Emotional testimony took center stage at the Minnesota Legislature's Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection meeting on April 8, 2025, as advocates rallied to protect Amara's Law. Natalie Waters, a Minnesota resident and friend of the late Amara Strandey, delivered a heartfelt plea against proposed changes to the law, which she described as "redundant and dangerous."

Waters, visibly moved, shared her personal loss, recounting the last moments she spent with Amara before her tragic passing. "I love you, Amara," she recalled, emphasizing the profound grief that accompanies such a loss. Her testimony underscored the urgency of maintaining the integrity of Amara's Law, which aims to safeguard the well-being of all Minnesotans.

The committee heard calls for the bill to retain the language proposed by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), with Waters urging members to consider the potential impact on families like hers. "Protect Amara's law, protect your loved ones, and protect all Minnesotans," she implored.

As the meeting progressed, committee members engaged in discussions about the bill, with plans to amend it in the upcoming session. The emotional weight of Waters' testimony resonated throughout the room, highlighting the human stakes involved in legislative decisions. The committee's next steps will be closely watched by advocates and families affected by similar tragedies, as they seek to ensure that the voices of those impacted are heard in the legislative process.