Greetings,
I hope you are having a wonderful new year so far. At the State Capitol, our “new year” began on Tuesday as lawmakers returned to St. Paul to begin the 2026 legislative session.
HONORING THE HORTMANS AND HOFFMANS
After gaveling into session, the Legislature honored former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, who died in tragic home invasion in June. Senator John Hoffman and his wife were also shot in their homes that same day, but thankfully survived. Senator Hoffman was able to join us at the ceremony, and he appears to be fully recovered. Continue keeping the Hortman and Hoffman families in your prayers.
THE WORK BEGINS
By traditional legislative standards, we have a shorter session ahead of us, as in less than 90 days we are constitutionally required to adjourn. Committee work began in earnest on Wednesday, including in the Commerce Policy and Finance Committee on which I co-chair.
AS PAUL HARVEY USED TO SAY….
Stand by for news! Though this week was shortened due to the President’s Day holiday, I expect many proposals to receive debate in our House committees over the next few weeks. But with a literal House divided (67 Republicans and 67 Democrats), it will be interesting to see which of them actually move forward. I will continue keeping you updated by providing weekly communication throughout session, and appreciate your interest in the happenings at the State Capitol!
KEEP IN TOUCH
As always, I'm continuing to support constituent needs. Feel free to contact me anytime at rep.tim.odriscoll@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-7808.
Have a good weekend,
Tim