Legislative Update: Minnesota Supreme Court Rules on House Quorum, Shaping Power Struggle at the Capitol

The Minnesota Supreme Court issued a unanimous (6-0) ruling last Friday, declaring that a quorum in the Minnesota House of Representatives requires 68 legislators—a decision that nullifies all actions taken by House Republicans since the start of the legislative session on January 14.

Background

The 2025 legislative session opened with a dramatic standoff. On January 14, all 67 House Republicans appeared in the chamber, while all 66 House Democrats were absent. Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon declared that the House lacked a quorum, stating that 68 members were required to conduct official business. House Republicans, disagreeing with Simon’s interpretation, proceeded to elect Rep. Lisa Demuth (R-Cold Spring) as Speaker and establish GOP-led committees.

For over a week, House Republicans continued to hold daily sessions, while House Democrats refused to attend. The legal battle over the quorum requirement culminated in yesterday’s Minnesota Supreme Court oral arguments, and today’s ruling confirmed the Democratic position: 68 members are required for a valid quorum.

Key Takeaways from the Ruling

• The Court ruled 6-0 in favor of the Democratic argument that a quorum in the House requires 68 legislators.
• All Republican-led House actions since January 14 are nullified, including the election of Rep. Demuth as Speaker, committee assignments, and bill introductions.
• The ruling strengthens the Democrats’ negotiating position in ongoing power-sharing discussions but does not resolve the political stalemate at the Capitol.
• The House cannot function without at least one Democrat joining the 67 Republicans in the chamber to reach the 68-member quorum.

What Happens Next?

Secretary of State Steve Simon has been presiding in the House chamber, but with House Democrats refusing to attend, he has not declared a quorum. Until at least one Democrat joins the 67 Republicans, no official legislative business can proceed. The standoff is expected to continue until either a power-sharing agreement is reached or the March 3 special election in District 40B determines the final composition of the House.

This ruling has significant implications for legislative negotiations moving forward, as neither party has full control over the House agenda. The Irrigators Association of Minnesota will continue to monitor developments closely as this unprecedented session unfolds..