Legislative Update

Legislative Update

Dear Neighbors,

We are in the thick of budget negotiations right now. What has been a pretty “tame” session up to this point has turned a chaotic corner over the last week. The main thing I wanted to convey was that the Democrats in the House have gone back on their agreement when it comes to K12 education. The agreement would’ve had a sunset on unemployment insurance for hourly workers in our schools, relieving another costly mandate on our schools and communities. The bill would’ve protected non-public pupil aid and had other good provisions (not a perfect bill, but a workable one). After having a written agreement, Democrats in the House informed us they will no longer abide by it just two days ago.

You can see the entire exchange by clicking this link. In a divided legislature, unfortunately, Democrats in the House seem to be making decisions based on public union influence – and not what’s best for our kids.

On another note, on Friday my bill to increase cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities was heard as an amendment. It was heard as an amendment to a larger public safety bill – and it would mandate that local law enforcement must report to federal immigration authorities when an illegal immigrant is suspected of committing a violent crime. 67 Republicans voted for it. 67 Democrats voted against it. I urge you to watch my closing statement, recalling Charles Thayer – whose mother was beheaded by an illegal Cuban immigrant who had been convicted of multiple crimes prior. You can watch that closing statement here.

Rep Max Rymer introducing his amendment to address violent crimes committed by illegal immigrants.

There have been points of agreement this session. I had a number of students in our district regarding HF2023 – that would make response to overdose on drugs like Fentanyl part of our model drug training program statewide. It got unanimous support on this past Wednesday. 

As these budget bills continue to come up, I’m doing my homework on each one. I can tell you, I’ll be voting no on a vast number of them going forward. It’s my first term, but I want to be keenly aware of our upcoming $6 Billion deficit. Respect for the taxpayer and the need to be responsible with spending is a top concern. We’re in a position where both parties have to in-part agree on these budgets – but I will continue to live by my convictions of limited government and spending within our means (which has not happened the past few years). I will continue to be transparent with you in which bills I vote yes on and which I use my voice to oppose. 

The remainder of this session has some big question marks. We are still miles apart on a number of agreements and there are some which are much closer. Unfortunately, we are REALLY feeling the impact of Minnesota Democrats not showing up for the first five weeks of session. “Crunch time” is feeling a lot crunchier as we try to meet our deadlines by mid-May. 

If we haven't been able to connect in person yet, I did an interview with TPT's Mary Lahammer. It covers a bit of my background, how I got to the legislature and what I'm focused on. Please click this link and watch the interview!

Please Contact Me

Please reach out to me if you have any thoughts questions or concerns. Never hesitate to reach out to me whether it’s via phone or email. And I would LOVE if you came down to St. Paul for a visit. Shoot me an email if you ever want to swing by. I can be reached at 651-296-5377 or via email at?rep.max.rymer@house.mn.gov. 

Have a great weekend,? 

Max??