Legislative Update
Friends and Neighbors,
As we approach nearly three weeks of a legislative standstill, it’s becoming clear that this delay has real consequences for Minnesotans. While House Republicans are at the Capitol every day, meeting with stakeholders, refining legislation, and preparing for when work can resume, we cannot formally advance policies or make critical adjustments to major legislation until the minority party returns. This means issues that directly impact businesses, schools, families, and food security remain unaddressed.
The Impact of Inaction: Paid Family and Medical Leave
One of my biggest concerns right now is Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML). This program, as it currently stands, is set to dramatically increase costs for small businesses across the state. Without the opportunity to make necessary adjustments, PFML could lead to staffing shortages in local businesses, increased costs for employers, and unintended consequences for schools and daycare providers.
This is not just about business—it’s about affordability for families. If schools struggle with teacher and staff shortages, our children’s education will suffer. If daycare providers are impacted, childcare options could become even more expensive and harder to find. Ultimately, the costs of this program will trickle down to consumers, increasing prices on everyday goods and services at a time when Minnesotans’ wallets are already stretched thin.
House Republicans are ready to work toward balanced solutions that support working families without crushing small businesses. But without a quorum, those discussions can’t happen.
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Food Security: A Growing Concern
Another pressing issue we are unable to address is food security. The reality is that many Minnesota families struggle to put food on the table, and legislative inaction only makes it harder to provide support where it’s needed most.
This week, I had the opportunity to visit Basic Needs MN at their Food Market in Cottage Grove. Basic Needs has expanded from a location in St. Paul Park to Cottage Grove, adding a thrift store and food market to better serve the community. Organizations like this—along with partnering food shelves—are stepping up in incredible ways to help those in need. If you are able, I encourage you to donate or volunteer at your local food shelf. These organizations are filling a critical gap, and I look forward to working with them again in the future to support food access in our communities.
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Meetings and Visits
Even though we can’t formally conduct legislative business, I’ve been busy meeting with community leaders, organizations, and constituents to hear their concerns and gather input on key issues. Here’s a look at some of my recent meetings and visits:
 I had the opportunity to spend the evening with Washington County Commissioners and Administration. Once a year there is a meeting set up for Commissioners and Administration to meet with Representatives and Senators to discuss legislative priorities for the year.
 On Thursday I had the honor to address A.B.A.T.E. of Minnesota during their Biker Day At The Capitol. As a member of St. Croix Valley Riders, I believe it is important to have advocacy in St. Paul and to make sure legislators know what is needed for safe, fun riding.
While the legislative process remains stalled, House Republicans are here, working and preparing for when the minority decides to return. The issues we need to address—affordable childcare, small business support, food security, and responsible budgeting—aren’t going away. Minnesotans deserve action, and I will continue pushing for solutions that strengthen our communities.
As always, if you have thoughts or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I appreciate hearing from you and will continue working hard to represent our district.
Sincerely,
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