News Release
ST. PAUL – Jim Knoblach officially ended his self-imposed hiatus from the Legislature Tuesday as he took the oath of office with a new class in the Minnesota House of Representatives.
The St. Cloud Republican served the House from 1996-2006 before stepping aside to return to private-sector business ventures and spend more time with his family. He was re-elected last November to represent District 14B, which encompasses eastern St. Cloud and two adjacent townships.
“The eagerness to start a new session, dig in and help make our state an even better place remains timeless,” said Knoblach, a native of St. Cloud’s north side. “It is exciting to be getting back to work in St. Paul so we can work on issues near and dear to Minnesotans, especially people in our area.”
Knoblach continued to follow legislative developments during his break from office. In 2013, he filed a lawsuit aimed at halting construction of a new $90 million legislative office building, a facility he described as unnecessary and wasteful. While that suit proved unsuccessful, Knoblach and wife, Janet, decided – with their children now adults and off at college – the time was right for a return to the House.
His role this time around will be a familiar one. Knoblach regained a post he previously held as chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, a key panel which plays a major role in determining state spending and taxes. He also will serve the Tax Committee.
“I have been disappointed with the direction of the state these past few years and am pleased to be restoring balance at the Capitol,” Knoblach said. “I look forward to representing the St. Cloud area in the Legislature, where my seniority and position as chair of the Ways and Means Committee will allow me to look out for our area.”
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