Legislative Update: May 22, 2026

Dear Neighbors,

The 2026 legislative session has concluded, and House DFLers worked hard to address the challenges our communities face. Due to the nature of a tied House, any legislation needed bipartisan support - and there are some good things we passed with bipartisan support, like toughening penalties for impersonating a police officer, banning nudification technology, and strengthening the ability of agencies to stop payments to program participants when fraud is suspected. 

We also had some gridlock, and I’m leaving the chamber with frustration. 

House Republicans refused to take a vote on a comprehensive package of legislation that would reduce gun violence. Having already passed the Senate, this bill needed just one House Republican vote to become law.

Rather than risk that happening in a simple up-or-down vote, Speaker Demuth pretended the bill didn’t even exist and outright refused to do her job. 

House Democrats made a motion to vote on the legislation, with my colleagues and me standing up to share the ways gun violence has impacted every corner of the state. We’ve all been touched in some way. After hours of sharing tragic stories underlining the urgency of this legislation, Republicans continued to block a vote on this bill. 

So House Democrats held a sit-in on the House Floor until the House gaveled in on Saturday to bring attention to this crucial issue and demand Speaker Demuth hold a vote on this bill. We live-streamed the sit-in off and on, periodically joined by other elected leaders, gun violence prevention advocates, and Minnesotans like the Annunciation parents who have had their lives upended by gun violence. 

HCMC Saved

Legislative leaders reached a bipartisan supplemental budget agreement that takes important steps to strengthen Minnesota’s health care system and ensure the long-term stability of Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC). 

This agreement reflects the values Minnesotans expect, and we’re reinforcing fiscal stability while delivering historic, bipartisan support for HCMC, a cornerstone of our health care system and a vital safety net for families across the region.

HCMC serves patients from every corner of Minnesota, providing critical care and specialized services that keep our entire health care system strong. Ensuring its long-term health is essential not only for Hennepin County but for communities statewide.

Minnesota has always believed in a strong, reliable health care safety net. This agreement reaffirms that commitment and ensures that every Minnesotan can continue to get the care they need, when they need it.

Housing Bill Passes 

The House passed the bipartisan housing conference committee report this week, investing over $165 million to help Minnesotans with the ever-rising housing costs and expand affordable housing opportunities across the state.

Too many Minnesotans are being priced out of stable housing and homeownership. I talk with young people all the time who grew up in our area and want to raise families here, but cannot afford a house. This legislation takes important steps to help families stay in their homes, build more affordable housing, and support communities across Minnesota.

The legislation also includes stronger transparency and oversight measures to ensure housing dollars are being spent effectively and responsibly.

At a time when evictions and housing insecurity are rising, these investments will help more Minnesotans access safe, stable, and affordable housing.

Banning Crypto Kiosks

Recently, the House passed legislation banning crypto kiosks. We’re hearing directly from law enforcement that these kiosks have become a prime tool for scammers to target some of our most vulnerable neighbors, especially seniors living on fixed incomes. When Minnesotans are losing their life savings in transactions that are nearly impossible to trace or recover, we have a responsibility to act. 

This legislation is about protecting people, closing a clear avenue for fraud, and ensuring no one falls victim to a scam. This is another way we’re making sure our laws keep pace with scammers' tactics to exploit our communities.

Thank You 

On a personal note, earlier this year, I announced I would not seek re-election to the House and announced other ways I hope to serve our district. It has been an honor to serve as your State Representative over the last 6 years. I first ran for office because I believe our government should work for people: our working families, those in need, and the communities too often left out of the conversation. Together, we have made real and lasting progress. 

We ensured every child gets breakfast and lunch at school, families get guaranteed paid sick time, and have paid time to bond with a new baby or care for a family member. We showed that we care about our neighbors through public policy. This progress was possible because neighbors, advocates, and local leaders stood up and shared their stories. It has been a privilege working for all of you.

Keep in Touch

If you have any questions or feedback you’d like to share, you can contact me by email at rep.liz.reyer@house.mn.gov or call (651) 296-4128. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.  

Sincerely,  

Liz Reyer  

State Representative