Minnesota Senate Bill SR53

Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/19/25
• Refer: 5/19/25

Caption

A Senate resolution wishing longtime mental health practitioner Ted Matthews well in retirement

Summary

SR53 is a Senate resolution honoring Ted Matthews, a longtime Minnesota mental health practitioner, for decades of service and congratulating him on his retirement. The resolution recognizes his work as a rural mental health counselor and specifically notes his efforts to help farmers and residents in rural communities, as well as his public education on mental health issues affecting those communities. The resolution does not create new programs, funding, or regulatory changes. Instead, it is a ceremonial measure that directs the Secretary of the Senate to prepare and transmit an enrolled copy to Ted Matthews as an official expression of appreciation from the Senate of the State of Minnesota.

Impact

SR53 has no direct effect on state statutes, agency authority, or appropriations. Its impact is symbolic and commemorative, formally recognizing an individual’s public service and highlighting the importance of rural mental health care and outreach to agricultural communities.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the bill is strongly positive and appreciative. The resolution is framed as a tribute to Ted Matthews’s long career, his service to farmers and rural Minnesotans, and his lasting contribution to the state, with no recorded opposition or controversy in the available materials.

Contention

There is no notable contention in the bill text, voting history, or committee materials provided. Because SR53 is a retirement commendation rather than a policy measure, it appears to have been noncontroversial and likely intended as a unanimous or broadly supported recognition of service.