Joyce Lacey
RepublicanQ1 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“I would rely on scientists and other subject mattered experts whenever legislation involves technical or scientific issues. This includes public health, environmental policy, energy, agriculture, infrastructure, emerging technologies, cyber security and National security. I would review the best available scientific evidence, consider differing expert viewpoints when appropriate and evaluate the likely benefits, risk and unintended consequences of a proposal. Scientific expertise should inform policy decisions, while elected officials remain responsible for balancing scientific evidence with constitutional principles, economic impacts, ethical considerations and the needs and values of the people they represent.”
KEYWORDS: Science Informed Policymaking
Q2 Recently H.J. Res 140 passed, overturning a 20-year mining ban in the National Forest System land surrounding the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. What is your position on mining projects in this region and what policies, if any, would you support to protect the surrounding watershed?
“I’d support responsible mining only if the project passed strict, science-based environmental reviews and demonstrated clear benefits. I’d prioritize protection of the watershed through robust buffers, continuous water quality monitoring, meaningful tribal consultation and enforceable safeguards. If those standards can’t be met, the project shouldn’t proceed.”
KEYWORDS: Science Based Stewardship
Q3 Contamination from PFAS and other “forever chemicals” in 21 community water systems in Minnesota exceed national regulations, putting residents at risk of negative health impacts. What policies, if any, do you propose to protect Minnesota residents from the potential impacts of PFAS?
“I support a comprehensive approach to PFAS contamination that prioritizes safe drinking water and public health. That includes regular testing of public water systems, transparent reporting of contamination levels, targeted funding to help communities install effective treatment technologies and holding polluters accountable when contamination can be traced to responsible parties. I also support reducing future PFAS releases through practical regulations and continued investment in research and safer alternatives.”
KEYWORDS: Science Based Prevention
Q4 There have been multiple hyperscale data centers proposed throughout the state, including one currently under construction. What policies and regulations, if any, do you support to assess and act on the potential impacts of these data centers?
“I support reasonable development of data centers that strengthens our economy while protecting local communities and natural resources. Before approval, projects should undergo thorough environmental and infrastructure reviews that evaluate impacts on energy demand, Water use, land use and local transportation. I support transparency in these assessments, meaningful public input and requirements for developers to help offset infrastructure costs. I also encourage the use of energy efficient technologies, water conservation measures and increased use of reliable, low emission energy sources where feasible. The goal is to welcome investments while ensuring the communities are not left bearing the environmental or financial cost.”
KEYWORDS: Responsible Technology Development
Q5 In 2025 alone, the National Institute on Health (NIH) awarded over $700 million for research grants and contracts to Minnesota universities, which directly supported over 7,000 jobs and $1.79 billion of economic activity in Minnesota. What policies, if any, do you plan to implement or support regarding funding for continued science research either at the state or federal level?
“I support sustained public investment in scientific research because it drives innovation, strengthens our economy, improves public health and creates high quality jobs. I would support stable, merit-based funding for research institutions, universities and National laboratories while ensuring transparency, accountability and reasonable stewardship of taxpayer dollars. I also encourage partnerships between government, academia and private industry to accelerate the development of new technologies and medical breakthroughs. Investments and research should be guided by scientific merit, National priorities and the potential to deliver meaningful public benefits.”
KEYWORDS: Research Fuels Prosperity
Q6 Fatal drug overdoses in Minnesota have significantly declined in recent years, representing a 28% drop from a record peak of 1,392 overdose deaths in 2022. However, compared to White Minnesotans, Indigenous Minnesotans are 7 to 15 times more likely to experience a fatal drug overdose, while Black Minnesotans are 2 to 3 times more likely to die from a drug-related overdose. What policies, if any, do you support to continue the downward trend of overdose deaths for Minnesotans?
“I support a comprehensive approach to reducing overdose deaths that combines prevention, treatment, recovery and public safety. This includes expanding access to evidence-based addiction treatment, increasing the availability of overdose reversal medications such as the naloxone, strengthening mental health services and disrupting the trafficking of fentanyl and other illicit drugs. I also support improving community outreach and ensuring that prevention and treatment resources are accessible to populations experiencing disproportionately high overdose rates. The goal is to save lives, support long-term recovery and reduce the impact of addiction across all Minnesota communities.”
KEYWORDS: Recovery - Prevention - Enforcement