 Legislative Update from Representative Lucy RehmDear Neighbors, The first day back at the Capitol was spent reconnecting with colleagues and honoring the lives of the late Melissa and Mark Hortman. Our beloved Speaker of the Minnesota House was remembered as the most consequential speaker Minnesota has ever had. We are back in St. Paul and ready to carry on the work for the people of Minnesota inspired by the great example Melissa has set.  Melissa and Mark Hortman will not be forgotten and their love for the people and places of Minnesota will guide us and carry us through this session.  Security Updates at the State CapitolA new weapons screening has taken effect at the Minnesota State Capitol for the legislative session. The screening process will closely resemble entering many other government buildings, as well as major sporting events or concerts, with modern equipment able to screen most individuals in just a few seconds, while bags and other large items will need to go through a scanner.  PHOTO: House Photography I understand this process represents a bit of a change, but I’m glad we’re taking action to keep Capitol visitors, lawmakers, and staff safe. Screenings will serve as a deterrent to those who attempt to bring illegal weapons into the Capitol to commit violence, intimidate people, or interfere with the orderly work of government. Additional information is available from the Department of Public Safety. Working Together After the assassination of our beloved leader and the killings of two innocent children at Annunciation, Minnesotans are asking for more change. According to the nonpartisan and independent research organization Lumaris Research, 79% of Minnesotans in the Twin Cities suburbs say they support banning assault style weapons, like the AR-15. I’m carrying legislation this year that creates an anonymous threat reporting system in Minnesota schools. Families deserve the peace of mind that their child will be safe at school. This system is one tool we can use to help prevent more gun violence and senseless tragedy.  Two empty school desks sat in a corridor of the State Capitol, belonging to Fletcher Merkel and Harper Moyski, whose lives were taken last August at Annunciation Catholic Church. Since then, survivors and loved ones have called for action, and while we've expanded background checks and enacted red flag laws, there's clearly more to do. I support a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, reenacting the ban on binary triggers, requiring safe storage of firearms, regulating “ghost guns”, and requiring lost or stolen guns to be reported — policies that are effective and broadly supported by Minnesotans. With a tied House, all it takes is one Republican to join us and say "enough." Fletcher and Harper should still be in school today, and we owe it to them and their families to act. It’s why I was so disappointed my colleagues on the otherside of the aisle chose to vote against public safety and keeping our kids safe in school and stall two gun violence prevention proposals. You can listen to Harper Moyski's mother, Jackie, give heart wrenching testimony at this link. Recovering Amid Continued ICE ActivityOperation Metro Surge is resulting in a rise of separated families and has ravaged our local economy. Despite news of a drawdown, we’re actually seeing a spike of ICE activity in the suburbs. I spoke with the Sahan Journal about what we’re seeing in Chanhassen and Chaska. You can read it by clicking this link. On the first week of session, we heard from teachers and school staff in committee about what they’re seeing in their schools and the impacts of recent federal immigration activity has had on Minnesota students. Enrollment is down and the overall quality of mental health amongst students and staff has plummeted. We’ll need a robust recovery plan to address the harms that this federal occupation has had on Minnesotans. Check out the latest staples Bountiful Basket is in need of as they continue to feed our neighbors facing food insecurity. Connected to CommunityCongratulations to Chanhassen native and 2026 Winter Olympic Gold Medalist Rory Guilday! Rory helped lead the US Women's hockey team to a nail-biting 2–1 overtime victory over Canada on last Thursday. You can read more about Rory's incredible courage and journey to the gold at this link.  PHOTO: Milano Cortina 2026 Our neighbors make Chanhassen and Chaska an incredible community to live in. And I'm honored to fight for us every single day. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have participated in Mt. Calvary's Courageous Conversations "Who is My Neighbor?" on immigration recently.  Did you know that 13 people die each day waiting for an organ transplant?! Consider being an organ donor. I had my annual meeting with the LifeSource ambassadors this week: David McFarlane, Tom Miler, and Keith Winters. We reviewed the legislation relating to organ, eye and tissue donation which is currently under consideration: Organ Donation Education/Discount on Driver's License Renewal (HF1891/SF3382)
Custom License Plate: Organ Donor (HF0180/SF894, HF2364/SF3008, HF3274)Health Class Curriculum Addition: Organ Donation (HF2353)  Keep in TouchPlease continue to reach out anytime at rep.lucy.rehm@house.mn.gov or 651-296-5066. I value your input and questions. Enjoy the sunshine this week. In community, Lucy |