Minnesota State Representative Tom Dippel announced on May 20 that the 2026 legislative session has ended, highlighting new funding for local projects and recent tax relief measures, while also expressing disappointment over a stalled bill regarding electric motorcycles.
Dippel said the cities of Hastings and Cottage Grove will receive significant state support following the session. “I was able to help secure $17.5 million to help Hastings build the city’s Eastern Water Treatment Plant with a connection to the Minnesota Vets Home, tackling the PFAS issue and delivering on one of my promises to you,” he said. He added that Cottage Grove is set to receive $9.6 million for a street realignment project at 100th Street and County Road 19A, which aims to improve safety, mobility, and economic opportunities in the area.
On tax policy, Dippel said all parties agreed on $400 million in tax relief for Minnesotans this year: “That’s why I was pleased all sides came together to support $400 million in tax relief, including $125 million in property tax cuts and $250 million in car tab fee reductions.” He stated that Republicans advocated strongly for these measures despite holding only half of the House seats.
The update also addressed anti-fraud initiatives passed during this session. According to Dippel, “the most important is the creation of an independent Office of the Inspector General (OIG) which is tasked with investigating state agencies, grant recipients, and contractors involved in fraud or other criminal misuse of public funds.” Legislation was also approved to modernize county human services software systems across Minnesota; Dippel said this would improve efficiency and strengthen security protections.
Dippel expressed frustration over his e-moto bill not advancing due to what he described as partisan opposition: “Despite unanimous approval throughout the committee process… Democrats made it personal… refusing to allow the bill to be heard on the House floor.” The bill aimed at regulating electric motorcycles failed after a tied vote prevented it from reaching debate.
Dippel concluded by inviting constituents to contact him with questions or concerns about legislative matters. He wrote: “Though session has ended, my work as your state representative has not. Feel free to contact me anytime if you have a legislative question or concern.”
Dippel serves as Republican representative for Minnesota’s 41B House District after being elected in 2025 according to the Minnesota House of Representatives.
