State Rep. Carly Melin (DFL – Hibbing) released the following statement:
“Five years ago today, I filed to run in a special election to fill a seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives. I went on to be elected to serve in that office, and re-elected twice after that. Today, after much consideration, I announce my decision not to seek re-election to the Minnesota House of Representatives for a 4th term. It has been a privilege to serve in the legislature and a true honor to represent the citizens of my district at the Capitol.
I am proud of my work as a legislator, including increasing investment in Iron Range K-12 schools, securing funding for various infrastructure and community projects across the region, advocating for the less fortunate, and fighting for working and middle class Minnesota families. During my time as Chair of the IRRRB Higher Education Committee we've made important investments in programming for students attending our area community colleges. On a statewide level, I'm especially proud of having authored the Women's Economic Security Act, the Medical Cannabis Therapeutic Research Act, and the Criminal Records Expungement law. My public service has been dedicated to improving the quality of life of others and these accomplishments have attributed to that overall mission.
I thank my family, friends, constituents, and colleagues for the support they've shown me throughout my six years in the House. By making this announcement now, I want to give those considering serving the Iron Range the time necessary to make their plans before precinct caucuses and the campaign season begins. Even as I make this announcement, I know my work--and term--is far from over. I look forward to the upcoming legislative session and plan to continue my focus on assisting Iron Range families who have been impacted by recent turmoil in the domestic steel market which in turn has impacted our taconite mining industry.
Although I'll exit public life when my term expires, I will always have a passion for serving the public and plan to continue doing so through other community involvement. For now, I look forward to focusing on my legal career on the Iron Range and spending more time with my family.”
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