Minnesota State Representative Jeff Witte released a legislative update on Apr. 18, highlighting ongoing efforts at the Capitol as the session moves toward its final weeks. Witte said that most committees have completed their work following recent legislative deadlines, with only the Tax Committee continuing until the session concludes on May 17.
Witte emphasized that House Republicans are focusing on solutions to ease financial burdens for Minnesota families, including tax conformity legislation and fraud prevention bills. He said, “There’s a lot of good work ready to go; now we just need the opportunity to get it across the finish line.” The representative also stressed his commitment to listening to constituents and ensuring their voices are part of every conversation.
A key point in Witte’s update was the introduction of a House Republican school safety proposal. He described it as a multilayered approach shaped by input from superintendents, teachers, parents, and students after last fall’s tragedy at Annunciation Catholic School. According to Witte, “At its core, this proposal is about making sure every student, no matter where they attend school, feels safe when they walk through those doors each morning.” The plan includes increased funding for public, nonpublic, and Tribal schools; expanded mental health resources; anonymous threat reporting tools; and discipline reforms aimed at restoring order in classrooms.
Witte noted bipartisan cooperation in previous efforts related to school resource officers: “When I worked on passing the school resource officer fix… together we found a common-sense solution that ensured our schools kept the resources they needed.” He called for continued collaboration across party lines: “Keeping our schools safe shouldn’t be a partisan issue; it’s a shared responsibility.”
Tax policy was another focus of Witte’s message as he addressed concerns from constituents about high taxes following Tax Day. He highlighted House File 4906—a bill he coauthored—which would provide homeowners with a one-time property tax refund in 2026 based on taxes owed that year. The measure aims to offer immediate relief using $4 billion in state funds while including safeguards against overpayment or misuse.
Witte concluded by thanking local organizations such as School District 196 and Lakeville Area Chamber of Commerce for their engagement during recent visits to the Capitol. He reiterated his openness to constituent feedback: “As always, my door is open… I’m here to listen and work together for our community’s success!”
