Legislative Update
Friends and Neighbors,
The House is back to full strength, and we are officially up and running. After nearly a month of unnecessary delays, committees are holding hearings, and we will begin hearing bills on the House floor next week. While we lost valuable time, I am committed to making the most of the weeks ahead and ensuring that the priorities of our district are heard loud and clear at the Capitol.
Getting Back to Work
One priority this session is my constitutional amendment to prevent land transfers without a supermajority vote in the Legislature. Protecting Minnesota’s land and natural resources is something that should have bipartisan agreement, and this amendment ensures that any transfer of state-owned land cannot happen without broad legislative support. Unfortunately, because of the delays, much of our work needs to be restarted—but I’m happy to report that this bill is still moving forward. I expect to receive a bill number next week, and it will soon begin making its way through the committee process.
Fighting Fraud & Waste
This past week, the House Fraud and Agency Oversight Committee held its first hearing, focusing on the oversight of taxpayer-funded grants to nonprofit organizations. They heard testimony from the Office of the Legislative Auditor, which outlined how state agencies have failed to properly vet grant recipients and enforce compliance. This is just the first step in a broader effort to hold the government accountable and ensure that taxpayer money is spent responsibly.
In total, Minnesota has seen over $610 million in known fraud cases—all under Governor Walz’s watch. From the Feeding Our Future scandal to widespread fraud in state assistance programs, Minnesotans deserve better. That’s why House Republicans sent a letter to the Attorney General requesting additional resources to investigate fraud, especially after legislative delays cost us nearly a month of work. We must take aggressive action to prevent fraud before it happens and hold those responsible accountable.
Fighting for Our Veterans
One of the most important bills I am currently working on is expanding homestead tax exclusions for veterans—a top priority of the Commanders Task Force. This legislation would provide critical tax relief to disabled veterans and their families, ensuring they can afford to stay in their homes.
Last year, this bill had bipartisan support and passed its committee unanimously. However, when it came time for final negotiations, Tax Chair Aisha Gomez removed the bill from the final tax package, blocking it from becoming law. That was unacceptable, and I will continue pushing to make sure our veterans get the support they deserve.
Protecting Seniors from Rising Property Taxes
In addition to fighting for our veterans, I am working with my colleagues on legislation to cap property taxes for seniors. Many retirees are living on fixed incomes and are being hit hard by rising property taxes. No one should be forced out of their home simply because they can no longer afford to pay ever-increasing taxes. This is a common-sense solution that will provide much-needed relief for seniors across Minnesota.
Stay Warm & Happy Valentine’s Day!
As we move forward in session, I remain committed to working on meaningful legislation that supports our veterans, protects taxpayers, and restores accountability in government. If you ever have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Stay warm, and I wish you all a Happy Valentine’s Day!
Sincerely,
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