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Today marks the end of the first committee deadlines, which signals the halfway point for the 2026 legislative session. Before our legislative break, my DFL colleagues and I tried reasoning with Republicans last night – trying to see if at least one of them would abandon their partisan priorities and put Minnesotans first.
For months, our neighbors endured Trump’s violent political retribution, which led to the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti and injured thousands. Every part of our state was destabilized by Operation Metro Surge and Operation PARRISS, and our cities and communities are still dealing with the economic consequences. Regardless of where you stand on the federal government’s occupation of our state, the reality of the harm is clear.
Since Republicans kept blocking these bills in committee, we brought them to the House floor to force Republicans to tell Minnesotans whose side they are on. Despite our attempts, they rejected legislation to:
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Ban high-capacity magazines
They voted against every measure that would save lives and protect children. Republicans are denying reality at a time when Minnesotans deserve leaders with the courage to act.
Modernizing the Sales Tax
One key legislation I am working on this year addresses Minnesota’s sales tax exemption for advertising sales. Minnesota’s sales tax is outdated, and we need alternative options to raise revenue. Digital advertising is a billion-dollar industry; however, Big Tech and large corporations are not paying their fair share while Minnesotans living paycheck to paycheck are being targeted by their ads.
By broadening the sales tax base, we can lower the tax rate for everyone else! My bill HF 4343 will ensure billion-dollar corporations pay their fair share and help lower taxes for everyday Minnesotans, leading to a stronger and more stable budget.
If passed, my bill, HF 4343, will not only cut the sales tax, but it will also raise more than $300 million in revenue to fund schools, hospitals, child care, infrastructure, and more. We have the tools to care for our neighbors and ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive. That starts with changing tax laws that are out of date and no longer reflect our digital economy. You can watch my bill presentation here.
DFL Anti-Fraud Initiatives
Every public dollar should be used for the public good — not to enrich scammers, shell companies, or criminals who exploit Minnesotans. My DFL colleagues and I are furious that taxpayer dollars meant to support families, seniors, people with disabilities, and children have been stolen through fraud. That’s why we’re serious about preventing and prosecuting fraud. We will stop fraud before it starts, hold those responsible fully accountable, and protect the programs that serve the most vulnerable Minnesotans.
Please click on the links below to view handouts highlighting the work DFLers have passed over the last couple of years to address fraud, improve systems, and increase transparency.
While there is more work to be done, please know I am taking this issue very seriously. I’ll continue advocating for our vulnerable communities and everyone impacted by cuts to life-saving programs and services.
In response to the Woodbury Dental scam cases, I was proud to pass HF 1392, which created a Consumer Fraud Restitution Fund at the Office of the Attorney General (AGO) to help victims of fraud and scams who have suffered financial loss. You can report scams to the AGO using the Consumer Assistance Request Form .
Stay Connected
As a reminder, House members are currently working in the Centennial Office Building this biennium. I deeply value your partnership in building a better future. Please continue to share your perspectives on the issues that impact our community. To share your input or ideas, or if I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to reach out here.
For meetings: Please email my legislative assistant, Adam Vang, at Adam.Vang@house.mn.gov or call 651-296-1926.
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Minnesota House of Representatives
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Representative Liz Lee
5th Floor, Centennial Office Building
658 Cedar Street
St. Paul, MN 55155
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