Rep. Peggy Bennett

Maddy summaryHF 1490 clarifies Minnesota's high school graduation requirements for students entering grade 8 in the 2012-2013 school year and later. It requires schools to monitor students' progress in math, reading, and writing through continuous assessment, using data to identify academic needs and provide targeted support. The bill also mandates age-appropriate career exploration and planning activities to help students develop transition plans for college or careers without needing remediation. These changes apply directly to Minnesota public high school students and school districts implementing the requirements, effective July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHF 3524 would allow Minnesota taxpayers to deduct qualified overtime pay from their state taxable income, aligning Minnesota's tax code with a federal deduction for overtime compensation. This bill directly affects Minnesota residents who earn overtime pay and file state income taxes. The key provision adopts the federal definition of "qualified overtime compensation" under Internal Revenue Code section 225, permitting this deduction for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2028, though it applies retroactively to years starting after December 31, 2024. The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 290.0132, to add this deduction as a subtraction from taxable income.

Maddy summaryHF 2372 creates a voluntary "Minnesota Civic Seal" designation for high school students who complete specific civics requirements. To earn the seal, students must complete approved civics coursework, complete a project-based civic assessment, participate in at least one civic activity outside class (like voting in student elections or community service), and demonstrate civic dispositions. School districts may choose to participate but cannot charge students fees, must provide information about the program to all students, and must affix the seal to diplomas and transcripts for qualifying graduates. The program begins for students graduating in 2027 or later, with the Department of Education developing the insignia and guidelines to ensure equitable access for all students.

Maddy summaryHF 957 allows Minnesota school districts and charter schools to transfer unassigned funds between operating accounts during fiscal years 2025-2029 without increasing state aid or property tax authority, requiring written resolutions and public posting. It also permits school boards to formally opt out of complying with specific new state education laws or rules enacted between July 2023 and 2024 (including provisions from 2023-2024 legislative sessions), for the 2025-2026 through 2028-2029 school years. School boards must document and publicly post each opt-out decision and notify the education commissioner. This bill directly affects school districts and charter schools by providing temporary flexibility in fund management and compliance with certain state mandates. The provisions expire after the 2028-2029 school year.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the state of Minnesota to provide $1,500,000 in funding to the city of Easton for designing and constructing a new water tower. To finance this grant, the state will issue and sell bonds up to the same amount, with the money drawn from the bond proceeds fund. The Public Facilities Authority will manage the distribution of these funds to Easton, and the legislation takes effect immediately upon final passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Minnesota state legislators and legislative employees to contribute 50 percent of the premium cost for the state's Paid Leave Law through wage deductions. The provision adds a new requirement to existing statutes that currently allows employers to pay at least half of the annual premiums while employees cover the remainder. By mandating that legislators and their staff split the premium cost equally with the state, the bill ensures they participate in the same paid leave funding structure as other employers and employees. This change directly affects the financial obligations of lawmakers and legislative workers, aligning their contributions with the broader paid leave system.

Maddy summaryHF 16 prohibits Minnesota cities, counties, or local governments from passing laws that block law enforcement from sharing immigration status information with federal authorities. It requires county attorneys to notify federal immigration agencies when someone without legal status is arrested for a violent crime. The bill overrides any local "noncooperation" policies that would restrict this information sharing or federal immigration enforcement. It applies to all local law enforcement and government entities in Minnesota, ensuring consistent cooperation with federal immigration enforcement on specific matters.

Maddy summaryHF 13 would amend Minnesota Statutes section 609.06 to eliminate the requirement that individuals must attempt to retreat before using reasonable force in self-defense or defense of others. The bill specifically removes the "duty to retreat" provision, allowing people to use force without first trying to avoid confrontation if they reasonably believe it is necessary. This change would directly affect Minnesotans using force to defend themselves or others in situations where they perceive an immediate threat. The bill was introduced but not passed, as it was laid on the table during the 2025 legislative session.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the city of Albert Lea to extend its local sales tax to fund five specific community projects, including water quality improvements, trail expansion, library upgrades, recreation center enhancements, and a new sports field. The tax would be an additional half of one percent, subject to voter approval at a special election, with revenues dedicated to paying for these projects and associated bond costs. The city could issue up to $40 million in bonds to finance the projects without being subject to standard debt limits or requiring a separate bond election. The tax would expire after 30 years or once the city determines it has raised enough revenue to cover the project costs, with any remaining funds going to the city's general fund.

Maddy summaryThis bill allocates $25 million in state funding to help the city of Albert Lea upgrade its wastewater treatment facility. The money will be used for design, construction, repairs, and equipment improvements to modernize the facility's infrastructure. The state will issue bonds to raise the necessary funds, which will be managed by the Public Facilities Authority. The legislation takes effect immediately upon final passage by the legislature.