Housing First Minnesota, the state’s leading voice for housing, has named Sen. Jordan Rasmusson (R-Fergus Falls) a 2025 Legislator of the Year. The honor recognizes his leadership during the 2025 legislative session to advance housing affordability and homeownership opportunities for Minnesotans.

The award was presented on Friday, Oct. 24, during Housing First Minnesota’s annual Building Industry Gala at Mystic Lake Center. The event celebrates excellence in the housing industry and recognizes members who contribute to building and remodeling homes across Minnesota.

“Senator Rasmusson demonstrated steadfast leadership in tackling Minnesota’s housing challenges during this past session,” said Mark Foster, vice president of legislative affairs for Housing First Minnesota. “As one of the architects of the bipartisan Yes to Homes agenda, he championed policies that would break down barriers to homeownership—such as limiting exclusionary aesthetic mandates—showing a clear commitment to expanding housing opportunities for everyone across Minnesota.”

Minnesota currently faces a housing shortage of more than 100,000 homes, leaving many families priced out of homeownership. According to the Minnesota Housing Partnership’s 2025 State Housing Profile, 642,455 residents spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing. Zoning rules such as minimum lot-size requirements, aesthetic mandates, and parking minimums have increased construction costs and limited the availability of starter homes.

“I am grateful to Housing First Minnesota for their recognition and partnership in addressing our state’s housing challenges,” said Rasmusson. “Families across Minnesota are eager to buy their first home, but too often government regulations stand in the way. Working together across government and the housing industry is key to helping more Minnesota families achieve the dream of homeownership.”

To address these challenges, Rasmusson championed the Minnesota Starter Home Act, a key component of the bipartisan Yes to Homes agenda. The measure is designed to streamline zoning rules and reduce regulatory barriers that limit homeownership. The plan focuses on cutting government red tape, opening the free market, and protecting property rights. It includes policies to make it easier to build starter homes, duplexes, townhomes, and accessory dwelling units across Minnesota.

While these reforms did not become law in 2025, Rasmusson emphasized that the bipartisan coalition he helped lead has laid the foundation for future success. 

“Last session, we built tremendous momentum for meaningful housing reform,” said Rasmusson. “I will continue to be a strong voice for policies that make homeownership more accessible for Minnesota families.”

Housing First Minnesota is the leading voice of homebuilders, remodelers, and all who are dedicated to building safe, durable homes at prices Minnesotans can afford. 

For more information, please visit www.housingfirstmn.org.