Overview
- Lawmakers began the 2026 session with a joint remembrance for Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, passed a resolution in their honor, and welcomed Sen. John Hoffman back to the Capitol.
- Capitol security has been visibly tightened with metal detectors, bag scanners and more uniformed officers at major entrances.
- DFL leaders are advancing responses to Operation Metro Surge, including limits on federal-agent tactics, a path to sue over improper detentions and forgivable loans for affected small businesses after thousands of arrests and two agent-involved deaths; federal authorities have begun a drawdown.
- Republicans are prioritizing anti-fraud legislation such as an Office of Inspector General, the “Fraud Isn’t Free Act,” and rules for high‑risk programs, alongside pushes for tax conformity like no state tax on tips and overtime.
- With the Senate at 34–33 DFL and the House tied 67–67 in an election year, leaders say only cross‑party agreements can move major items to the governor before the May 18 adjournment.