Legislative Update Friends and Neighbors, We're entering another busy week at the Capitol. One of the most important parts of my job is listening to the people I represent and bringing those perspectives into the conversations happening in St. Paul. Whether it is improving transportation, supporting healthcare workers, funding schools or hearing from the next generation of leaders, I am committed to finding practical solutions that strengthen our communities. I'd like to share some of the highlights of last week from the Capitol & back home in our district. Expanding Transportation Options In a district with limited transportation options, I am working to build and support more ways for our neighbors to get where they need to go and bring more connectiveness to our communities. I have co-authored legislation, HF 3513, that would create a framework for safely introducing autonomous vehicles into Minnesota communities. This forward-looking proposal could help improve connectivity across communities such as St. Bonifacius, Minnetrista, Orono, Long Lake, and surrounding areas. Expanding transportation options has the potential to improve traffic safety and provide more affordable ways for people to travel. Better transportation options can make a real difference in everyday life. This includes helping students get to school, ensuring seniors and individuals with disabilities can reach doctor appointments, and providing additional mobility options for families throughout the district.  A New Opportunity to Support Minnesota Schools, Educators, and Students One solution I introduced this week, HF 3490, would allow Minnesota to participate in a new federal tax credit program that supports K-12 education. If Minnesota opts in, personal donations (up to $1,700) made through this program could generate hundreds of millions of dollars to help schools address real needs like tutoring, classroom supplies, and additional student supports. Importantly, this program comes at zero cost to Minnesota taxpayers and can benefit all schools across the state. The funding comes from federal tax credits that Minnesotans are already eligible to claim. The choice is simple: those dollars can either support Minnesota schools, educators, and students, or they can go to schools in other states that have opted in, including Iowa, the Dakotas, and Colorado. Unfortunately, there has been a coordinated push of misinformation about this bill. Let me be clear: this is not a voucher program. Like about 90% of our neighbors, my four kids attend public schools, and I strongly believe in the importance of supporting our public education system. This proposal simply gives Minnesota the opportunity to bring federal dollars back into our state and put them to work helping our students and educators succeed. With nearly $430 million in reductions to education funding and another $220 million in projected shortfalls reported by the Association of Metropolitan School Districts, this is one practical solution that can help schools address real needs and better support students.  Protecting Those Who Heal Us I had a great meeting this week with members of the Minnesota Nurses Association. As the husband of a nurse, I have seen firsthand the dedication and compassion nurses bring to their work every day. Nurses not only provide critical care in hospitals and clinics, but they also play a vital role in strengthening our communities. Supporting them means supporting the health and well-being of our entire state. I continue to support efforts that address workforce challenges and ensure nurses are protected while doing their jobs. My bill, HF 641, would add another layer of protection for nurses who face increasing risks in healthcare settings. I will continue working to support policies that protect both nurses and patients.  Student LeadersI also had the opportunity to meet with a group of student leaders visiting the Capitol. Hearing directly from students about their experiences and priorities is always valuable. Our conversations touched on important issues like school safety, mental health resources, education, and the future they hope to build here in Minnesota. Ensuring our schools are safe places where students can learn and grow is incredibly important. I’m proud to be working on and supporting school safety legislation, including measures endorsed by Sandy Hook Promise that focus on prevention, student support, and making sure schools have the tools they need to help keep students safe. Our next generation of leaders brings thoughtful ideas and meaningful perspectives, and I always appreciate the opportunity to listen and learn from them.  Question of the WeekThank you to everyone who participated in last week’s poll. We received over 500 responses, and I appreciate everyone who took the time to share their perspective. Last week’s question was: With a projected surplus of $3.7 billion for FY 2026–27, but spending growing faster than revenue over the long term, what should be the top priority for lawmakers this session? Here is how respondents answered: Reduce long-term spending growth – 26.3% Use the surplus for tax relief and affordability – 19.3% Invest in critical public services (education, infrastructure, etc.) – 19.3% Strengthen budget reserves and rainy day funds – 12.3% Thank you again to everyone who participated and shared their perspective. This week’s question: What environmental or clean water priorities are most important to you and your family? Reducing phosphorous pollution Allowing responsible use of nuclear energy Banning harmful chemicals Supporting PFAS restrictions Our environment is fine Supporting funding for clean water treatment plants Be sure to cast your vote and share your thoughts. Your feedback helps me better represent our district at the Capitol. A Few More Moments From the Week Before wrapping up, I wanted to share a few more photos from the past week at the Capitol. Meeting with residents, community leaders, advocates, and students is one of the most rewarding parts of this job. These conversations help keep me grounded in the priorities of our district and ensure that the voices of our communities are part of the discussions happening in St. Paul. Thank you to everyone who took the time to visit, share ideas, and stay engaged in the process. I always appreciate the opportunity to connect and hear directly from all my neighbors.    ClosingThank you to everyone who continues to stay engaged and share their perspectives. I receive hundreds of emails each week and do my best to personally respond because listening to you is one of the most important parts of this job. My goal is always to represent a district that values thoughtful solutions and rejects the extremes. Please continue sharing your ideas and priorities. Your voice helps me better represent the entire district. My focus will always remain on serving our communities and strengthening the place we all call home. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. Representative Andrew Myers House District 45A Co-Chair of the Suburban Solutions Caucus “Your voice has an impact.” Serving Excelsior, Greenwood, Long Lake, Minnetonka Beach, Minnetrista, Mound, Orono, Shorewood, Spring Park, St. Bonifacius and Tonka Bay |