WEEK FIVE: March 22, 2018
We’re expecting the state contracts and pensions bills up on the Senate floor next week — here’s a bit more information about what that means.
The legislature’s first deadline is in the books
Under Minnesota law, “the Legislature shall establish by concurrent resolution deadlines for each regular session.” Deadlines help the Legislature narrow down the hundreds of bills introduced by lawmakers to proposals that have the best chance of becoming law.
Governor Dayton releases supplemental budget
At the end of February, Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) reported the projected budget surplus is $329 million for general fund in Fiscal Year 2018-19. Based on this number, the Legislature and Governor Dayton propose their respective supplemental budgets.
Keeping Minnesota’s voting system secure
The Secure Access for Minnesota Voters Act was introduced last week after the Office of the Legislator Auditor released their report on voter registration. According to the OLA report, Minnesota’s election systems serve us well and are a model for the nation.
High school students stage sit-in at the Capitol for gun violence prevention
A group of high school students organized a sit in this week at a Republican senator’s office to call for stricter gun laws.
Muslim day at the Capitol
March 20 was Muslim Day at the Capitol. People from around the state came to show the strength and diversity of the Muslim community in Minnesota.
Labor groups are loud and strong in Minnesota
Members of AFSCME filled the Capitol Rotunda on March 20 to stand up for their freedom to form strong unions, negotiate a fair return on their work, and to speak up for communities.
On Wednesday, March 21 the Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE) held a rally at the Capitol to fight for workers, their families, and communities.
Clean Energy Business Day
Gov. Mark Dayton delivered a proclamation this week that declared March 22, 2018 as Clean Energy Business Day.
Governor’s budget Invests $35.9 million for students, schools in 2019
Governor Dayton’s supplemental budget invests almost $36 million for the coming fiscal year for Minnesota students and schools, including money for safe and secure schools, early childhood education, and special education.
Bill adds funding for career and tech, STEM programs
Wild rice standard bill clears two committees
Public employee contracts moving toward passage
Ride sharing preemption bill
Veterans’ Committee hears bills honoring the state’s soldiers
Foster care bill of rights heard in committee
Penny a pill bill to save lives
Elder care bill advances
Bill lowering standards for nurses works its way through committee
Live life in the slow lane – penalties for abusing the left lane when driving goes through committee
Fireworks bill lights up committee
Dayton tax plan would mean tax cuts for most Minnesotans
Senators consider tax relief for hurricane-relief efforts
