Fraud Update
I’ve heard the concerns of many of my constituents about fraud and the theft of taxpayer dollars, and I share those concerns. I’m incredibly frustrated that programs meant to help people get critical services like housing and health care have been abused by criminals. It has to stop.

This year, we’re addressing fraud with a comprehensive response that will improve oversight, hold people accountable, and protect public dollars. We’re adding new safeguards requiring much more verification of eligibility for these programs and making sure there are more checks and balances in the system.

Accountability is the first step. Our package provides more resources for investigations of potential fraud, and more resources for the staff needed to arrest and prosecute fraudsters. We’re also making progress on creating an independent Office of the Inspector General. This passed overwhelmingly last year in the Senate, and the House is finally acting on it.

The final piece of our anti-fraud package is long needed upgrades to our county IT systems. Our counties are the people who administer these programs every day, and many of them are working with outdated equipment that’s as much as 30 or 40 years old. It’s time we finally fully modernize these systems.

Bonding Bill
Our biggest ticket item at the Legislature this year is a bonding bill that funds public works projects, creates jobs, and supports economic development. I’m happy to say that Hastings is at the top of the list for clean water funding, but it only happens if Democrats and Republicans join together to pass the bill.

We didn’t get a bonding bill done in 2024, and we can’t afford to wait another cycle. If we don’t do something at the state, the cost will only go up for local residents. Whether it’s a rise in water rates or property taxes, we’ve got to make sure the state steps up instead of making our local residents pay.

Right to Repair for Motorcycles
Right now a lot of motorcyclists are forced to make repairs only with a dealer or manufacturer-approved option. My bill will give riders the freedom to make these repairs themself or at the shop of their choice as well. As a biker myself, I know just how important freedom is to the bikers in Minnesota, and I want to make sure they’ve got the freedom to choose how to fix their own bikes.

In an evenly divided legislature, the only way to get things done is by working together. I’ll continue to reach across the aisle, build consensus, and find common ground. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me or my office with your questions, comments, and concerns.