Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF854

Introduced
2/17/25  
Refer
2/17/25  
Report Pass
4/7/25  
Engrossed
4/22/25  

Caption

Kandiyohi County; Trunk Highway 23 segment designated as Sergeant Joshua A. Schmit Memorial Highway.

Impact

The passage of this bill will amend Minnesota Statutes to officially mark the highway segment in question. This amendment will not only bring attention to the dedication of public servants but will also encourage efforts to honor local heroes within the state. Furthermore, it could inspire other regions to consider similar recognitions, fostering a culture of remembrance across Minnesota. The bill will enable the commissioner to adopt a suitable design and install the appropriate signage for the designated highway, thus formalizing the recognition.

Summary

House Bill 854 aims to designate a specific segment of marked Trunk Highway 23 in Kandiyohi County as the 'Sergeant Joshua A. Schmit Memorial Highway'. This bill recognizes and commemorates the contributions and service of Sergeant Joshua A. Schmit, in a manner that honors his legacy within the local community and beyond. The designation is significant as it creates a physical reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals in service to their country and highlights the importance of supporting veterans' recognition in various forms.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HF854 appears to be positive, as it reflects a community's desire to pay tribute to local heroes. While the specifics of the discussions and debates surrounding this bill are not heavily documented, the act of designating a memorial highway typically garners support from various stakeholders, including local government officials, veterans' groups, and community activists. Such initiatives are usually seen as unifying efforts within a community to collectively honor their local heroes.

Contention

Notable points of contention are not prevalent for this bill, as memorial designations generally receive broad support. However, there may be discussions regarding the costs associated with signage and maintenance, as well as debates about prioritizing similar designations against other potential state transportation projects. Critics might raise concerns over whether funds used for such commemorations could be better allocated towards pressing infrastructure improvements.

Additional_points

Overall, HF854 represents a simple yet profound act of recognition for a fallen hero, triggering a community-driven initiative to celebrate the life and contributions of Sergeant Joshua A. Schmit through an enduring public memorial.

Companion Bills

MN SF580

Similar To Kandiyohi County Trunk Highway 23 segment designation as Joshua Schmidt Memorial Highway

Previously Filed As

MN HF1968

Waseca County; marked Trunk Highway 13 segment designated as Caleb L. Erickson Memorial Highway.

MN HF717

Chanhassen; Trunk Highway 5 segment designated as Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway, and Augie Mueller Memorial Highway modified.

MN SF279

Chanhassen Trunk Highway 5 segment designation as Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway

MN HF3797

Portion of marked U.S. Highway 14 designated as Robert Beussman Memorial Highway.

MN SF890

Kandiyohi County State-Aid Highways 55, 5 and 15 highway-rail grade separation bond issue and appropriation

MN HF3437

Plymouth; Michael Gau Memorial Bridge over U.S. Highway 169 on Hennepin County State-Aid Highway 9 designated.

MN HF894

Kandiyohi County; County State-Aid Highways 55, 5, and 15 highway-rail grade separation funding provided; bonds issued; and money appropriated.

MN SF1673

Winona County Trunk Highway 74 segment resurfacing appropriation

MN HF4237

U.S. Highway 169 portion between Marble and Mountain Iron designated as "Senator David J. Tomassoni Memorial Cross Range Expressway."

MN HF3904

Granite Falls; bridge on marked U.S. Highway 212 over Minnesota River designated as "Mayor Dave Smiglewski Memorial Bridge."

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.