HF4568: Simon's Law
One of the most meaningful hearings this week focused on HF4568, a bill aimed at strengthening parental rights in critical medical decisions involving their children. This legislation ensures that parents are notified before any do-not-resuscitate or do-not-treat order is placed on a minor and gives them the right to withhold consent for those decisions. It also protects families by allowing parents time to seek alternative care and transfer their child if a doctor or hospital declines treatment. Additionally, the bill provides a civil cause of action if these rights are violated and result in harm or death. This bill puts parents at the center of these life-altering decisions and ensures families have a voice when it matters most.
During committee testimony, one mother shared the powerful story of her daughter, who was diagnosed before birth with a severe medical condition and given little chance of survival. Despite those odds, her daughter lived far longer than expected thanks to ongoing medical care and the determination of her family to pursue every available option. She spoke about the importance of allowing families to work with their doctors to make the best decisions for their children, and how access to care gave them precious time and improved quality of life. Her testimony was a moving reminder that behind every policy discussion are real families facing difficult decisions who deserve hope, support, and the ability to pursue care that aligns with their values.
At its core, this bill ensures families are not forced to make rushed decisions during deeply emotional and uncertain situations. It provides parents with the opportunity to carefully consider treatment options and seek additional medical opinions or alternative care if they choose. The legislation also acknowledges that outcomes are not always predictable, and that many children diagnosed with serious conditions go on to live meaningful lives, sometimes well into adulthood. By allowing families the time and flexibility they need, this bill supports thoughtful, informed decision making during some of life’s most difficult moments.
HF2817: Supporting our Firefighters
As someone who has seen firsthand the dedication of Minnesota’s firefighters, I’m proud to introduce HF2817. This week, the bill was presented in the Public Safety Committee, taking an important step forward to ensure that the brave men and women who serve as part-time, paid on-call, and volunteer firefighters receive the same line-of-duty death benefits as full-time personnel. Currently, full-time and volunteer firefighters are eligible for the benefit, while part-time and paid on-call firefighters are not. Too often, the law has overlooked those who risk their lives without a full-time paycheck, even though they face the same dangers when responding to emergencies, training, or performing hazardous duties.
Communities across Greater Minnesota rely heavily on these firefighters, and their families deserve to know that if tragedy strikes, they will be fully supported and honored. HF 2817 updates the definition of “public safety officer” to reflect this reality, giving our local heroes and their loved ones the recognition and protection they have earned.
I would like to personally thank Mike Wenshau, Hopkins Fire Chief, for coming to share testimony for this bill. As was shared during the committee, there is no difference in work between a full-time career firefighter or paid on-call firefighter, they are both serving their communities in a very important and sacrificial capacity. I look forward to supporting this bill as it continues through the legislative process to make a meaningful change for these hardworking firefighters, and giving their families the peace of mind they deserve.
The Work to Address Fraud Continues
Even as we continue advancing legislation across a wide range of issues, addressing fraud remains our top priority. Recent hearings reinforced just how serious the problem has become, including testimony that state agencies briefly tracked IP addresses tied to suspicious transactions, found a significant number connected to overseas activity, and then turned that tracking off after just two weeks. We also heard about a millionaire who was able to legally qualify for SNAP benefits and use taxpayer-funded assistance to purchase luxury items like lobster and filet mignon. These examples highlight major gaps in oversight, eligibility, and accountability. We will continue pushing for stronger safeguards to ensure taxpayer dollars are protected and these programs serve those who truly need them.
Community Spotlight: The Goochey Family
One thing remains true through all the work I do, in St. Paul and at home: I am so proud to represent our great district. The community showed its heart this week for 9‑year‑old TK Goochey, a Nevis second grader battling a brain tumor. Students, teachers, neighbors, and friends wore red shirts to show TK he’s not alone, and local fundraisers quickly sprang up to support his family through treatment. Moments like this remind me why I’m proud to represent this district. Neighbors stepping up for one another lift each other up and show that no challenge is faced alone. TK, we’re all cheering for you.
 Events and Shoutouts
HUGE shoutout to the Pequot Lakes Boys Basketball team on making it to the state tournament this week and advancing through the first round! The boys played on Wednesday night, defeating Blake 69-60. They will play again in the semifinals tonight night at 8:00pm against Minnehaha Academy. Keep it up boys, we are so proud!
Congratulations to Kim Riepe-Waggoner on being recognized as A.F.S.C.M.E Union Employee of the Year. Kim has been a Park Rapids Area Schools District Employee since 2003 and has provided educational services to students and staff over the years as a Special Education Paraprofessional. Thank you, Kim!
Congratulations to Francis Croucher, who has been named the Becker County recipient of the 2025 Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association Scholarship. This scholarship honors students pursuing careers as Minnesota Peace Officers. Congratulations to Francis on this achievement and best wishes for continued success in the future.
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