Expanding Service Dog Trainers 

On August 1, a new law took effect that extends important housing protections to those who volunteer their time and energy to train service dogs. I was proud to co-author this bipartisan legislation to help ensure that the people preparing these animals for their life-changing roles are not turned away due to overly restrictive policies. 

Before this law, only active service dogs were exempt from homeowners' association and rental rules that prohibit dogs. Now, service dogs in training receive the same consideration. This change helps remove one of the biggest barriers reported by volunteers, housing access. It ensures that more people can participate in this vital work, benefiting Minnesotans across the state. Thank you to Can Do Canines for your efforts to support these changes.  

Also starting August 1, a new law I co-sponsored will expand the use of ignition interlock devices for repeat impaired driving offenders. This bipartisan legislation strengthens accountability, improves safety on our roads, and provides clearer pathways for rehabilitation. Under the new law, individuals with more than one DWI offense must participate in the ignition interlock program before regaining a standard driver’s license, helping ensure they are sober before getting behind the wheel. 

The bill also extends the lookback period for prior offenses from 10 to 20 years and expands eligibility to include those convicted of criminal vehicular homicide or operation. Participants must complete a licensed substance use treatment program, and while the reinstatement fee still applies, it no longer prevents someone from beginning interlock participation. I was honored to be part of the conference committee that finalized and passed this thoughtful approach to public safety—balancing consequences, rehabilitation, and fairness 

Minnesota’s statewide Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program is set to launch on January 1, 2026. This will mark a major change in how we support workers during life’s most important moments, whether it's welcoming a new child, recovering from a serious illness, or caring for a loved one. 

While the rollout continues, I’m focused on ensuring that this program works not just in theory, but in practice, for our small businesses, local governments, schools, families, and workers. We must strike the right balance: offering meaningful support during life’s critical moments without creating unworkable burdens on employers or high paycheck deductions.