Sen. Nathan Wesenberg

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment to Minnesota that would exempt local governments and school districts from complying with state mandates unless the state provides funding to cover the costs of compliance. The amendment defines a state mandate as any requirement that affects daily operations, changes resource allocation, or alters spending priorities for local entities. If passed, local governments could formally refuse to comply with unfunded mandates by passing a resolution, which would then be reported to state budget committees annually. The bill also establishes a process for agencies to challenge these noncompliance resolutions through contested case hearings. This measure would take effect on January 1, 2027, if approved by voters at the 2026 general election.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a $1 million grant program for Minnesota public school districts to integrate firearms safety, archery, hunting, and angling into physical education courses. School districts must apply for grants to fund these activities, which must align with state PE standards, and the program requires geographic balance in selecting participating schools. Funds cover staff training, equipment, student licenses, and curriculum development, with a one-time fiscal year 2027 appropriation. A report on program outcomes must be submitted to the legislature by January 2027.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $12,189,000 from state bond proceeds to fund infrastructure improvements in Palisade's clean water and wastewater systems. It directly affects Palisade residents by financing a new water treatment plant, well rehabilitation, valve replacements, and wastewater facility upgrades. The key mechanism authorizes the state to issue bonds up to this amount to provide the funds for these specific projects. The money will cover predesign, construction, and equipment for both clean water (including water storage tanks) and sewer system improvements. The bill requires the Public Facilities Authority to administer the grant to the city.

Maddy summaryThis bill would allow new white-tailed deer farms in Minnesota by removing a current prohibition on registering new farms for this species. It directly affects farmers and agricultural businesses that wish to raise white-tailed deer for commercial purposes. The key provision amends existing animal health laws to permit new registrations while maintaining requirements for mandatory registration with the Board of Animal Health and seizure of unregistered animals. The bill also allows existing registrants to transfer their permits to immediate family members for a one-time fee, but does not change rules about revoked registrations or animal seizure procedures.

Maddy summaryThis bill would eliminate Minnesota's child care assistance program by repealing numerous existing state statutes that govern its operation and administration. The legislation directly affects families who currently receive financial support for child care services and the agencies responsible for managing the program. Key provisions include removing specific legal definitions, payment structures, and regulatory requirements related to child care assistance, with the changes taking effect on July 1, 2027. The bill also directs state officials to identify and remove all references to the program from the state code by February 1, 2027.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Minnesota's requirements for marking shelters left on ice overnight, specifically targeting fish houses, dark houses, and other ice shelters. It mandates that each side of these structures must display reflective material covering at least 144 square inches to improve visibility. The change applies to anyone who leaves these shelters on the ice overnight in Minnesota waters. This update aims to enhance safety by ensuring better visibility of ice shelters during nighttime hours.

Maddy summaryThis bill extends the expiration date of the food and beverage tax in the City of Little Falls from its original timeline to July 1, 2056. It directly affects the city's ability to collect this tax and impacts businesses and consumers within Little Falls who currently pay the tax. The legislation amends existing state law to update the expiration provision and includes an effective date that depends on the city's compliance with specific administrative requirements. The bill does not change the tax rate or scope, only the duration for which the taxing authority remains valid.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows school resource officers (SROs) who volunteer their services without pay to reduce their Minnesota state income tax. It creates a tax subtraction equal to the number of volunteer hours multiplied by the hourly wage a paid SRO would earn, based on IRS-reported rates. To claim this, volunteers must provide documentation from their school confirming hours worked and the applicable wage rate. The policy directly affects unpaid SRO volunteers and the schools that verify their service. It takes effect for tax years beginning after December 31, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates iron ore as the official state mineral of Minnesota. It requires the Office of the Secretary of State to preserve a photograph and a typical specimen of iron ore for public display. The legislation applies to state government records and adds this designation to the Minnesota Statutes.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases funding for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and modifies how certain agricultural programs are financed. It directly affects farmers, ranchers, county agricultural inspectors, and the state agency that manages these programs. The legislation raises the total appropriation for agriculture from $58,957,000 to $59,306,000 for 2026 and 2027, with specific increases for soil health assistance, livestock and wildlife damage compensation, laboratory equipment, meat inspection services, and county inspector grants. Key provisions include allowing the commissioner to use a percentage of funds for administrative costs, extending grant availability dates, and adjusting compensation amounts for livestock destroyed by wolves and elk.