Representative Wayne Johnson- District 41A

2025 Session Accomplishments

Wayne Johnson 41A

The 2025 legislative session was historic in many ways — from the first tied House since 1979 to the largest budget reduction in State history. This led to a legislative year that will be remembered for a long time.

With all that said, I want to highlight not just what we accomplished, but also what we prevented.

We began the session with a budget forecast projecting a surplus in 2026, followed by a $6 billion deficit by 2028. The question was not whether to act, but how and when. While my colleagues across the aisle pushed for tax increases, I’ve always believed raising taxes SHOULD NOT be the first solution. That’s why we worked hard to stop billions in new spending — and ultimately succeeded in reducing the overall budget by $5 billion.

My focus throughout the session was on writing meaningful legislation — bills that would truly benefit our communities and avoid unintended consequences down the road. Some of those bills passed; others didn’t. I also proudly co-authored legislation aimed at supporting small business owners, improving infrastructure like the new road in Cottage Grove, supporting law enforcement, and strengthening our schools — such as initiatives to improve bus safety. While not every proposal made it across the finish line, I will continue to fight.

As we look ahead to 2026, new challenges will emerge. I remain committed to serving you — and, if given the opportunity, continuing that service in the years ahead.

As always, I welcome your questions, feedback, and ideas on how we can keep our community and Minnesota moving forward.

Workforce & Jobs

Authored: House File 2258

2026 Special Olympics USA Games funding provided, and money appropriated.

Authored: House File 1965

Small business assistance partnership program funding provided.

Co-Authored: House File 1439

Minnesota Grocers Association Foundation grant funding provided for the Carts to Careers initiative, and money appropriated.

Co-Authored: House File 1355

Permit holders harvesting or destroying aquatic plants required to safely use scuba diving equipment, and commercial diving operation requirements established.

Co-Authored: House File 1004

Minnesota Helmets to Hardhats program funding provided, and money appropriated.

Co-Authored: House File 2238

Commissioner directed to approve youth skills training programs in construction trades.

Public Safety

Authored: House File 2259

Violent crime enforcement teams funding provided, and money appropriated.

Education

Authored: House File 1293

School bus stop-signal arm camera systems funding provided, and money appropriated.

Co-Authored: House File 1982

Active transportation safety training deadlines eliminated.

Co-Authored: House File 1284

School district noncompliance with unfunded mandates allowed.

Pensions & Taxes

Authored: House File 0238

Unpaid special assessment interest accrual rate modified, refunds on interest payments required, and technical changes made.

Co-Authored: House File 1582

Teachers Retirement Association; unreduced retirement annuity upon reaching age 60 with 30 years of service provided, early retirement reduction factors for annuity commencement before normal retirement age modified, postretirement adjustments increased, other various retirement provisions modified, and money appropriated.

Co-Authored: House File 0168

Process for seniors to receive an advance credit of the homestead credit refund established, and advance credit established.

Environment & Energy

Authored: House File 0701

Louisville Township anaerobic digestor township system funding provided, and money appropriated.

Co-Authored: House File 1066

Appropriation for soil and water conservation district aid increased.

Bonding

Authored: House File 1196

Washington County; road improvements funding provided, bonds issued, and money appropriated.