Dakota Times

Several new Minnesota laws took effect on July 1, impacting a range of issues from housing to public safety. Representative Jeff Witte (R-Lakeville) highlighted these changes in a recent update to constituents.

A notable change is the creation of a common interest community ombudsperson within the Department of Commerce. This role is designed to assist homeowners, tenants, and associations with disputes and questions about their rights. "That’s why I’m proud to support the new law establishing a common interest community ombudsperson within the Department of Commerce. This dedicated advocate will be there to help unit owners, tenants, and associations navigate issues, understand their rights, and find fair resolutions. I’ve seen just how much our community could benefit from this kind of support, and I’m truly excited to help bring this much-needed resource home to Lakeville," Witte said.

For those attending large events such as fairs or concerts, venues with more than 100 attendees are now required to provide free water and allow entry with sealed or empty water bottles. Witte called it "a commonsense change that keeps folks safe—especially during hot Minnesota summers."

Education funding has also increased. The state is allocating nearly $26 billion for K-12 education over two years and an additional $100 million for summer unemployment benefits for school support staff including paraprofessionals and bus drivers.

Minnesota is expanding economic development initiatives by offering new grants for workforce training and extending vocational rehabilitation services aimed at helping people return to work and supporting small businesses.

Public safety measures have been strengthened through new penalties related to fentanyl exposure involving children, enhanced enforcement against wage theft, and improved protections for firefighters and corrections staff. The state has also begun closing the Stillwater prison while investing in alternatives like community supervision.

To address online child protection concerns, minors featured regularly in monetized social media content are now entitled to compensation under new laws.

Fishing regulations have changed as well; bass fishing season is now open year-round across Minnesota’s lakes.

Watercraft registration fees have been updated with the aim of better funding efforts against aquatic invasive species and maintaining public access to waterways.

Additionally, Castoroides Ohioensis—a prehistoric giant beaver—has been named Minnesota’s official state fossil.

Witte concluded his message by reflecting on Independence Day: "Independence Day isn’t just a time for fireworks, flags, and family cookouts (though those are certainly part of the fun). It’s a moment to remember the incredible courage and conviction of the men and women who stood up for liberty nearly 250 years ago—and the generations since who’ve fought to preserve it." He thanked service members, veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and first responders for their commitment: "From our service members and veterans to our law enforcement, firefighters, and first responders, thank you for your continued dedication to keeping our communities and our country strong."