Dear Neighbors,
The 2015 session is officially underway and it is a privilege and honor to once again serve you, your family, and your neighbors in St. Paul.
Session Begins
January 6th marked the first day of session as all 134 members of the House were sworn in to begin their two year terms as State Representatives. After the swearing in ceremony, we voted to elect Rep. Kurt Daudt as our new Speaker of the House, appointed some non-partisan staff to their official posts, and approved of some temporary House rules.
Having now officially moved back into the majority, our main task is to set the state’s two year budget. I am looking forward to bringing fiscal responsibility back to the Legislature after two years of reckless spending by the previous Democrat majority. My colleagues and I will work to craft a budget that serves all Minnesota and promotes job growth and opportunity for all.
Committees
Committees will begin in earnest next week. This is where the large majority of policy is crafted as we hear testimony from the public, agency experts, and public officials. I am proud to have been appointed to four committees. They include the Health and Human Services Finance, Civil Law and Data Practices, Public Safety and Crime Prevention Policy and Finance, and Health and Human Services Reform committees.
I am especially excited to serve on the Public Safety and Crime Prevention Policy and Finance committee as I have a law enforcement background. I worked for the Office of the Anoka County Sheriff for five years in the crime lab as a civilian. Later, I went to work for Target Corporation where I set up a private latent print lab in Target’s Forensic Services division. During that time I conducted fingerprint examinations as part of investigations into thefts at Target stores across the country. I’ve also worked as an evidence technician and as a criminalist specializing in latent prints.
Staying Connected
As always, feel free to stop by my office in St. Paul anytime. Please note that my office number has changed to room number 433 of the State Office Building. I am happy to discuss any questions, comments, or concerns you may have regarding legislative issues. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4237 or via email at rep.nick.zerwas@house.mn.
Once again, thank you for the opportunity to serve you and please keep an eye on your email inbox as I continue to send periodic updates on happenings here at the Legislature.
Sincerely,
Nick