News Release
Rep. Ben Bakeberg Delivers Results on Education, Workforce Development, and Public Infrastructure in 2025 Session
Saint Paul, MN – As the 2025 legislative session concludes, Representative Ben Bakeberg (R, Jordan) is highlighting a series of legislative accomplishments that were included in the final omnibus bills passed at the end of this year’s Legislative Session. These wins reflect his commitment to practical, bipartisan solutions that serve Minnesota families, educators, and communities.
“I came to St. Paul to get things done for our students, teachers, and communities, and I’m proud of what we accomplished this session,” said Rep. Bakeberg. “From innovative education reforms to stronger workforce pipelines, we laid important groundwork that I look forward to building on next year.”
In education, Rep. Bakeberg authored and helped pass several reforms. His bill HF 1435 allows school districts to implement innovation zone plans and P-TECH models without commissioner approval, giving local schools more freedom to design creative, community-based programs. He also worked to expand school safety and health measures through HF 2489, which permits more epinephrine delivery methods such as inhalers in schools.
To improve attendance tracking and policy consistency across the state, Rep. Bakeberg co-authored HF 62 and HF 2067, updating the legal definitions of school absences and improving procedures around reporting. He also supported HF 2786, which tightens grant requirements at the Minnesota Department of Education to reduce fraud and improve accountability. HF 630, which he co-authored, makes the popular short-call substitute teacher pilot program permanent, helping address staffing shortages. And HF 51 allows all districts to include roof repairs and replacements in their Long-Term Facilities Maintenance plans, giving schools more flexibility to care for their infrastructure.
Workforce development was another major focus. Rep. Bakeberg’s HF 1439 creates a new “Carts to Careers” program, offering training, outreach, and scholarships for students pursuing careers in the food industry. He also authored HF 1847, which supports local STEM learning ecosystems to expand science and technology opportunities across the state. HF 1538, which he co-authored, establishes a statewide registered apprenticeship program for teachers to help address the educator shortage in a sustainable way.
In transportation, Rep. Bakeberg’s HF 202 ensures proper funding for the Highway 169/282 interchange project in Jordan by correcting a technical issue that re-routes funds to MnDOT. The bill also authorizes the City of Shakopee to light signage on the new pedestrian overpass, enhancing both safety and visibility for residents and visitors.
In the area of public and environmental safety, Rep. Bakeberg co-authored HF 1355, which sets important safety and permit requirements for commercial diving operations, especially those involved in aquatic plant management, a concern for local lake and river communities.
Rep. Bakeberg said the session’s accomplishments reflect strong collaboration and a focus on practical solutions. He plans to continue advocating for education funding flexibility, local control, and responsible budgeting in 2026.
“We brought good ideas to the table and got them across the finish line,” Bakeberg said. “Next session, I’ll keep fighting for schools, families, and the local communities I’m proud to represent.”
For further information, reach out to Rep. Bakeberg’s office at the contact information below.
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