Dear Neighbors,
I'm proud to share DFL Leader Zack Stephenson appointed me as the DFL Co-Chair of the Ways and Means Committee. The Ways and Means Committee is often the last stop for legislation before a floor vote and is in charge of setting the overall budget targets for state government.
I appreciate Leader Stephenson’s belief in me and my leadership abilities to lead the Ways and Means Committee. I am honored to have Representative Esther Agbaje as my Vice Chair. Her deep knowledge of tax policy, coupled with a clear commitment to fiscal responsibility and equity, is the exact partnership Minnesota needs to counter the uncertainty from Washington.
Our shared experience leading the House POCI Caucus proved we can deliver transformative legislation for historically marginalized communities whose voices have too often been excluded from the decision-making process. Now, we bring that same dedication to the Ways and Means Committee. POCI priorities are Minnesota priorities and representation is critical now more than ever in our government.
Minnesota needs leaders who are prepared to stand up and protect all our constituents—families, workers, farmers, and children—from Trump and his Republican cronies and from their reckless cruel, divisive policies. We are answering their call and look forward to shepherding a path that secures a better future for all families, workers, and children. I look forward to this new chapter with Rep. Agbaje.
Interview with KSTP on Wrongful Death of Kingsley Bimpong
Following new revelations and details about Kingsley Bimpong's death, I sat down with KSTP earlier this week to discuss a bill provision I carried in 2021 requiring law enforcement officers across the state to keep their body-worn cameras on through the entire duration of an incident.
While the bill did not pass, it was intended not only to support the ongoing efforts of rebuilding trust between the public and law enforcement, but also to set parameters for transparency and accountability. I will say it again: Kingsley should be alive today and with his family. As lawmakers, we have the ability to write the laws, but we need our partners at the local level to ensure their implementation. I will continue to advocate for the bill in the upcoming legislative session.
Watch the interview here.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM)
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). Firearms significantly escalate the lethality of domestic violence. When an abuser has access to a gun, the risk of homicide for intimate partners increases fivefold. We must use every tool available to ensure we protect victims and prevent these tragedies from occurring, leaving families to mourn the loss of a loved one.
I'm honored to have led the effort to pass Minnesota's Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO), or "red flag" law. As the House bill author, I'm proud of the life-saving tool we've enacted with advocates and colleagues to give families and communities a vital mechanism to prevent senseless gun violence. Now that the law is implemented, let’s work together to spread awareness about this critical tool, empowering everyone to know these resources save lives and can prevent future tragedies.
The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office has staff dedicated to helping you if you’re concerned about a loved one’s access to firearms. Those with concerns can contact DASC at (612) 348-5073 to ask for the Extreme Risk Protection Order Specialist or email ERPO.CA@hennepin.us, keeping in mind that the petitioner must file the order in the county where the respondent resides.
SD 43 November Town Hall
Save the date, join me and Rep. Mike Freiberg, at our November town hall on Saturday, November 15, from 10AM to 12PM. This event is open to all residents of Senate District 43.
We look forward to a productive and engaging discussion on local concerns, legislative updates, and any topics you wish to bring to the floor. Your voice is important to us. We hope you can make it.
No registration required. For questions, contact legislative assistant, Faith Privett at Faith.Privett@house.mn.gov
Community Resource Event
I wanted to inform you of an upcoming free community event: the Cannabis Expungement Board (CEB) will hosting an informative Lunch & Learn on November 5, from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Join us to learn more about the CEB's work and its impact on our state.
If you work with people affected by cannabis convictions—whether in legal, social service, or community support roles—or if you personally believe you could benefit from conviction relief, we encourage you to attend!
This is a great opportunity to learn about our process for reviewing and recommending cannabis conviction relief, understand eligibility, and find out how to apply.
RSVP by scanning the QR code or emailing Marcia Blakeman at marcia.blakeman@state.mn.us
**Please note: This is an informational session, not an expungement clinic, but it's the perfect place to learn the steps toward conviction relief.
Keep in Touch
I am incredibly grateful for your continued support and for your active participation in our democracy. It is an honor to represent you and our community at the State Capitol. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office with any questions you have about legislative matters or to share your thoughts on the issues that are most important to you. Your voice is essential, and I look forward to hearing from you.
If you need assistance, schedule a meeting or community event, or have questions, you can reach me at rep.cedrick.frazier@house.mn.gov or 651-296-4255. You can also follow my official Facebook page and the People of Color and Indigenous (POCI) Caucus page.
Sincerely,
Rep. Cedrick Frazier
Minnesota House of Representatives
Legislative Assistant: Chloe Keller
Email: chloe.keller@house.mn.gov