Dear Neighbors and Friends, As we enter the last week of the 2025 legislative session, the Minnesota House is working around the clock to finalize crucial budget bills. Our DFL caucus remains steadfast in our commitment to responsible governance that protects our most vulnerable residents. While difficult decisions need to be made, I strongly believe we should not balance the budget on the backs of students, seniors, Minnesotans with disabilities, or other vulnerable members of our community. Throughout this session, House DFLers have focused on policies that return power to everyday Minnesotans, not the ultra-wealthy and corporations. We're proud of the bipartisan achievements we've secured on several fronts, demonstrating that good governance transcends party lines when we focus on the needs of all Minnesotans. Unfortunately, some of our GOP colleagues continue to push divisive policies that would harm Minnesota families while padding the pockets of corporations and millionaires. Let me be clear: the DFL will not compromise on policies that hurt average Minnesotans while making the rich get richer. As we navigate these final critical days, know that your DFL representatives remain committed to fighting for an economy and a state that works for everyone—not just those at the top.  Constituent Chaplin Last week, I was so proud to have my constituent, Pastor Joan Conroy from All Nations Indian Church in Minneapolis, bring her inspiring spirit as Chaplain to the Minnesota House.  Safe Storage Laws: A Step-By-Step Guide to a Life –Saving Policy SAVE THE DATE! I'm thrilled to invite you to join me on Monday, June 16th, 1-2pm EST for an important conversation about safe firearm storage legislation. I'm partnering with experts from the Johns Hopkins Center—Dr. Cassandra Crifasi, Dr. Katherine Hoops, and Josh Horwitz—to explore their comprehensive Safe Storage Model Policy Guide. Mark your calendars and register today. Looking forward to seeing you there!  House Public Info Articles on House Budgets As I've shared in previous newsletters, over the past couple of weeks, members of the House have been working to pass several ongoing budget bills. Here are a few articles detailing these budget bills. I'll continue to keep you posted on the last few bills we have on the table. You can find read more Session Daily articles here. Paid Family Leave is Coming in 2026 Minnesota is set to become the 13th state with a statewide Paid Leave program. Through collaborative efforts with businesses, individuals, healthcare providers, and citizens across the state, DFL legislators have developed an intuitive and accessible program that works for all Minnesotans. Minnesota Paid Leave Engagement The "Introduction to Paid Leave" webinar series offers monthly informational sessions through November 2025 to explain the program's key elements and address questions for both employers and employees. The next available session is on June 12, 2025. Find more details on their website here. Information Session through Wilder Foundation Hosted by Wilder African American Babies Coalition and Projects in partnership with Minnesota state agencies, community members have the opportunity to learn about the Women's Economic Security Act (WESA) updates and the upcoming 2026 Paid Family Leave Program. These hour-long conversations will provide guidance on supporting expecting families and helping employees access Paid Leave benefits. Employers, directors, supervisors, and managers are strongly encouraged to attend. Register: https://aabcprojects.org/training.html Questions can be directed to Angela Moore Smith at angela.moore-smith@wilder.org.  Graduation Rates Reach All-Time High Graduation rates have reached a historic high! When we invest in our kids we see results. Minnesota still has a long way to go to return to our nation-leading education outcomes, but this is an encouraging start. I'll continue to invest in our youth and public education, let's keep up this good progress!  |