Legislative UpdateDear Friends and Neighbors, We’re now in the thick of session, and let me tell you—it’s been a whirlwind! Between committee hearings, floor votes, and connecting with incredible folks from across the state, there’s never a dull moment at the Capitol. This week, we’ve been tackling some big issues, from protecting taxpayer dollars to ensuring our communities are safe and supported. I’ve got plenty of updates to share, including the latest on key legislation, some fantastic meetings with local leaders, and, of course, a few lighthearted moments along the way. So, grab a cup of coffee (or maybe a shamrock shake if you’re still feeling the St. Paddy’s Day spirit), and let’s dive in! As always, I appreciate hearing from you—your input and ideas make all the difference. Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Giving Minnesotans Their Money Back: The Fight for HF 4 When the government collects more than it needs, that money should go back to the hardworking Minnesotans who earned it—not be stockpiled for more government spending. That’s exactly what House File 4 was about: letting the people decide whether future surpluses should be automatically returned to taxpayers. Unfortunately, House Democrats voted against this bill, rejecting the opportunity to give Minnesotans a say in how their tax dollars are handled. This bill wouldn’t have changed tax policy—it simply would have given Minnesotans the chance to vote on a constitutional amendment in 2026. If this policy had been in place when we had an $18 billion surplus, taxpayers would have seen $5 billion in direct relief. Instead, the entire surplus was spent, taxes were raised by another $10 billion, and now we’re staring down a $6 billion deficit. That’s not sustainable. This isn’t a partisan issue—it’s about fairness and fiscal responsibility. Families, farmers, and small business owners across Minnesota are feeling the weight of higher costs, and they deserve relief. House Republicans will keep fighting to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and, when there’s extra, that money is returned to the people who earned it. Strengthening Security for Minnesota’s At-Risk Nonprofits This week, I had the opportunity to present House File 1821 to the Public Safety Committee—a bill that ensures nonprofits, including religious institutions and community organizations, receive the security funding they need to protect against threats. In today’s world, places of worship and community centers face increasing risks. While the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program exists, it’s highly competitive, and Minnesota receives less than 2% of all federal funding. That’s why we need state-level support to supplement these efforts. This program has always been a bipartisan effort, and I’m grateful to have co-authors from both sides of the aisle, including Vice Chair Feist, Representative Kraft, and Chair Novotny. These funds will go directly to making sure Minnesota nonprofits have the resources to stay secure and continue serving our communities. I was honored to stand alongside Pallavi Singhal, program manager for risk management with the Hindu Society of Minnesota, and Rob Allen, director of community security with the Jewish Community Relations Council, who both provided critical testimony about the importance of this funding. Ensuring safety shouldn't be a partisan issue, and I’ll keep working to move this important legislation forward! Big Win for Our Local Correctional Officers with HF 1410! I’m excited to share some great news—House File 1410, a bill I carried to recognize and protect our local correctional officers, has officially passed the House with strong bipartisan support! Here’s why this matters: For too long, local correctional officers have been left out of the Peace Officers Discipline Procedures Act, which provides important procedural protections during disciplinary actions. These officers work hard every single day in our jails and detention centers, handling some of the toughest jobs in public safety—it’s only right that they get the same safeguards as their fellow law enforcement officers. What this bill does: - Recognizes local correctional officers under the Peace Officers Discipline Procedures Act
- Ensures fair treatment in disciplinary actions
- Strengthens protections for those who keep our communities safe
This bill passing with 118 votes in favor is a huge step forward, and I’m incredibly proud to have worked on it! A big thank you to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who supported this, and to all the correctional officers who put their safety on the line every day. It’s always a good day when we can come together for common-sense solutions that support the hardworking men and women of Minnesota. On to the next step! You can watch the full bill introduction [HERE]. Honoring Heroes: House File 2554It was an honor to chief author House File 2554 alongside co-author, Rep. Kaela Berg (D-Burnsville), with many of my colleagues in the House to designate the Heroes Memorial Bridge in Burnsville to officers/firefighter Elmstrand, Finseth, and Ruge. This bill is more than just a name on a bridge—it is a lasting tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and service of three remarkable individuals whose dedication to their community will never be forgotten. This memorial stands as a reminder of the bravery and commitment of those who put their lives on the line for the safety and well-being of others. It ensures that future generations who drive across Burnsville Parkway over I-35W will know their names, honor their service, and carry forward their legacy. Dedicating this bridge in their memory is a small but meaningful way to say thank you—to recognize their sacrifice and to let their families, friends, and community know that they will always be remembered. Their heroism is etched into the very foundation of our state, and now, into the roads we travel every day. A Big Step Forward for Our First Responders On Monday, we took a huge step in supporting our police, fire, and emergency medical personnel by breaking ground on the First Responder Skills Training (FiRST) Center! This state-of-the-art facility will give our first responders the hands-on, real-world training they need to keep our communities safe. I’m incredibly proud to have worked alongside Senator Zach Duckworth and Representative Jon Koznick to secure $7.1 million in state funding, and I’m grateful to Congresswoman Angie Craig for securing $800,000 in federal funding. This investment is about more than just a building—it’s about making sure the brave men and women who protect us every day have the best resources possible.  What Makes the FiRST Center So Important?- Physical & Tactical Training Areas – Designed for police, fire, and EMS to practice real-life scenarios.
- Virtual Training Simulations – Cutting-edge technology to prepare first responders for any situation.
- Indoor Firing Range – Including vehicle access for advanced tactical training.
- Flexible Training Spaces – Movable walls and open spaces to simulate a variety of emergency situations.
- Classrooms & Collaboration Areas – Because learning never stops, even for those who serve and protect.
 The FiRST Center is expected to open by mid-2026. While we’ve secured major funding, the rest will be covered through general obligation bonds, and operational costs will be sustained by membership fees from agencies using the facility. This project is about investing in people, not just infrastructure. It’s about ensuring our first responders are ready for anything, because when emergencies happen, we want them to have every possible advantage. I can’t wait to see this facility come to life and make a lasting impact on our community. Lakeville North Fights Hard in State Semifinals Last Friday, Lakeville North took on Maple Grove in the Girls State Semifinals Basketball Tournament, and while our hometown Panthers fought hard, Maple Grove came away with the win. Though the outcome wasn’t what we had hoped for, I couldn’t be prouder of these talented student-athletes for their dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the season. A big congratulations to Maple Grove on their victory and to Lakeville North for an incredible season. Our community is proud of all you’ve accomplished, and we’ll be cheering you on in the seasons to come! Please Reach OutYour thoughts, questions, and ideas are what keep me going! If there's something on your mind—whether it's about these bills or something else—please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can always reach me by phone or email at rep.jeff.witte@house.mn.gov. It’s a true honor to represent you at the Capitol. Together, let’s keep making Minnesota a better place—one idea at a time! Take care, Representative Jeff Witte Minnesota House of Representatives, District 57B |