Hello from the State Capitol,   

Last week was a busy week here at the Capitol with committees and floor sessions.  

I had a hearing for House File 733 in the Veterans and Military Affairs Committee. HF 733 aims to update regulations on electronic gambling devices, lifting certain restrictions to enhance accessibility, security, and player engagement while maintaining responsible gaming standards. 

Charitable gaming has long been a key source of funding for nonprofits, veterans’ organizations, and community groups across Minnesota.  Reducing restrictions on charities would result in ten’s of millions more in funding for our communities. 

These restrictions are hurting our veterans, people, and communities. HF 733 will ensure that charities will receive necessary funding in order to support our communities. HF 733 has been referred to the Commerce Finance and Policy Committee. Which will likely be it’s last committee stop before heading to the House floor for approval from the body.  

House Update: 

Some of the House Republicans top bills that were heard last week include: 

• In State Government HF 1, which proposes creating an independent Inspector General, and HF 2, which aims to strengthen accountability for agencies and nonprofits.  

• HF 7 was heard in Judiciary which seeks to increase penalties for criminals and enhance accountability for courts, prosecutors, and groups like the Freedom Fund.  

• In Education Finance HF 6 aims to reduce mandates on schools and raise educational standards in Minnesota.  

• Public Safety heard HF 340 which modifies the crime of fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle, adding heightened penalties for fleeing in a culpably negligent manner.  

• Commerce Finance and Policy Informational discussion on the reinsurance program, covering its history, operations, and preferred funding mechanisms by both parties.  

• HF 12 which would establish protections for girls' sports was heard in Education Policy.   

• HF 10 was heard in Human Services, which would prohibit illegal immigrants from receiving MinnesotaCare and the North Star scholarship program. 

As session moves forward, I’ll continue working to support our veterans, strengthen our communities, and advocate for policies that promote accountability and opportunity for all Minnesotans.