2025 LEGISLATIVE PREVIEW
Feature
Sen. Carla Nelson
DISTRICT 24
What do you foresee as the most pressing issue impacting the Rochester area business community that can be addressed in the 2025 legislative session? Affordability is the biggest challenge facing Rochester's business community. The earned sick and family leave mandates passed by Democrats in 2023 are a clear example of how the legislature can add strain to both entrepreneurs and workers. While well-intended to help employees, employers everywhere tell me the high costs of these programs are a serious concern. Many local businesses already offered customized benefits that worked really well for their employees, and the expensive ‘one-size-fits-all’ mandate removes flexibility and adds unnecessary pressure – especially on small businesses.
The hefty fines for noncompliance only add to the burden. With Minnesota already carrying a high tax burden, these costly mandates make it even harder for businesses to thrive.
I hope we can improve these programs. One idea is to explore models that allow private insurance options to administer these benefits, as other states do, instead of a state agency run program. This approach would keep costs manageable, helping our local economy remain strong and resilient.
Small businesses need breathing room — not added regulations. My focus is on balanced solutions that support both businesses and employees, and that make Minnesota more economically competitive.
What are your expectations for the 2025 legislative session? Are there any proposed bills or potential legislation that the business community should be aware of? We will pass a new two-year state budget in 2025, and we cannot repeat the mistakes of 2023, when Democrats implemented a reckless 40% increase in government spending and nearly $10 billion in tax hikes. We need a return to practical, responsible budgeting that supports Minnesota’s workers and entrepreneurs. Our next two-year budget must reflect Minnesota’s priorities without raising taxes or imposing mandates that hinder economic growth. I’ll push for policies that allow businesses to grow and thrive without unnecessary compliance burdens or regulatory hurdles. We have to create an environment where businesses feel confident to invest, expand, and create jobs for Minnesotans. What are your top priorities for the 2025 legislative session? My top priorities are supporting small businesses and workers, promoting responsible budgeting, and making our economy more affordable. We need to reverse unsustainable spending and align with a budget that avoids tax hikes and lessens burdens on businesses. As a small business owner, I know firsthand the challenges of operating here. I’m committed to streamlining our regulatory environment and preventing mandates that stifle growth. I’ll work to make Minnesota a business-friendly state by supporting lower taxes, advocating for innovative workforce training, and investing in community-based economic growth. In the past, I’ve led initiatives like the Pathways in Technology (PTech) program and supported programs like Business Development Public Infrastructure that accomplish these goals. As chair of the Taxes Committee and a member of the Jobs Committee, I’ve always focused on expanding economic opportunities for all Minnesotans. I’m honored to be recognized as a “Guardian of Small Businesses” by the National Federation of Independent Businesses for my support of Minnesota’s small business owners. I’ll continue championing policies that strengthen our economy, create jobs, and make Minnesota a great place where businesses thrive.
DECEMBER 2024 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 13
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