From Rep. Dawn Gillman <[email protected]>
Subject Legislative Update from Rep. Dawn Gillman
Date January 24, 2025 8:14 PM
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Legislative Update

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As your state representative, I am deeply committed to allocating resources to those who need them and taking the lining out of the pockets of fraudsters who have been stealing from hardworking Minnesotans. This is not just about being fiscally responsible—it’s about doing what's right. We cannot allow fraud, waste, and abuse in our state programs to continue to drain our resources. From Feeding Our Future to childcare assistance, frontline worker pay, and the failures within the Department of Human Services and the Department of Education, these incidents have stolen hundreds of millions of dollars from the people who need them most.

But this session, we are taking action. House Republicans have introduced a series of bills this session aimed at bringing much-needed accountability, transparency, and oversight to our state programs. Our goal is simple but vital: to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being used the way they should be—helping the people they’re meant to support.

As Vice Chair of the Human Services Finance and Policy committee, I am excited to advocate for this change every single day. We will fight relentlessly and we will stop the fraudsters who are lining their pockets, and we will make sure that those who are in need of assistance receive the help they deserve, because *Republicans care!*

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Putting Taxpayers First

To ensure that your hard-earned money is spent wisely, a new Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy Committee has been created. Led by Representative Kristin Robbins (R—Maple Grove), this committee will have the power to investigate fraud, hold state agencies accountable, and ensure every dollar serves its intended purpose.

The committee’s mission is simple:


* *Accountability:* Make sure every dollar is spent wisely.
* *Prevention:* Stop fraud before it happens.
* *Transparency:* Give taxpayers a clear view of how their money is used.

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Key Legislation Introduced

Here’s how House Republicans are taking action:

*Protecting New Programs from Fraud*
Representative Jim Nash’s "House File 3" establishes “fraud notes,” a simple tool that checks new laws for fraud risks before they go into effect. It’s like a safety net for your tax dollars. “Fraud notes will help stop problems before they start,” says Nash. “It’s all about protecting Minnesotans from unnecessary losses.”

*Strengthening Fraud Prevention in Agencies*
Representative Davis’ "House File 2" ensures that state agencies are actively working to prevent fraud. It requires stricter reporting, mandatory site visits, and faster action when fraud is suspected. “Your tax dollars should work for you—not get lost to fraud,” says Davis. “This bill gives agencies the tools to act quickly and keep things transparent.”

*Creating an Independent Watchdog*
Representative Anderson’s "House File 1" establishes a centralized Office of the Inspector General (OIG) to lead the fight against fraud across the entire state government. This independent office will stop payments when fraud is suspected, run a fraud hotline, and hold state agencies accountable. “Minnesotans deserve a government they can trust,” says Anderson. “This office will help ensure your money is being used the way it should.”

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Recent Committee Hearing Disruption

I want to address a disheartening incident that took place during our first committee meeting of the session earlier this week. A disruptive demonstration, that involved excessive profanity and the use of a bullhorn, derailed our proceedings. This kind of behavior is not only alarming but completely undermines the work that we are all here to do— to represent you and tackle the important issues facing our communities throughout Minnesota.

I believe our committees should be spaces for open, honest conversations where all voices are heard. While I wholeheartedly respect the right to express differing opinions, it is imperative that this is done respectfully and in a manner that allows the legislative process to continue without interruption. This incident was especially disturbing because this committee hearing featured testimonies from MPPOA (Minnesota Peace and Police Officers Association) officers, sheriffs, and police chiefs; this was their opportunity to share their perspectives and have their voices heard, and that opportunity was sadly stolen from them.

I strongly encourage my colleagues and all involved to uphold the integrity of our institution and focus on finding solutions that serve our communities.Together, we can focus on finding solutions for our communities and making sure that Minnesotans’ needs are always at the forefront of everything we do.

[You can view unedited footage of the demonstration here [ [link removed] ].]

Protest
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Standing Together for Life

On Wednesday, January 22, we gathered for the 52nd annual March for Life Rally at the Minnesota State Capitol. This year was especially moving as we reflected on the 51st anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion across the United States, a decision that continues to shape our nation's discussions around life, choice, and human sanctity.

As a mother of five beautiful children, this event resonated deeply with me. I will forever be grateful for the gift of adoption, which has blessed me and my family immensely. The decision to bring a child into the world—by giving birth or adopting—represents the incredible bravery and selflessness of the women who choose life for their children. These women, through their bravery and love, remind us that every human life has immense value, and that the decision to give life is one of the most selfless and powerful acts a person can make.

This rally wasn’t just a time to reflect; it was a call to continue the work of supporting life at every stage, from the moment of conception to adulthood. It was a reminder that we must support women facing difficult decisions and make sure that no one ever feels alone in their journey. I am more determined than ever to stand up for policies that protect life and provide real support for families. Every child deserves a chance to live a full and loving life, and I will continue to fight for that future.

GillmanMarch for Life
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Looking Ahead

As always, your input is incredibly valuable to me. If you have questions, concerns, or ideas about these bills or any other issues, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact my office by phone or email at *[email protected]*.

Thank you for the honor of representing you at the Capitol. Together, we can build a better, more accountable Minnesota.

Warm regards,
*Rep. Dawn Gillman*
Minnesota House of Representatives











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