Today is the first committee deadline at the Capitol. That means bills need to have made it through key committees in both the House and Senate to stay alive this session. It’s where we start to see what’s actually moving forward and what isn’t.
A week at the Capitol
This week, I spent time meeting with constituents and groups who took the time to come to St. Paul and share what they’re seeing on the ground.
In committee this week, Democrats voted down an expansion of the Dairy Assistance, Investment, and Relief Initiative (DAIRI) program, which provides funding support for Minnesota farmers. What makes this even more frustrating is that the proposal had the support of the Democrat-appointed Commissioner of Agriculture, and it was still rejected.
For me, it’s important to support our farmers, especially when we can by offering a bill like the one above that comes at absolutely zero cost to taxpayers.
Ag Day at the Capitol
Tuesday was Ag Day at the Capitol, and I had the chance to meet with members of the Carver County Farm Bureau and the McLeod County Farm Bureau.
These are the farmers who are out there every day doing the work that keeps our state running. They’re dealing with rising costs, tight margins, and policies that don’t always reflect the reality of rural Minnesota. It’s important that their voices are heard.
Holding offenders accountable
I’m glad to share that my bill, HF 3496, is moving forward.
This bill makes sure that if someone has the means to pay restitution to their victim, they need to do that before being released from supervision. Too often, victims are left waiting while offenders walk away without making things right.
HF 3496 passed out of the Public Safety Committee this week and is now on the General Register, making it eligible for a vote on the House floor.
I’m proud of the work that went into getting this bill to this point, and I appreciate everyone who helped move it forward. There’s more work ahead, but this is a good step.
Working with ABATE of Minnesota
I met with members of ABATE of Minnesota, a group that advocates for motorcycle safety and rider rights.
I’ve been working with them on two bills:
- HF 2956, which updates Minnesota’s equal access law to ensure individuals who are wrongfully denied access to public accommodations are wholly compensated.
- HF 964, which reduces the sales tax on older motorcycles so it’s more in line with similar vehicles.
These are two simple and straightforward fixes that come directly from the people affected.
Disability Day at the Capitol
This week we also had Disability Day at the Capitol, where I had the opportunity to meet with advocates who shared with me how we can better support them in the legislature and help people living with developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible.
Having previously worked in this field, I know first hand that the work they do, while sometimes challenging, is extremely rewarding, and I thank these dedicated workers for having such a positive impact on so many lives.
Thank you
We’re at a point in session where decisions are being made about what moves forward and what gets left behind.
I’ll continue focusing on practical solutions that support our farmers, stand up for victims, and make sure rural Minnesota is heard.
As always, if you have thoughts or concerns, reach out.
Contact me
It’s an honor and privilege to work for you at the Capitol. Don’t hesitate to contact my office at any time this session to share your thoughts, concerns, or ideas. I am here to serve you!
