SE Twin Cities

Minnesota State Representative Terry Stier provided an update on legislative activities following a recent special session in the House. Stier described his preparation for the long day, noting, "With a cooler packed full of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and maybe another breakfast — I walked through the chamber doors for my first special session."

On Monday, lawmakers debated 14 bills over nearly 13 hours. Stier said he used the 72 hours available to review final bill versions and met with committee chairs from both parties to assess outcomes.

The first bill addressed was a proposal to repeal taxpayer-funded health care for adult undocumented immigrants. Stier characterized this policy as problematic, stating, "After a four-hour debate, we won that battle and saved Minnesotans millions."

Stier also discussed his decision-making process on the Health bill. He explained that while he initially planned to vote against it, he changed his position after learning that funding would be allocated to Le Sueur Hospital and rural emergency medical services (EMS), as well as new support for EMT training. He said, "But after confirming that Le Sueur Hospital will receive $400K, that rural EMS services will get much-needed support, and that new funding is included for EMT training, I knew it was the right move for our district. I voted yes."

Regarding public safety and transportation spending, Stier emphasized his representation of constituents over personal background. "Now, you might assume that because of my background in law enforcement, I would automatically support anything tied to public safety. But being elected means I represent you, not myself," he said. He opposed the Transportation bill due to concerns about reallocating $97 million from road and bridge funds toward a new State Patrol headquarters during a period of significant budget deficit.

Stier concluded by highlighting achievements from the session: blocking proposed tax increases by Democrats, securing nearly $4 billion in cuts, and providing additional relief for schools. He stated his intention to join the House Fraud Committee in order to address issues related to waste and abuse of tax dollars.

"In the end, we stopped the Democrats’ tax hikes. We secured nearly $4 billion in cuts. We provided much needed relief for schools. And I walked away having garnered stronger working relationships with both sides of the aisle," Stier noted.

He indicated plans to provide further details about legislative accomplishments in upcoming communications.