SC Minnesota News

Erica Schwartz, Minnesota State Representative for District 18A, reflected on her first legislative session in a recent update to constituents. Schwartz highlighted her appointment as Co-Vice-Chair of the Higher Education Committee during her initial term in office. She stated, "Being named Co-Vice-Chair of the Higher Education Committee in my very first term was an incredible honor—and a responsibility I don’t take lightly. Making college more affordable, more accessible, and more effective for Minnesotans is a mission I care deeply about, and I’m proud to be part of the solution."

In addition to her work on higher education policy, Schwartz served on both the Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee and the Taxes Committee. She explained that these roles focus on community safety and fiscal responsibility: "These might sound like big, bureaucratic titles—but they come down to something simple: how we keep our communities safe and how we respect the hard-earned dollars you send to St. Paul. I’ve listened carefully, asked tough questions, and shown up every day ready to make government work for you."

Schwartz acknowledged delays at the start of the session due to House Democrats missing nearly a month of legislative activity. "The session got off to a rocky start, with House Democrats missing the first 23 days of work. That’s nearly a month lost—time we needed to debate, draft, and deliver results," she said.

Looking ahead to an upcoming special session prompted by those delays, Schwartz emphasized her ongoing commitment: "But here’s the deal: I didn’t run for office to sit on the sidelines. And I’m not backing down now. I’m still here—fighting for smart, responsible budgeting and a higher education system that lifts people up, not buries them in debt."

Schwartz also described meeting with St. Peter Mayor Shanon Nowell where they discussed their experiences as mothers serving in public leadership roles: "We ended up having a wonderful, down-to-earth 'mom moment,' swapping stories about our boys and the everyday joys (and chaos!) of motherhood... It reminded me how much our roles as parents influence our work in public service."

She attended an event marking 60 years of service by Minnesota Valley Action Council (MVAC), which supports families across southern Minnesota through various programs including early childhood education.

As Memorial Day approaches, Schwartz encouraged constituents to remember those who have died serving in the military: "Memorial Day is a solemn reminder of the brave men and women who laid down their lives in service to our country... They deserve our heartfelt gratitude."

Reflecting on her first term overall as it concludes with an expected special session, Schwartz reaffirmed her dedication: "This first term has been full of eye-opening moments... But through it all my commitment has stayed the same: to represent our district with integrity, lead with heart... Thank you for placing your trust in me... Let’s keep working together to build a Minnesota that’s smarter safer and more hopeful—for everyone."