West Twin Cities

With the 2025 legislative session approaching its final weeks, lawmakers at the Capitol are moving toward completing budget bill negotiations. Minnesota State Representative Bobbie Harder (R-Carver) stated her ongoing focus is to serve her district, highlighting efforts on behalf of farmers, infrastructure improvements, and what she described as commonsense policies.

Harder reported meeting with students during MCCL’s Student Day at the Capitol on Monday. The event provided young Minnesotans an opportunity to participate in the legislative process and express their views on protecting the unborn. "I especially enjoyed my conversation with Jada Weverka, an 8th grader from Hamburg who attends Central Middle School in Norwood Young America. It’s always encouraging to see the next generation speaking up for life and getting involved in civic leadership," Harder said.

On Tuesday, Harder participated in Three Rivers Park District Day at the Capitol. She noted that the district promotes outdoor recreation and wildlife conservation throughout the region. "One of the highlights of their visit is always the animals they bring along – this year, the goats and lambs stole the show! It’s a fun reminder of the importance of connecting people with nature and preserving Minnesota’s natural beauty," she added.

Wednesday included presenting a bonding bill before the Capital Investment Committee for New Auburn in Sibley County. The proposed legislation aims to fund upgrades to water and wastewater infrastructure. Harder explained that these improvements are necessary for public health and support local families: "I was glad to stand alongside local leaders and advocate for this important investment in our rural communities."

She also mentioned that video of this committee hearing is available on her legislative Facebook page.

On Thursday, House members debated several major budget and policy bills concerning state and local government operations. Harder announced that her bill, House File 2231, was part of a larger package being considered by lawmakers. "This bill ensures that important public notices remain accessible by requiring them to be published in a qualified newspaper when available – and allowing for online publication when one is not. For rural and small-town communities, this helps protect transparency and keeps citizens informed, even when local print options are limited," she said.