End of Session Legislative Update

End of Session Legislative Update

Dear Northlanders,

As the historic 2026 legislative session ends, I want to thank the residents of our district for the opportunity to serve you at the Minnesota Capitol. This session was unique in Minnesota history, with the House evenly divided. That balance created an environment where bipartisan conversations mattered and every vote required collaboration.

I was encouraged to see the House conduct its work in a professional and respectful manner, with meaningful debate on individual bills and greater opportunities for bipartisan discussion. While no session is perfect, this year reflected a more balanced approach to governing.

Key Accomplishments for Our Communities

Providing Relief for Minnesota Drivers

One of the most important wins this session was a one-year reversal of increased vehicle tab fees that were passed in 2023. Many Minnesotans expressed concern about rising costs, especially during a time when families are already managing higher expenses. While additional reform is still needed, this temporary relief puts money back into the pockets of hardworking Minnesotans.

Additional Property Tax Relief

Homeowners and taxpayers continue to face increasing financial pressure. This session included additional property tax relief for qualifying Minnesotans earning under $145,000 annually. While I believe more long-term reform is necessary, this was an important step forward in helping families remain in their homes and communities.

I also continued advocating for:

• Property tax relief for seniors
• Relief for disabled veterans
• Greater accountability on unfunded mandates placed on local governments and schools

Supporting Workforce Participation

Several federal conformity measures passed this session aimed at strengthening workforce participation and supporting long-term economic stability. These updates reinforce expectations that able-bodied adults receiving certain public benefits participate through work, school, or volunteering, while continuing to protect seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children.

Investing in Critical Infrastructure

Our region secured important investments for infrastructure and economic development projects, including:

• Highway and utility improvements
• Workforce housing infrastructure expansion
• Duluth Airport Tower improvements
• Water and sewer system upgrades
• Repairs to aging public infrastructure across the region

These projects support public safety, housing growth, economic development, and long-term affordability for local communities.

Strengthening School Safety and Student Well-Being

Several initiatives passed this session to support students, schools, and families, including:

• Anonymous school threat reporting grants
• School-linked behavioral health support
• Mobile crisis services
• New online safety protections for minors
• Laws addressing sextortion and exploitation targeting students

Protecting children and supporting mental health continues to be a bipartisan priority.

Holding Fraudsters Accountable

With multiple large-scale fraud investigations underway in Minnesota, lawmakers passed stronger financial penalties for individuals convicted of stealing taxpayer dollars through fraud schemes. This legislation sends a clear message that misuse of public funds will not be tolerated.

Advancing Childcare Solutions

I was proud to author and support several childcare-related reforms this session, including:

Expanded Childcare Tax Relief

Families can now use additional pre-tax flexible spending dollars for childcare expenses, increasing the annual amount from $5,000 to $7,500.

Support for Employer-Based Childcare

Employers who invest in childcare access for workers may now qualify for tax incentives.

Expanding Family Childcare Capacity

Legislation I authored allowing certain family childcare providers to expand capacity from 10 to 12 children while maintaining existing infant and toddler safety ratios was signed into law. This reform helps address childcare shortages, particularly in Greater Minnesota communities.

Helping Seniors Remain in Their Homes

A new pilot project I authored was approved to help seniors remain independent in their homes by connecting them with vetted renters seeking affordable housing. The program includes background checks and is designed to increase affordability, social connection, and housing opportunities for both seniors and renters.

Supporting Rural Health Care

The legislature also approved higher reimbursement rates for critical access hospitals that serve rural communities throughout Northern Minnesota. These facilities play a vital role in ensuring access to emergency care and essential health services close to home.

Priorities Still Ahead

While important progress was made, there is still significant work to do. Moving forward, I will continue advocating for:

• Stronger protections for the federal 340B contract pharmacy program
• Improved non-emergency transportation access in Greater Minnesota
• Additional childcare reforms and workforce solutions
• More broad-based tax relief for families and businesses
• Expanded behavioral health treatment capacity
• Additional support for nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and vulnerable adults
• Increased school safety funding for all schools
• Continued protection of opportunities for female athletes under Title IX
• Long-term economic development and tourism investments across Minnesota

Thank You

As session concludes, I look forward to returning home to meet with residents throughout the district at town halls, parades, community events, and local meetings. Listening to the people I represent remains the most important part of this job.

While no legislative session delivers everything everyone hopes for, I believe meaningful progress was made through cooperation, respectful debate, and a focus on practical solutions for Minnesota families.

Thank you again for the opportunity to serve as your state representative.

In Service,

Rep. Natalie Zeleznikar

Last Week of Session 

Long days and nights but always fun getting to work with these great people. 

Please Contact Me

It’s an honor and privilege to work for you at the Capitol. Don’t hesitate to contact my office at any time this session to share your thoughts, concerns or ideas. I am here to serve you! You can reach me by phone at 651-296-2676 or by email at rep.natalie.zeleznikar@house.mn.gov I encourage you to follow me on Facebook at RepNatalieZeleznikar.