Legislative Update Dear Friends and Neighbors, As we head into the final week of session, it’s starting to look like we might not finish on time. The constitutionally-mandated end of session is May 19th, but with major bills still up in the air and key agreements yet to be reached, wrapping things up on schedule is looking less likely. Unfortunately, the first 23 days of session were wasted when the DFL caucus decided to stay home and not show up for work. Now, we’re seeing the cost of that delay in real time. That being said, we’ve made meaningful progress over the past couple of weeks. Most of the budget bills have now passed through the Minnesota House, and just a few remain. But as we get closer to the end of session, some of my Democrat colleagues are starting to sound the alarm about running out of time. To them, I’d simply say this: Republicans showed up ready to work on Day 1. Unfortunately, others chose to delay, remaining absent for nearly a month—all while still collecting their taxpayer-funded paychecks. If you missed it, I addressed this directly during a recent committee hearing with Rep. Tina Liebling. You can watch that exchange [HERE]. With only a few bills left to approve, I’m optimistic that we’ll get them through early next week. The Senate is doing its part, and once both chambers have passed their versions, any differences will be hammered out in conference committees before heading to the Governor’s desk for approval. Now, I made a promise last fall to lower taxes and control government spending, and that’s exactly what I’ve been fighting for. I’m voting for bills that aim to right-size government, and I’m voting against those that would lock in irresponsible spending or raise your taxes. Why is this so important? Because last session, Democrats and Governor Walz managed to waste an $18 billion surplus and raised your taxes by an additional $10 billion. Fast forward two years, and here we are, facing a $6 billion deficit. In the meantime, government grew by nearly 40%, adding 6,000 new employees and hundreds of millions of dollars in new salaries. Minnesotans deserve a smarter, more responsible approach. It’s time to put taxpayers first and stop this cycle of waste! Parents Know Best—Let Them Choose I firmly believe that parents—not the government—should decide how their children are educated. Whether it’s public, private, homeschool, or another path entirely, families deserve the freedom to choose what’s best for their kids without fear of punishment or penalty. That’s why I was honored to stand at the Capitol on Wednesday with students, parents, educators, and community leaders in support of nonpublic education. The Governor’s proposal to slash aid for these schools isn’t just misguided—it’s wrong. It sends a harmful message to thousands of families across Minnesota who rely on nonpublic schools for their children’s growth, values, and academic success. Let me be clear: House Republicans will not support this. It’s a nonstarter. Our Senate colleagues agree. These schools are a vital part of Minnesota’s educational landscape, and we will not let them be cast aside. What’s most frustrating is that this proposal contradicts the Governor’s “One Minnesota” vision. True unity means honoring all students and supporting every family’s right to choose the best educational fit—regardless of where that learning takes place. Governor Walz—don’t leave kids at the bus stop. We need real options for every child in Minnesota. And yes, we support and value our public school staff—our bus drivers, school nurses, counselors, and teachers—who serve students with care and dedication. But we also stand with the families who are simply asking for the freedom to choose what works best for them. Education isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s time our policies reflected that. You can hear more from House Republican Leader Niska on this important issue [HERE].   May is National Mental Health Awareness Month This month holds deep meaning for so many of us. Whether you or someone you love has faced mental health challenges, you know how important it is to talk about it, to offer support, and to remind one another: you’re not alone. President Trump recently signed a proclamation officially recognizing May 2025 as National Mental Health Awareness Month—a powerful reminder that we must prioritize mental wellness, break down stigma, and ensure everyone has access to the care and support they need. In that same spirit, I invite you to join me in Cokato on Saturday, May 20 for a special community event: This day is about more than running—it’s about walking alongside one another in hope, healing, and awareness. There will be breakout sessions, wellness resources, and even free bikes and helmets for kids (thanks to Bikes 4 Kidz!). Proceeds support the A to Z Mental Health Scholarship Fund, helping more young people access the support they need to thrive. Let’s come together as neighbors, friends, and advocates—because mental health matters. Every step we take is a step toward compassion, connection, and a brighter future for all. From my heart to yours, I hope to see you there! Metropolitan Mosquito Control Visits the Capitol A big thank you to Metropolitan Mosquito Control for stopping by the Capitol and sharing the important work they do to keep your communities safe and bite-free! Their commitment to protecting public health and enhancing quality of life is especially important as mosquito season approaches. One of the highlights of their visit? Getting an up-close look at their impressive helicopter setup—what a way to make an entrance! We're grateful for their innovation, dedication, and service to Minnesotans. Honoring Our Teachers with Action and Appreciation! This week, we celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Week—a special time to recognize the educators who give so much of themselves to support our students, schools, and communities. As a mother and your state representative, I’ve seen firsthand just how deeply our teachers care. They are mentors, encouragers, innovators, and tireless workers. The impact they have on our children’s lives is immeasurable—and during Teacher Appreciation Week, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of them. But gratitude should be more than words. That’s why I sent a letter last week to every school district in House District 17A, outlining my strong support for HF 2433—a bipartisan education finance agreement that puts students, teachers, and local schools first. The bill includes: - Over $150 million in redirected, flexible aid for schools
- Continued support for the Science of Reading and the READ Act
- A focus on classrooms—not bureaucracies—by limiting funds for state agencies and unaccountable nonprofits
- A plan to sunset costly UI mandates and prioritize employment stability
- Rejection of the Governor’s proposed $680 million education cuts
HF 2433 was a hard-won compromise developed through weeks of bipartisan negotiations. Unfortunately, that agreement fell apart last week when House Democrats walked away from the deal—just one day after advancing it in committee. That’s incredibly disappointing, especially when school districts across Minnesota are working to finalize their budgets and make tough decisions. We should be doing everything we can to get this right—for the sake of our students and our schools. I’ll continue to fight for mandate relief, funding flexibility, and local control—the very things I’ve heard from superintendents, teachers, and parents across our district. You deserve real solutions, not political games. To every educator reading this: thank you. I see you. I support you. And I’ll keep working to make sure you have what you need to thrive. From One Mother to Another: Happy Mother's Day This Mother’s Day, I want to take a moment to speak not as a state representative, but simply as a mom. Whether you became a mother through birth, adoption, foster care, or through the deep bonds formed by love and mentorship, you know—like I do—that motherhood is a gift like no other. It comes in all shapes and sizes, each story unique, but the love we hold in our hearts is universal and immeasurable. Motherhood has shaped how I see the world, how I lead, and how I fight for our families every single day at the Capitol. It has taught me patience, strength, and the kind of resilience that only another mother truly understands. To all the moms—those in the thick of toddler chaos, those guiding teens through life’s crossroads, and those who’ve earned the title of “grandma,” “auntie,” or “second mom”—thank you. Thank you for the unseen work, the late nights, the countless sacrifices, and the love you pour into the next generation. From my heart to yours, Happy Mother’s Day. We’re in this together—and I’m so grateful for the sisterhood of motherhood. From the Capitol to Our CommunityAs we face significant decisions at the Capitol—decisions that will impact every Minnesotan—I want you to know how much I value your voice and trust. The $6 billion deficit has made this a challenging week, and while the choices before us aren’t easy, I remain focused on doing what’s right: protecting our communities, ensuring accountability, and putting people before bureaucracy. Your insight and stories matter now more than ever. Whether you’re concerned about education, economic opportunity, or the direction of our state, I want to hear from you. Please don’t hesitate to call my office at 651-296-4228, send me an email at rep.dawn.gillman@house.mn.gov, or follow me on Facebook for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes moments from the House floor. It’s an honor to serve the people of District 17A. Together, even in tough moments, we can build a brighter future. Wishing you a peaceful and restorative weekend, Representative Dawn Gillman Minnesota House of Representatives, District 17A |