eliminated. HF 25 supports pregnancy resource centers and maternity homes across the state. These centers provide crucial assistance to expectant mothers, helping them with parenting classes, baby supplies, and connections to vital community resources. Many of these centers are lifelines for first-time moms and struggling families, and they play a vital role in ensuring that women have the support they need throughout pregnancy and beyond. Both bills failed to pass after not garnering a single Democrat vote. Looking Ahead- With the House now tied, budget negotiations will be more complex as we work to address the state’s projected $6 billion deficit. Expect intense discussions in the coming weeks as both parties negotiate spending priorities.
- Starting next week, committee leadership will alternate between Republicans and Democrats, meaning committee debates over legislation will become even more crucial in determining what reaches the House floor. This new dynamic will present challenges, but I remain committed to fighting for policies that serve Minnesotans.
As always, thank you for staying engaged. Please reach out with any questions, thoughts, or concerns—I appreciate hearing from you. Have a great weekend, |