Legislative Update
Dear friends and neighbors,
We’re back in session, and what a way to kick things off! With the state budget already in place, we can now shift our focus to the policies that truly impact our communities. This is the part of session where good ideas can truly turn into action, and your voice matters more than ever. If you have concerns, suggestions, or proposals, I encourage you to share them—this is the moment to make your voices heard!
As Vice Chair of the Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee and a member of the Taxes Committee, I am focused on two issues that sit at the core of daily life for Minnesotans: safety and affordability. Safe communities and responsible tax policy are not partisan goals—they are shared priorities. My approach is simple: bring both Republicans and Democrats to the table, keep the conversation grounded in facts, and work toward real bipartisan solutions that deliver measurable results.
One issue that continues to rise to the top is affordability. Families are feeling the squeeze of rising costs. Small businesses are navigating tighter margins. Property taxes remain a serious concern for homeowners across our district. Affordability cannot be a talking point—it must be a guiding principle. Every proposal we consider should be weighed against one key question: does this make life better and more manageable for the people we represent?
As we move through the remainder of session, I remain committed to steady leadership, open dialogue, and practical solutions. Minnesota works best when we work together—and that is exactly how I intend to serve!
Honoring Our Fallen Heroes
 February 18 is a date that will forever be etched in the heart of Burnsville. On this day, we pause to honor Police Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, and Firefighter/Paramedic Adam Finseth—three courageous public servants who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our community.
As a retired police officer, I understand what it means to put on the badge each day, knowing that any shift could demand everything from you. You don’t dwell on that reality—but you carry it. And so do the families who love you. These men were not only first responders—they were sons, husbands, friends, and pillars of our community. Their loss touches us all.
First responders are true heroes. They run toward danger when others are told to stay back. They stand in the gap for families they may never meet. Every day, we owe them our gratitude for their courage, their sacrifice, and their unwavering commitment to keeping our communities safe.
On Wednesday, during our first Public Safety Committee hearing in the House, we held a moment of silence for these three heroes—a powerful reminder of why this work matters. I was deeply honored to carry House File 2554, renaming the Burnsville Parkway bridge over I-35W the “Elmstrand * Finseth * Ruge Heroes Memorial Bridge” in their memory.
When that bridge is completed and dedicated, it will stand as a lasting tribute—a reminder to everyone who crosses it of the bravery, sacrifice, and love these men showed our community. They gave everything for us, and we will ensure they are remembered—always.
Lakeville Chamber Day at the Capitol: Listening, Learning, and Leading Together
There’s something special about seeing familiar faces from home walking the halls of the Capitol. Lakeville Chamber Day wasn’t just another event on the calendar—it was a wonderful opportunity to elevate local voices and hear the good, the bad, and the ugly.
I was grateful to invite Representative Dave Baker (R-Willmar) to speak to the Lakeville Area Chamber of Commerce about the new Paid Family and Medical Leave law that took effect on January 1. What followed was an honest, thoughtful conversation about how the rollout is affecting employers in real time. Local business leaders shared their concerns, their questions, and their desire to get this right—not just for their companies, but for their employees and families as well.
That kind of dialogue matters. It helps us move beyond talking points and into real solutions.
Chamber members also had the opportunity to connect with Senator Zach Duckworth and Representative Jon Koznick, which made the day even more impactful. When local leaders can speak directly with the people crafting policy, it strengthens the entire process.
As we continue through session, improving the PFML law will remain a top priority. Families deserve support when they need it most. At the same time, our small businesses deserve clarity and stability so they can continue creating jobs and serving our communities. These two goals should work together—not compete with one another.
Days like this give me hope. When we come together with a willingness to listen and a commitment to doing what’s best for Minnesota, we can build policies that reflect both compassion and common sense. I’m proud to be part of those conversations.
Moving Forward With Hope
 I want to close out this week’s newsletter with a few words of encouragement for those back home in the district and for folks across our great state who may be tuning in to this week's newsletter.
We began the 2026 session on Tuesday with a remembrance ceremony honoring our dear Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman. Melissa was a remarkable leader whose strength, grace, and steady presence I deeply admired. The day was filled with emotion. After a year marked by many tragedies and heartbreak for our state, it can sometimes feel difficult to see the light ahead.
When we as elected officials can set aside our differences and hang on to the thread of our shared humanity—when we choose to care for one another first—we are capable of governing Minnesota better. We are capable of building a brighter, more prosperous future for everyone who calls this state home.
That is the spirit I am carrying into this session, and I look forward to doing just that.
Sincerely,
Representative Jeff Witte
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