NW Minnesota News

A week after a shooting at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis that resulted in the deaths of two children and injuries to several others, state officials are considering legislative action. Governor Tim Walz has announced plans to call a special session focused on gun laws. However, Rep. John Burkel emphasized that while the governor can call a special session, he cannot control its agenda or duration without legislative agreement.

Rep. Burkel noted, "Governor Walz has already said he is calling a special session for the legislature to deal with 'gun laws.' Regardless of your feelings on this topic, there is one fact that cannot be argued: a governor can only call a special session. He cannot solely determine the topics that can be discussed during it, or tell lawmakers when it will end, unless there is agreement from the legislature."

He also highlighted the current political balance in Minnesota’s legislature, pointing out that bipartisan cooperation will be necessary for any bill to pass.

In response to recent events and ongoing concerns about school safety, House Republicans have introduced an agenda aimed at protecting students and addressing mental health needs. The proposals include expanding safety funding to non-public schools, offering security grants and flexible funding for safety improvements, ensuring School Resource Officers are available at every school, repealing restrictions on doctors’ medical judgment regarding treatment options, increasing funding for mental health treatment beds, and establishing mandatory minimum sentences for repeat gun offenders and straw purchasers.

Rep. Burkel stated: "With that in mind, House Republicans unveiled a school safety agenda this week that will protect students, provide desperately needed mental health care, and hold criminals who commit the vast majority of gun violence accountable – all of which should appeal to Minnesotans regardless of their political preference."

He added: "It is my hope the governor isn’t considering a special session to score political points. We need a multi-layered approach that tackles the root causes of school violence, from untreated mental health to gaps in school security. There are plenty of broadly supported reforms that will keep our schools and our communities safe, and approving them should be our focus."

Additionally, Rep. Burkel encouraged high school juniors interested in government to apply for the Minnesota House High School Page program. Participants will have opportunities such as attending committee hearings and House floor sessions.