Rep. Matt Norris

Maddy summaryHF 1066 increases annual funding for soil and water conservation districts in Minnesota. It amends state law to raise the annual appropriation from $15 million (for 2023-2024) to $20 million starting in 2025, paid from the general fund to the commissioner of revenue. This funding directly supports local soil and water conservation districts that provide technical assistance and cost-share programs for landowners. The bill takes effect for payments made in 2025 and subsequent years.

Maddy summaryHF 1161 creates a new funding mechanism for Minnesota school districts with significant seasonal property (like lakeshore areas). It establishes "seasonal tax base replacement aid" that adjusts a district's local tax levy based on the ratio of seasonal property value to total property value, with the adjustment capped between 50% and 100%. The bill appropriates funds to cover this aid, reducing districts' required tax levies without lowering them below zero, starting with taxes payable in 2026. This directly affects school districts that rely on seasonal property taxes for local funding.

Maddy summaryHF 1894 delays the implementation of new payment rates for family residential services and life sharing services until January 1, 2029 (or federal approval, whichever is later). It establishes an Advisory Task Force on Family Residential Services to evaluate proposed rate changes and their impact on providers, including adult family foster care agencies and recipients. The Task Force, composed of providers, agency representatives, and service recipients, must analyze multiple rate models and provide case studies and median rate estimates before issuing a report. The bill also appropriates funds for the Task Force’s work and requires the Department of Human Services to provide necessary data and support.

Maddy summaryHF 1372 allows Minnesota cities to create designated "social districts" where alcohol purchased at licensed bars or restaurants can be consumed in public areas adjacent to those venues. The bill requires cities to clearly mark district boundaries with signs showing permitted hours, include safety statements on containers (e.g., "Drink Responsibly - Be 21"), and restrict containers to non-glass, 16-ounce sizes with specific labeling. It mandates cities to report on community impact, safety concerns, and operational challenges within 24 months of implementation. This directly affects local governments, licensed businesses, and public safety management in areas where such districts are established.

Maddy summaryHF 2130 modifies several driver's license and ignition interlock requirements for individuals convicted of driving under the influence (DUI). It extends the required use period for ignition interlock devices after license reinstatement and adds criminal penalties for drivers who operate vehicles without these devices. The bill also adjusts procedures for license revocations, judicial review of extensions, temporary license issuance, and the process for reissuing impounded license plates. These changes primarily affect drivers with DUI convictions who are required to use ignition interlocks or face license restrictions.

Maddy summaryHF 1163 clarifies how grant funds for Minnesota's hometown heroes assistance program must be used to support firefighters. The bill directs the Minnesota Firefighter Initiative to provide monetary support for firefighters diagnosed with critical illnesses (like cancer) after August 1, 2021, and to develop a mental health program offering up to five annual therapy sessions with peer support. It also requires annual training for all firefighters on occupational health risks (including cancer, heart disease, and emotional trauma), evidence-based suicide prevention, and wellness strategies. The program directly affects all Minnesota firefighters through these health support services and training.

Maddy summaryHF 3292 requires Minnesota to study how U.S. tariffs and retaliatory tariffs from other countries impact state households and businesses. The bill appropriates funds to the commissioner of management and budget to examine these economic effects, specifically breaking down impacts by household income level and business sector/size. The study must be completed and reported to legislative committees by February 1, 2026. This bill directly affects all Minnesotans and businesses through the mandated analysis of existing tariff policies.

Maddy summaryHF 1660 requires Minnesota's Commissioner of Children, Youth, and Families to conduct a statewide assessment of out-of-school youth programs for children and teens under 21. The commissioner must gather data on current programs, funding, and populations served, while engaging youth, families, and community providers to identify barriers and gaps. By February 2026, the commissioner must submit a report with findings and recommendations to legislative committees, including proposals to improve access and quality. The bill appropriates a one-time $ amount in fiscal year 2026 specifically for this assessment and reporting process.

Maddy summaryHF 1289 requires social media platforms operating in Minnesota to display a mental health warning label each time a user accesses the platform. The label must warn of potential negative mental health impacts, include resources like the 988 Suicide Lifeline, and remain visible until the user exits or acknowledges the warning. The bill also mandates that platforms show a pop-up timer notification every 30 minutes (customizable up to 60 minutes) tracking daily active usage time, which users must acknowledge before dismissing. These requirements apply to all covered social media platforms and take effect July 1, 2025. The law does not create private lawsuits but allows the attorney general to enforce it.

Maddy summaryThis bill (HF 3262) removes the requirement for teacher candidates to complete the edTPA performance assessment (Section 1) and mandates that student teachers be placed within 30 miles of their preferred location or school site (Section 2). It directly affects teacher candidates, teacher preparation programs, and the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board. The bill requires the Board to amend state rules to eliminate the edTPA requirement and to establish the 30-mile placement rule, with exceptions only if both the program and candidate agree to a different placement. These changes represent concrete policy shifts in teacher education requirements.