By Rich Larson
The Minnesota Legislature entered a high‑intensity phase last week as lawmakers worked long floor sessions and advanced a slate of major policy measures with the constitutional adjournment deadline approaching.
Rep. Kristi Pursell, D‑Northfield, said House members are now routinely working into the evening, with floor sessions stretching past 9 p.m. on several nights. Formal sessions begin at either 11 a.m. or 1 p.m., often preceded by early‑morning meetings. Next week, lawmakers are scheduled to be on the House floor every day through Sunday as the final week of the session unfolds. By law, the second year of the biennium must adjourn by midnight heading into Monday, May 18.
Among the notable actions last week was the Legislature’s progress on a long‑awaited update to Minnesota’s homeowners association laws. The measure, last revised in 1992, adds new consumer protections and guardrails for common interest communities. Pursell said she has heard from constituents who experienced predatory HOA practices and described the bill as a necessary modernization.
The House also passed legislation creating an Office of Inspector General to strengthen oversight and anti‑fraud efforts in state government. The proposal, developed by a bipartisan, bicameral working group, now heads to conference committee to reconcile House and Senate versions before it can be sent to Gov. Tim Walz.
Other actions referenced last week include new restrictions on crypto kiosks following reports of large‑scale scams, a 21‑and‑over age requirement for kratom purchases, a ban on predictive political wagering, and increased penalties for impersonating a police officer. Lawmakers also approved additional funding for the Attorney General’s Medicaid fraud unit.
The Legislature also observed several ceremonial and advocacy events, including Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives Day and the adoption of a proclamation recognizing Taiwan.
One unresolved issue drawing attention is a Senate‑passed gun violence prevention package that has not yet formally arrived in the House. With physical paperwork required before action can begin, House members said they are still waiting for the bill to be officially received.
With only days remaining, lawmakers are preparing for an all‑out push to finish their work before time runs out.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
