State Legislatures Begin Contentious 2025 Sessions

As the 2025 legislative sessions commence across various states, governors and legislators are outlining key priorities and challenges. In Minnesota, a chaotic start marked by House Democrat boycotts has led to a court battle over quorum rules, as Governor Tim Walz aims to balance the budget through spending cuts. In Oregon, Governor Tina Kotek emphasized housing, mental health, and education, while also focusing on infrastructure and transportation funding amidst a Democrat supermajority potentially considering tax increases. Meanwhile, Washington's new Governor Ferguson is tackling a $12 billion budget gap with proposed agency cuts and bipartisan legislative goals, including public safety and youth mental health. Georgia's Governor Brian Kemp highlighted the state's resilience and presented it as a model for other states, as the legislature debates issues such as transgender student athletes. Legislators across the states are preparing for a busy and contentious session focused on budget management and key legislative goals.