SE Twin Cities

Minnesota lawmakers remain in negotiations more than two weeks after the constitutional deadline for the 2025 legislative session, with no special session yet scheduled. State Representative Terry Stier (R-Cleveland) expressed concern over the delay and criticized the process for lacking transparency.

"You might be tired of hearing about the DFL’s boycott at the start of the year, when rank-and-file House members refused to show up for the first 23 days. But this is the reality of what that political theater has caused: months later, legislators like me have had little say in the final negotiations, and important bills are being shaped behind closed doors. The Legislature failed to finish its work on time, and now Minnesotans are paying the price through a process that lacks transparency and accountability. When the bills finally hit the House floor, I’ll be there, ready to dig into the details and do what’s best for our district," Stier said.

One bill under discussion is the Environment Bill. Stier noted support for certain provisions such as eliminating shotgun-only zones for deer hunting across Minnesota while allowing counties to opt out, making bass fishing season continuous statewide, and requiring a Department of Natural Resources report on how funds from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund will be spent.

However, Stier also outlined several concerns with other parts of the bill. These include changes to invasive species surcharges based on watercraft size and type instead of a flat fee, increased water-use permit fees, hiring new full-time state employees which would expand government operations, and an estimated $60 million spending increase above previous budgets—a move he argued could lead to higher taxes.

"So, here's the challenge. This bill includes some positive reforms, but the increased spending, added employees, and fee hikes go against the commitments I made to you when I ran for office. I promised not to support growing government or raising taxes, and I intend to keep that promise," Stier stated.

He suggested revisiting certain measures such as rifle zone expansion and bass season adjustments in separate legislation without additional spending increases. "For that reason, I plan to vote no on the Environment Bill in its current form. I understand this may not be a popular vote, but I believe it’s the right one if I’m going to keep my promise to you."

Stier pledged continued scrutiny of upcoming bills once sessions resume: "Once we’re back at the Capitol, I’ll continue reviewing every bill in detail. If I vote no, it’s because the bill grows government, increases taxes, or includes provisions I simply cannot support. Free healthcare for illegal immigrants is one of them."

He encouraged constituents to stay engaged with legislative developments and reach out with questions or concerns.