During the special session, the Legislature passed final bills related to Bonding, Taxes, Data Centers, Energy, Jobs and Labor, Higher Education, K-12 Education, Transportation, Human Services, Environment, Commerce, and Health. One notable provision included a stand-alone bill that repealed taxpayer-funded health care for undocumented adults while preserving the benefit for undocumented children. This provision was to ensure we focused on the priorities of Minnesotans (education, public safety, mental health services, infrastructure, transportation, maintenance, and other essential services) and was necessary due to the cost of the program, which tripled initial projections and would have bankrupted the state’s medical assistance fund for Minnesota residents.

While these bills addressed a broad range of issues, I voted no on the motion to suspend the rules that would have allowed immediate consideration. Unfortunately, the leadership agreement that brought these bills forward left no room for transparent review, open hearings, or amendments. As your representative, I believe strongly in ensuring public input and legislative accountability, and I was not willing to waive the process our community expects and deserves.   

Over the next several weeks, I will highlight the several bipartisan bills I authored that passed and other bills that will impact millions of Minnesotans across the state.   

Local Safety Improvements in Mound 

Closer to home, I’m proud to report a meaningful local improvement thanks to the partnership of city, county, and state officials. A new rapid flashing beacon has been installed in Mound to improve safety for pedestrians, bikers, and drivers. This is a great example of how collaboration across all levels of government can lead to tangible benefits for the people we serve. 

At the state level, I supported the 2025 Capital Investment Bill, also known as the bonding bill, which invests in critical infrastructure projects across Minnesota. The final package includes $206 million for clean and drinking water systems, $86.5 million for roads and bridges (including for townships and local roads), and $33 million to preserve our parks, trails, and public lands. I am currently working directly with our cities and state agencies to qualify our communities for these available funds.

Unfortunately, this year’s bill did not include direct appropriations for local projects in our district. As a member of the Capital Investment Committee, I’ve been pushing for clean water and transportation safety improvements in Minnetonka Beach, Excelsior, Mound, and Minnetrista. While the bill took important steps on statewide needs, the lack of specific projects for local governments means our cities may have to make tough choices. I share that frustration and want residents to know this isn’t the end of the conversation. 

Looking ahead, I’m working with the Suburban Solutions Caucus on a new package for next year that will give suburban communities like Long Lake, Shorewood, Tonka Bay, and others a fair shot at the resources they need to thrive. Our cities deserve better, and I’m committed to staying at the table until we get it done. 

I also want to thank you all for your continued support. It’s been an honor to be your voice at the capitol, and I appreciate all of your feedback, ideas, and willingness to share your priorities. I will be available to meet in district, and you can always reach out via phone call, text, or email.    

Thank you for the opportunity to serve and have a great summer. 

Warm regards,