More than 1,700 bills introduced in Minnesota Senate

It may only be February, but the Capitol is humming with over 1,700 bills already introduced in the Senate. The House is finally in session as boycotting DFL members have now returned to the Capitol.
I’m committed to tackling important issues. Two pressing and connected issues are Minnesota’s fraud problem, and balancing our state budget with its projected $5.1 billion budget deficit!
Read on to learn about fraud prevention and detection efforts, how to check for unclaimed money and constituents helping shape Capitol conversations. Plus, meet my intern Sophia Mwangi, a student of International Business, who has been a fantastic addition to my Senate office team!
Please do not hesitate to contact me for help with any state issue or legislative initiative: sen.carla.nelson@mnsenate.gov or at 651-296-4848.
It is a privilege to serve you!
Senate’s Plan to Hold Government Accountable to Fraud
Unfortunately Minnesota has a history of fraud, and we must act now to prevent further misuse of public funds.
That’s why I introduced Senate File (SF) 981. SF 981 strengthens grant management by enforcing stricter audits, conflict-of-interest rules, and background checks for state-funded nonprofits.
Actually, I introduced this legislation last year as well but it was not given a hearing. With the continued exposure of massive fraud and misuse of taxpayer funds, I’m expecting greater interest in government accountability for taxpayer dollars.
Other anti-fraud efforts I’m supporting include:
SF 538 — Creating a central grant database.
SF 1123 — Implementing surprise audits.
SF 475 — Expanding whistleblower protections.
SF 730 — To restore public access to closed investigations.
SF 263 Requiring agencies to follow the Legislative Auditor’s recommendations.
SF TBA — Stronger penalties for employees failing to report fraud & a statewide “DO NOT PAY” list for barred entities.
This package is a bold step toward restoring trust in government. As elected senators and representatives, it is our duty to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used wisely.
Check for Unclaimed Money —It Could Be Yours!
Did you know the State of Minnesota may be holding unclaimed money or property that belongs to you? The Minnesota Department of Commerce safeguards unclaimed funds until their rightful owners claim them. Take a moment to check if you have unclaimed property—it’s quick, easy, and could lead to a pleasant surprise!
Search for your name today: mn.gov/commerce/money/unclaimed-property
Ensuring Minnesotans receive what’s rightfully theirs is just one way I’m working for you!
Meet my Intern: Sophia Mwangi
Sophia is currently a sophomore at the University of St. Thomas, majoring in International Business. It has been such a help having her at the capitol. Sophia has been enjoying her time seeing the behind the scenes here in the Senate and has said her favorite part of interning here is that no two days are the same — isn’t that the truth! Welcome Sophia, you are a great addition to the team for our 2025 session!
Capitol Conversations: Meeting with constituents
Engaging with constituents is at the heart of effective representation, and I always welcome the opportunity to hear directly from the people I serve. Whether it’s discussing legislative priorities, addressing community concerns, or exchanging ideas, these conversations help shape the policies that impact Minnesotans every day.
I had the privilege of meeting with local banking leaders as part of Bank Day at the Capitol. Our discussion highlighted the vital role community banks play in supporting Minnesota’s families, businesses, and economy. A special thanks to Chris Ryan and Tom Monson for taking the time to share their insights and perspectives. I appreciate their dedication to serving our communities, and I look forward to working together to promote financial stability and growth across Minnesota.
It was a pleasure to meet with Minnesota’s credit union leaders for Credit Union Day at the Capitol. We had a great discussion about the important role credit unions play in empowering Minnesotans with financial resources and community-focused banking. A special thanks to everyone who stopped by—and I have to say, I especially loved the scarf! It was the perfect touch for braving this cold Minnesota weather. I appreciate the work credit unions do to support their members, and I look forward to continuing our collaboration.
It was great to meet with Minnesota’s dedicated athletic trainers for Athletic Trainers Day at the Capitol. Their work keeps athletes safe, healthy, and performing at their best—both on and off the field. A big thank you for sharing insights and for their advocacy. Your dedication to injury prevention and recovery makes a real difference in our communities!
I had a valuable conversation with Dr. Timothy Olsen, an ophthalmologist from my district, during The Minnesota Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons (MAEPS) Advocacy Day at the Capitol. Access to high-quality vision care is essential for the well-being of Minnesotans, and I appreciate their dedication to advocating for policies that support both patients and providers. A special thank you for taking the time to share insights and priorities—I look forward to continuing the discussion on strengthening eye care across our state!
Sen. Carla Nelson represents District 24 in the Minnesota State Senate. District 24 includes Dodge County and portions of Olmsted County, including Byron.