St. Paul Reporter

The 2025 legislative session has begun in St. Paul, with House Republicans emphasizing efforts to address fraud and improve oversight of state government spending. Representative Nathan Nelson (R-Mora) stated that Republican lawmakers are prepared to work on the issues facing Minnesota.

Nelson noted a lack of participation from Democratic colleagues since the start of the session nine days ago, expressing disappointment at their absence from legislative activities.

House Republicans have introduced several measures aimed at preventing fraud and ensuring responsible use of taxpayer funds. A new Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy Committee has been established, led by Representative Kristin Robbins (R–Maple Grove). The committee is tasked with investigating instances of fraud, holding state agencies accountable, and making sure public money is used as intended.

Representative Jim Nash’s House File 3 proposes “fraud notes,” which would assess new laws for potential fraud risks before they are enacted. This measure is designed to prevent problems before they occur and protect taxpayers from financial losses.

House File 2, authored by Representative Ben Davis, would require state agencies to implement stricter reporting standards, conduct site visits, and respond more quickly when there are signs of fraud. The goal is for agencies to act transparently and swiftly if fraudulent activity is suspected.

Additionally, House File 1 from Representative Patti Anderson seeks to create an independent Office of the Inspector General (OIG). This office would be empowered to stop payments if fraud is suspected, manage a fraud hotline, and hold agencies accountable for misuse or mismanagement of funds.

“These efforts are crucial to restoring trust in government and protecting taxpayer dollars. While we are leading the charge, we are calling on our colleagues across the aisle to join us in this fight against fraud. Minnesotans deserve a government that operates with integrity, transparency, and accountability, and these bills are an important step toward that goal,” Nelson said.

Nelson encouraged constituents to share their feedback about these initiatives or other legislative matters via phone or email.