Sandra Feist

Sandra Feist is a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, representing District 39B. A member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL), she has been serving in the legislature since her election in 2020. Feist's district encompasses parts of the northern Twin Cities metropolitan area, including the cities of Columbia Heights and New Brighton, as well as portions of Anoka, Hennepin, and Ramsey Counties. Throughout her legislative career, she has focused on various policy areas, including public safety, education, and social justice.

Early life and career

Sandra Feist was born and raised in Wisconsin, where she developed an early interest in history and politics. She pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and politics. Following her undergraduate studies, Feist relocated to New Orleans, Louisiana, where she sought to explore her passion for music by singing jazz. This artistic endeavor marked a significant chapter in her life, showcasing her diverse interests beyond politics and law.

Feist's career trajectory took a turn when she began working in immigration law. She started as a Case Manager at David Ware & Associates, where she gained valuable experience in the field. Her commitment to immigration issues would later become a central theme in her professional and political life. In 2005, while attending Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, Feist faced a significant disruption when Hurricane Katrina struck the region. The devastation caused by the hurricane prompted her to move north to Minnesota to be with family.

In Minnesota, Feist transferred to William Mitchell College of Law, where she continued her legal education. It was during this time that she met her husband, Ben. After completing her law degree, Feist established a small law firm in New Brighton in 2010, specializing in immigration law. Her work in this area allowed her to advocate for individuals navigating the complexities of the immigration system.

Feist has been actively involved in leadership roles within the American Immigration Lawyers Association at the local level. She has served as both vice chair and chair of her chapter, where she has been vocal about her views on immigration reform. Throughout her career, she has expressed both support and criticism regarding various presidential administrations' immigration policies. Feist has been particularly critical of the immigration policies implemented during the Trump administration and has advocated for reforms that address systemic issues within the immigration system.

Legislative service

Sandra Feist was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2020, succeeding two-term DFL incumbent Mary Kunesh-Podein, who opted to run for a seat in the Minnesota State Senate. Feist's election marked the beginning of her legislative career, and she was subsequently reelected in 2022. As a member of the House, she has taken on several important roles, including serving as the vice chair of the Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee. Additionally, she is a member of several other committees, including Economic Development Finance and Policy, Education Policy, and Judiciary Finance and Civil Law Committees.

In her capacity as a legislator, Feist has focused on a range of issues that impact her constituents and the broader Minnesota community. Her work on public safety has been particularly notable. She authored "The Veterans Restorative Justice Act," which aims to expand access to Veterans Treatment courts in Minnesota, reflecting her commitment to supporting veterans and addressing their unique challenges. Furthermore, she has proposed legislation to enhance state oversight of youth restorative justice programs, emphasizing the importance of prevention and intervention in addressing youth-related issues.

Feist's legislative efforts also extend to matters of social justice and police accountability. Following the murder of George Floyd, she signed a letter, alongside Representative Ilhan Omar, urging the Department of Justice to broaden its investigation into the Minneapolis Police Department. This action underscores her dedication to addressing systemic issues within law enforcement and advocating for reforms that promote accountability and transparency.

Policy focus and district

In addition to her work on public safety, Sandra Feist has championed various initiatives aimed at improving access to essential resources for students and families in her district. One of her significant legislative achievements is the authorship of bill HF2750, which mandates that Minnesota public schools provide free menstrual products in both girls' and boys' bathrooms for students in grades 4 through 12. This legislation is designed to ensure that all students, regardless of gender, have access to necessary hygiene products. The funding for this initiative is structured as a $2 per-pupil increase for each district's operating capital revenue, reflecting a commitment to addressing the needs of students comprehensively.

Feist has articulated the importance of inclusivity in her approach to menstrual health, recognizing that not all students who menstruate identify as female. This perspective highlights her awareness of the diverse needs within her constituency and her commitment to fostering an equitable environment in schools.

Beyond issues related to education and public health, Feist has also focused on homelessness and environmental protection. She has authored legislation aimed at increasing funding for homeless shelters in Hennepin County, addressing a pressing social issue that affects many individuals and families in the region. Additionally, she introduced the Boundary Waters Permanent Protection Bill, which seeks to expand the state ban on mining in sensitive areas and halt proposals for mining activities that could threaten the environment.

Feist's legislative initiatives reflect her commitment to addressing a wide array of issues that impact her constituents. Her work in the Minnesota House of Representatives demonstrates her dedication to public service and her efforts to create a positive impact within her community. As she continues her legislative career, Feist remains focused on advocating for policies that promote social justice, public safety, and access to essential resources for all Minnesotans.

In her personal life, Sandra Feist resides in New Brighton, Minnesota, with her husband, Ben, and their two children. Her family life, combined with her professional commitments, informs her perspective as a legislator and shapes her approach to the issues facing her district and the state of Minnesota. Through her work, she aims to contribute to a better future for her community and the residents she represents.