Legislative UpdateDear Friends and Neighbors, We’ve entered the final stretch of the 2025 legislative session—though what should’ve been the final week has turned into a race against the clock. Because Democrats stepped away from their duties for 23 days at the start of session, we’re now working under pressure to finish the job by the May 19 adjournment deadline. The good news? A global budget agreement is now in place. This framework, negotiated by caucus leaders and Governor Walz, sets the spending targets for the remaining budget bills. While the finer policy details are still being worked out in conference committees, we’re moving forward—and fast. Despite the rocky start, House Republicans stayed focused and delivered some major wins for Minnesotans. This budget includes the largest cut to government spending in state history. We’re eliminating nearly half of the structural deficit created after Democrats grew government by 40% and raised taxes by $10 billion just two years ago. And we held the line—no new tax increases for Minnesota families. Here are just a few of the key wins we secured: Protected non-public pupil aid, preserving critical support for religious, charter, and homeschool students. Stopped the expansion of taxpayer-funded healthcare for illegal immigrants—with enrollment frozen and adult participants removed by January 1, 2026. Capped the PFML payroll tax, saving Minnesota businesses an estimated $215 million. Defeated the Provider Tax hike, helping keep healthcare costs from rising. Blocked new sales and income tax increases, protecting working families from higher costs. Stopped the Northern Lights Express train to Duluth, saving taxpayers hundreds of millions. Prevented new health mandates, fee hikes, and wasteful nonprofit spending. We’ve got a little more work ahead, but I’m optimistic by the progress we’ve made. These results show what happens when we stay grounded, stand firm, and put Minnesotans first. Thank you, as always, for your support. It’s an honor to represent you and work every day for a stronger, more affordable Minnesota. Conversations That Matter One of the best parts of working at the Capitol is the chance to reconnect with good people. I had the absolute pleasure of catching up with former Senator Tony Lourey, along with current Senator Jason Rarick. Whether swapping stories or talking shop, it’s always refreshing to step away from the noise and have a real conversation with people who people who truly understand the challenges of session. Protecting Our Classrooms: The Fight Isn’t Over YetAcross Minnesota, schools are facing many challenges—tight budgets, staff layoffs, and a nonstop wave of mandates that make it harder for educators to focus on what really matters: our kids. Last session alone, Democrats pushed through more than 65 costly mandates that are now straining our school systems. Instead of putting money directly into classrooms or supporting teachers, they've expanded bureaucracy—sending more dollars to state agencies while local schools are left scrambling. Here’s the good news: House Republicans fought back and delivered real solutions. We protected nonpublic pupil aid—funding that supports students in religious, charter, and homeschool settings—and made sure parents still have the freedom to choose the best education for their kids. We also secured over $150 million in Basic Supplemental Aid, giving schools the flexibility they’ve been asking for to meet their unique needs. Even more importantly, we delivered mandate relief—like putting an end to the seasonal worker unemployment insurance mandate that was bankrupting schools. But we’re not out of the woods yet. The education finance bill was heard in conference committee today, and several concerns remain—including potential cuts to special education services and teacher support programs. These decisions will have real consequences for students, families, and school staff across the state. If you’re frustrated by what you’re seeing, I hear you—and I encourage you to speak up. Write to your DFL legislative leaders and urge them to prioritize students over bureaucracy. Tell them our schools need flexibility, not more red tape—and that every child deserves access to a safe, well-funded, and supportive learning environment. House Republicans will keep showing up and standing with our schools. We’re committed to meaningful, student-centered solutions—not just more top-down mandates. And as always, I’ll keep fighting for our classrooms, our teachers, and most of all—our kids. Capitol Adventures with East Central 6th Graders! It’s always so much fun to connect with the kids from our district—this week we had a great visit from the East Central Elementary 6th graders from Finlayson, MN! Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and big questions made for a lively day at the Capitol. A huge shoutout to the amazing teachers and chaperones who made the trip possible. Thank you for helping foster a love of learning and civic engagement in these young minds. Come back anytime! As Session Winds Down, My Door Stays OpenAs we head into the final days of the 2025 legislative session, we’re facing some big decisions at the Capitol—decisions that will affect every Minnesotan. I want you to know how much I value your voice, your input, and your trust during this important time. These aren’t easy choices, but my priorities remain clear: protecting our communities, holding government accountable, and putting people ahead of bureaucracy. Now more than ever, your voice matters. Whether you have concerns about education, economic opportunity, or the direction of our state, I want to hear from you. You can always reach me by phone or email at rep.nathan.nelson@house.mn.gov. It’s an honor to represent you, and I truly believe that together, we can build a brighter future for Minnesota—one idea, one conversation at a time. Take care, and let’s finish this session strong! Sincerely, Representative Nathan Nelson Minnesota House of Representatives, District 11B |