Legislative Update
Good morning,
It has been another busy and productive week at the Capitol. I want to highlight some upcoming deadlines that are shaping our work in committees. The first and second committee deadlines are quickly approaching on April 4, with the third committee deadline following on April 11. These deadlines determine when committee actions on bills must be completed so that we can shift our focus to the budget.
We are working diligently to ensure all necessary business is completed in compliance with these deadlines. As we make progress, I look forward to providing updates on our work and the important issues moving through the legislature.
HF29
Thank you to the constituents who have reached out recently in support of HF29, authored by Rep. Ron Kresha. This bill repeals the Ethnic Studies Mandate that was enacted last session. It is important to note that repealing the mandate removes the requirement but still allows schools to implement ethnic studies if they choose. Providing schools with this flexibility enables them to make the best decisions for their students based on their unique needs and priorities.
Currently, students are testing below grade level in reading and math, which are core subjects essential for future success. If we want to prepare our students for higher education, careers, and life beyond the classroom, we need to ensure they have a strong foundation in these fundamental skills. By refocusing on the basics, we can help students regain lost ground and build the confidence they need to succeed.
These students are the next generation of workers, leaders, and innovators. As they grow up and enter the workforce, it is critical that we provide them with a solid education that equips them for the challenges ahead. Strong schools create strong communities, and prioritizing academic excellence will benefit all of us in the long run.
Non-Public Schools
I would like to say thank you as well to constituents who have reached out in support of funding for non-public schools. As I mentioned already, our current school system is not properly educating and supporting our students. An overwhelming number of students are struggling with basic subjects of reading and math, and the numbers are trending downwards. It is clear that what we are currently doing is not working, and we need to make changes in order to improve the educational outcomes for students across the state. Non-public schools are one alternative, and they are able to achieve positive outcomes in support of our students. In many cases, our non-public schools are able to better achieve our desired educational outcomes while meeting the needs of our students, so we need to continue to fund these programs just we did during the current biennium.
Budget Frustrations: We Need to Get Back on Track
We are all concerned about the recent budget projections and proposals. MMB’s February Forecast projected a serious budget deficit in the FY2028-2029 biennium. Their projected figure is a $6 billion deficit, which is frankly unacceptable given the $18 billion surplus and $10 billion tax increases last session. Furthermore, Governor Walz has proposed some serious budget cuts to offset the projected deficit, but his proposals include devastating cuts to our senior communities, non-public education, and other areas impacting our smaller communities. Governor Walz proposed over $700 million in cuts to nursing homes, jeopardizing our senior living facilities and putting our senior citizens at risk. These seniors are the people who put in so much work to make the state what it is today, and they deserve to be taken care of in their later years. Placing this financial burden on our seniors is unfair and unacceptable, and Walz’s budget proposals are not going to work for Republicans.
General Ira C. Eaker Award Ceremony
I had the honor of attending the recognition ceremony for Cadet Hans Tostenson, who recently earned the General Ira C. Eaker Award, an achievement that reflects excellence in leadership, fitness, and other critical areas. Following the formal Change of Command and Promotion event, I was invited to give a speech.
As a former cadet, I know firsthand the invaluable direction and support the Civil Air Patrol provides. It played a pivotal role in guiding me toward a career in the United States Air Force. The dedication of Civil Air Patrol senior members is instrumental in shaping young cadets, just as it was in my own journey.
After serving my career in the Air Force, I am now giving back to my community as an elected official. The Civil Air Patrol instills essential life skills in young people, and parental encouragement plays a key role in their success. The lessons cadets learn through this program can inspire careers in public service, including roles as volunteer firefighters, police reservists, or even military service members.