Legislative Update 04.16.25

Legislative Update

Friends,

This past week at the Capitol was both busy and significant as we reached the third and final legislative deadline and continued working toward finalizing the state budget. With committees wrapping up their work, we’re now preparing for floor debates on major budget bills. I'm pleased to report that the Agriculture Committee has reached a strong, bipartisan agreement, which is an encouraging step forward as we move into the final stretch of session.

At this Stage of the Legislative Session

As we begin to close in on the end of this legislative session, each committee is responsible for assembling what is known as an omnibus bill. An omnibus bill is a comprehensive package that combines multiple related policy and funding proposals into one larger piece of legislation. These bills allow legislators to consider an entire area of the state budget, such as agriculture, education, or transportation, in a single, coordinated vote.

Each committee drafts and approves its own omnibus bill, reflecting priorities and funding decisions for specific programs and agencies under its jurisdiction. Once a committee passes its omnibus bill, it is referred to the House Ways and Means Committee for further review. From there, it advances to the full House for debate and a final vote. Eventually, House and Senate versions of each omnibus bill are reconciled in conference committees before final passage and presentation to the governor.

Agricultural Agreement

This past week at the Capitol, the Agriculture Committee reached an agreement that prioritizes Minnesota’s farmers and rural communities. The agreement passed the committee on a voice vote and was re-referred to the Ways & Means Committee.

The proposal includes an additional $17 million in funding and provides support for the Department of Agriculture, the Board of Animal Health, the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute, and the DEED Office of Broadband. The bill also provides $4 million for the Ag Emergency Account and ensures proper funding for depredation payments related to wolf and elk damage.

Education Funding Proposals

Supporting public schools continues to be a top priority this session. As legislators, we’ve heard from school board members, superintendents, teachers, and parents about the growing financial challenges local districts are facing. With the Governor’s current budget proposal cutting over $250 million in education funding, we’re working to advance bipartisan, practical solutions that give schools the tools they need to support staff, students, and communities.

Here are some of the proposals below:

Local Optional Revenue (LOR): House File 2100 and House File 409 would give local districts the flexibility to raise additional revenue in partnership with their communities. Both bills have bipartisan support and would offer districts a reliable way to invest in the unique needs of their schools.

Special Education Funding: House File 57 increases funding for the special education cross-subsidy. This would deliver more direct, flexible funding to districts, helping to reduce the financial pressure that special education costs place on general education budgets.

School Meals and Education Investment: House File 2201 proposes a balanced approach to school meal funding by continuing to provide free breakfast for all students, while asking higher-income families to cover the cost of lunch. The estimated $170 million in revenue generated over two years would be reinvested into education through the Local Optional Revenue formula, allowing schools to address needs like hiring teachers, reducing class sizes, and improving facilities.

As we continue our work at the Capitol, these education proposals present meaningful steps toward providing school districts with the stability and flexibility they need. Rather than one-size-fits-all mandates, these bills offer locally-driven solutions that reflect the diverse needs of our communities. I’ll keep working to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality education and that our schools are equipped to thrive for years to come.

A Message of Hope This Easter

As we approach Easter Sunday, I wanted to share a brief moment of reflection from the Capitol.

This time of year invites us to pause, not just to celebrate, but to remember. For many of us, Easter is a powerful reminder of grace, renewal, and the hope that comes from faith. Amidst the busyness of the legislative session, it has been a quiet encouragement to see a simple cross standing outside the Capitol. It speaks to something greater than the work we do here. It points to the values that ground us and the hope that sustains us.

I recorded a short video to share a few personal thoughts as we enter this sacred weekend. I hope it brings you encouragement.

?? [Easter Video]

Whether you are spending this weekend with family, in worship, or in quiet reflection, I pray it is a time of peace and gratitude. May you be reminded of the blessings in your life and the freedom we are given through faith.

Wishing you a joyful and meaningful Easter,
and a blessed Good Friday.

Rep. Bryan Lawrence

House District 27B

Please Contact Me

It's an honor to be your voice in St. Paul. Please don't hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns, or ideas. Your voice helps me better represent our community. If you'd like to reply, please do so at Rep.Bryan.Lawrence@house.mn.gov, or call at 651.296.5364, as responses to this newsletter do not get to my inbox.