Legislative UpdateHello Friends and Neighbors, Happy Valentine’s Day! I hope you’re doing well as we start a new session at the Capitol. It’s been an exciting week, especially as we begin our first term in the operating majority since 2018. I’m ready to dive in and get to work. We’re off to a strong start with key pieces of legislation already moving through the process. Our priorities are gaining momentum, and we’re pushing hard to get them to the House floor for a vote. The energy here is high as we focus on the issues that matter most to you. This is just the beginning, and I’ll be sure to keep you updated as we move forward. MPPOA Legislative Conference This past Saturday, I had the privilege of attending the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association's Annual Legislative Conference. It was truly inspiring to connect with the dedicated officers and talk about how we can work together to recruit and retain law enforcement while ensuring they have the support they need on the job. Introducing House File 7 As Chairman of the Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee, I am proud to announce the introduction of House File 7, a comprehensive legislative proposal aimed at making Minnesota safer for all residents. This plan includes thirteen targeted provisions designed to equip law enforcement with the tools they need, ensure violent offenders are held accountable, and increase transparency in the criminal justice system. Key provisions in the proposal include: - Mandatory minimum 10-year sentences for predators engaged in first-degree sex trafficking.
- Predatory offender registration required for offenders engaged in criminal sexual conduct who receive a stayed sentence from the courts.
- New and enhanced criminal offenses including blocking a freeway, highway, transit, or the road to and from the airport.
- Increased penalty for fleeing a police officer in a reckless manner.
- Increased penalties for individuals who conspire to trespass on or damage critical infrastructure such as pipelines, utility lines, and water lines.
- Increased penalties for assaulting a peace officer from a gross misdemeanor to a felony.
- Providing better access to the public on prosecutors’ charging and dismissal decisions, and court sentencing departures.
As we begin our work this legislative session, House Republicans are committed to putting victims and their families first, empowering law enforcement with the resources they need, and restoring accountability in our criminal justice system. You can view my bill introduction here. Please Reach OutAs always, I truly value your feedback, thoughts, and concerns. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the legislation I’m working on, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact my office by phone or email—I’m here to listen and serve you. Thank you for the privilege of representing District 30B. Together, we’ll continue working toward a safer, stronger Minnesota for everyone. Sincerely, Representative Paul Novotny
Minnesota House of Representatives, District 30B |