Legislative UpdateDear Northlanders, Today marks the final committee deadline, meaning committees are wrapping up their work for the session. On Thursday, we brought forward two bills focused on affordability. HF 3562 would have lowered car tab fees back to pre-trifecta levels, and HF 4487 proposed a one-time property tax refund to provide relief for homeowners. Unfortunately, both measures were voted down. We also launched our “North Star Comeback” initiative, which is centered on improving affordability and ensuring Minnesotans can continue to live, work, and thrive in our state. I’ve heard from many of you through messages and comments, and I know there is real frustration. Some are even considering leaving Minnesota because of rising costs. That’s concerning, and it’s something we should all take seriously. We are already seeing warning signs when it comes to tax policy and affordability. Democrats have shown a preview of how these policies are driving people out. One of the biggest concerns is the tax burden we’ve seen increase in recent years. According to the infographic, if current trends continue, Minnesota risks following a path similar to states like New York, where higher earners leave in large numbers, and those who remain are left carrying an even greater share of the tax burden, making it harder to fund the programs we rely on. Minnesota should be a place where people can build a life and succeed. That means making thoughtful decisions that keep our state affordable, competitive, and strong for the long term.  Tax DayTax Day came and went and based on the messages I’ve been receiving, it wasn’t pretty for a lot of Minnesotans on their state return. Families are feeling the impact of rising costs from all directions, income taxes, delivery fees, and especially property taxes. When new policies are passed without proper funding, those costs often get pushed down to the local level, and that shows up in your property tax bill. I hear your concerns about affordability loud and clear. Minnesotans are working hard, and they deserve relief not more financial pressure. We have proposals on the table to lower costs and provide real tax relief. Now it’s about working together to get those solutions across the finish line and make life more affordable for families across our state. Click here to watch the video below.  Fraudster FleeingAn individual accused of stealing millions from a PCA company was given a shockingly lenient bail option, despite being considered a high flight risk. The result? He’s now out of the country, and $11 million is gone. This is exactly why Minnesotans are frustrated. It’s not just the fraud, it’s the lack of consequences. Taxpayers work hard for their money, and they deserve a system that protects it and holds bad actors accountable. Enough is enough. We have legislation ready to address these failures and restore accountability. It’s time to fix the system. Click here to watch the video below.  School Safety FundingThis week in our House Education Finance Committee, we debated a plan that would have immediately helped schools improve safety in their facilities. The multi-layered proposal brought forward by House Republicans included more school safety funding for public, nonpublic, and tribal schools; more funding for student mental health support in schools; local, flexible options for Anonymous Threat Reporting Systems and school safety plans; and student discipline reform to protect teachers, staff, and students. This plan reflects what we’ve heard directly from superintendents, teachers, students, and parents across Minnesota. Prior to the committee vote on April 14, there had been broad bipartisan support for many of these proposals as they are not controversial policy ideas. Yet, when it came time to advance the legislation, every Republican voted for it, and every Democrat voted against it, meaning the plan failed to move on by one vote. With about a month left in session, the choice is simple: act on what we know can pass, or delay and leave schools waiting. Students, teachers, and families cannot afford more delays or more excuses. This plan delivers real, immediate improvements to school safety, and it’s my hope it can be revisited in the weeks ahead. Time in Saint Paul With Rice Lake officials as the capital bonding committee heard the 3.2 million bonding request.  Proud to speak at Minnesota parental & health rights rally.  Honored to meet with leaders representing Mesabi Metallics mining and the exciting expansion opportunities happening.  Time with IUOE local 49'ers Time in Community & Upcoming Events I joined the Hermantown trap team to serve Honor Guard members for their annual event! What a great time with many from our community. We appreciate every single Honor Guard member.     Time with grandson  Nothing better than walks in nature. |