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January 31, 2025
Legislative Update
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As we move forward in the 2025 legislative session, I want to take a moment to update you on the status of our work at the Capitol. While this session has presented some early challenges, I remain committed to serving you and ensuring that we are prepared to address the key issues facing our state.
Supreme Court Ruling
On January 24, the Minnesota Supreme Court issued a ruling clarifying that 68 members are required to establish a quorum in the House. This decision has had a significant impact on legislative operations, as it reset all work completed during the first two weeks of session, including the introduction of hundreds of bills and important committee discussions with experts and community members.
At this point, legislative business remains on hold. Until a quorum is met, no bills can be heard in committee, no floor votes can take place, and key priorities for Minnesotans—including tax relief, infrastructure improvements, and public safety measures—cannot move forward.
Continuing to Work for Minnesotans
Even with the formal legislative process temporarily paused, I want to assure you that my colleagues and I are still at the Capitol working every day. We continue to meet with community members and stakeholders, refine legislative proposals, and engage in conversations to ensure we are ready to act as soon as we are able.
My focus remains on the priorities that matter most to our communities, including:
- Strengthening public safety and supporting first responders.
- Improving access to affordable housing and providing property tax relief.
- Expanding economic opportunities for Greater Minnesota.
- Promoting accountability and transparency in government.
The work doesn’t stop just because we’re unable to officially meet. I remain committed to these issues and will be ready to advance meaningful solutions as soon as legislative operations resume.
Meetings and Visits
Engaging with community members, advocacy groups, and local organizations is a key part of my work as your representative. This week, I had the opportunity to meet with several groups to discuss important issues facing our district and state. From public safety and agriculture to tax relief and government accountability, these conversations help shape the policies we fight for at the Capitol.
Here are some highlights from the week:
 Had a great meeting at the Capitol with local area township officials to discuss some of the local priorities needing to be addressed.
 Had a very productive meeting at the Capitol with Carlton County Sheriff Kelly Lake, Carlton County Attorney Laurie Ketola, Senator Rarick, as well as members of their staff.
 Thank you, Justin Terch and Susan Shold, for stopping by the Capitol during Human Resources Professionals Day to discuss the challenges you're facing in the industry.
 Great having so many fellow riders down in St. Paul for Bikers Day at the Capitol. Senator Rarick, Representative Nathan Nelson and I had the opportunity to meet with some of our area A.B.A.T.E members and hear about some other issues and concerns.
 Had the opportunity to meet with YMCA Youth in Government participants down the Capitol.
While this is not how any of us expected the session to begin, I remain optimistic that we will find a path forward soon. Minnesotans expect and deserve a functioning legislature, and I will continue working to ensure that happens as quickly as possible.
As always, I appreciate your input and encourage you to reach out with any questions, concerns, or ideas. Your voice matters, and I am here to represent you.
Sincerely,
Rep. Jeff Dotseth
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