House Floor Session [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a moment of silent reflection and the Pledge of Allegiance. A quorum was confirmed, and the journal from the previous day was approved. The committee addressed appointments to the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board. David Asp's appointment was unanimously recommended, and Representative Quam moved to adopt the report, which passed. Charles Spivak's appointment also received unanimous support, and Quam moved for its adoption, which passed. Spivak's appointment was confirmed, effective February 4, 2026, for a term expiring January 1, 2029. Stephen Swanson's appointment was reported back with a recommendation for confirmation, and Quam moved for its adoption, which passed. Swanson's appointment was confirmed, effective July 3, 2024, for a term expiring January 3, 2028. King Banyan's appointment was similarly reported back with a recommendation for confirmation, and Quam moved for its adoption, which passed. Banyan's appointment was confirmed, effective July 2, 2025, for a term expiring January 3, 2028. The meeting then moved to the introduction of bills, with House files 3443 through 3553 read for the first time. Representative Zeleznikar moved to recall House File No. 495 from the Committee on Taxes to be re-referred to the Committee on Children and Families Finance and Policy, explaining it was a tax cut for child care. The motion passed without discussion. Representative Norris moved to recall House File No. 1597 from the Committee on Public Safety to be re-referred to the Committee on Transportation, Finance, and Policy, stating it was necessary for addressing hit-and-run accidents. The motion passed after some discussion. Representative Niska moved to suspend House rules to expedite Senate File No. 856 for its second and third readings, emphasizing the urgency of establishing an independent Office of Inspector General. A roll call was requested. Representative Norris opposed the motion, arguing that the Senate language had not been properly vetted by the House and that the bill included extensive data practices provisions requiring review by the Judiciary Committee. The meeting concluded with further discussion on the urgency of the bill and the need for proper legislative processes. The discussion included concerns about the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) being denied access to investigate incidents involving federal agents, particularly the deaths of Alex Preddy and Renee Good. Representative Moeller emphasized the importance of ensuring that the BCA handles investigations involving federal agents, asserting that federal agents are not above the law. Representative Davids questioned the claims of murder, arguing that without convictions, it is irresponsible to label the incidents as such. Moeller countered that a conviction is not necessary to assert that a murder occurred. The meeting featured emotional testimonies about the victims, with Representative Gomez sharing details about Preddy's character and criticizing the federal government's narrative. Representative Hudson attempted to refocus the discussion on the statutory language of the bill, expressing concerns about undermining federal authority. The meeting concluded with a call for support of the motion to ensure accountability and justice for the victims and their families. A speaker emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the shootings by federal immigration agents, expressing concern over the lack of transparency. Representative Duran spoke about the impact of rhetoric on local law enforcement and called for a more measured approach. Representative Long criticized the federal government's refusal to allow state investigators access to evidence related to the shootings, highlighting the importance of the BCA's involvement to maintain public trust. The meeting concluded with a vote on a motion, which resulted in 67 ayes and 66 nays, ultimately not prevailing. Announcements included a congratulatory message for the U.S. women's hockey team for winning a gold medal, particularly recognizing Minnesota players. The House then adjourned until a specified date.