Legislative Update

Greetings, 

We all approached this week ready to honor our fellow fallen Americans following the devastating attacks that occurred on September 11th, 2001. It has only been twenty-four years since the attacks; however, most of us can still clearly remember where we were and what we were doing on that horrible day not so long ago. 

Then, we hear of another devastating assassination. The horrific attack happened on a college campus involving a prominent speaker with a beautiful family. The speaker, Mr. Charlie Kirk, was expressing his views as protected by his right to free speech. May he rest in peace as we all try to tone down the rhetoric and rediscover the meaning of free speech in our nation. My thoughts are with his wife, two young children, friends, and loved ones during this extremely difficult time. 

Talks of Special Session 

Transitioning back to our life in Minnesota, I want to provide everyone with an update on the discussions regarding a special session. 

Governor Walz is still very focused on holding a special session; however, no target dates have been discussed. As a reminder, only the Governor of Minnesota can call a special session. However, per our House and Senate rules, our respective leaders determine how bills will be heard, which committees will hear them, and whether we will suspend the standing rules to bypass the committee structure. The special session held in June 2025 was discussed prior to its commencement, so our first item of business suspended the standing rules so we could bring each bill directly to the floor of the House.  

Session Priorities 

In addition, Governor Walz and the DFL caucus believe limiting weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines will solve our problems in Minnesota. 

Many of us disagree. Historically, prohibiting things such as alcohol, drugs, and weapons, even at the Federal level, does not eliminate them from society. It creates an illicit market and many of these items truly find their way into the hands of people who will use them in a criminal manner, and those same criminals are experts at eluding prosecution. These laws specifically do not work when our surrounding states do not prohibit the sales of these items as criminals can just go across the border, make a purchase, and bring them back to Minnesota. 

Within the GOP caucus, we believe in prevention by protecting students, providing mental health care, and punishing criminals. While these solutions may not be perfect, they take aim at the root of the problem: individuals who seek to harm others, regardless of the weapon they use. In addition, we are focused on creating safe places for our students and teachers much like our airports are much, much safer today compared to September 10th, 2001. Overall, any legislation must make sure that violent criminals face consequences for their actions. It must help protect our communities and give our families, volunteers, and school staff greater peace of mind. Together, these measures aim to provide a safer, more supportive environment for students across Minnesota. Our team continues to work through the details and draft bill language to address these core issues. 

Community Engagement! 

On a brighter note, Jeanne and I really want to thank our local communities for everything they are doing to make House District 19B a great place to live and work! Also, I must apologize in advance, as I did not remember to take photographs as we were attending all of the following great events. 

On Saturday, September 6th, we attended the Chubb’s 'Savor the Flavor’ Charity Fundraiser where we really did savor the flavors. 

Next, I continue to attend various in-person and Zoom meetings on different topics including Energy and the use of the National Guard. 

Then, on Wednesday, September 10th, the Waseca Chamber of Commerce hosted a ‘Chamber Chat’ where you can regularly find many of your local public servants and elected officials in attendance and ready to chat. Hardly skipping a beat, most of us transitioned over to the Waseca Federal Prison for a meeting of the Community Relations Board. 

Last night, Jeanne and I were honored to attend the Quilts of Valor event in Owatonna where eleven Veterans from our community received their handmade quilts. As a fellow veteran, I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to witness and participate in these events! Please thank the Exchange Club of Owatonna for hosting and continuing to grow this special event. 

Finally, Jeanne and I visited the Steele County Farm Bureau annual meeting. It is always my pleasure to attend these meetings and work with the Farm Bureau representatives either in-district or up at the Capitol.