Legislative UpdateDear Friends and Neighbors, Whew—another jam-packed week here at the Capitol! The pace is fast, the conversations are deep, and I’m reminded daily how important your voices are in shaping the work we do. I’m thrilled to share that our Human Services Budget and Policy Committee’s omnibus bill will be hitting the House floor for debate and a vote this coming Monday! This bill represents months of collaboration, feedback, and fine-tuning—and it's all about supporting the most vulnerable in our communities with compassion and common sense. And that’s not all! My Environment Omnibus Bill is on deck for a vote on Tuesday, May 6. This one’s close to my heart—it focuses on protecting the natural resources that make Minnesota such a beautiful and unique place to call home. These are big moments, and I’m honored to be a part of them. Your input, your advocacy, your questions—they truly drive this work. So thank you for continuing to stay engaged. Now, let’s dive into some highlights and happenings from around the Capitol this week! Fighting Back Against Cost Shifts to Our CountiesBack in February, several county commissioners from across the state stood with House and Senate Republicans to sound the alarm on Governor Walz’s plan to push $460 million in costs onto local governments through the Department of Human Services budget. I want to echo their concerns loud and clear: this is a bad deal for Greater Minnesota. Let’s call it what it is — a cost shift, plain and simple. Instead of tightening the state’s own belt, the governor is handing the bill to counties. That puts local leaders in a tough spot: either slash essential services or raise property taxes on hardworking families. Neither option is fair, and neither is sustainable. Counties across Minnesota are staring down multi-million-dollar budget hits under this proposal. Some are facing potential levy increases as high as 9% just to make up the difference. At a time when family budgets are already stretched thin, the last thing Minnesotans need is a property tax hike driven by bad budgeting decisions at the state level. Minnesotans deserve better. Fiscal responsibility shouldn’t mean passing the buck — it should mean responsible planning and honest leadership. I’ll keep fighting to stop these reckless cost shifts and make sure our local governments aren’t left holding the bag. Let’s stand up for our counties and protect the communities we call home. Restoring a Piece of Minnesota History This week, I had the privilege of testifying in the Capital Investment Committee on House File 1476 a bill I co-authored with Representative Joe McDonald (R-Delano) to help restore an important piece of our local history—the Salisbury Bridge in Meeker County. This historic bridge has served generations of Minnesotans, and it’s in need of critical rehabilitation to ensure it remains safe and usable for years to come. The bill would appropriate $1.65 million in state bonding funds to support the design and construction needed to bring the Salisbury Bridge back to life. I’m proud to stand alongside Kingston and Forest City Townships in championing this project, which not only preserves a unique landmark but also strengthens the infrastructure that connects our rural communities. Investments like this matter—they reflect our commitment to honoring the past while planning responsibly for the future. I’ll continue advocating for this project and others like it that make a real difference in the lives of the people we serve.   Fraud, Mistrust, and the Need for AccountabilityThis week, the House Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Committee uncovered deeply troubling evidence about Attorney General Keith Ellison’s involvement in the Feeding Our Future Scandal—the largest fraud case in Minnesota’s history. Newly released audio recordings reveal that Ellison was not only aware of concerns surrounding certain organizations under investigation, but actively sympathized with them. Some of these very organizations were later indicted for stealing millions in taxpayer dollars. Even more concerning, Ellison offered to apply pressure to state agencies on their behalf—agencies he is supposed to represent as Minnesota’s top legal authority. Despite claims from his office that it "jumpstarted" the investigation in 2022, Ellison previously testified that he had no knowledge of the scandal during a 2021 meeting with individuals connected to the scheme. But the audio tells a different story—and Minnesotans deserve answers. This isn’t about politics. It’s about integrity. Public officials have a duty to act with transparency and uphold the law—not bend it to serve certain interests. When that duty is compromised, it erodes the trust our communities place in government. I will continue to support every effort to uncover the full truth and ensure those in power are held accountable. The people of Minnesota deserve leadership they can trust and a system that works for them—not against them. You can view a clip from Monday's testimony [HERE]. Strengthening Our Communities Through Faith It was such a blessing to spend time with pastors earlier this week, as we gathered to talk about what’s happening this legislative session, how we can be a light in the darkness, and the many ways we’re called to serve our neighbors with love—both in our home churches and throughout our communities. These conversations always fill me with hope and renewed purpose. It’s encouraging to know that even in challenging times, there are faithful leaders stepping up to make a difference. Standing to my right is Pastor Matt Kalliomaa, who faithfully serves the city of Cokato. I’m grateful for his heart, his leadership, and his unwavering commitment to the people he shepherds. It’s partnerships like these—between faith and public service—that truly strengthen the fabric of our communities. Recognizing Coach Kevin O'Connell We kicked off the week with a touchdown moment at the Capitol! On Monday, we had the honor of recognizing Minnesota Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell on the House floor. Coach O’Connell was celebrated for being named the NFL’s 2024 Coach of the Year—a well-deserved title after leading the Vikes to a stellar 14-3 season. His leadership has reignited the team and inspired fans all across the state (you could feel the purple pride in the room!). Beyond the game, he sets a powerful example of teamwork, integrity, and heart—on and off the field. Want to see the moment for yourself? You can watch the full resolution on the House floor [HERE].  Proud Football Mom Moment! Here’s a photo of my very own football superstars—Eli and Monte—at their spring game at the University of Montana this year! Watching them suit up and hit the field is one of my absolute favorite things. I'm so proud of their hard work, dedication, and love for the game. Go Griz! A Joyful Day at the Capitol Huge thanks to the Three Rivers Park District for hosting Animals on the Mall Day! We had an absolute blast meeting these little sweeties—goats, baby chicks, and everything in between. It was a fun, heartwarming reminder of the simple joys that can brighten even the busiest days at the Capitol. Events like these bring so much joy and connection, not only to staff and legislators but to everyone who stops by. Grateful for the chance to pause, smile, and soak in a bit of lighthearted fun! Looking Ahead!As always, I’m here to listen, serve, and work alongside you. Your input—whether it’s about the challenges you face, the issues you care about, or the changes you want to see—is what keeps me motivated every day. I encourage you to reach out to my office at 651-296-4228, email me at rep.dawn.gillman@house.mn.gov, or connect with me on Facebook for more regular updates on our work at the Capitol. Thank you for the privilege of representing District 17A. Together, we will continue pushing to create a stronger, more vibrant Minnesota for all of us. I look forward to hearing from you and continuing this journey together. Have a wonderful weekend! Representative Dawn Gillman Minnesota House of Representatives, District 17A |