The 2026 legislative session was marked by grief, unforeseen federal pressures, an omnipresent narrative around fraud, and the political realities of a year when all legislative and all state executive offices are up for election. Positively, much more was accomplished than anticipated from the start. Expectations had been set low due to all of these complex dynamics, heightened partisan divisions and the reality that the legislature was not required to pass anything this year.

This report outlines the AspireMN priorities that passed, and, areas of policy that are of interest to AspireMN members.

Due to member leadership, AspireMN represented well this session, supporting numerous hearings with expert testifiers from provider and lived experience roles, submitting many letters of support from the association and individual members, and, engaging legislators directly at the Capitol and with visits in home districts.

As content experts and community leaders, ongoing nonpartisan advocacy engagement remains a priority for all AspireMN members as we anticipate an election of a new governor and a 2027 legislative body with forty percent new legislators. Much remains to be done to assure wellbeing for children and families in community, and, AspireMN member voices are critical to shaping a more beautiful future for all.

Read full 2026 Legislative Wrap Up here