West Twin Cities

Three weeks into the new Republican majority, Minnesota State Representative Dawn Gillman (R-Hutchinson) reported that work at the Capitol is progressing on key issues for constituents. In a recent update, Gillman highlighted ongoing committee hearings and discussions with colleagues and community leaders as part of efforts to address concerns across the state.

Gillman invited residents to an event titled "Protecting Prosperity in 2025," scheduled for March 14, 2025, at River House Kitchen + Drinks in Hutchinson. The gathering will include a legislative update, a question-and-answer session, and an opportunity for attendees to share their ideas.

During National FFA Week, Gillman met with members from the Dassel-Cokato area FFA chapter. She commended their dedication to leadership and agriculture. "Seeing these students proudly wearing their blue corduroy jackets reminded me how bright the future of agriculture truly is. Their dedication to leadership, farming, and agribusiness is inspiring, and I couldn’t be prouder of the hard work they’re putting in to serve their communities and build valuable skills for the future," she said. Gillman also recognized Glencoe-Silver Lake FFA members for representing Minnesota nationally.

On legislative matters, Gillman discussed House File 14 introduced by Rep. Kristin Robbins. The bill seeks a temporary pause on new spending for light rail projects until completion of the Southwest Light Rail project. According to Gillman:

"It’s not about being anti-transit, it’s about being pro-accountability: This bill isn’t trying to block progress. It’s about making sure we’re spending taxpayer money responsibly.

Light rail projects keep going over budget and missing deadlines: Take the Southwest Light Rail—it was supposed to cost $1.3B back in 2011, but now we’re looking at a price tag of $2.9B, and it won’t be done until at least 2027 (that’s nearly a decade later than originally planned!).

Bipartisan concerns: Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle are getting concerned about the management of these projects—especially Southwest Light Rail.

The Metropolitan Council’s track record: They keep asking for more money, even though they’ve missed deadlines and mismanaged the projects.

Minnesotans are feeling the squeeze: With everything from groceries to fuel costing more, taxpayers are being asked to keep footing the bill for projects that aren’t getting done on time or on budget."

House File 14 aims to increase fiscal responsibility by reassessing transit project funding before further investments are made.

Gillman also attended Sanneh Foundation’s Gala4Goals event supporting youth mentorship programs in Minnesota. She expressed appreciation for those who contributed: "Beyond the fun, this event was about something bigger: supporting the Sanneh Foundation’s incredible work—providing mentorship, education, and resources to kids who need it most. Every dollar raised is making a real difference in the lives of young people across Minnesota."

At another recent hearing on House File 22—the Parents’ Bill of Rights—Karin Miller testified in support of parental involvement in education decisions. Gillman stated:

"This bill puts into law what should already be common sense: parents know their children best, and their voices should never be ignored or dismissed."

She also voiced support for House File 12 led by Rep. Peggy Scott (R-Andover), which addresses fairness in women’s sports participation rules:

"I couldn’t be more excited to stand alongside Representative Peggy Scott (R-Andover) as she leads the charge on House File 12—because protecting fairness in women’s sports isn’t just good policy, it’s common sense."

National advocate Riley Gaines visited Minnesota's Capitol as part of broader efforts around this legislation.

Gillman encouraged constituents to reach out via phone or email with questions or concerns regarding legislative activity.