Dotseth is sworn in; receives assignments

Fresh from his oath of office, Rep. Jeff Dotseth promised on Tuesday to represent all of his constituents during the newly opened session of the Minnesota State Legislature

"It's an honor to represent the people of our district at the Capitol," said Dotseth, R-Kettle River, in a news release. "I thank my constituents for entrusting me with this incredible responsibility and will do my level best to represent all the people of our district. It was a heartfelt swearing-in ceremony - humbling beyond belief - and now I look forward to advocating for our local values as we get down to business in the House."

Dotseth was elected to the House in November and fills the newly configured District 11A seat. The district includes all of Carlton County, and the northern portion of Pine and southern St. Louis counties.

A real estate agent by trade, Dotseth was selected to serve the House committees on commerce and housing during his first biennium.

"These committee assignments are right in my wheelhouse," Dotseth said. "My personal background and perspectives will allow me to bring good, common-sense ideas to the table in the House. Let's make Minnesota an even better place to live, work, go to school and operate a business."

With Democrats in control of all three levers of power at the Capitol, the agenda has shifted. And DFL leaders highlighted some of their top priorities Tuesday.

Efforts to codify the right to an abortion, conform the state tax code to federal law and ban conversion therapy for LGBTQ youth are at the top of the docket. The goal is to pass the early tax bill next week.

Lawmakers will also deal with how to use the state's record $17.6 billion budget surplus.

Reach Rep. Dotseth at his legislative office by calling (651) 296-4308 or by emailing [email protected].