Legislative UpdateDear friends and neighbors, Week two of the 2026 legislative session is in the books. I am going to keep fighting for the issues that matter most to our district. And even when we do not agree on the bigger picture, I will work with anyone on practical, common-sense solutions that help Minnesotans. If you would like a quick recap, you can watch my weekly update by clicking on the photo below.  This morning’s February budget forecast is a reminder that state budgeting is not abstract. Decisions made in St. Paul show up in family budgets, in local government budgets, and in the cost of doing business in Greater Minnesota. When the state lives within its means, families and employers get stability. When spending grows faster than what is sustainable, the bill comes due. My approach is straightforward. I will support responsible budgeting that focuses on core services, keeps our state on stable footing, and respects taxpayers. I am cautious about new spending that is not paid for, not targeted, or not tied to a clear public purpose. Minnesota families and small businesses have to make hard choices. State government should do the same. There are also opportunities for progress on sensible tax policy. I am watching tax conformity closely, including proposals that help working Minnesotans keep more of what they earn. If you are picking up extra shifts, working overtime, and doing what you can to support your family, the state should not make that harder. This week in the Transportation Finance and Policy Committee, I presented HF3531, a bill that would exempt certain retail fuel transactions from the retail delivery fee. It was heard on Wednesday, February 25, and I will keep working to move it forward as the process continues. I am also staying focused on the people who keep Minnesota running: small manufacturers, family-owned businesses, farmers, and local employers. These are the job creators who make our communities work. They need predictability, less red tape, and a tax climate that encourages growth. They do not need more complexity from St. Paul. Another priority that deserves continued attention is fraud prevention and accountability. Oversight is not about politics. It is about protecting taxpayers and protecting the people who genuinely need services. Basic safeguards, verification, and real consequences matter. When government fails to do the basics, the public pays the price. Thank you for staying engaged and following the work. If you have thoughts, concerns, or ideas, please reach out. Hearing directly from constituents helps me represent you well. Until next time, Jim Joy |