St. Cloud Sun

As the Minnesota legislative session nears its end, State Representative Paul Novotny of District 30B provided an update on recent developments at the Capitol. According to Novotny, lawmakers are working under a compressed timeline after a delayed start to the session. He stated that "because Democrats stepped away for 23 days at the start of the session, we’re now facing a tight deadline to wrap up the work by Monday, May 19."

Novotny reported that despite these challenges, negotiations have led to a global budget agreement. He described this as "a framework that puts Minnesota back on solid financial footing and lays the groundwork for responsible spending." Some policy details remain unresolved as conference committees continue their work.

The representative highlighted several outcomes he attributes to House Republicans’ efforts during this session. Among them is what he called "the largest rollback of government growth in state history," which he said reduces nearly half of the structural deficit created by previous spending increases. Novotny also pointed out actions taken to block new sales and income tax increases and prevent an increase in the Provider Tax.

Other measures mentioned include maintaining support for non-public education options such as religious, charter, and homeschool students; freezing enrollment and setting a phase-out for taxpayer-funded health coverage for undocumented adults; capping the new Paid Family Leave payroll tax; and halting the Northern Lights Express project. Novotny said these steps would save taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars.

"We prevented new health mandates, fee hikes, and unchecked nonprofit spending," Novotny added.

He emphasized his commitment to constituents: "Every decision has real consequences for real people—your family, your neighbors, your community. That’s why I’m fighting hard to keep Minnesota affordable and fair."

In recognition of National Police Week, Novotny reflected on his experience as a retired patrol sergeant. He wrote: "It’s more than just a moment of recognition—it’s a time to reflect on the tremendous sacrifices made by the men and women who wear the badge, and especially those who never made it home." Across Minnesota and nationwide, events are held during this week to honor fallen officers.

The legislature passed an official House resolution designating May 15 as Peace Officer Memorial Day and May 11–17 as National Police Week. Novotny described this act as heartfelt: "It was about pausing...to say thank you to the brave men and women who protect and serve our communities, and to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice."

Novotny encouraged constituents with concerns or questions about legislation or local issues to contact him directly or follow updates via his Facebook page. He concluded by stating his commitment to ongoing dialogue with residents beyond the end of session.