Legislative Update
Dear friends and neighbors,
It's hard to believe that we are already back at the Capitol, getting to work for the people of District 19A. It is also hard to wrap my head around everything that has happened in the time since we were in session last year. Tragically, we experienced the assassination of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, her husband Mark, and their dog Gilbert. Coming together again for the first time since this incident, we heard heartfelt remembrances from legislative leaders and the governor. I am grateful for this time to grieve together and for those that put together the program and reception.
 Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman’s desk, covered with roses placed by Representatives, Senators, and others in attendance at the Hortman Remembrance.
Keying in on Top Issues
As we get back into the swing of the legislative session, our committees have begun meeting again and our priorities for the session have become apparent. We remain focused on the same issues that we were fighting for last session:
- Stop the Fraud
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Make Minnesota Affordable
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Make Minnesota Safe
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Raise Standards, Reduce Mandates
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Make Minnesota Competitive
- Minnesota Tax Dollars for Minnesotans
While these are all high priorities, "Stop the Fraud" is number one on the list on purpose. By now, I'm sure you have heard about the monstrous amount of fraud that has occurred in our state programs. With the number somewhere around $9 billion so far, that equates to $3,840 per Minnesota household, lost to fraud. The bottom line is that fraud isn't just wasted money, it's stolen trust. In Minnesota, every dollar lost to fraud is a broken promise to our communities. It's time we stop it at the door and restore integrity to every cent. I remain committed to fighting for greater accountability and oversight in our state programs.
Introducing HF3436 to Protect our Kids
One of the first bills I will have the honor of introducing this session is HF3436, a bill that would require vehicles approaching school buses to stop while the flashing red lights are engaged. This bill is important for student safety, and is common-sense measure for community protection. I am proud to be an author of the bill and make this meaningful change for Minnesota.
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