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Legislative Update
Greetings,
We are definitely getting ready for our session to start next week. As can be expected, we are meeting via Zoom with the Sergeant of Arms office concerning several new security requirements for access to the Capitol complex. Governor Walz issued an executive order in January 2026 requiring everyone entering the Capitol building to pass through a magnetometer or alternate security screening to check for weapons and contraband. Permit to carry holders are allowed to bring their firearm into the Capitol, but to successfully pass through security, they must have their physical permit to carry card and a government-issued photo ID. If you are carrying a firearm, please keep both your permit and photo ID with you the entire time you are visiting the Capitol. In summary, please expect some delays and allow extra time to follow the procedures as you enter the Capitol.
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Closing in on Session
As you can imagine, the volume of calls and incoming email continues to increase as we prepare for the 2026 session. In addition, we have many visitors scheduled to see us at the Capitol during our upcoming session. As always, I look forward to seeing everyone, especially our high school and middle students visiting the Capitol and learning about our Minnesota history and the legislative process firsthand.
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U of MN Alumni Gathering
Representative Erica Schwartz and I grab a quick photo together at University of Minnesota Alumni gathering in Mankato. In addition, Senator Nick Frentz, Representative Luke Frederick, and Representative Paul Torkelson joined us for the event.
Thank you to Julie Tesch and the University of Minnesota Alumni Association for cohosting a quick get together prior to the beginning of the 2026 session. We had the opportunity to talk about the potential for a bonding bill in 2026. Currently, we need to find $180M for debt servicing prior to contemplating as much as $1.2B in general obligation bonding. In addition, we received Governor Walz’s bonding request for Higher Education Asset Preservation and Replacement (HEAPR) funds. Within the governor’s overall bonding request, there is a total request of $74.8M for the University of Minnesota system and $74.8M for the Minnesota State University system. In addition, we will be reviewing $3B in county and local government bonding requests. The need is great and we will be working to address these needs.
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Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Committee
On Thursday, I enjoyed the opportunity to share several updates for the upcoming 2026 legislative session with the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Committee. It was another great opportunity to hear from constituents, answer questions, and share opportunities relative to improving the livelihood of all Minnesotans.
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Coffee with Tom
Please feel free to join me for next Coffee with Tom meeting in Waseca on Friday, February 13th at the Waseca Chamber of Commerce from 12:00pm-1:00pm.
In March, Coffee with Tom will be in Owatonna on Friday, March 6th at the Owatonna Chamber of Commerce building from 12:00pm-1:00pm.
Then, Coffee with Tom will meet in Waseca on Friday, March 13th at the Waseca Chamber of Commerce from 12:00pm-1:00pm.
The 2026 Legislative session will begin on Tuesday, February 17th at 12:00pm in the State Capital House Chambers.
Thank you for your support and feedback!
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I want to hear you
I am always here to listens to concerns or ideas of my constituents. I can be reached via email rep.tom.sexton@house.mn.gov or phone 651-296-5368.
 If you would like to contact Rep. Sexton, DO NOT reply to this email. Please reach out directly to rep.tom.sexton@house.mn.gov.
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