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Sustainable Aviation Fuel
In Tax Committee last week, I talked about incentives for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The idea of this product has brought together some very unique partnerships.
My main interest in SAF is because we need better forest management, which will bring more opportunity to our loggers. Production of these fuels will also drive other good jobs, including in the construction trades.
Minnesota is losing the race when it comes to attracting new business and economic development. Good policy is critical to big investments in our state - here's hoping we can make it happen.
Tax Day
April 15th brings us to “Tax Day” and it serves as an important reminder of the financial pressures that many families across our district are facing. House Republicans have been working hard this session to provide meaningful relief through our affordability package. We brought a one-time special property tax refund to the House floor for a vote, and while it did not pass, we will keep fighting for homeowners who deserve relief on their property tax bills. We are also pushing to roll back vehicle registration taxes to pre-2023 levels, so Minnesotans are not overpaying every year just to keep their vehicles on the road. Additionally, we are working to eliminate state income taxes on tips and overtime pay, putting more money back in the pockets of the workers who earned it, like many of our miner’s and others in the trades. These are the kinds of commonsense proposals that make a real difference for families, and we remain fighting for them this session.
Another Fraud Story
It seems like another fraud story makes the headlines every week in Minnesota. I recently recorded a short video highlighting the latest case, where an individual accused of fraud was allowed to post bail and then fled the country. Situations like this raise serious concerns about accountability. When there are limited consequences, it sends the wrong message and risks encouraging more fraudulent activity. Minnesotans deserve a system that takes fraud seriously, holds offenders accountable, and protects taxpayer dollars.
Build Mesabi, Build Itasca
Last week I spoke with the Build Mesabi, Build Itasca coalition, a group deeply committed to strengthening Iron Range communities. It’s always good to be in a room with people who care so strongly about the future of this region and are working to move it forward.
In four more days, I will reach my 30th anniversary, working in the mining industry. That milestone carries real meaning for me and reflects a lifelong commitment to work that supports families across our region. My focus has always been on expanding those same kinds of opportunities for others, stable jobs with great wages and benefits that allow people to build a career, support a family, and stay rooted in their community.
If you haven’t had a chance to visit the Mesabi project, now is the time to get involved and see firsthand where the next opportunities may come from.
Carpenters Reception
Last Wednesday, I attended a joint reception at the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America training center with IUOE Local 49. It was a great opportunity for conversation and connection with our friends in the trades, including Local 606 Business Agent, Aaron Wright.
Housing and Redevelopment
Last Wednesday, I had the opportunity to connect with friends from northern Minnesota during the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) Day on the Hill. It was good to see Mikey and AJ Jugovich, Dana Hiltunen, and Jackie Prescott and have a conversation about their work and priorities.
Testifying for projects in Eveleth and Virginia
Session is winding down, but we still have had time to hear bills on Capital Investments. Proud to testify on needs for Eveleth and Viginia last week, and grateful for the time my testifiers spent on the road!
Pictured are Eveleth City Administrator Pat Homan, City Engineer Tom Dye, and Virginia Mayor Larry Cuffe Jr.
RAMS
It was great to see members of the Range Association of Municipalities and Schools (RAMS) at the Capitol this week. They represent cities, townships, and school boards across the Taconite Relief Area, along with two superintendents, covering a region nearly the size of a congressional district.
Their advocacy continues to play an important role in our region, staying actively engaged on issues like seasonal recreation tax fairness, bonding priorities, and support for mining development.
Constituents at the Capitol
Last Thursday, I hosted fellow miner Joe Brown at the Capitol for a full tour. He saw both the public spaces and some behind-the-scenes areas not typically open to visitors, and joined me for a caucus meeting and a House floor session.
Joe also met Chief Clerk Pat Murphy, who has served in the Clerk’s office for 48 years and now holds the top position. Elected unanimously by the House every two years, the Clerk plays a nonpartisan role in guiding legislative procedure and helping navigate complex rules and situations.
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