Legislative Update Dear friends and neighbors,
I hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend! Although winter decided she wasn’t
quite done with us (who invited that last snow, by the way), we are all anticipating
what’s next—sunny days, warmer weather, and a wonderful summer season ahead
here in northern Minnesota. North Star ComebackWith just six weeks remaining in the legislative session, and the third and final committee deadline this Friday, things at the Capitol are heating up. In this current political climate, we've had to vote down a lot of legislation riddled with tax hikes, fee increases, and costly mandates. On Thursday, we unveiled our 2027–2028 “North Star Comeback” budget framework. These are changes we are ready to make on behalf of Minnesotans right now. We invite sensible people to help us bring accountability to the people of Minnesota. Protect Family Budgets First and foremost, it’s about protecting family budgets. That means real relief where it counts—expanding property tax refunds, eliminating taxes on tips and overtime, and strengthening the dependent care credit to help families keep up with the rising cost of childcare. We’re also working to lower car tab fees—because one year’s license renewal should not cost more than the first car you had in high school. We’re also working to make sure Minnesota dollars are actually supporting Minnesota students, giving families more affordable options when it comes to education. Make Government Work The second piece is something that should be common sense: making government work for Minnesotans again. That starts with cracking down on fraud by creating an independent Office of the Inspector General. We need to modernize outdated technology systems—some of which are over 40 years old—that counties rely on to verify qualification and enrollment. If we’re serious about accountability, we need the tools to actually track where the money is going. We’re also pushing to expand school safety funding so every student—whether they attend a public or private school—has access to a safe learning environment. And yes, that includes protecting fairness in girls’ sports. Build a World-Class Economy Finally, we’re focused on building a strong, competitive economy that works for rural Minnesota. That includes aligning with federal tax policies that allow businesses to immediately deduct the expense for research and development investments—something that helps drive innovation and job growth right here at home. We’re also supporting Section 179 conformity, which is a big deal for our farmers and small businesses by allowing them to deduct equipment purchases upfront, rather than over time. And because Minnesota has always been a leader in forward-thinking industries, we’re also looking at incentives like a sustainable aviation fuel credit to keep us competitive in emerging markets. This proposal comes down to a simple idea: government should be responsible, accountable, and focused on the people it serves. We’ve got a lot of work ahead in these final weeks—but I’ll keep pushing for policies that make life more affordable, strengthen our communities, and keep Minnesota moving in the right direction. Stay tuned… it’s going to be a busy finish! Fairness on the Field Shouldn’t Be Controversial On Tuesday, we took up an urgency on the House floor to pass three pieces of legislation aimed at preserving safe and fair athletic competition for biological females across Minnesota. Unfortunately, all three proposals were blocked. This effort comes at a time when the issue is getting national—and even international—attention. The U.S. Department of Justice is currently suing Minnesota for failing to protect girls’ sports and women-only spaces, like restrooms and locker rooms. At the same time, the International Olympic Committee has announced that beginning with the 2028 Los Angeles Games, athletes who have gone through male puberty will not be eligible to compete in women’s events—a recognition that fairness in sports still matters. One of the bills we pushed, the Preserving Girls’ Sports Act (H.F. 12), is about as straightforward as it gets: girls’ sports should be for girls. It ensures that female student-athletes can compete on a level playing field—something generations of women fought hard to achieve. Here in Minnesota, however, the legal landscape has shifted. In October, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that excluding biological males from female sports as “public accommodation” discrimination, and the Minnesota State High School League has refused to comply with federal guidance on this issue. And this isn’t just theoretical. Last spring, a male-born pitcher led a girls’ softball team to a state championship in dominating fashion, pitching 21 innings of the series—raising real concerns among athletes, parents, and coaches about fairness on the field. During our debate this week, we even heard claims that biology itself is up for interpretation. I don’t think most Minnesotans would agree with that failed logic. There are clear, measurable genetic and anatomical differences between males and females, and ignoring them doesn’t make them disappear—it just puts female athletes at a disadvantage. For decades, girls fought for a level playing field in sports. This legislation was about protecting that progress and ensuring that female athletes in Minnesota continue to have a fair shot—not just to compete, but to succeed. You have my word that I’ll keep fighting to restore fairness and protect opportunities for female athletes across Minnesota. Sticker Shock & Tab Talk: A Week of Affordability on the House Floor This week on the House Floor, we leaned right into what Minnesotans are talking about all across the state—from the kitchen table to the gas pump to that dreaded moment they open the mailbox: why does everything keep getting more expensive? We held urgency on House File 4487, the “One-Time Property Tax Refund,” because let’s be honest—property tax statements are no longer casual reading. Across the state, families—especially seniors on fixed incomes—are seeing increases that make it harder to stay in the homes they’ve worked a lifetime for. The idea here is pretty straightforward: if the state has a short-term surplus, Minnesotans shouldn’t have to wait for relief that might show up “someday.” They should see it when it actually matters—right now, in real time, in their budgets. We also took up House File 3562 – Car Tab Fee Reduction, because having your car get a year older and watching your tab fee go up is just plain wrong. Minnesotans are paying significantly more than our neighbors for the same basic registration—sometimes ten times more. And while nobody is arguing roads maintain themselves, families are right to ask why the bill keeps climbing and whether there’s a more sensible way to fund it without the yearly sticker shock. This really isn’t complicated. Whether it’s property taxes or car tabs, the question is simple: are we making life better for the people of Minnesota, or just more expensive? Always good to bring those conversations to the floor—and even better when they turn into real solutions that give folks a little breathing room. Big Bucks for the North Woods: Conservation Grants Now Open!I have an exciting opportunity to share for all of the conservationists, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts across our district. A total of $160 million in grant funding is now available through the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council to support projects that restore, protect, and improve Minnesota’s wildlife habitat. These are the kinds of investments that support not only our natural resources, but also our favorite outdoor traditions—and the way of life we’re proud to pass down here in northern Minnesota. Since the program began, it has helped restore and protect over 1.3 million acres across the state, benefiting both rural and urban communities. If you’re part of a conservation group, local government, or organization—or even if you’re a landowner with a project idea—I strongly encourage you to take a look. And if you’re wondering whether your idea qualifies, it’s worth asking—sometimes the best projects start as a “why not?” The deadline to apply is May 22, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. You can learn more or apply here: www.lsohc.mn.gov Congratulations On An Incredible Career, Sheriff Tadman I want to congratulate Sheriff Jim Tadman on his upcoming retirement after an incredible 38 years of service to Polk County. That’s a lifetime of commitment to pinning on that badge every morning and showing up for your community. Jim’s path is one of those stories you don’t hear every day. He started as an intern and worked his way up through just about every role you can imagine—patrol deputy, investigator, K9 handler, SWAT team member, sniper, instructor, chief deputy, and ultimately Sheriff. Safe to say, if there was a job to do, Jim stepped up and did it. But what really stands out is the way he served—with integrity, professionalism, and a deep respect for the people of Polk County. That kind of trust isn’t given, it’s earned over time—and Jim earned it! He didn’t just serve this community—he built his life here. He met his wife here, raised his family here, and dedicated his career to protecting the place he calls home. Public safety isn’t easy work. It’s long days, difficult calls, and a whole lot of responsibility—but because of leaders like Sheriff Tadman, our communities are safer and far better off. Jim, thank you for everything you’ve given to Polk County and District 1B. You’ve made a lasting impact, and it won’t be forgotten. Wishing you all the best—you’ve earned every minute of it. Let’s Stay Connected (Before the Final Gavel Drops!)We’re heading into the final stretch of session, which means things at the Capitol are moving fast—and your thoughts, questions, and ideas are more important than ever. If something is on your mind, whether it’s legislation, an idea to improve Minnesota, or just something you’re curious about, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can reach me by phone at 651.296.5091 or email at rep.steve.gander@house.mn.gov. It’s an honor to represent you at the Capitol, and I’m grateful every day for the chance to serve our community. Let’s keep working together to build a stronger, more affordable Minnesota—one conversation (and probably a few late nights at the Capitol) at a time. Take care—and don’t be a stranger! —Representative Steve Gander |