Legislative Update As we move into the next week, budget negotiations will take center stage. House Republicans remain strong in our commitment to fiscal responsibility, working to restore the state’s financial health and ensure it can support future generations. While these negotiations continue, many important discussions lie ahead. Addressing Chronic AbsenteeismI'm excited to share that two bills I co-authored to combat chronic absenteeism in schools passed the House of Representatives yesterday. These pieces of legislation, House Files 2067 and 0062, stemmed from a study group and reflect the dedication and teamwork of Representatives Keeler, Bakeberg, Virnig, and myself. These bills aim to enhance the tracking of chronic truancy and absenteeism, ensuring better support for students and schools. Working TogetherThis past week, I had the pleasure of meeting with constituents, and it was an incredibly rewarding experience. These meetings always help sharpen my focus on how I can best serve our community and district. Schools Advocating for Fair Funding (SAFF)On Tuesday this past week, I met with Dan Voche and district representatives from across our state to discuss their funding needs and gather feedback on some of the legislation aimed at alleviating education funding shortfalls. Some of the solutions discussed included relief from burdensome mandates, increasing local option aid/revenue, and updating the equalization formula to ensure rural schools receive their fair share of funding. Teacher PensionsOn Wednesday, I met with educators to hear their concerns surrounding the pension proposals currently being considered. We discussed both options and weighed the benefits of the following choices: 62/30 Unreduced Pension: House File 2318 provides an unreduced pension at 62 years of age with 30 years of service. The estimated cost of this option is approximately 1% of salary and is funded through an increase in the employer contribution of 1%. This option costs roughly $77 million a year. Expanded Special Early Retirement: House File 2329 is an option that helps teachers who need to retire at age 60 by expanding the current Special Early Retirement option to teachers at 60 years old with 30 years of service. To keep the costs down, this option includes a 3 year COLA delay, matching the current NRA COLA delay. This option costs roughly $33 million a year. 49ers Union - International Union of Operating EngineersThe 49ers Union came to the Capitol this past week to speak with legislators about regulations impacting their union and industry. We discussed the need for more bonding projects to help meet the demands of our growing communities as well as some of the issues with Minnesota's permitting process. |