Rep. Shelley Buck

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits large meat retailers from owning stakes in livestock dealers or meat packing companies and from signing exclusive contracts that require those suppliers to sell only to them. It defines a "dominant retailer" as a company selling over $18 billion in meat annually with locations in at least 20 states, including Minnesota. The law requires these retailers to divest any existing ownership interests by January 1, 2028, with a possible 180-day extension if they show good faith efforts to comply. The attorney general will identify which retailers fall under this definition starting in 2027, and violators could face daily fines of $25,000.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires wage remediation for individual healthcare providers in Minnesota if a retroactive rate increase is approved by the federal government after a delay. It ensures that providers covered by the collective bargaining agreement with SEIU Healthcare Minnesota and Iowa receive back pay for the period between the original effective date and the actual federal approval date. The commissioner of human services must issue instructions to implement these wage adjustments as soon as federal approval is received, and the law takes effect the day after it is enacted.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Minnesota commissioner of natural resources to transfer all state-owned land within one mile of the Upper Red Lake shoreline and all land within the Red Lake State Forest boundaries to the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians without payment. The legislation mandates that the commissioner identify any legal or funding obstacles to these transfers and submit a detailed report by January 15, 2026, to relevant legislative committees with recommendations for resolving those barriers. Additionally, the bill appropriates $20 million in fiscal year 2026 to fund the land conveyance process, with funds available until June 30, 2035, and may be used to acquire additional land needed to facilitate the transfers. The law takes effect immediately upon final enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill repeals previous sales tax exemptions for preferred seating and amenities at athletic facilities, meaning these items will now be subject to sales tax when purchased with event tickets. It also provides funding for safe harbor shelter and housing grants to support homeless assistance programs. The legislation defines various retail sales for tax purposes, including bundled transactions and promotional items, while appropriating money for the housing grants.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new stewardship program for covered batteries in Minnesota and prohibits the use of mercury in batteries, affecting manufacturers, distributors, and retailers of battery products. It creates clear definitions for terms like "covered battery," "brand," and "distribute" to clarify which products and businesses fall under the program's requirements. The legislation authorizes the state to create rules for battery collection and recycling, while also modifying existing provisions related to lead acid batteries and rechargeable consumer products. Additionally, the bill appropriates funds to support the implementation of these environmental protections and sets specific effective dates for various provisions.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a voluntary state statistics literacy graduation seal for high school students in Minnesota who demonstrate proficiency in statistics and data interpretation. Schools will identify eligible students through assessments aligned with established guidelines and add the seal to transcripts and diplomas without charging fees. The legislation also requires the state education commissioner to identify qualifying assessments by 2027 and directs Minnesota State Colleges and Universities to establish criteria for awarding college credits to seal holders by 2028.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes new grant programs and provides funding for adult and children's mental health services in Minnesota, with specific priority given to areas affected by Operation Metro Surge. It creates culturally responsive mental health grants for adults and children, funds mobile crisis teams including vehicle purchases, and supports school-linked mental health services. The legislation also expands eligibility for various mental health services such as housing support, crisis intervention, and specialized care for youth at risk of psychosis or bipolar disorder.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the pea as the official state vegetable of Minnesota. It authorizes the Secretary of State's office to display a photograph of a pea. The legislation applies to state government records and official symbols.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $2 million from state bond proceeds to fund the design, construction, and equipment for La Lake Park in Woodbury, Minnesota. The funds will support an open-air shelter with restrooms, picnic areas, trails, a trailhead, and stormwater management infrastructure to protect water quality and enhance ecosystems. The state will issue up to $2 million in bonds to cover this appropriation, as authorized under Minnesota bonding statutes. The Metropolitan Council will administer the grant to the city of Woodbury for these park improvements.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands the powers of Minnesota's Climate Innovation Financing Authority by allowing it to borrow money, sell financial instruments like notes and mortgages, and accept gifts or grants to fund climate projects. The legislation requires the authority to prioritize financing for greenhouse gas emission reduction projects across all regions of the state while coordinating with existing federal and state programs to avoid duplication. Key provisions include authority duties to develop eligibility standards, implement consumer protections, measure project impacts on low-income communities, and hire staff who reflect the communities they serve. The bill also mandates the authority to leverage private investment and stimulate demand through partnerships and targeted marketing strategies.