Friends and neighbors,
The gavel is officially down, and the 2026 Legislative Session is underway!
On Tuesday, we returned to the House floor, and I have to say—there’s nothing quite like that first-day energy. It is always wonderful to reconnect with colleagues, but even more importantly, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get back to work for YOU!
We are now in the second half of the legislative biennium. Because we have already passed the state budget, this portion of the session gives us a great opportunity to focus more intentionally on policy solutions that directly impact our districts. In other words—this is your moment! If you have concerns, ideas, or proposals, now is the time to make your voice heard.
One theme I continue to hear at home is affordability. Families are feeling the squeeze. Small businesses are navigating higher operating costs. Property taxes remain a top concern. Affordability cannot be an afterthought—it must be part of every conversation we have this session. The rule I live by is simple: government should work for the people, not make it harder for them to thrive.
This session, I will continue serving as Vice-Chair of the House Higher Education Committee. I am excited to keep working alongside my GOP and DFL colleagues, as well as the outstanding collegiate leaders in our district, to strengthen opportunities for students here at home—and hopefully extend that example across Minnesota. Higher education should be accessible, innovative, and aligned with workforce needs, and I am committed to helping move that conversation forward in meaningful ways.
At the same time, restoring trust in government remains critical. Minnesotans deserve transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of their tax dollars. After a tumultuous start to the new year, we know how much negative national attention Minnesota has received regarding ongoing fraud scandals that continue to come to light. I think all Minnesotans—Democrats and Republicans alike—can agree on one thing: we cannot afford to delay decisive action. Strong, legitimate oversight is not optional—it is essential. Ensuring integrity within our constitutional offices and programs is a responsibility we must take seriously. House Republicans have a comprehensive fraud prevention package ready to go. More updates on that will be coming soon, but please know we will fight every day to put an end to this fraud nightmare.
This will be a critical session for the people of Minnesota, and there is important work ahead. I am energized, optimistic, and ready for it. As always, your voices guide the work we do down in St. Paul, so please never hesitate to reach out or stop by my office.
Let’s get to work!
— Representative Erica Schwartz
