Legislative Update
Friends and neighbors,
One of the most important parts of this service is staying grounded, getting out into the community, and hearing directly from the people impacted by our decisions at the Capitol. I believe we need more legislators willing to show humility, ask good questions, and step outside their comfort zone. Good policy starts with listening to those on the ground who carry out the laws we pass. That’s how we build meaningful, effective solutions for our communities.
Building Minnesota’s Workforce
This week, I met with local union workers to talk about the strength of our labor market, opportunities for workforce development, and the urgent need to invest in infrastructure across the state. These conversations are critical as we work to ensure Minnesota has the skilled workforce and modern infrastructure necessary to support a growing economy. By partnering with those who do the work every day, we can make smarter investments that benefit everyone, from job sites to small businesses to families on the road.
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I also sat down with teachers from Wayzata Public Schools to discuss some of the biggest challenges facing educators today. We talked about the need for meaningful mandate relief, more flexible funding at the local level, and new strategies and solutions to reduce classroom sizes. Our teachers are doing incredible work in the face of growing demands, and we must support them with policies that reflect the realities they face in the classroom. Listening to their experiences helps inform my work at the Capitol as we continue to focus on solutions that strengthen education for our students.
Transportation Bill
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As Vice Chair of Transportation, I voted yes to support all forms of transportation and safety bills that help our communities. That’s why I was proud to author and support HF 795, which passed with bipartisan support.
One key part of the bill creates better opportunities for driver testing, license renewals, and access to DVS services, a major concern for many families, including my own. As a parent with kids not too far off from driving, I know how important it is to streamline these systems, so they actually work for you.
This legislation is a win for families, local governments, and all who depend on safe, reliable transportation across Minnesota.
As a father of four, another one of my transportation priorities has been improving road safety, not just for drivers, but for kids and families using new modes of transportation. I authored HF 2811, a bill that would apply helmet requirements to e-bike riders under 18, just like we currently require for mopeds and motorcycles.
The bill was supported by elected officials from Minnetonka, Chanhassen, Chaska, Excelsior, Tonka Bay and Shorewood, along with the Carver County Sheriff, South Lake Minnetonka Police, and the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association. Despite bipartisan support going into the vote, some legislators backed away at the last minute and opted to study the need for helmets.
I will keep working to move us toward Minnesota’s goal of ZERO TRAFFIC DEATHS by bringing forward practical, community-supported solutions that protect our kids and keep our roads, sidewalks, and trails safe.
You can watch my floor speech here.
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Veterans Bill
Earlier this week, I voted yes on the Veterans Bill, a measure that continues Minnesota’s long tradition of supporting those who have served our nation.
My father served in the Army during Vietnam, so this is personal to me. I believe we have a duty to stand by our veterans and their families, not just with words, but with action. This bill invests in services that help veterans and their families access the resources, care, and respect they’ve earned.
Local Leadership
A big thank you to Kemerie from the Minnetonka School Board for visiting the Capitol, attending the State of the State address, and continuing to be a strong voice for our students, educators and families. Building relationships with local leaders like Kemerie helps ensure we’re making decisions that reflect the values and needs of the communities we serve.
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As always, please continue to reach out by email, phone or text. Your voice has an impact and continues to guide me as I represent you and your neighbors.
Have a good weekend,
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