Jim Joy, Minnesota State Representative of 4B District | Official Website
Jim Joy, Minnesota State Representative of 4B District | Official Website
After nearly a month of delays, the Minnesota House of Representatives has reached an organizational agreement that will allow legislative work to resume. The impasse was caused by the absence of a quorum, which requires at least 68 members present for official business to take place. With Republicans holding 67 seats and Democrats at 66, the lack of Democratic legislators prevented the House from meeting this requirement.
The new agreement sets out several measures to move forward with legislative business, including passing a state budget and addressing other pressing issues in Minnesota. "It has been a frustrating few weeks, but I’m pleased to report that we’ve finally reached an organizational agreement in the House that will allow us to get back to work! After nearly four weeks of delays, it’s a relief to have clarity and a path forward. This agreement will ensure we can move forward with critical business—passing a state budget and tackling the challenges facing Minnesotans," said Rep. Jim Joy (R-Detroit Lakes).
Under the terms of the deal, Rep. Lisa Demuth will remain Speaker of the House for the entire 2025-26 biennium. For five weeks following the agreement, Republicans will chair all committees and hold a one-vote majority, allowing them to advance legislative priorities after weeks of inactivity.
The structure could change if an upcoming special election in Roseville results in an even split between parties. In that case, committees would shift to a co-chair system with equal membership from both parties and rotating control.
A new House Fraud and Agency Oversight Committee is also part of the agreement. It will have a permanent Republican chair and a 5-3 Republican majority throughout the biennium. The committee's mandate is to investigate fraud, waste, and abuse in state government programs.
"This deal was crucial for moving the House forward. With a state budget on the line and so much work to be done, it was imperative that we reached an agreement that would allow us to get back to business," Joy said.
Joy also noted his participation as keynote speaker during Retailers Day at the Capitol and expressed appreciation for local business leaders' contributions.
He encouraged constituents to reach out with questions or concerns by phone or email.
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