Legislative Update Dear Friends and Neighbors, With just a few weeks remaining in the 2025 legislative session, activity at the Capitol is in full swing. On Thursday, the Agriculture Omnibus Bill passed off the House floor, an important step for our state’s farmers and rural communities. Meanwhile, other major committee omnibus bills are still under active deliberation and will be making their way to the House floor in the coming weeks. This week also featured the Governor’s annual State of the State address, outlining his priorities as we approach the final stretch of session. While our perspectives may differ on certain issues, I remain focused on ensuring that the voices of our district are represented in every conversation. In addition to committee work and floor votes, I’ve continued meeting with constituents and advocacy groups, hearing directly from Minnesotans about the challenges and opportunities they’re facing. Your input continues to shape my work at the Capitol, and I’m grateful for everyone who has taken the time to connect. MinnesotaCare: Misplaced Priorities and $550 Million Diverted from Core ServicesIn 2023, the Democrat majority quietly expanded MinnesotaCare to include undocumented immigrants. - Originally projected to enroll 7,700 individuals at a cost of $196 million over four years
- Now covering 17,396 enrollees and costing taxpayers $550 million—and climbing
- Every dollar of this expansion is paid by Minnesota Taxpayers
This is happening as the state faces a $6 billion budget deficit, putting essential services like ambulance operations, hospitals and nursing homes, schools, and disability support at risk of being underfunded. Bottom line: Democrats are diverting over $550 million to provide free health coverage to undocumented immigrants, while core services for Minnesota families have to fight for limited resources. Watch Monday’s press conference on this issue [here]. State of the State Address Wednesday was the Governor's annual State of the State Address, I was honored to be joined by my guest, Nick Maas, a first-year political science student at the University of Minnesota, who aspires to one day become a prosecutor. After spending time with him, I have no doubt he will achieve this goal and go on to have a successful career serving our communities faithfully. I was eager for him to gain some insight into the problems facing our state, but unfortunately, while this address is called the "State of the State," it could've been more aptly described as the "State of Anything But the State." The majority of the speech focused on the governor lamenting his frustrations with Washington, deflecting from the real issues that are affecting Minnesota. The people of Minnesota deserve better - they deserve a governor who spends more time focusing on our state and communities, and less time on his own future political ambitions.   Minnesota Street Rod AssociationThis week, the Minnesota Street Rod Association (MSRA) had their day at the Capitol. It was a pleasure speaking with members and admiring classic cars. Organizations like MSRA make important contributions that celebrate automotive history and craftsmanship. I remain committed to supporting legislation that upholds the rights of hobbyists and ensures the continued enjoyment of street rodding in Minnesota. Agriculture Committee Bill Passes in the HouseOn Thursday this week, the Agricultural Committee's omnibus bill was passed off the House floor and received tremendous bipartisan support. This is a good bill that places a long-overdue focus back on farmers and agriculture. During the floor debate, I spoke up against the proposed fee increases that have cut into the already tight margins facing farmers. As a fourth-generation farmer, I know how tough it is to survive with tight margins, unpredictable weather, and taxes eating away at our profits. With over 50% of our farm income going to state, federal, and county taxes, it’s becoming nearly impossible for small farms to stay afloat. We need policies that reduce the financial burden on farmers, not ones that pile on more fees. I am proud to say we prevented the inclusion of these fee increases, ensuring that we keep our farmers’ best interests in mind as we move forward. You can see me testify to this during Thursday's floor session [here]. Minnesota State Cattlemen's AssociationEarlier on Thursday, the Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association brought a taste of Minnesota’s agriculture to the Capitol by setting up a station on the front lawn and serving steak on a stick to members, staff, and visitors. It was a fantastic event, with great turnout and a lot of enthusiasm. The Cattlemen’s Association president and junior ambassadors were on hand, serving up delicious steak, which was very well received by all who attended. It’s always a pleasure to support and celebrate Minnesota’s hardworking cattle farmers, and this event was a great way to showcase the quality of our state's beef production. |