Legislative Update
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The 2025 legislative session is underway and “The Koznick Connection” is back for some periodic updates on the work and happenings at the Capitol!
I’m honored to continue serving as your voice in St. Paul. This week was marked by both historic challenges and significant progress as we began the work of representing Minnesotans by crafting a two-year budget and other key issues facing our state.
I began the week as “Principal for a Day at Lakeville North High School”. I toured some classes, visiting with guidance counselors and a surprise check in on our youngest daughter and friends in her Language class.
Republicans Show Up, Organize, and Get to Work
House Democrats did not show up to the first day of session, refusing to fulfill their constitutional obligations. Their absence was an attempt to block the organization of the House and delay the work Minnesotans elected us to do.
Despite this, House Republicans showed up ready to serve. With all 67 Republican members present, we moved forward to organize the chamber, fulfilling our duty to the people of Minnesota. In a historic moment, we elected Representative Lisa Demuth as Speaker of the House, making her the first Republican woman to hold this position.
Once organized, Republicans wasted no time in outlining our priorities for the session. We are focused on six key policy pillars to guide our work:
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Stop the Fraud: Tackling waste, fraud, and abuse in government programs to restore trust and accountability.
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Make Minnesota Affordable: Enacting policies to reduce costs for families and businesses.
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Make Minnesota Safe: Supporting law enforcement and enhancing public safety initiatives.
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Raise Standards, Reduce Mandates: Improving educational outcomes while minimizing unnecessary regulations.
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Minnesota Tax Dollars for Minnesotans: Ensuring state funds directly benefit Minnesota residents.
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Build for the Future: Investing in sustainable infrastructure to strengthen the state’s economy and communities.
Minnesotans deserve representatives who show up and work for them. I’m proud to stand with my Republican colleagues as we deliver on the promises we made to you.
 Photo from the House Floor on opening day, January 14th, 2025. No Democrats attended session.
Committee Assignments: Leading on Transportation
This session, I am honored to serve on the Capital Investment, State Government Finance and Policy, and Ways and Means Committees. In addition, I have been selected to Chair the Transportation Finance and Policy Committee.
Transportation infrastructure is a vital issue for all Minnesotans, impacting everything from economic growth to public safety. As chair, I am committed to advancing common-sense solutions that prioritize affordability and accountability while ensuring our roads and transit systems meet the needs of residents and businesses alike. My goals as Chair of the Transportation Committee include:
- Improving the safety and efficiency of Minnesota’s roadways.
- Maximizing the use of transportation resources to connect communities and drive economic development.
- Addressing the challenges of maintaining infrastructure to ensure it serves both travelers and commerce effectively.
As session continues, we will work toward more effective use of transportation resources for the most efficient and desired modes to get Minnesotans where they need to be, and maintain the transportation system to ensure the safety of travelers for both pleasure and commerce.
We have already began collaborating with colleagues with a meeting overviewing transportation accounts and funding mechanisms. We are working to deliver results that make Minnesota a better place to live and work.
 Picture of Rep. Jon Koznick chairing the Transportation Committee Working Group on January 15th.
Local Connection; Get Involved
The City of Lakeville is looking for applicants for city commissions. We want solid “common sense” people to apply. If you have time and an interest, please apply and let me know if you have questions. For more information and to apply, use the link below.
Advisory Board Volunteers Information
Thank you all, for your support over the years. I am honored to represent our community and families at the legislature.
Have a great weekend,
Representative Jon Koznick
House District 57A- Lakeville, Credit River, Elko New Market and Eureka & New Market Townships.
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