Dear Neighbors and Friends,
As we reach the midpoint of our legislative session, the halls of the Capitol are bustling with activity. Committee deadlines are approaching rapidly, and my DFL colleagues and I are working diligently to present and defend policies that Minnesotans have fought hard to establish.
As the Legislature moves forward in crafting a new state budget, we will fight to put more power in the hands of Minnesotans, not billionaires and large corporations.
The reality of our tied Minnesota House of Representatives means one thing is clear: we must work together to accomplish anything meaningful. This includes our biggest priority—enacting a balanced two-year state budget. The House budget targets represent a genuine compromise between Democrats and Republicans and will guide our committee co-chairs as they draft their respective budgets.
While we've seen numerous GOP attempts to repeal policies that Minnesotans fought hard for, now is the time to move beyond partisan goals. We must work collaboratively to ensure no community is left behind. My commitment remains steadfast: to create a Minnesota where opportunity is accessible to all, regardless of zip code or background.
Legislative Committee Hearings
This week, as critical deadlines approach, I had the opportunity to present my bills to various committees. I'm proud to champion legislation that invests in critical HIV/AIDS support services in Minnesota, because healthcare is a human right, and every life deserves dignity.
It is 2025. We have the medication and science to end HIV's epidemic in Minnesota, and we must ensure that those who are most vulnerable have the support they need to live a stable and healthy life.
As we approach critical committee deadlines, I'm working to advance my legislative agenda, which includes ensuring robust cultural representation for our Latino/e community through arts and artistic experiences.
In the House Legacy Committee, Aaron Johnson-Ortiz and I advocated for $250,000 in Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund support for each fiscal year 2026 and 2027 to significantly expand programming that celebrates Minnesota's Latino heritage and culture, under the visionary leadership of Neo Muralismo.
The Minnesota Latino Museum bill presentation was INCREDIBLE! As the first Latina generation representative here in the state of Minnesota for District 65B, which hosts the first Latino community in Minnesota that has now expanded to every district in this state, our communities are long overdue to have this vital cultural space that will honor authentic Latino stories and lived experiences.
This museum will bring Latino/e communities together while educating all Minnesotans about our heritage, struggles, and contributions. Through art and history, we'll preserve our cultural legacy and barrio stories for generations to come! Gracias to Aaron Johnson-Ortiz and my dear friend, Rosa Tock, Executive Director of the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs for their testimony and ongoing partnership. Pa'lante!
Protect SNAP
Federal cuts to the SNAP program would devastate Minnesota families, widening already alarming food insecurity gaps. More than 42 million people nationwide depend on SNAP to round out their grocery budget, so any cuts to this program would put millions of families at risk. These cuts would also disproportionately impact children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, jeopardizing their access to essential nutrition.
DFLers are committed to fighting against these harmful cuts and will work diligently with federal partners to safeguard the well-being of our communities.
Visit at Community Action Partnership of Ramsey and Washington Counties
It was a privilege to spend time with the wonderful staff and leaders at the McDonough Head Start site last week! As Chair of the Saint Paul delegation and as a parent who recognizes the incredible value of Head Start for Minnesota's families and young children, I've always been a passionate supporter of this vital program, both locally in St. Paul and nationally. Seeing the impactful work being done at McDonough Head Start, just one of CAPRW's 19 sites, reinforces my commitment. I am so appreciative of the ongoing support from my colleagues in the legislature and our amazing community.
Standing with Union Members
Last week, Governor Tim Walz announced that most state employees will be required to return to the office for at least half of their scheduled workdays, beginning June 1st, following a trend of companies and government leaders moving away from the remote work arrangements that became prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic. I oppose this decision and stand in strong support of MAPE and AFSCME members, who are rightfully denouncing Governor Walz's unilateral revocation of telework agreements.
Let's be clear: Minnesota's state workers are not just employees—they are the backbone of our government. They demonstrated incredible resilience and dedication throughout the pandemic, delivering essential services and ensuring our state continued to function seamlessly.
These dedicated professionals are not seeking special privileges. They are demanding basic respect and the recognition of modern workplace rights. When decisions are made that significantly impact their lives, they deserve a seat at the table and a voice in the process. I stand in solidarity with them, calling for fair treatment and a collaborative approach to workplace policy.
Federal Cuts to MDH
The Minnesota Department of Health announced last week that the Trump administration is unilaterally rescinding $226 million in federal grants related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The cuts amount to about 25% of MDH’s current budget, according to KARE-11, and are likely to result in the layoffs of around 200 employees. The actions are part of a broader nationwide effort to eliminate $11 billion in spending by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The recent federal funding cuts raise serious concerns about healthcare access for all Minnesotans and may exacerbate existing medical care disparities across our state. These changes could potentially impact essential services including COVID-19 testing capabilities, vaccination programs, and ongoing pandemic research initiatives. I am committed to pursuing solutions through collaboration, advocating for adequate public health funding, and supporting affected employees while ensuring our communities maintain access to vital health services during this challenging transition.
Keep in Touch
Please continue to reach out anytime if you need assistance or have questions at rep.maria.isa.perez-vega@house.mn.gov or 651-296-9714. You can also follow my official Facebook page.
Muchísimas Gracias,
Rep. María Isa Pérez-Vega
Minnesota House of Representatives