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Dear Neighbors,

Last week, a new state economic forecast confirmed that reckless federal policies are already moving Minnesota’s economy and state budget in the wrong direction, making life more expensive for hardworking Minnesotans.

Last November, the state budget forecast showed a $3.7 billion surplus over the current budget cycle, a $616 million positive balance in the upcoming biennium, and our highest budget reserve fund ever–all due to responsible DFL governance. But as of today, Minnesota’s projected positive balance has shrunk to $456 million. 

This latest budget forecast means that the Legislature must be laser-focused on a state budget that helps working and middle-class Minnesotans, not corporations and billionaires who are doing better than ever.

As your representative, I’m committed to fighting for an economy where everyone can get ahead. I will continue to oppose Republican bills that lower taxes for the rich, create barriers to healthcare access, and repeal policies that help Minnesotans thrive like Paid Family and Medical Leave.

Recent Bills on the Floor

Following a special election this Tuesday in Roseville, the Minnesota House is tied again with 67 Democrats and 67 Republicans. The House will now enter into our power-sharing agreement, with committees having equal numbers of members from each party and co-chairs who will share the gavel. I view this as an opportunity to work together on legislation that addresses the priorities of Minnesotans.

In past weeks, however, House Republicans have controlled committees and Floor agendas.  During this time, they spent almost all that time on extreme priorities that never passed the chamber. 

• The GOP brought a hateful and dangerously invasive bill to the House floor that would ban trans kids from playing sports, while making all students open to scrutiny based upon their gender. HF 12 was dangerous and discriminatory legislation that scapegoated a small and vulnerable group of Minnesotans. I'm proud I voted against it.  Watch a lifelong student athlete speak to the cruelty of this bill. 

• Another was their “Shoot First” bill. Currently, 27 states have Shoot First laws, and every one of them has a higher rate of gun deaths than Minnesota, with the average rate of gun deaths being more than twice Minnesota’s. Shoot First laws are also associated with heavy racial bias. A study in Florida found that white shooters killing Black victims is deemed justifiable five times more frequently than when the situation is reversed.Over the past two years, House DFLers took action to reduce gun violence by requiring criminal background checks and creating Extreme Risk Protection Orders. These policies are already making a difference. In fact, Minnesota has one of the lowest firearm mortality rates in the US, in large part due to our sensible and safety-centered gun violence prevention laws. Democrats refuse to allow Republicans to strip or weaken hard-fought rights. 

We’re able to shift gears now, and I’m confident that my next update will be full of news about passing bipartisan bills that help the people of Minnesota.

Investing in Alzheimer's Research 

Recently, the Alzheimer's Association rallied at the Capitol to advocate for people impacted by Alzheimer's and other dementias. Their organization leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. I had a productive meeting with my constituents and friends to discuss how we can ensure people can access necessary care.

Days on the Hill

In the past couple of weeks, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many constituents thanks to the many Days on the Hill for advocacy, community, and business groups. I’ll list some of them just to give you a sense of the incredible variety of issues and sources of inspiration that fill my days: Community health centers, hospitality businesses, labor groups, educators, faith communities, child care advocates, beverage producers, art therapists, dental providers, homeless advocates, financial services organizations…and so much more. Thanks to all who have given your time to come to the Capitol to share your thoughts.

Keep in Touch

If you have any questions or feedback you’d like to share, you can contact me by email at [email protected] or call (651) 296-4128. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.  

Sincerely,  

Liz Reyer  

State Representative