SC Minnesota News

Minnesota lawmakers are approaching the end of the 2025 legislative session, with final adjournment set for May 19. The session was delayed by 23 days at its start due to an absence by Democratic legislators, resulting in a compressed timeline for passing remaining legislation.

A global budget agreement has been reached between legislative leaders and Governor Tim Walz, setting spending targets for outstanding budget bills. Conference committees are now responsible for working out the details and finalizing legislation before the deadline.

Representative Erica Schwartz (R-North Mankato) highlighted several outcomes that House Republicans achieved during negotiations. According to Schwartz, "This budget marks the largest cut to government spending in state history. We’ve managed to eliminate nearly half of the structural deficit Democrats created after growing government by 40% and raising taxes by $10 billion just two years ago. We’re cleaning up the mess—and we did it without raising taxes on Minnesota families."

Key provisions noted by Schwartz include protecting non-public pupil aid, rolling back taxpayer-funded healthcare expansion for undocumented immigrants, capping payroll tax increases for Paid Family and Medical Leave, preventing hikes in provider taxes, blocking new sales and income tax increases, stopping funding for the Northern Lights Express train project to Duluth, and halting certain mandates and nonprofit spending.

Schwartz also announced progress on House File 104, which she co-authored. The bill would create a legal privilege protecting communications within restorative justice programs. "This bill might not make headlines—but it should. HF 104 creates an important legal privilege for communications that happen within restorative justice programs. Think of it like the confidentiality between a doctor and patient or a lawyer and client—it’s about creating safe, honest spaces for people to come together, take accountability, and work toward healing," said Schwartz.

She explained that exceptions remain in place so mandatory reporters can fulfill their obligations and disclosures can be made if safety is at risk or professional misconduct occurs.

During National Police Week, Schwartz expressed gratitude to law enforcement officers and first responders: "Your courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment do not go unnoticed. We are grateful for your service, and we pray that God blesses you and keeps you safe as you continue to protect and serve."

On education issues, Schwartz criticized what she described as more than 65 new mandates passed last session by Democrats that she believes strain school budgets. She stated that Republicans secured over $150 million in Basic Supplemental Aid for schools while delivering mandate relief such as ending seasonal worker unemployment insurance requirements.

"The education finance bill is still in play, and some serious concerns remain on the table. House Republicans are standing firm to keep money flowing to classrooms—not bureaucrats—and to stop any new burdens that would make it harder for our schools to succeed," said Schwartz.

Schwartz encouraged constituents to contact legislative leaders regarding education funding priorities as negotiations continue.

Other recent activities mentioned included a visit from Congressman Tom Emmer (R-MN), meetings with local high school seniors from Mankato West High School’s Class of 2025, attending a classic car show with community members, and ongoing efforts to solicit feedback from residents of District 18A as session draws to a close.

Schwartz concluded her update stating her commitment to representing her district’s interests at the Capitol through the remainder of session.