Legislative Update – February 18, 2026
Dear neighbors,
Yesterday, the 2026 Legislative Session began, and it was the first time the Minnesota House convened since Melissa and Mark Hortman, and their dog Gilbert, were killed. We held a remembrance of Melissa and read a joint resolution honoring her leadership and her legacy of public service. Legislators also received seeds to plant in honor of Melissa and her love of the outdoors and gardening.
You can read more from MPR News about yesterday’s remembrance, and you can watch the full ceremony here.
2026 Session Priorities
Throughout the legislative interim, I began working on legislation to help our district and our state move forward. The first of my bills, including legislation to fund infrastructure improvements in Saint Paul Park, was officially introduced yesterday. You can always find a list of my bills on my House webpage.
This session, I’m focused on the future. We need to ensure that Minnesota works better for workers and families. We need to reform our laws and institutions to meet modern challenges. I’m optimistic that we can get things done this session, even in a tied House, but it will take both sides working together in the best interest of our constituents.
My legislative priorities include:
- Investing in the water infrastructure our communities rely on to address PFAS and other contaminations.
- Strengthening our democracy, defending our constitutional rights, and combating the chaos at the federal level.
- Working to protect our environment and natural resources and push back against Big Ag and corporate polluters who leave the taxpayers on the hook for costly environmental cleanup.
You can hear more of my thoughts by watching the recording of last Saturday’s League of Women Voters pre-session interview.
Supporting Small Businesses
Minnesota small businesses impacted by recent disruptions may qualify for grants of $2,500–$10,000 through the Minneapolis Foundation’s Economic Response Fund. Businesses do not need to be located in Minneapolis to apply.
Eligible businesses must have 40 or fewer employees. Funds can help cover payroll, rent, utilities, inventory, and other urgent expenses. Grants do not need to be repaid.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. Learn more and apply here.
Stay in Touch!
Please continue to share your questions, ideas, and feedback throughout the year. You can reach me by email at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-6828.
For more regular updates, you can subscribe to these regular legislative updates if you haven’t already, here, and you can also “like” and follow my official State Representative Facebook page.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative