2026 legislative update from Ramsey County Commissioner McMurtrey

Garrison McMurtrey

The 2026 legislative session concluded in mid-May, bringing another challenging year at the Capitol under a split government — with a tied Minnesota House and a one-seat DFL majority in the Senate. I remain grateful for the partnerships and persistence that helped secure important wins for Ramsey County residents. While not every county priority crossed the finish line, this session demonstrated once again that when local leaders, advocates, and community members stay engaged, meaningful investments in our communities are still possible. 

Among the victories this year was the extension of the Mortgage and Deed Tax that funds the Environmental Response Fund — a critical tool that helps clean up contaminated properties, protect public health, and prepare sites for future housing and economic development. The Legislature also approved funding for Human Services IT modernization, an important starter investment that will help counties deliver services more efficiently and ensure residents can access the support they need with fewer barriers and delays. 

The session also included direct investments that will make a real difference for families across Ramsey County. Lawmakers approved $5.6 million for the Family Homeless Prevention Assistance Program, helping more families remain stably housed during a time when housing insecurity continues to rise. Ramsey County Parks & Recreation also received $1.3 million to support our parks and public spaces. In addition, the Legislature approved one-time property tax refunds for homeowners making less than $143,000 annually, providing some short-term relief for families feeling the strain of rising costs. 

At the same time, this session also underscored the work that still lies ahead. Counties across Minnesota continue to face growing pressures as the federal government shifts more costs onto local governments through changes tied to the passage of HR1, particularly around SNAP and Medicaid programs. These cost shifts threaten to place additional burdens on counties that are already being asked to do more with limited resources. Counties do not print money — when responsibilities increase without sustainable funding, those pressures inevitably show up in local property taxes. 

That is why our advocacy cannot stop when the legislative session ends. We will continue fighting for stronger state partnership, sustainable solutions to property tax pressures, and the resources Ramsey County needs to meet growing community needs without leaving residents behind. Building a county that is resilient, affordable, and prepared for the future requires long-term investment and shared responsibility at every level of government. I remain committed to continuing that work alongside our communities because every resident deserves a county government that can respond to today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities.  

As always, please contact my office at 651-266-8378 or email Doua.YangHernandez@co.ramsey.mn.us if you have any comments or questions.

Commissioner McMurtrey serves residents in the following communities:
Falcon Heights and Saint Paul neighborhoods of Payne/Phalen, North End/South Como, Como Park, Frogtown, Hamline-Midway and St. Anthony Park.