Interim Update – October 31st, 2025

Happy Halloween! As the kids head out for an evening of trick-or-treating, I hope everyone stays safe, warm, and enjoys a fun night with family and friends. Whether you’re out collecting candy, handing out treats, or just enjoying the fall festivities, it’s a great reminder of the strong community spirit that makes our towns such wonderful places to live…

Interim Update – October 10th, 2025

Over the weekend, Governor Tim Walz teamed up with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker during the North Star Summit, setting off alarms after suggesting that President Trump may deploy the National Guard into Minnesota. Walz said, “I think it’s logical for them to come here. We fall into exactly what they’re trying to target—blue cities in places that he wants to make an impact.” The Governor claims he wants Minnesotans to see that this is “not normal.”…

Interim Update – September 26th, 2025

Fall is officially here! There’s something about crisp air, golden leaves, and pumpkin-spiced everything that makes this season feel full of possibility. It’s a time for reflection—and for action. So, I’m excited to share a few updates on the work we’re doing together to keep Minnesota safe, strong, and thriving…

Interim Update – September 5th, 2025

The smell of fresh crayons, the hum of morning buses, and the sound of sneakers squeaking on gym floors—these are the little signs that a new school year has begun here in Minnesota. As a mom, there’s nothing quite like watching our kids step into the excitement and challenges of learning, each with their own mix of curiosity and courage.

Interim Update – August 12st, 2025

It’s been so good to be back home, reconnecting with the wonderful people of District 18A. Summer is moving quickly (how is it August already?), and while the Legislature may be out of session, there’s still plenty happening across the state. Let’s get you caught up on a few important updates:

Legislative Update – July 18th, 2025

There’s truly no place like home.

Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been reminded just how special our community is. Whether I’m behind the counter at the gas station in the early morning or grabbing a quick coffee before my sons’ baseball practice, it’s been a gift to reconnect with so many of you—hearing your stories, sharing a laugh, or even just exchanging a quick wave has meant more than you know…

Legislative Update – July 2nd, 2025

Happy Independence Day!

As we gather with family and friends this Fourth of July, I want to send you my warmest wishes and share a moment to reflect on the meaning behind this special day.

Two hundred and forty-nine years ago, courageous leaders came together to declare…

Legislative Update – June 13th, 2025

After a long session—and a one-day special session to wrap things up—I’m back home and excited to share a few important updates with you.

This year’s session started off slower than expected. The House didn’t begin its real work until late January after House DFL members skipped town for the first 23 days…

Legislative Update – June 6th, 2025

It’s been three weeks since our official May 19th adjournment deadline came and went—and like so many of you, I’m frustrated. Minnesotans expect their elected leaders to show up, do the work, and deliver results. That’s exactly what my House Republican colleagues and I have been doing: attending negotiations, working through policy language, and staying ready to get the job done.

Legislative Update – May 23rd, 2025

Wow—what a whirlwind of a first session! When I stepped into this role, I came ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work for you. What I didn’t expect was how quickly I’d be asked to help lead. 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…

Legislative Update – May 9th, 2025

As we head into the final week of session, it’s starting to look like we might not finish on time. The constitutionally-mandated end of session is May 19th, but with major bills still up in the air and key agreements yet to be reached, wrapping things up on schedule is looking less likely. Unfortunately, the first 23 days of session were wasted when one caucus decided to stay home and not show up for work. Now, we’re seeing the cost of that delay in real time…

Legislative Update – April 25th, 2025

We’re officially in the home stretch! After returning to the Capitol this week, the House is shifting into high gear to finish strong before our May 19 adjournment deadline. With less than five weeks left in the 2025 session, the pace is picking up—and fast!

Committee negotiations have wrapped up, and now we’re turning our attention to voting on omnibus bills on the House floor…

Legislative Update – April 11th, 2025

Things are moving quickly here at the Capitol! Today, April 11, marks the third and final budget deadline—an important milestone in our legislative session. This is the cutoff point for all finance bills to be heard and approved in their respective committees before they continue through the process. It’s a little hectic and definitely keeping us on our toes.

Behind the scenes, we’re in deep negotiations to shape a responsible budget…

Legislative Update – March 28th, 2025

Time is flying by, and we’re now in the home stretch of the session with just eight weeks remaining until our May 19 adjournment deadline! While there’s plenty of work still to do, one thing is clear: the state budget is front and center in our conversations.

Legislative Update – March 14th, 2025

I hope you’re all doing well and enjoying the almost spring weather—Minnesota sure likes to keep us on our toes! Things have been moving fast at the Capitol, and let’s just say, there’s never a dull moment. Between heated debates, important bills moving forward, and the occasional shamrock shake break (thanks to some generous folks on Hospitality Day!), there’s plenty to update you on.

Legislative Update – February 21st, 2025

Welcome to week two of the Republican majority! It feels so good to be pushing bills through committees and making real progress for the people of Minnesota. We’re back in session, and committees are in full swing, hearing important legislation—some of which was delayed due to the disruption caused by the Supreme Court’s ruling on quorum requirements. But despite that setback, we’re not slowing down!…

Legislative Update – February 7th, 2025

It has been a frustrating few weeks, but I’m excited to share that we’ve finally reached an organizational agreement in the House that will allow us to get back to work! After nearly four weeks of delays, it’s a relief to have clarity and a path forward. This agreement will ensure we can move forward with critical business—passing a state budget and tackling the challenges facing Minnesotans.

Schwartz Takes Oath of Office, Announces Committee Assignments for 2025-2026 Legislative Session

ST. PAUL – Minnesota’s 2025 Legislative Session officially began today as Representative Erica Schwartz (R – Nicollet) and 66 other Republican state representatives took the oath of office during a ceremony held at the State Capitol in St. Paul.