Dear Neighbor,

The 2026 legislative session begins this coming Tuesday and I’m excited to dig in at the Capitol after spending the last several months back home receiving input from local residents on a variety of issues.

At just 12 weeks, this session is going to fly by, so we better hit the ground running. Let’s hope the 2026 session gets off to a better start than 2025 did when the former majority boycotted the first 23 days of session.

In the end, it’s good that we restored balance at the Capitol last year. Not only did we end the reckless spending and unnecessary tax increases Minnesotans suffered under two years of one-party control in St. Paul, but we also reversed some radical policies.

Personally, I am proud multiple bills I authored were signed into law, including:

  • H.F. 286 cracking down on sex trafficking at adult entertainment businesses and massage parlors.
  • H.F. 2229 funding rural residency programs at CentraCare to address the critical shortage of rural physicians and healthcare workers in Greater Minnesota (passed with omnibus higher education package H.F. 2431).
  • H.F. 320 allowing auto dealers to participate in shows outside of the counties where they’re licensed.

What’s on tap

This is not an official budget year, with the state fully funded through the end of this two-year cycle. That means we will have more time this session to focus on addressing other important subjects, such as cracking down on fraud that has been running wild in Minnesota, costing taxpayers billions of dollars.

We need to tighten things up because Minnesotans deserve a government that respects their hard-earned money, makes sure programs actually help those who need a help, and holds crooks accountable. Let’s start by revisiting the very first bill we introduced last session (H.F. 1). I co-authored this bill that would create a new Office of the Inspector General, operating as an independent office with law enforcement authority.

Unfortunately, the other party blocked this bill from passing the House even though it received overwhelming bipartisan approval in the Senate. That was too bad because we need basic, common-sense reforms that strengthen oversight and accountability in state programs. No more excuses and no more partisan games. Let’s just do what’s best for Minnesota taxpayers.

Let’s talk

I may be spending more time at the Capitol between now and our May 17 adjournment, but I also will continue meeting with constituents whether it’s back home or in St. Paul. Please let me know if you or a group you are associated with would like to meet and we’ll see what can be arranged.

Committee work

As was the case last year, I continue serving as co-vice chair of the Commerce Finance and Policy Committee and also am a member of the committee on Health Finance and Policy. We once again face significant challenges in those areas, and I will pass along more notes on those issues as the session unfolds.

Local meetings

Local meetings

Partners in Excellence Autism Therapy Center tour with staff

Bernie Perryman 14A

MN School Bus Operator’s Association Conference held in St. Cloud

Bernie Perryman 14A

St. Cloud Public Safety Foundation with local law enforcement and Subaru staff celebrating the share the love coat and hat giveaway to those in need

Bernie Perryman 14A

Foundations Children Autism tour with staff

Bernie Perryman 14A

St. Cloud Big Brothers and Sisters tour

Bernie Perryman 14A

Helpful House links

Here are some links you may find helpful in following the latest goings on at the Capitol:

Please Contact Me

It’s an honor and privilege to work for you at the Capitol. Don’t hesitate to contact my office at any time this session to share your thoughts, concerns or ideas. You can call me at 651-296-6316, or email me at rep.bernie.perryman@house.mn.gov. I am here to serve you!

Bernie

Bernie Perryman 14A