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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Our work in St. Paul continues, even as we approach our first and second legislative deadlines this evening. While these deadlines will pivot the work that we do, focusing on bills in motion rather than introducing any new legislation, I will continue working diligently on my bills. Some of the top issues I’m working on are highlighted below.
Tapping into Nuclear Energy
Reconsidering the nuclear moratorium has been a HUGE issue this session. Based on our state’s energy goals, it is clear that we must make nuclear energy an option for the best interest of the state. HF4703, which had its hearing this week in the Energy Finance and Policy Committee, would provide funding for a comprehensive study evaluating the potential for constructing nuclear-powered electric generating facilities in Minnesota. The study would examine key factors such as advances in nuclear technology, federal licensing changes, siting considerations, economic impacts, and the feasibility of small modular reactors. Importantly, this effort reflects a thoughtful and collaborative process that has brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including energy experts, industry leaders, labor representatives, and the Prairie Island Indian Community, to ensure all perspectives are considered. This bill helps keep all options on the table as we work to strengthen reliability, support good paying jobs, and plan for long term energy needs. I will continue working with colleagues and stakeholders across the board because I believe we must carefully evaluate nuclear energy as part of a balanced and sustainable path forward.
Housing Tax Credit
Along with my other work on housing, I had the opportunity to introduce HF3902 in committee this week. I introduced this bill to ensure the State Housing Tax Credit (SHTC) Program continues providing critical support for affordable housing across Minnesota. The program allows eligible taxpayers to contribute to a fund that finances loans for housing projects, including new construction, rehabilitation, and redevelopment, with no state appropriations required. By removing the scheduled expiration and updating eligibility, this bill ensures the program can keep supporting communities of all sizes, from small townships to metro areas, and provide housing for families at or below 50% of the area median income. This is an important step to help more Minnesotans access safe, affordable homes and strengthen communities across the state.
Bonding Dollars for Reforestation
I also had the chance to introduce HF4383 this week. This bill gives us the opportunity to invest in Minnesota’s forests in a way that improves the environment, supports jobs, and strengthens our forestry industry. This bill authorizes the sale of up to $18 million in state bonds to fund reforestation, forest health projects, and work to combat pests like emerald ash borer and spruce budworm on state forest lands. By putting real resources into restoring and managing our forests, we protect wildlife habitat, bolster sustainable timber production, and create good jobs in the natural resources and forestry sectors. The funding will help keep our woods healthy for recreation, wildlife, and the economy for years to come.
Advocating for Renters
Another bill I authored, HF3951, was heard in committee this week. I took the lead on this legislation to give Minnesota renters clearer protections and fairer billing practices. The bill allows landlords to issue a reasonable estimated final utility bill when an actual utility bill isn’t received before a tenant moves out, and it updates how rent payments must be handled. It also ensures tenants paying in cash get a written receipt and protects tenants who can’t pay on time because a digital payment system is down by requiring alternative payment options without penalty. The changes we’re proposing will help reduce confusion, improve fairness between landlords and renters, and make the rental process more transparent for families across our communities.
Wishing you a happy Holiday week
As we look forward to next week, I want to take the opportunity to wish you a great end to the Lenten season, as well as a Happy Easter and Passover. I hope you have the chance to disconnect, recharge, and spend time with family next week.
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Contact Me
Make sure to keep your eye out for the next newsletter for current news about what's happening at the Capitol.
I am here and at work for you. If you have any concerns or would like to have a conversation, I am available by phone at 651-296-4936 or by email. I look forward to hearing from you!
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