Legislative Update Friends and Neighbors, We’ve officially moved past the first committee deadlines here at the Capitol, and this is when things start to take shape. Bills need to move through committees in both the House and Senate to stay alive, so this is the point where you find out what’s actually going to move and what’s not. With the House tied, it is important to note that nothing happens without some level of cooperation. That’s the reality. But it also means it only takes one vote to move good, practical legislation forward. There are solid proposals sitting in committee right now that could help Minnesotans. They deserve the chance to move. Right now, small business owners, farmers, and those involved in agribusiness are struggling with the cost of doing business in Minnesota. I am hearing from many constituents that it is becoming too much to bear. Many people in our district come from families that have spent generations building a life in the same trades, businesses, and industries. I personally understand the desire to carry on something started by the generations before you. It is a big part of what makes our communities strong. But right now, that way of life is under real pressure. We’ve put forward a series of proposals that are simple, proven, and ready to go. These are not complicated ideas. They are practical steps that would provide real financial relief, including eliminating taxes on overtime so workers can keep more of what they earn, eliminating taxes on tips to support service industry workers, and lowering car tab fees by returning them to pre-2023 levels. We are also working to bring Minnesota into conformity with federal tax provisions like Section 179 expensing, business interest deductions, and bonus depreciation, which would allow businesses to invest, grow, and reinvest in their employees. In addition, repealing the nuclear moratoriumwould open the door to reliable, affordable energy and help bring long-term costs down. These are real solutions that would put money back in people’s pockets and help businesses move forward. In many cases, these proposals would simply bring Minnesota more in line with the policies of surrounding states. Minnesota has experienced serious brain drain over the years, and we need to make our state more competitive. These ideas can help move us in a better direction. Moving common-sense legislation through the House is absolutely affected by the legislative tie, both in committee and on the House floor. It would only take one Democrat joining us to move these policies forward. We understand there are differences, but we remain hopeful that solutions can still be reached for the people of Minnesota. The need is clear, and the solutions are available. The reality is that Minnesota taxpayers and business owners have been taxed into submission. If we expect our state to grow and thrive, we need to create an environment that allows businesses to grow and, in turn, employ more Minnesotans. I also had the opportunity this week to spend time with folks both at the Capitol and back in the district. Tuesday was Ag Day, and I met with members of the Minnesota Farm Bureau. These are always good, productive conversations, and it is important to hear directly from the people working in agriculture about what they are dealing with day to day. I also met with officials from the Association of Residential Resources of Minnesota to hear their concerns and talk through how we can better support the work they are doing. Earlier in the week, I welcomed students and instructors from St. Francis to the Capitol to testify on HF 1791. This idea did not come from us. It came straight from the classroom. They have built a strong CTE program that is doing real work and bringing in revenue, and this bill simply lets them turn that money back into scholarships and grants for their own students. That is a win all the way around. It rewards hard work, supports students, and keeps those dollars invested where they belong. I appreciate them making the trip and sharing what they have built. It is a great example of what is possible when we trust our schools and students to lead. As we move forward, I remain committed to standing up for the people of our district and doing what is right for our community. I believe strongly in delivering real results, not just talking about them. I will continue to fight for practical solutions that support our families, businesses, and local communities, and to make sure your voice is represented here at the Capitol. I hope you have a great week despite the cooler weather. Representative Bryan Lawrence House District 27B |