Legislative Update - Building A Better St. Paul

Dear Neighbors, 

We have less than a month left of the 2026 Legislative Session, and while some small progress has been made, there’s still much more we need to do - delivering assistance to those impacted by Operation Metro Surge, passing gun violence prevention measures to protect our schools and communities, and providing a helping hand to Minnesotans hit hard by rising costs.

Another bill we need to pass this year is a Capital Investment Bill, otherwise referred to as a “Bonding Bill” because it’s funded by the sale of state bonds. I’ve sat on the Capital Investment Committee in previous years, and I know how important these bills are. It’s a crucial tool for investing in infrastructure and revitalizing communities and regions throughout the state.

This week in the House Capital Investment Committee, I joined neighbors and local leaders to present two important bills for our community.

Our first bill would invest in the former Sears site near the State Capitol, updating the road and utility infrastructure to prepare this site for the future. Now under the ownership of the Rondo Community Land Trust, it’s long past time to revitalize this site - housing, shopping, green space - but the state needs to bring it up to snuff first.

Our second bill would invest in a recreational dome facility at the West Minnehaha Recreation Center. Frogtown continues to face real challenges, with over 3,000 residents experiencing food insecurity and more than 25% living in poverty. Addressing these issues requires meaningful investment in both basic needs and long-term opportunity.

That’s why I introduced HF 4623, a bill to invest in a year-round indoor sports facility in Saint Paul - creating safe spaces for youth, strengthening community connections, and expanding opportunities for families.

This project also includes food storage capacity, along with creating economic growth and workforce opportunities, providing a long-term vision for the community. Investing in Frogtown means investing in a stronger Minnesota.

When we invest in our communities, Minnesota thrives. I’ll be fighting for a robust Capital Investment Bill that lifts up our neighborhoods, our city, and our state. You can watch our bill presentations here.

It wasn’t just bills for our district in committee, we had several other bills presented by my St. Paul colleagues that would invest in our city too. Whether it’s breathing new life into the long-vacant Sears site, creating a space for year-round activities at the West Minnehaha Recreation Center, or supporting the vitality of downtown, we know that when you invest in Minnesota’s capital city, the whole state wins. 

I’ll be fighting hard for these projects and for the passage of a Capital Investment Bill in these remaining weeks.

Free Park Day - Tomorrow!

On April 25th, it’s Free Parks and Trails Day in Minnesota. Four times a year Minnesota state parks offer free entrance, waiving the need for a $7 vehicle permit. It’s a great way to revisit our local gems or explore a new part of the state. You can use the parkfinder here to plan your next trip. 

I hope you’re able to get outside and enjoy spring in one of our beautiful state parks!

Stay Connected

With a month left of session, now is a great time to touch base. Please reach out with any questions, comments, or ideas you have on how to make St. Paul or Minnesota better. My work is at its best when it’s rooted in your needs. 

Additionally, my colleagues and I in the House DFL have put together a constituent survey. If you have a brief moment, I’d really appreciate you taking it to let us know about the issues and values most important to you. 

You can take our 2026 Constituent Survey here. 

As always, you can reach me at 651-296-5158 or rep.samakab.hussein@house.mn.gov. You’ll either hear from me or our Legislative Assistant Sumira. I look forward to hearing from you.

It’s an honor to represent you in the Minnesota House.

Sincerely, 

Samakab Hussein

Minnesota State Representatives - 65A