West Twin Cities

Minnesota State Representative Dawn Gillman of District 17A provided an update to constituents as the legislative session concludes and a special session approaches. Gillman, who serves as Co-Vice Chair of the Human Services Finance and Policy Committee and is a member of both the Environment and Natural Resources Committee and the Health Finance and Policy Committee, discussed her ongoing work on issues affecting families in her district.

She highlighted her involvement in addressing access to care, support for seniors and people with disabilities, environmental protection, and ensuring rural representation at the Capitol. “As Co-Vice Chair of the Human Services Finance and Policy Committee, and as a member of the Environment and Natural Resources and Health Finance and Policy Committees, I’ve had the privilege to dig into the real issues families are facing—access to care, support for seniors and those with disabilities, protecting our lakes and farmland, and ensuring rural voices are heard loud and clear in St. Paul,” Gillman said.

Gillman expressed disappointment over delays that led to a special session but emphasized her focus on moving forward. “Was this session frustrating at times? Yes. The fact that we’re now heading into a special session is disheartening—and frankly, it didn’t have to be this way. We lost valuable time early on that we’ll never get back. But what matters now is how we move forward. There’s still work to do, and I’m here to do it,” she stated.

She reiterated her commitment to passing a budget designed around community needs without increasing burdens on families or local governments: “I’m committed to helping pass a budget that reflects compassion, responsibility, and common sense—one that delivers the services our communities rely on, without burdening families and local governments with unfunded mandates or higher taxes.”

Gillman also noted recent visits from students at New Discoveries Montessori Academy in Hutchinson as well as family members during busy days at the Capitol. She described these moments as reminders of why she serves: “It means so much to me to have family close during these busy days, and sharing a bit of this experience with them reminds me why I work so hard—to build a better future for the people I love and serve.”

As preparations continue for the special session, Gillman said she remains active in working groups focused on advancing policies important for local communities. She mentioned serving alongside Senator Hoffman in one such group: “And here’s a fun twist: I’m pictured with Chair Senator Hoffman, who’s actually my cousin through marriage! It’s a small world, but having family at the Capitol makes the work feel even more personal and rewarding. Together, we’re committed to getting results that truly help Minnesotans!”

Gillman closed by thanking residents of District 17A for their engagement throughout her term: “To everyone back home in 17A: thank you for walking alongside me through this journey...I will continue to serve you with integrity and heart.”