Legislative UpdateDear Friends and Neighbors, It has been another eventful week here at the Capitol, and I’m proud to share some of the important moments and updates from our work this session. As always, my focus remains on serving the people of our district and addressing the issues that matter most to our community. Highlight: MLC 2025 Regional Legislative BreakfastThis week, I had the privilege of attending the Municipal Legislative Commission’s 2025 Regional Legislative Breakfast. The event was a great opportunity to engage with community leaders and discuss the critical issues impacting our district and state. Team Lakeville on Housing Affordability Mayor Luke Hellier represented Lakeville with excellence during a panel discussion on housing availability and affordability. His remarks emphasized opening doors for creative solutions to address these pressing challenges. Mayor Hellier’s leadership is a testament to the innovation and determination we need to tackle housing issues effectively. Listening and Learning from Leaders Events like these are so important for broadening our understanding of the diverse perspectives of our community leaders. It’s important that residents and communities have a voice and are heard as we work together to develop common-sense solutions. I remain committed to ensuring your concerns are reflected in our legislative decisions.  Highlight: March for Life RallyOn Wednesday, January 22, I had the honor of participating in the 52nd annual March for Life Rally at the Minnesota State Capitol. The day was nothing short of inspiring as thousands of Minnesotans gathered to advocate for the dignity and sanctity of every human life. The energy at the rally was incredible, and the heartfelt speeches reminded us why this mission is so important. From young families and students to seniors and clergy, the diversity of attendees showed just how much support there is for building a culture of life. Every person there was a powerful testament to the belief that every life is precious and deserves love, care, and protection. A huge thank you to everyone who braved the cold to join us. Your passion and dedication keep this movement alive and strong. Together, we are a voice for the voiceless and a source of hope in challenging times. Let’s keep this momentum going as we work to create a culture of life in Minnesota and beyond. Your advocacy and involvement make all the difference, and I’m honored to stand with you in this important cause.  New Legislation IntroducedThis week, we introduced our first ten bills, which are currently moving through committee hearings. These bills reflect our primary goals for this session, which include: Stop the Fraud: Combat waste and abuse in government programs. Make Minnesota Affordable: Focus on policies that lower costs for families and businesses. Make Minnesota Safe: Prioritize public safety initiatives to protect our communities. Raise Standards, Reduce Mandates: Streamline regulations while maintaining high standards. Use Minnesota Tax Dollars for Minnesotans: Ensure taxpayer money is spent responsibly within our state. Build for the Future: Invest in infrastructure and long-term growth opportunities. As these bills progress, I will keep you updated on our efforts to make Minnesota a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Committee Hearing DisruptionAs Vice Chair of the Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee, I want to address a disheartening incident that took place during our first committee meeting of the session. A disruptive demonstration, which involved excessive profanity and the use of a bullhorn, derailed our proceedings. This kind of behavior is not only disrespectful but undermines the very democratic process we are all here to uphold. Our committees are meant to be safe spaces for constructive debate and respectful collaboration on important issues like public safety and community well-being. While I wholeheartedly respect the right to express differing opinions, it is important that this is done respectfully and in a manner that allows the legislative process to continue without interruption. This incident was especially disturbing because this committee hearing featured testimonies from MPPOA (Minnesota Peace and Police Officers Association) officers, sheriffs, and police chiefs; this was their opportunity to share their perspectives and have their voices heard, and that opportunity was sadly stolen from them. Disruptions like this detract from the important work we need to accomplish on behalf of all Minnesotans. I am committed to maintaining decorum in our proceedings and ensuring that every voice is given the respect it deserves. I urge my colleagues and all involved to uphold the integrity of our institution and focus on finding solutions that serve our communities. My ultimate goal is to bring both sides of the aisle together to work for the people of Minnesota, keeping their needs at the forefront of everything we do. [You can view unedited footage of the demonstration here.] Staff Spotlight: Ann Tepoorten This week, I want to take a moment to highlight the incredible work of my Legislative Assistant, Ann Tepoorten. Ann and I just recently started working together and she has played a vital role in ensuring our office runs smoothly and that your concerns are addressed promptly. From managing constituent inquiries to coordinating legislative priorities, Ann is a key part of our team. A bit about Ann: She has a background in everything from management, training, legislative research, and working with primary and general elections, and her dedication to public service is evident in everything she does. When not at the Capitol, Ann enjoys spending time with her kids and husband, and her 2 pugs and 2 shih tzus. She also takes extra college course regularly because "you’re never too old to learn something new!" Thank you, Ann, for your hard work and commitment to serving the residents of District 57B! Since the boycott began last week, several Democratic colleagues have continued to abstain from their legislative duties. This behavior is unacceptable and a disservice to Minnesotans. Despite this, I remain steadfast in my commitment to showing up every day to work on your behalf. Your trust in me fuels my dedication to delivering results for District 57B and our state. I urge my colleagues across the aisle to return to work so we can continue addressing the important issues facing Minnesota. Looking AheadAs always, your input is incredibly valuable to me. If you have questions, concerns, or ideas about these bills or any other issues, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact my office by phone or email at rep.jeff.witte@house.mn.gov. Thank you for the honor of representing you at the Capitol. Together, we can build a better, more accountable Minnesota. Warm regards,
Rep. Jeff Witte
Minnesota House of Representatives, District 57B |