Friends and neighbors,
As the fall weather is clearly upon us, we have another weekend full of outdoor activities before the winter season sets in. Our two high school football teams both take the field tonight in section semi-final games. We wish the Crimson and Orioles well tonight!
Sprinkler Mandate Update
In 2014, the legislature – both Republicans and Democrats – defeated a bill to mandate the installation of fire sprinkler systems in large homes.
Despite this bipartisan opposition, the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry ignored the legislature's action and approved the mandate. This is extremely disappointing – unelected bureaucrats should not have more power than the elected officials that represent the best interests of the people.
The local Builder’s Association fought this in the courtroom and won. The court sided with the legislators and the Association, finding that the mandate was nonsensical and unnecessary.
However, the Department of Labor and Industry may appeal this ruling, putting taxpayers on the line for legal fees resulting from challenging a sound judicial ruling.
I am encouraged by the court’s recent ruling. While sprinkler systems are undoubtedly effective safety tools, homeowners and builders should not be on the hook for increased taxes and housing costs. I will continue to fight against unelected bureaucrats imposing costly mandates on Minnesota families and businesses.
Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 150 Years of Cargill
This past week I attended the celebration of Cargill’s 150th anniversary, hosted by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. The celebration included discussion on the business climate in Minnesota and how businesses – small and large – can continue to grow. About 47% of all Minnesota employers are trying to add jobs in the next 12 months. I am committed to continue to introduce pro-business legislation in the next session to allow our businesses to innovate and grow using market forces. We are blessed with many outstanding businesses in our district and in this great state and we need to do all we can to keep them here.
Halloween Festivities this Saturday
We know we are nearing the end of fall when Halloween festivities start. There is a great Halloween event on Main Street in Arbor Lakes this Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. I am looking forward to seeing you out there for the costume contest, trick-or-treating, and the other fun activities planned.
If you would like to discuss these or any other issues, please feel free to contact me via email at Rep.Dennis.Smith@house.mn, or via phone at (651) 296-5502. I look forward to seeing you at football games and fall celebrations!
Have a great weekend!
Rep. Dennis Smith