Legislative Update Dear Friends and Neighbors, As we head into the final week of session, it’s starting to look like we might not finish on time. The constitutionally-mandated end of session is May 19th, but with major bills still up in the air and key agreements yet to be reached, wrapping things up on schedule is looking less likely. Unfortunately, the first 23 days of session were wasted when one caucus decided to stay home and not show up for work. Now, we’re seeing the cost of that delay in real time. That being said, we’ve made good progress over the past couple of weeks. Most of the budget bills have passed through the Minnesota House, and we’re down to just a few remaining. But as the clock ticks down, some of my Democrat colleagues are starting to worry we’re running out of time. To them, I say: remember, Republicans showed up ready to work on Day 1. Meanwhile, some folks chose to stay absent for nearly a month, all while collecting their taxpayer-funded paychecks. If you missed it, you can see Rep. Dawn Gillman (R-Dassel) giving Rep. Tina Liebling a reality check during a recent committee hearing [HERE]. With only a few bills left to approve, I’m optimistic that we’ll get them through early next week. The Senate is doing its part, and once both chambers have passed their versions, any differences will be hammered out in conference committees before heading to the Governor’s desk for approval. Now, I made a promise last fall to lower taxes and control government spending, and that’s exactly what I’ve been fighting for. I’m voting for bills that aim to right-size government, and I’m voting against those that would lock in irresponsible spending or raise your taxes. Why is this so important? Because last session, Democrats and Governor Walz managed to waste an $18 billion surplus and raised your taxes by an additional $10 billion. Fast forward two years, and here we are, facing a $6 billion deficit. In the meantime, government grew by nearly 40%, adding 6,000 new employees and hundreds of millions of dollars in new salaries. Minnesotans deserve a smarter, more responsible approach. It’s time to put taxpayers first and stop this cycle of waste! Celebrating National Small Business Week: A New Era of Opportunity This week marks National Small Business Week, and as a small business owner myself, I’m thrilled to see real recognition—and real action—finally being taken to support Main Street. On May 5, President Trump issued a powerful proclamation honoring the 33 million small businesses across America that employ nearly half of the private-sector workforce and create nearly two-thirds of new jobs in our nation. These aren’t just numbers—this is the heartbeat of our economy. The proclamation acknowledges the challenges small businesses have faced in recent years—from high inflation to unfair global trade practices—and it outlines how the administration is fighting back. With targeted tariffs to protect against foreign exploitation, $100 billion in regulatory relief, and a renewed focus on Made in America manufacturing, we are finally seeing policies that put local entrepreneurs, workers, and communities first. As someone who knows firsthand the pressures and rewards of running a business, this proclamation feels like more than just words. It’s a commitment to our values: hard work, innovation, and the American Dream. This is a moment to celebrate the perseverance of our small business community—and to double down on ensuring they thrive in the years ahead. Let’s continue to champion small business, not just this week, but every week. We are building a stronger, freer, and more prosperous America—one small business at a time. Wishing You Tight Lines and Warm Hugs This Weekend This weekend, Minnesotans are celebrating two of the best things in life: moms and the fishing opener! To all the incredible mothers out there—thank you. You are the heart of our homes, the glue of our families, and the ones who keep everything running (even when the rest of us are running late). Whether you're spending the weekend with your kids, enjoying some well-earned peace and quiet, or maybe even casting a line yourself, I hope you feel celebrated and appreciated. You deserve it—every day, but especially this Sunday. And to those hitting the lakes for the Fishing Opener—good luck out there! I hope the fish are biting, the coffee’s hot, and the stories around the dock are just the right amount of exaggerated. Whether you're out with buddies, kids, or maybe even mom herself, remember what makes Minnesota so special: family, tradition, and a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. Here’s to a weekend full of love, laughter, and maybe even a trophy walleye or two. Happy Mother’s Day and Happy Fishing Opener, Minnesota!  Stay Connected!As we continue navigating the final stretch of session—and confront the tough realities of a looming $6 billion deficit—I remain committed to making the hard but necessary choices to protect our future. Representing the hardworking people of District 4B is an honor I don’t take lightly. Whether we’re talking about responsible budgeting, supporting our local communities, or advocating for common-sense solutions, I’m here to ensure your voice is always heard at the Capitol. If you have questions, concerns, or just want to share your perspective, please don’t hesitate to reach out. My office is here to serve you. You can call me at 651-296-6829 or email me at rep.jim.joy@house.mn.gov. Be sure to follow along on Facebook for updates, floor clips, and a closer look at what I’m working on each week. Wishing you a safe, thoughtful, and restful weekend—and as always, thank you for staying informed and involved.  Representative Jim Joy Minnesota House of Representatives, District 4B |