Legislative UpdateFriends and Neighbors, I hope you're all doing well and getting a chance to enjoy the (slowly) warming weather! Things are moving quickly at the Capitol, and I wanted to share a quick update. Right now, Minnesota is facing a $6 billion budget deficit—a sharp turn from the surpluses we saw just a couple of years ago. With that in mind, we have some important work ahead to make sure we prioritize essential services, cut unnecessary spending, and manage our budget responsibly. I’ll be keeping you updated as things unfold—stay tuned! Taking the Time to Get Paid Family Leave RightPaid Family and Medical Leave is an important program designed to help Minnesotans take care of their loved ones without sacrificing financial stability. House File 11, as it currently stands, accelerates the rollout of this program—but we’re advocating for a more measured approach to make sure it is implemented effectively and responsibly. One key aspect of PFML that many people may not realize is how it will be funded. Paid Family and Medical Leave isn’t free—just like Social Security or unemployment insurance, the funding will come directly from your paycheck. Employees and employers will both be required to contribute, meaning you’ll see a new deduction on your earnings to cover the cost of the program. Other states that have rushed implementation on similar programs have faced serious challenges, including delayed benefits, overwhelmed systems, higher-than-expected costs, and confusion for both businesses and employees. By taking a little more time to refine the rollout, we can ensure that the system is ready, businesses have the tools they need to comply, and Minnesotans fully understand how the program will affect their take-home pay. Delaying the rollout isn’t about stopping Paid Family Leave—it’s about making sure it actually works for the people who need it most, without creating unnecessary hardships for workers or businesses. Fighting for Clean Water in Chisago CountyI’m proud to author House File 343, a bonding bill that will help bring much-needed improvements to the Shorewood Park Sanitary Sewer District. This bill will extend sewer service to 20 homes on Rush Lake and fund a new sewage treatment pond to keep our local water clean and our community safe. For years, residents in this area have been dealing with aging infrastructure that just isn’t cutting it anymore. Clean water shouldn’t be a luxury—it’s something every family deserves. By securing this funding, we’re making sure Rush Lake stays clean, pollution risks are reduced, and our wastewater system can handle the needs of the community for years to come. This isn’t just about pipes and treatment facilities—it’s about protecting our lakes, our homes, and our future. I’ll keep fighting to get this across the finish line because investing in clean water is just common sense. Stay ConnectedAs always, I am so grateful for your continued support and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to represent you. As always, my door is open to you. Please feel free to stop by my office for a meeting or reach out via email at rep.nathan.nelson@house.mn.gov. You can also stay updated and follow my work by visiting my Facebook page here. I’m here to listen and work together for our community's success! Sincerely, Representative Nathan Nelson Minnesota House of Representatives, District 11B |