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*03.28.25*
Legislative Update
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It’s been a busy week in St. Paul.
House Republicans are advancing our efforts to combat fraud, and I’ve introduced legislation aimed at stimulating a struggling industry and boosting our local economy. On Thursday, I spoke at a press conference regarding Governor Walz’s cuts to education funding and made progress on a bill to increase mandatory fines for individuals who fail to stop for school bus stop signs.
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*Governor Walz’s Cuts to Education*
This week, my colleagues and I held a press conference [ [link removed] ] in response to Governor Walz’s proposed $240,000,000 in cuts to education. I believe in empowering local school boards and educators to make decisions that best meet the needs of their communities. Governor Walz's budget, which includes cuts to teacher pay, special education funding, and cuts to nonpublic pupil aid, is unacceptable. We need to provide our schools with funding and flexibility and relief from the over 65 burdensome mandates. By trusting local districts, listening to educators, and giving them the resources they need, we can ensure every school can innovate and thrive for the benefit of our students. Listen to my comments from Education Finance Committee here [ [link removed] ].
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*HF 2388 – Addressing School Funding*
I’ve introduced House File 2388 [ [link removed] ] to increase funding for school districts and charter schools by changing the “Local Option Revenue” to “Basic supplemental aid” and increasing that aid amount by $100 dollars per pupil. This bill adjusts how general education revenue is calculated, incorporating new tiers for funding based on enrollment and needs, with specific provisions for charter schools offering extended or summer programs. It ensures districts continue to receive at least as much aid as under previous laws and paves the way for reductions in local property taxes. See me speak about HF 2388 here [ [link removed] ].
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*School Bus Safety*
Democrats recently introduced a bill that would remove fines for running through a school bus stop-arm signal. I’m fighting back by proposing an increase in those fines. We’ve all seen how dangerous it is for drivers to disregard these laws and put our kids at risk. House File 1950 [ [link removed] ] sends a strong message that we are serious about protecting our children. This bill will be heard next week.
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*Aiding a Struggling Industry and Stimulating Our Local Economy*
I’ve co-authored two bills aimed at supporting Canterbury Park, our state’s premier racetrack, a key driver of the local economy and an employer of over 1,500 people.
The first bill (HF 2243 [ [link removed] ]) allocates funds to support the thoroughbred racing industry and preserve the cultural significance of racing in Minnesota. It also helps expand opportunities for local racehorses and continues to provide jobs for over 1,500 people at Canterbury Park.
The second bill (HF 1540 [ [link removed] ]) establishes a pilot program to support the aftercare and retirement of racehorses while providing mental health and education grants to racetrack workers. This bill aims to protect the future of the industry while ensuring the community around the racetrack is supported.
Canterbury Park has a major economic impact on the local and state economy through increased tourism and supporting agriculture businesses. I will continue to work in a bipartisan manner when possible, to support our local communities.
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mnfraud
*Continuing Our Fight Against Fraud*
On Monday, members of the House Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Committee held a press conference to announce a new online whistleblower website where Minnesotans can safely and confidentially report fraud. The website, MNfraud.com, is designed to collect tips about waste, fraud, or abuse in state agencies or publicly funded programs. Submitted information will be reviewed by the committee, and whistleblower identities are secure. For more information or to report cases of fraud, waste, or abuse, visit MNfraud.com [ [link removed] ].
*Working Together in St. Paul.*
Thank you to everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to meet with me at the Capitol. I truly value these conversations and work hard to keep the human impact of legislation at the forefront of my mind. To do that effectively, I need to hear from you. If you have any concerns or ideas you’d like to share, please don’t hesitate to get in touch or schedule an appointment to meet with me!
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Centennial Office Building
658 Cedar Street
Saint Paul, MN 55155
651.296.5185
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