Tom Dippel

Excited to share that House File 3785 - legislation to set clear standards for e-motos - has passed out of committee. This is an important step toward keeping our public sidewalks and walking paths safe. I’ll keep working to move this bill forward. I also wanted to share a recent article from the Star Tribune that highlights this issue and why it matters: startribune.com/electric-motor…

Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with students from Valor Classical Academy and give them a tour of the Capitol. It’s always great connecting with students, answering their questions, and sharing a firsthand look at how our state government works.

Had a great conversation with Opey and Antonio from Basic Needs Inc., who are doing incredible work to fight food insecurity in our community. Organizations like theirs are making a real difference - ensuring individuals and families have access to the food they need, while treating everyone with dignity and respect.

Honored to be featured in Enterprise Minnesota Magazine. Manufacturing continues to be a cornerstone of Minnesota’s economy, supporting jobs, innovation, and communities across our state. When our manufacturers and small businesses succeed, our communities succeed.

One of our neighbors, Janet, was struck by an electric motorcycle, often called an e-moto, and suffered serious, life-changing injuries. After hearing Janet’s tragic story, she and I worked together to address this issue, so no one else is harmed while simply walking around town. That’s why I authored House File 3785, which updates Minnesota law around e-motos - because everyone deserves to feel safe in our communities.

I recently met with a constituent to talk about transportation and mobility challenges in our community. He shared that in the past, the system offered better service hours. Access to reliable transportation is especially important for people with disabilities, and I will continue advocating for those who rely on accessible and dependable transportation.

It was great meeting with nurses from our area this week at the Capitol. I appreciate them taking the time to advocate and for the important work they do in our communities every day.

Had a great conversation with local cancer advocates at the Capitol about the importance of getting pre-screened. I strongly support preventative health care and the advocates who are raising awareness and encouraging screenings that make a difference for families across our community.

I appreciated the opportunity to meet and discuss Dakota County’s legislative priorities. Listening to local leaders helps guide our work at the Capitol and ensures we’re focused on what matters most to our communities.

I’m proud to be authoring legislation that will help lower healthcare costs. This bill is centered on fairness, ensuring patients and providers are treated fairly, spend less time navigating bureaucracy, and spend more time focused on what truly matters: delivering quality care.

I appreciated the opportunity to speak with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to discuss mental health policy and the challenges families are facing. Thank you to NAMI for the important work you do for our community.

Thank you to the League of Women Voters for the opportunity to participate in the legislative interview session. These conversations provide an important opportunity for League members and the public to engage with their legislators, discuss key issues, and strengthen working relationships that help move our communities forward.

Minnesota’s economy has slowed over the past decade. As a small business owner and state representative, we need to focus on policies that help build a strong economy; which creates well-paying jobs and promotes prosperity, not government waste and higher taxes.

The USS Ward gun stood on the Capitol grounds for decades as a place of remembrance for many who came to honor the sacrifices of those who served. After years of exposure to the elements, it was removed due to its condition. I am working to have a commemorative plaque placed on the Capitol Mall so this history, and the opportunity to reflect and remember, remains part of the Capitol grounds for years to come.

Thank you to everyone in Cottage Grove, Hastings, Lake Elmo, Afton, Grant, and the surrounding communities who showed up to yesterday’s precinct caucus and made their voices heard.

I encourage you to attend our precinct caucus and be part of shaping our community. This is where your voice matters the most, with decisions that can ripple from our district through the entire party, and even up to the Republican National Convention.

Recently attended Hockey Day in Hastings—an incredible event that brought our community together for a great cause. Huge credit to former State Representative Shane Hudella, founder of United Heroes League, who raised the funds, built both the venue and the event from the ground up, and served as an outstanding host. And thank-you as well to the many volunteers who made the day possible.

I commend state and federal leaders for taking important steps toward de-escalation and cooperation. Restoring public trust requires leaders at every level to work together, remain grounded in facts, exercise restraint, and ensure transparency in their actions. fox9.com/news/president…

Recently met with a member of the Hastings School Board Chair Carrie Tate and the superintendent Dr. Kristine Wehrkamp Herman to talk about education and local priorities. Grateful for the conversation and the shared commitment to our students and schools.

Strong schools build strong communities. I recently met with the Minnesota Association of Charter Schools to talk about education and the importance of giving students, families, and educators the tools they need to succeed. Education will always be a priority.