Interim NewsDear friends and neighbors, This weekend marks the much-anticipated deer hunting opener! It’s practically a state holiday here in Minnesota—when blaze orange becomes our unofficial fall color and half the pickup trucks quietly disappear from the driveway as hunters head for the woods. As folks across the state gear up for the season, I want to echo a friendly reminder from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources: safe hunts are successful hunts. Whether you’re hoping to tag a trophy buck or simply enjoy some quiet time outdoors with family and friends, preparation and awareness make all the difference. A few quick reminders before you head out: Take a moment to review firearm safety—even the most seasoned hunters benefit from a refresher. Make sure your blaze orange or blaze pink gear is ready to go (fashion meets function in the best way). Set a clear plan with your hunting party so everyone knows where they’ll be—because no one wants to end up playing accidental hide-and-seek in the woods. Always know your target and what’s beyond—it’s not just smart, it’s the law. And lastly, give your tree stand and safety harness a once-over. It’s a lot easier to make repairs in your garage than from 12 feet up a spruce tree at dawn. So, whether you fill the freezer or just make new memories around the campfire, here’s wishing everyone a safe, enjoyable, and successful opening weekend. And if you happen to spot any overly confident turkeys wandering around—well, let’s just say their timing could use some work. Speaking of Knowing Your TargetJust as hunters are reminded to know their target and what’s beyond, that same lesson applies under the Capitol dome these days. The Office of the Legislative Auditor (OLA) recently released a report detailing serious issues within the Office of Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan—twelve separate findings of noncompliance, to be exact. We’re talking about late payments, payroll errors, missing documentation, and even untracked state assets—issues that would raise eyebrows in any workplace, let alone the top executive office in Minnesota. As House Speaker Lisa Demuth put it best: “Accountability starts at the top.” For years, House Republicans have been calling out fraud, waste, and mismanagement across state agencies. Now, it’s clear that same lack of oversight has reached the Governor’s own office. Minnesotans are expected to balance their budgets and keep their books in order—our state leaders should be held to the same standard. At the end of the day, trust in government depends on accountability. That’s why i'll continue pressing for transparency, stronger internal controls, and real safeguards for your tax dollars. Whether it’s managing a budget or handling a firearm, the same rule applies: know what you’re aiming at, and do it right. Meanwhile in Washington...As many of you know, the federal government shutdown has been dragging on for weeks, but there’s finally a small glimmer of progress. On Wednesday, Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries said they’re ready to meet with the President “anytime, anyplace” to discuss reopening the government and tackling the growing ripple effects the shutdown is causing across the country. It’s good to see some willingness to talk—now let’s hope that talk turns into action. One of the biggest areas of concern right now is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—a vital program that helps families in need keep food on the table. But a recent look at federal data showed something alarming: SNAP spending in Minnesota has tripled in just four years, topping $1.5 billion in Fiscal Year 2023. Now, we all agree that families who truly need help should receive it. But when spending skyrockets that quickly, it raises serious questions about oversight. During the COVID era, Minnesota saw a 174% increase in SNAP issuances in a single year—more than double the rate of the next-highest state. That’s not normal growth—that’s a bright red warning light. Here’s what’s even more concerning: when the U.S. Department of Agriculture asked states to share data to ensure benefits were going to eligible recipients, 29 states complied. Minnesota didn’t. And in the states that did cooperate, investigators found massive fraud. That should tell us something. We can’t keep ignoring warning signs and pretending everything’s fine. Real people rely on these programs, and taxpayers deserve confidence that every dollar is being spent responsibly. Accountability and transparency aren’t partisan ideas—they’re the foundation of good government. And right now, Washington could use a strong reminder of both. Until Next Time!As we head into another crisp Minnesota weekend, I just want to say thank you for staying engaged and taking the time to read these updates. Our communities are stronger when folks like you stay informed, ask questions, and speak up about what matters most. Whether you’ll be out in the deer stand, cheering from the sidelines at a local football game, or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, I hope you take a little time to enjoy the season and all the beauty this state has to offer. Please don’t ever hesitate to reach out—your thoughts and ideas truly help guide the work I do. You can contact me anytime by phone at 651-296-8634, email me at rep.erica.schwartz@house.mn.gov, or follow along on Facebook for real-time updates and a behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening both at home and at the Capitol. Wishing you a safe, successful, and memorable weekend ahead—and if your blaze orange brings you a little luck, even better! Sincerely, Representative Erica Schwartz
Minnesota House of Representatives, District 18A |