More 2A Infringing Bills?

In the wake of the tragic deaths of three Burnsville First Responders, Minnesota Democrats have been quick to roll out their usual slate of Second Amendment infringements as well as introduce some new ones. Democrats are politicizing these events in an attempt to garner support for new laws that would infringe on the rights of law-abiding Minnesotans while lessening consequences for actual criminals. In a joint hearing of the Public Safety and Children & Families committees this week two anti 2A bills were heard HF 601 ? Her and HF 4300 ? Becker-Finn. These pertain to mandatory reporting and onerous storage requirements respectively. They will both have the effect of making law-abiding Minnesotans criminals overnight while Democrats continue to let actual criminals free to cause more harm to our communities.?

Also introduced during Monday?s floor session was HF 4277 ? Frazier which would REMOVE mandatory minimums for gun crimes. This would let criminals off with shorter sentences and reduced parole. In a week when Minnesotans are reeling from the actions of a criminal who illegally obtained a firearm they were not allowed to possess, Democrats think that it?s ok to let these kinds of criminals out sooner.?

Continuing to Infringe on Religious Liberties?

A change to the definition of ?sexual orientation? in the Minnesota Human Rights Act from last year has restricted the religious exemption in the statute. When a new, separate definition of gender identity was created, there was no corresponding religious exemption added. The removal of this protection from the Human Rights Act breaks decades of precedent and is an attack on Minnesota's religious communities.?

Representative Niska brought forward an amendment that would have restored the religious exemption in the MHRA and protected religious organizations and faith-based schools against claims of gender identity discrimination. Already, at least one faith-based school is facing an employment complaint at the Department of Human Rights because of the removal of the exemption.??

A broad coalition of testifiers came forward to support the amendment to protect religious liberty in our state including; the Minnesota Catholic Conference, the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, the Joint Religious Legislative Coalition, Agudath Israel of Minnesota, and the Islamic Center of Minnesota. You can view there hearing and their testimony here:?

Budget Outlook?

This week the February Forecast was released by MMB projecting the economic outlook for state government. While the short term shows a surplus caused by the 10 billion dollars in runaway tax increases last year, the next biennium's budget is going to start with more than $1.5 billion in deficit. This report is a clear indication that we need to restore fiscal responsibility to Saint Paul, reduce wasteful spending, and more responsibly manage Minnesotan?s tax dollars.?

Protest The State Flag Redesign?

On Tuesday, March 5 at noon, there will be a rally on the Minnesota State Capitol Steps to discuss and protest the unwarranted change of the Minnesota State Flag.? Please join us and bring your current Minnesota State Flag to wave proudly!?

Make Your Voice Heard?

This Tuesday, March 5th is the Presidential Primary. This is your opportunity to vote for your preferred presidential nominee and shape the 2024 election. Early voting has already started. You can find your polling place for Tuesday or to vote ahead of time here: Voter Information Portal (mn.gov)?