Dear Neighbors, The 2025 Legislative Session ended Monday, but our work is far from over. Since my previous update, Governor Walz and legislative leaders were able to reach a deal to set a framework for our state budget. While this deal finally allowed us to meaningfully work on our budget bills, only a few were able to pass by Monday’s deadline. That means these next few days will consist of House and Senate members coming together in working groups to finalize areas of the state budget, and then passing them in what should be a brief special session. Much of my efforts will be focused on our Human Services Budget, where I serve as the DFL Vice Chair in the House, and a member of the House and Senate working group. None of these budget bills are going to pass unless we work together, and I’ve been working closely with my Vice Chair counterpart in the House, Republican Rep. Dawn Gillman, to ensure our Human Services Budget is a success. There’s a lot in this budget that I’m fighting for, including funding for a new psychiatric residential treatment facility for youth in Clay County, mental health supports, resources to help people address housing insecurity, and disability services. All the while, I’m ensuring Greater Minnesota has a voice at the table when these decisions are being made. The uncertainty and cuts coming from our federal partners doesn’t help the state’s financial situation, but I know we can build a budget that lifts up our communities and all of Minnesota if we work together - it’s just going to take us going into overtime a little bit to ensure we’re doing the best work possible. Until we head back for the special session, now is a great time to touch base on the issues that matter to you - always feel free to contact me at 651-296-5515 or rep.heather.keeler@house.mn.gov. You can also follow along on my legislative Facebook page. I’ll leave you with this - May, in addition to being the end of session, is also American Indian Month. Before we got to the work of debating and voting on our budget bills, we took a moment to honor and celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of the sovereign tribal nations who have shaped this region for thousands of years. You can watch us read our resolution on the House Floor here. |