0202312361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-746581" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-05-07T15:13:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed ten bills into law.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz signed ten bills. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Technology is moving fast, but our responsibility to protect Minnesotans, especially kids and families, moves faster,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This bill makes clear that using technology to create fake, non-consensual intimate images is unacceptable and puts Minnesota at the forefront of addressing the harms of AI while protecting people from exploitation and abuse.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/3875/" target="_blank">HF 3875,</a> the Minnesota Judicial Branch policy bill, clarifies the publication process for court notices; modifies provisions related to restitution, conciliation court, juror data, and no-fault arbitration; clarifies certain notice requirements to public authorities in dissolution cases; and modifies the expiration of the Supreme Court Council on Child Protection.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2025/0/HF/1606/" target="_blank">HF 1606</a> prohibits access to nudification technology.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/4052/?body=house" target="_blank">HF 4052</a> clarifies and modifies provisions governing telephone company regulation, infrastructure, and railroad crossings, pricing plans, service classification, and telecommunications reporting requirements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2025/0/HF/3155/?body=house" target="_blank">HF 3155</a> includes gift card fraud within the definition of organized retail theft.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/4075/?body=house" target="_blank">HF 4075</a> establishes a uniform procedure for the imposition, implementation, and oversight of firearm restrictions resulting from certain criminal convictions and judicial orders.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2025/0/HF/2358/?body=house" target="_blank">HF 2358</a> provides enhanced criminal penalties for certain coercion offenses that proximately cause great bodily harm or death of a victim.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2025/0/SF/2971/" target="_blank">SF 2971</a>, known as Kayla’s HOPE Act, requires MnDOT and the Department of Health to create criteria and best practices to determine when and where suicide reduction measures should be incorporated into bridge projects. These measures will make it more difficult for a person contemplating suicide on a bridge to jump. Data suggests just one minute delay may be enough to prevent suicide.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/SF/3888/?body=senate" target="_blank">SF 3888</a> permits tow trucks to use variable message signs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/4224/?body=house" target="_blank">HF 4224</a> modifies notice requirements for water discharges.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/3970/" target="_blank">HF 3970</a> establishes a remedy to extinguish a joint interest in a contract for deed of a perpetrator of domestic abuse or sexual assault.</p>7465812026-05-07T20:34:08Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-746574" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-05-05T15:13:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed nine bills into law.Includes a memorial highway designation and consumer protections on cryptocurrency kiosks1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz signed nine bills.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3593%2F/1/0101019dfa441bb4-ddfffb1d-3f2f-4e76-9407-9c5a9d32caf7-000000/FeF7Edag00VfuNv1nXDYH9ZM-Y5kFFZ-cUEM56w36eI=452" target="_blank">HF 3593</a> designates a portion of marked Trunk Highway 58 in Zumbrota as the “Officer/Firefighter Gary L. Schroeder, Jr. Memorial Highway.” </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3453%2F/1/0101019dfa441bb4-ddfffb1d-3f2f-4e76-9407-9c5a9d32caf7-000000/MXRr6ZxcpXVx1neR6jPTYpnn1BGFy0RrtMZ203LzzCg=452" target="_blank">HF 3453</a> raises the legal age to possess kratom to 21 years or older. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2025%2F0%2FSF%2F1251%2F/1/0101019dfa441bb4-ddfffb1d-3f2f-4e76-9407-9c5a9d32caf7-000000/q-txt5kB-1XFIlO1yMzM3ND0DHeoVcqNYy9_JG375U8=452" target="_blank">SF 1251</a> removes the expiration of the crossbow hunting and fishing allowance. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FSF%2F3868%2F/1/0101019dfa441bb4-ddfffb1d-3f2f-4e76-9407-9c5a9d32caf7-000000/YQ4M7Fe6P1ga1W3RRJo-SmecRUXOXj2i4jD_yOirJfc=452" target="_blank">SF 3868</a> prohibits the placement or operation of virtual currency kiosks in Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FSF%2F3887%2F/1/0101019dfa441bb4-ddfffb1d-3f2f-4e76-9407-9c5a9d32caf7-000000/_f2R0KBcc0QZq_dw9MnNtu_PrAv1NVeHfMpAqk1G5zk=452" target="_blank">SF 3887</a> allows watershed districts to self-insure for certain employee health benefits. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3676%2F/1/0101019dfa441bb4-ddfffb1d-3f2f-4e76-9407-9c5a9d32caf7-000000/n9JiH2c_Wm94YWUvXSrt6reTWcBLN3jTX45eM2kNloc=452" target="_blank">HF 3676</a>  modifies provisions of the Safe at Home program and provides protections and remedies. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F4133%2F/1/0101019dfa441bb4-ddfffb1d-3f2f-4e76-9407-9c5a9d32caf7-000000/Iaashdm9w6WidW4VBQTx2Rv4ZIriZKFua2SVphB2Eu4=452" target="_blank">HF 4133</a> prohibits certain exclusions in homeowners' insurance policies when damage is caused by a peace officer. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3782%2F/1/0101019dfa441bb4-ddfffb1d-3f2f-4e76-9407-9c5a9d32caf7-000000/5bC9kHkhjB2eE3I4il3HK4Wgs5ISbqIAQRzLgaPc4rU=452" target="_blank">HF 3782</a> requires disclosure of chemical irritants used by peace officers in certain buildings. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3827%2F/1/0101019dfa441bb4-ddfffb1d-3f2f-4e76-9407-9c5a9d32caf7-000000/0QZF8stsTkPYYLO26d3LSSHzazMeaZTlTEDYvzXpSdo=452" target="_blank">HF 3827</a> clarifies certain Bureau of Criminal Apprehension grants to local law enforcement as reimbursements, updates laws related to the recording of crimes, establishes a process for determining when certain criminal records are ineligible for sealing, and requires courts to provide orders for protection for law enforcement access. </p>7465742026-05-07T20:34:08Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-745673" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-05-04T20:39:02ZAs the Trump Administration threatens billions meant for Minnesota’s Medicaid program, Governor Tim Walz today announced a restructuring of leadership at the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to ensure stability and continue to strengthen oversight, improve program delivery, and protect essential services for Minnesotans.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – As the Trump Administration threatens billions meant for Minnesota’s Medicaid program, Governor Tim Walz today announced a restructuring of leadership at the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to ensure stability and continue to strengthen oversight, improve program delivery, and protect essential services for Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“While President Trump and Dr. Oz play politics with Minnesotans’ health care, we are focused on stability and results,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “We’ve made significant progress to strengthen programs and root out fraud. Today, we’re building on our success by putting an even stronger structure in place; adding leadership, improving oversight, and ensuring these programs are managed with the discipline and accountability Minnesotans expect. That’s how we protect care and deliver for families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Under the new structure, John Connolly will serve as the temporary commissioner of DHS. Connolly asked Shireen Gandhi to remain at DHS as deputy commissioner to oversee Medicaid programming for the immediate future, continuing to focus on safeguarding and strengthening Minnesota’s Medicaid program during a period of federal instability. Connolly also appointed DHS General Counsel Andrew Johnson as deputy commissioner. Johnson will support strong agency operations while continuing to retain his general counsel designation. Together, this leadership team will ensure stability at DHS and continue to reinforce accountability, improve coordination, and protect Medicaid for more than one million Minnesotans who depend on it – almost half of them children.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Shireen Gandhi is one of the most effective leaders in state government, and her continued focus on Medicaid comes at a critical moment,” </strong>Governor Walz continued.<strong> “John Connolly is a trusted executive with the expertise to guide DHS through complexity, and Andrew Johnson has demonstrated he can bring structure, accountability, and execution at scale. This leadership team is exactly what we need to ensure DHS remains strong, disciplined, and ready to deliver.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I want to thank Governor Walz for appointing me as temporary commissioner for the Minnesota Department of Human Services,” </strong>said Temporary Commissioner Connolly.<strong> “I accept this position as a committed public servant, with continuity of operations at the forefront, to ensure our Medicaid programs are of the highest quality and public funding is aggressively protected and effectively overseen. My priority is to continue transforming a human services system Minnesotans can trust, where program integrity and impact go hand in hand.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Since February of 2025, I have led aggressive and proactive work to protect Minnesota’s Medicaid program for Minnesota’s most vulnerable people, to detect and prevent fraud, to prevent federal cuts to funding, and to improve internal culture at the agency,” </strong>said Deputy Commissioner Shireen Gandhi. <strong>“My goal has been to hand off the Minnesota Department of Human Services in a stronger position to the next administration in 2027. Because I remain steadfast to these goals, I have accepted Temporary Commissioner Connolly’s request that I return to my position as deputy commissioner. I am honored to continue serving the people of Minnesota for the last 8 months of the Walz Administration.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">While strengthening executive oversight, Governor Walz again called on the Minnesota Legislature to act before the end of session to protect Minnesotans and safeguard public programs. Community leaders are joining Governor Walz in <a href="https://www.senate.mn/schedule/senate/20260505">asking the legislature to focus on solutions and stability</a> at DHS while Minnesotans’ health care is at risk.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With just 14</strong><strong> days remaining in the legislative session, Minnesotans expect us to stay focused on results,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’ve put forward targeted, commonsense proposals to crack down on fraud, protect taxpayer dollars, and make sure these programs work for the people they’re meant to serve. Now it’s time for the Legislature to cut through the distractions, finish their work, and send those bills to my desk.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About John Connolly <br /></em> Before becoming temporary commissioner, John Connolly served as deputy commissioner at DHS. Connolly is the state Medicaid director, overseeing policy across key service areas and leading Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare, which provide coverage to roughly one in five Minnesotans. He previously served as assistant commissioner for the Health Care Administration at DHS and brings extensive experience in public health and behavioral health, including leadership roles with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the California Health and Human Services Agency. Connolly began his career as a public middle school teacher and holds degrees from the University of Chicago, Bank Street College of Education, and Harvard University.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Shireen Gandhi <br /></em> Shireen Gandhi joined DHS in 2017 and has 30 years of leadership experience in health care. She was appointed temporary commissioner in February 2025 and commissioner in February 2026. Prior to that, she served as deputy commissioner overseeing budgeting, financial operations, and agency strategy. Gandhi plays a key role in strengthening DHS operations and will now focus on leading Minnesota’s Medicaid program during a critical period. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and a law degree from Hamline University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Andrew Johnson <br /></em> Andrew Johnson currently serves as the General Counsel for the Minnesota Department of Human Services, where he leads the agency’s legal strategy and advises executive leadership across health care, behavioral health, aging and disability services, and public program administration. He previously served as the Deputy General Counsel, helping oversee the Department’s legal work and coordinating with the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office. Before entering public service, Johnson was a senior associate at Fredrikson &amp; Byron, P.A.. He began his legal career as a judicial intern to Judge Diana Murphy on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School.</p>7456732026-05-04T20:46:17Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-745578" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-05-04T17:16:21ZToday, the Minnesota Board of Pardons unanimously granted a pardon to At “Ricky” Chandee at an emergency meeting.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Minnesota Board of Pardons unanimously granted a pardon to At “Ricky” Chandee at an emergency meeting. The Board considered the fact that Chandee is a Minnesota father, a longtime public employee, and a refugee who has lived in the United States for decades without incident after his single conviction over 30 years ago.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The federal government says they’re targeting the ‘worst of the worst,’ but instead they’re tearing a father and public servant away from his family over a mistake from more than 30 years ago,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “This is not about public safety; it’s a campaign of retribution that uses heavy-handed tactics to target people who have already paid their debt and built their lives here in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At Chandee, who came to the United States as a refugee from Laos, faces deportation this week due to a single conviction from more than 30 years ago when he was 18 years old. Since that time, he has built a life in Minnesota, working for nearly three decades in engineering at the City of Minneapolis, raising a family, and contributing to his community without further incident.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last week, the Clemency Review Commission unanimously recommended a pardon for Chandee after hearing testimony from family members, coworkers, and community members who described Chandee as a dedicated public servant and loving father to a son currently serving in the United States Air Force. Today, the Minnesota Board of Pardons agreed and voted unanimously to grant the pardon.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chandee applied for a pardon in early January and was detained by ICE shortly afterwards as part of Operation Metro Surge. The federal government has rushed to schedule his deportation before the Board’s next regularly scheduled meeting.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz convened an emergency meeting of the Board to ensure Chandee’s pardon could be considered before that deportation could occur. With the pardon now granted, the federal government’s legal basis for his deportation may be removed, allowing him to return to his family and community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz remains committed to using every available tool to protect Minnesotans from unjust federal actions. The Governor continues to demand impartial investigations into the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti and the return of Minnesota’s children taken during Operation Metro Surge.</p>7455782026-05-04T17:17:01Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-745457" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-05-01T21:52:08ZThe Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments to the Board of Animal Health, Board of Marriage and Family Therapy, Board of Nursing, Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council, Explore Minnesota for Business Council, Governor’s Workforce Development Board, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board, Minnesota Rural Finance Authority, and the Prescription Drug Affordability Board. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Westbrock – Richmond, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Animal Health  <br /> Livestock Producer #2  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Animal Health:</em>  <br /> The board carries out disease control programs for livestock and poultry. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Animal Health can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/17">Secretary of State's website</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kathryn Graves – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Marriage and Family Therapy  <br /> Public Member #1  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy:</em>  <br /> The Board of Marriage and Family Therapy is a statutorily-created health licensure board charged with the licensure, regulation and oversight of marriage and family therapists and the practice of marriage and family therapy in Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/26">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Knaack – Becker, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Nursing  <br /> Registered Nurse (Practical Nursing Education Experience)  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kenneth Toejnes – Anoka, MN <br /></strong>Board of Nursing  <br /> Public Member #1  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ryan Walfoort – Savage, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Nursing  <br /> Public Member #2  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Nursing:</em>  <br /> The Board of Nursing's mission is to protect the public's health and safety through the regulation of nursing education, licensure and practice. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Nursing can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/101">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>JoLynn Shopteese – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Explore Minnesota for Business Council  <br /> Minnesota's Ethnic Chambers of Commerce Leadership Representative  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Explore Minnesota for Business Council:</em>  <br /> Explore Minnesota for Business is a division of Explore Minnesota. Its mission is to promote overall livability and workforce and economic opportunity in Minnesota. Explore Minnesota for Business works in conjunction with the department of employment and economic development to establish and meet statewide goals in these areas.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Explore Minnesota for Business Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/355">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ramala Dahir – Owatonna, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Children's Cabinet Advisory Council  <br /> Member #1  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: April 5, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ananya Matewos – St. Louis Park, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Children's Cabinet Advisory Council  <br /> Member #3  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: April 5, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor's Children's Cabinet Advisory Council:</em>  <br /> The Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council makes recommendations to the Children’s Cabinet and has an important role in community engagement and bringing family and community voices to the Children’s Cabinet’s cross-agency efforts. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Governor's Children's Cabinet Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/263">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Natalie Draper – Owatonna, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor’s Workforce Development Board  <br /> Public Libraries Rep  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erik Johnson – Cottage Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor’s Workforce Development Board  <br /> Business Rep #6 <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicole Mattson</strong> <strong>– St. Louis Park, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor’s Workforce Development Board  <br /> Business Rep #7  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Stark – St. Louis Park, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor’s Workforce Development Board  <br /> Business Rep #1  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jill Stewart-Kellar – Cottage Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor’s Workforce Development Board  <br /> School-Based Service Learning (non-voting)  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Theisen – Cottage Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor’s Workforce Development Board  <br /> Business Rep #2  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Zirbes – Cottage Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor’s Workforce Development Board  <br /> Business Rep #9  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Workforce Development Board:</em> <br /> The Governor’s Workforce Development Board assists the Governor in developing, implementing, and modifying the WIOA Combined State Plan. It also reviews statewide policies and programs, provides recommendations on actions to improve the workforce development system and programs, and develops strategies to remove barriers to those programs, among other duties.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Governor’s Workforce Development Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/310">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Herrera-LemLer – Rochester, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs  <br /> Member (Dist 1)  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ronald Salazar – Andover, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs  <br /> At-Large Member #1  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs:</em>  <br /> The council works for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for its constituency by advising and informing the governor's office and state legislature in the legislative and policy making process. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/178">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jason Anderson – Canby, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board  <br /> Member Who Represents Nursing Home Employers or Employer Organizations  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jamie Gulley – St. Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board  <br /> Member Who Represents Nursing Home Workers or Worker Organizations  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board holds public hearings on, and conducts investigations into, working conditions in the nursing home industry, and establishes operating procedures. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/334">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hannah Bernhardt – Finlayson, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Rural Finance Authority  <br /> Public Member #2  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Rural Finance Authority:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Rural Finance Authority develops the state's agricultural resources by extending credit on farm real estate security and depreciable agricultural property.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Minnesota Rural Finance Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/115">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erica Barnes – St. Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Prescription Drug Affordability Board  <br /> Member #2  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anthony Lourey – Kerrick, MN</strong>  <br /> Prescription Drug Affordability Board  <br /> Member #3  <br /> Effective: May 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Prescription Drug Affordability Board:</em>  <br /> The Prescription Drug Affordability Board reviews prescription drug product information to protect consumers, state and local governments, health plan companies, providers, pharmacies, and other health care system stakeholders from unaffordable costs of certain prescription drugs. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Prescription Drug Affordability Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/350">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p>7454572026-05-01T21:52:48Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-745387" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-05-01T19:08:45ZGovernor Tim Walz today ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, May 2, 2026, in honor and remembrance of Captain Willibald C. Bianchi.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, May 2, 2026, in honor and remembrance of Captain Willibald C. Bianchi.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“After more than 80 years, Captain Willibald C. Bianchi is coming home,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His courage on the battlefield and his endurance as a prisoner of war represent the highest ideals of service. Today, we stand with his family and community to ensure his sacrifice is remembered with the dignity and respect it has always deserved.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Captain Bianchi, a native of New Ulm, Minnesota, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on February 3, 1942, during the defense of the Bataan Peninsula in the Philippines. Despite sustaining multiple wounds, he continued to lead and engage enemy forces with exceptional bravery. He later died as a prisoner of war in 1945. After more than 80 years, his remains have been identified and returned to Minnesota through the efforts of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Captain Bianchi’s legacy. The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/05.02.2026%20Captain%20Willibald%20C.%20Bianchi%20Day_tcm1055-745378.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p>7453872026-05-01T19:09:50Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-745260" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-30T20:24:47ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable William J. Cashman and the Honorable Gail T. Kulick. These seats will be chambered in St. Cloud in Stearns County and Milaca in Mille Lacs County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on May 21 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-June.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Seventh Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019ddff2b907-438a10a3-a334-4f38-956b-f7b6b7800eeb-000000/ye9W8Gk3LGnZ2OYuo6R2knyGeNCWNR2sZ27ABG7e5Ac=452">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7452602026-04-30T20:27:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-745037" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-30T15:13:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed ten bills into law.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed ten bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3467%2F/1/0101019ddaec384f-8e2cc29a-bd86-4ae3-b67a-c87d77736b6e-000000/GDnx2Gz0Z66zPR6oOWW4SzkgY19fs6nm1WCybXpYibg=452">HF 3467</a> allows the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs to direct agency resources to veterans’ initiatives and modifies reporting requirements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3718%2F/1/0101019ddaec384f-8e2cc29a-bd86-4ae3-b67a-c87d77736b6e-000000/Gy0OjlvV77jGgKgNhPH-TPbVE83QJw2KQR6x7WB6VA4=452">HF 3718</a> modifies provisions relating to the practice of veterinary medicine and veterinary technology.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FSF%2F3832%2F/1/0101019ddaec384f-8e2cc29a-bd86-4ae3-b67a-c87d77736b6e-000000/B5p46AYciB2KvMUWsPM8IBiCF_BFTzy-FKWMzr2CAyY=452">SF 3832</a> modifies eligibility for the Dairy Assistance, Investment, Relief Initiative (DAIRI) program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F4241%2F/1/0101019ddaec384f-8e2cc29a-bd86-4ae3-b67a-c87d77736b6e-000000/vLRbxhakzJzvWNKOzP4A0_f--_VWzZBwF0tItHJFWDY=452">HF 4241</a> modifies the Hennepin County medical examiner selection process, Independent School District No. 535 (Rochester) school board procedures, and economic interest disclosure requirements for park district board candidates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F4118%2F/1/0101019ddaec384f-8e2cc29a-bd86-4ae3-b67a-c87d77736b6e-000000/kwrG1zhp3VEKjSXb9JBnGBAsI5xI8FjfbUStIrrh1DM=452">HF 4118</a> authorizes credit unions to obtain insurance from a credit union share insurance provider, regulates credit union share guarantee corporations, and makes conforming changes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3699%2F/1/0101019ddaec384f-8e2cc29a-bd86-4ae3-b67a-c87d77736b6e-000000/xTsn34MuYX5kzLdVsAFnNn6zHeZ5AxEpT82uc5HEA9w=452">HF 3699</a> adds requirements for the state park license plate contest.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3437%2F/1/0101019ddaec384f-8e2cc29a-bd86-4ae3-b67a-c87d77736b6e-000000/yMvHw1e5Scneh5RtciG8K-4fhOAGBGw9anw4sSbCu0k=452">HF 3437</a> modifies the application of certain residential mortgage loan fees and penalties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2025%2F0%2FHF%2F1410%2F/1/0101019ddaec384f-8e2cc29a-bd86-4ae3-b67a-c87d77736b6e-000000/4Dxw71N8Zl1Od1XUFZilNAtwiMkMswbmsd2JoEXnNLc=452">HF 1410</a> modifies disciplinary procedures for correctional officers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FSF%2F3958%2F/1/0101019ddaec384f-8e2cc29a-bd86-4ae3-b67a-c87d77736b6e-000000/QuqFoxBicDkX7A03zauApTfgGgkmGbS4sAsD6BWVrjI=452">SF 3958</a> modifies the reporting date for the disaster assistance contingency account.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FSF%2F3622%2F/1/0101019ddaec384f-8e2cc29a-bd86-4ae3-b67a-c87d77736b6e-000000/4YTLWDzUHtPvOGnLbmiZS0gaGxrCSTB3wI1kZxA1R34=452">SF 3622</a> makes technical and clarifying changes to the Minnesota Common Interest Ownership Act, including certain exemptions, board composition requirements, and insurance provisions.</p>7450372026-04-30T15:14:24Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-745032" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-30T15:12:13ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Joy D. Bartscher. This seat will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on May 20 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in late June.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Second Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019ddafdc29b-975a8c97-cae5-4700-8d94-b74b7ab4afb9-000000/jY8-obgo-X9hRVrC6C4bXgXuae4eN6Aq6rCoBEAdJC0=452" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7450322026-04-30T15:14:25Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-744843" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-28T21:47:54ZBelow is a copy of Governor Tim Walz’s State of the State Address as prepared. Language is subject to change.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] </span><span>–</span><span>Below</span><span> is a copy of Governor Tim Walz’s State of the State Address as prepared. Language is subject to change.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Good evening, my fellow Minnesotans, and thank you for tuning in.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’d</span><span> like to start tonight by recognizing some of the distinguished Minnesotans joining us in the chamber this evening.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Speaker Demuth is here, along with Leader Stephenson and members of the Minnesota House of Representatives. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Senate President Champion is here, along with Majority Leader Murphy, Minority Leader Johnson, and members of the Minnesota Senate.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’re</span><span> joined tonight by members of the Minnesota Supreme Court, including Chief Justice Hudson, whom we wish all the best in her upcoming retirement.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’d</span><span> also like to recognize my fellow constitutional officers, as well as members of my staff, cabinet, administration, and our incredible state workforce.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And </span><span>I’d</span><span> like to welcome our Tribal Leaders. . . </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Members of the Minnesota National Guard. . . </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan and Minnesota’s Second Gentleman Tom Weber. . . </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Minnesota’s First Lady and the love of my life, Gwen Walz. . . </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And </span><span>all of</span><span> our other honored guests.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>---</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I also want to recognize someone who </span><span>isn’t</span><span> here. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Someone who should be here. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Someone who has had </span><span>a major role</span><span> to play in every important achievement of the last seven years. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Someone whose insight, whose energy, whose leadership we all miss so much.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>When Melissa and Mark Hortman were taken from us, we </span><span>didn’t</span><span> just lose treasured friends. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We lost the most consequential speaker in Minnesota’s history—and the most talented legislator </span><span>I’ve</span><span> ever known.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Mark and Melissa’s children, Sophie and Colin, are here tonight, along with Colin’s wife, Alina. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>You have shown such grace and courage over these last months. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Minnesotans have their arms around you all.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’d</span><span> like to start tonight with a moment of silence—to remember Melissa and Mark and their enormous contributions to the state we all love.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Thank you.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>It’s</span><span> no secret that this has been an unimaginably difficult year for Minnesota.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Our season of grief began last summer when we lost Melissa and Mark—and </span><span>nearly lost</span><span> John and Yvette and Hope Hoffman. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’re</span><span> deeply relieved and grateful to have John back with us. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I hope you know, Senator, that you and Yvette and Hope have been surrounded by the prayers of an entire state—and that we will never forget your courage and grit.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Even as we struggled to process that sickening act of political violence, we suffered another grievous loss in the mass shooting at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis, where Fletcher Merkel and Harper </span><span>Moyski</span><span> were taken from us. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Fletcher’s mom and dad, Jesse and Mollie, are here tonight, along with the principal of Annunciation, Matt </span><span>DeBoer</span><span> and his wife Rose. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Our hearts are still with the entire Annunciation community, especially with the families of those who suffered physical and psychological injuries on that horrible morning.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And then we experienced an unthinkable federal invasion of our state. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>For months, armed, lawless agents roamed our communities in a campaign of organized brutality. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Families lived in fear. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Children were separated from their parents, neighbors from neighbors. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Minnesotans who had done nothing wrong were subjected to racial profiling and unlawful detentions. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And for no reason at all, we lost two more of our neighbors: Renee Good and Alex Pretti.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We gather tonight in the long shadow of all these tragic, transformative losses. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And yet, the state of our state </span><span>remains</span><span> strong.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Indeed, over the last several months, the world has seen our strength—a strength that comes not from our politics, but from our people. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>For all the work we do here in St. Paul, the real work of moving our state forward is happening in communities across the state, as neighbors build and rebuild the bonds that hold us together in </span><span>difficult times</span><span>.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Tonight, I want to talk about what </span><span>we’ve</span><span> done here at the Capitol—and what we can continue to do—to support that work. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But make no mistake: Minnesota is at its best when everyday people show up for one another—with compassion, with courage, with resilience.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>History may have its eye on our state—but we are </span><span>writing</span><span> our own story.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>---</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>That’s</span><span> been the case ever since I arrived here in St. Paul seven years ago. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I had just come from twelve years serving in the United States House of Representatives, where discord and dysfunction were the rule. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We were living through government by mean tweet. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But we here in Minnesota, I argued in my first State of the State address, had an opportunity to do things differently.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I </span><span>wasn’t</span><span> naïve enough to think </span><span>we’d</span><span> agree on everything. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>“One Minnesota” was never supposed to mean one point of view. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But I believed that we could argue both passionately and in good faith. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And I hoped that, even if we </span><span>didn’t</span><span> share an ideology, we could share a vision of making Minnesota the nation’s best place to raise a family—agreeing on the “what” if not the “how.”</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>“We’ve never feared the future,” I said that evening. “We create the future.”</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But none of us could have predicted the future that lay in store for our state.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Nobody knew then that we would be hit with a global pandemic, one that would claim the lives of more than 17,000 Minnesotans and throw our entire economy—our entire way of life—into chaos.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Nobody knew then that we would face a national reckoning with racial injustice and police abuse, one whose epicenter would be </span><span>located</span><span> specifically at the corner of 38th and Chicago in South Minneapolis.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And if anybody knew then that I would wind up as a candidate for vice president of the United States, well, Gwen and I would have appreciated a heads-up.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>It’s</span><span> been a complicated seven years. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But when I look back at the story </span><span>we’ve</span><span> written together, </span><span>I’m</span><span> deeply proud of Minnesota. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>There is, I believe, no better place in America to raise a child. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And, not to sound like your parents, but </span><span>there’s</span><span> never been a better time to start a family in Minnesota than right now.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>---</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>For starters, our schools have never been in better shape—as </span><span>evidenced</span><span> by our record-high graduation rates. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’ve</span><span> had the privilege of signing into law the most consequential education budgets in our state’s history. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>From cradle to career, </span><span>we’re</span><span> preparing our kids for life in the 21st century better than anyone else.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> invested more than $1 billion in </span><span>child care</span><span> and early learning opportunities.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> added thousands of new pre-K seats. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Made significant investments to improve child literacy. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Expanded access to mental health resources for students at every level. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Made college free for students with a family income under $80,000. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And invested millions in workforce development to connect Minnesotans of every age with high-growth, high-demand career fields like manufacturing, education, and public safety.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Meanwhile, our nation-leading child tax credit is cutting child poverty in Minnesota by up to one-third. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And because we instituted free breakfast and lunch in our public schools, we can say </span><span>we’re</span><span> a state where no student goes hungry—in Minnesota, we feed our kids.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>During the first two years of the Minnesota Free School Meals Program, schools served more than 300 million free meals, saving Minnesota families an average of $1,000 per student per year.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And </span><span>we’re</span><span> not done. Not by a long shot.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Anyone </span><span>who’s</span><span> been a new parent knows that you walk around with a laundry list of worries. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And near the top of that list is the cost of </span><span>child care</span><span>. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>That cost has skyrocketed in recent years, and </span><span>it’s</span><span> squeezing families in a way they </span><span>can’t</span><span> afford.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Let’s</span><span> do something about it.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Tonight, </span><span>I’m</span><span> proposing a significant expansion of the Dependent Care Tax Credit for more than 100,000 families with young and school-aged kids—lowering the cost of </span><span>child care</span><span> by up to $3,000 for families with one child, and $6,000 for families with two or more kids under five.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Simply put, I think parents have enough to worry about. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And </span><span>there’s</span><span> not much we can do here in St. Paul to help with teething or potty training. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But we can take this one </span><span>big thing</span><span> off parents’ plates. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>So</span><span>let’s</span><span> come together and get it done.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>---</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Of course, even if you </span><span>aren’t</span><span> the parent of a young child, odds are </span><span>you’re</span><span> watching your budget more carefully than ever these days.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>The cost of everything—from groceries to gas to housing—is simply too high. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And while </span><span>there’s</span><span> only so much we here in St. Paul can do about the bad economic policies coming from D.C., we can do a lot to give Minnesotans some more breathing room.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’m</span><span> proud to say that </span><span>I’ve</span><span> cut taxes in </span><span>nearly every</span><span> single budget </span><span>I’ve</span><span> proposed and signed. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> delivered rebate checks of up to $1,300, putting money directly into the pockets of students, seniors, workers, and middle-class families.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> also lowered taxes for small </span><span>businesses, and</span><span> made Social Security tax-exempt for more than three quarters of our seniors.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Meanwhile, </span><span>we’ve</span><span> invested $1 billion in housing—a historic investment in making housing more affordable and our economic foundation more secure in communities across the state.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> taken on medical debt—preventing it from impacting credit scores, stopping medical providers from denying care due to old unpaid bills, and </span><span>eliminating</span><span> automatic transfers of medical debt to a patient’s spouse.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> attacked the junk fees that hide in the fine print—and cracked down on everyday annoyances like fraudulent ticket sales.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And </span><span>we’ve</span><span>taken action</span><span> to significantly lower the cost of prescription drugs—and insulin. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But </span><span>we’re</span><span> not done. Not by a long shot.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>This year, </span><span>I’m</span><span> proposing to cut the statewide sales tax for the first time in Minnesota history—because we could all use a little relief at the checkout counter.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>My budget also includes $33 million for permanent supportive housing to make sure that everyone has a safe place to live, and $34 million to help first-time homebuyers afford a down payment so everyone </span><span>has a shot at</span><span> living the American Dream.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And even as our collective psyche is recovering from the after-effects of Operation Metro Surge, we can take decisive action to help our economy recover, as well. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>My budget prioritizes resources to help our families and businesses get back on track—including $10 million in partially-forgivable loans for businesses that lost significant revenue during the occupation, as well as rental support for more than 9,000 Minnesota households through the Family Homelessness Prevention and Assistance Program.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>---</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’m</span><span> proud that </span><span>we’ve</span><span> been able to invest so much in our schools and in housing even as we cut taxes </span><span>nearly every</span><span> year—and, thanks to the work we did last year, </span><span>maintained</span><span> a fiscally responsible budget. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But </span><span>we’ve</span><span> also made the largest investments in infrastructure Minnesota has ever seen. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Right now, well-paid union workers are busy rebuilding our roads and bridges, repairing our fire stations and water treatment plants, upgrading veterans’ homes and fish hatcheries and flood mitigation systems, and removing and replacing lead pipes </span><span>all across</span><span> our state.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> also worked together to get Minnesota on a path to 100 percent clean energy by 2040 while creating green jobs in every corner of the state. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And </span><span>I’ve</span><span> had the privilege of signing into law more than 40 different climate initiatives, including expanding our electric vehicle infrastructure, making our homes and buildings more resilient and efficient, and cutting red tape for clean energy projects.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We also banned so-called “forever chemicals,” which makes us all healthier.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But </span><span>we’re</span><span> not done. Not by a long shot.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>This session, </span><span>I’m</span><span> asking you to pass a bonding bill—an </span><span>additional</span><span> $907 million investment in our state’s infrastructure that will support the public safety, clean water, safe transportation, and affordable housing we need to keep our state strong and our people thriving.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’m</span><span> asking you to join me in supporting Sustainable Aviation Fuel—a way we can support businesses doing the right thing</span><span>–</span><span>growing our ag economy</span><span>and</span><span> creating a cleaner future.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And </span><span>I’m</span><span> asking you to join me in getting our state ready for the economy of the future. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I </span><span>don’t</span><span> want Silicon Valley deciding how artificial intelligence and other </span><span>new technologies</span><span> will </span><span>impact</span><span> our small towns and working families. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I </span><span>don’t</span><span> want technocrats like Peter Thiel and Sam Altman and—</span><span>yeah</span><span>—J.D. Vance </span><span>determining</span><span> who wins and who loses.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Nobody doubts that the rise of AI is good news for tech companies, who are making record profits. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But as industries, business practices, and jobs are transformed by innovation, we need to take bold steps to protect and prepare workers for </span><span>what’s</span><span> coming.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>That’s</span><span> why </span><span>I’m</span><span> proposing a social media tax—not on users, but on the big tech companies making billions </span><span>off of</span><span> our data. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I want to use that revenue for workforce development initiatives designed to get Minnesotans ready for the age of AI and other emerging technologies.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’m</span><span> also proposing the establishment of a new Governor’s Council on the future AI economy that would help guide us on how to invest funds to keep Minnesota a leader in innovation while making sure the benefits go to everyday people and not just CEOs.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>---</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Together, </span><span>we’ve</span><span> made Minnesota one of the most economically secure, prosperous, forward-thinking states in the nation. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Just look at the rankings. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Whether </span><span>it’s</span><span> quality of life, or transportation, or health care, </span><span>you’ll</span><span> find us near the very top. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We </span><span>aren’t</span><span> just the best place in America to raise a family—</span><span>we’re</span><span> one of the best places to start a business, to find a job, to retire in comfort and dignity.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And while they </span><span>don’t</span><span> have rankings for this sort of thing, I think </span><span>we’ve</span><span> also made Minnesota one of the freest places in America.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Reproductive freedom is under attack in states across the country—but here in Minnesota, </span><span>it’s</span><span> an ironclad right.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Our trans friends are facing an all-out assault on their right to exist—but here in Minnesota, </span><span>we’ve</span><span> instituted protections, including the right to gender-affirming care, because we are a place where everyone belongs.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Conservative activists are pushing anti-LGBTQ ideology everywhere they can—but </span><span>they’ve</span><span> hit a brick wall here in Minnesota, where </span><span>we’ve</span><span> put a stop to conversion therapy and book bans that deny kids the right to free expression.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>People of color are facing an attack on their right to vote as the U.S. Supreme Court takes aim at the Voting Rights Act—but here in Minnesota, we’ve passed a VRA of our own—prohibiting standards that would deny or limit any citizen’s right to vote based on their race, color, or language.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Meanwhile, </span><span>we’ve</span><span> protected </span><span>everyone’s</span><span> right to </span><span>participate</span><span> in our democracy by making it easier than ever to vote. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span>established</span><span> automatic voter registration. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> created a permanent absentee voter status. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve pre-registered 16- and 17-year-olds to vote. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> restored the franchise to more than 55,000 previously incarcerated Minnesotans who have paid their debt to society.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We </span><span>aren’t</span><span> just a place where everyone is welcome. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’re</span><span> a place where everyone’s voice counts.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>That’s</span><span> not all. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve also legalized adult-use cannabis and expunged nonviolent cannabis convictions.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve dramatically improved tribal relations—and restored the Upper Sioux Agency State Park to its rightful owners after 161 years.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> taken new action to protect tenants’ rights.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And </span><span>we’ve</span><span> expanded the freedom of workers to balance career and family: ensuring paid sick days, banning non-compete agreements, and increasing protections for workers in Amazon warehouses, construction sites, hospitals, nursing homes, and public schools—and, of course, </span><span>establishing</span><span> paid leave.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Since Paid Leave officially launched on January 1, </span><span>we’ve</span><span> approved more than 54,000 applications for people to take time—to bond with a new child, to take care of a family member, to serve their community.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But </span><span>we’re</span><span> not done. Not by a long shot.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>After all, freedom </span><span>doesn’t</span><span> just mean freedom from government oppression or corporate abuse. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>It means freedom from fear. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And in addition to the immense heartbreak and loss gun violence has inflicted upon our state, especially on communities of color, the fact is that too many of us </span><span>have to</span><span> live in fear that </span><span>we’ll</span><span> be next.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> already </span><span>taken action to protect</span><span> our communities from gun violence: signing bills </span><span>establishing</span><span> a red flag law, expanding background checks, increasing criminal penalties for straw purchasing guns, and passing legislation to ban deadly binary trigger guns—which we need to reestablish this year. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And in December, l became the first governor in Minnesota history to take executive action focused on gun violence prevention—by creating the Statewide Safety Council and directing our agencies to take new steps to keep Minnesotans safe.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>This year, I want to build on those measures.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Some of you might say we </span><span>can’t</span><span> do more to stop gun violence. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But what you really mean is that you </span><span>won’t</span><span> do more. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Because the truth is, </span><span>we’ve</span><span> beaten the NRA before. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And we can do it again to keep our communities safer.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We can—we must—ban weapons of war and high-capacity magazines that have no place on our streets and no legitimate function for gun owners.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We can—we must—require gun owners to do what responsible gun owners are already doing: storing their weapons safely and reporting them when lost or stolen.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We can—we must—implement a firearm insurance requirement and a firearm and ammunition tax.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We can—we must—close the ghost gun loophole.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And we can—we must—expand our toolbelt of early intervention resources, especially at schools.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I take public safety extremely seriously. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>That’s why we’ve banned the use of hand-held cell phones while driving and raised the age to purchase tobacco to 21, why we’ve provided hundreds of millions for public safety needs across the state to combat crime, why we’ve increased funding for victims of crime, why we’ve transformed the prison system, why we’ve broken ground on a new, centralized Minnesota State Patrol headquarters.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Let this be the year we act to prevent more gun-related tragedies here in our state.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>---</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Minnesota is consistently ranked as one of the best states to live in because we invest in programs that support children, parents, seniors, and people with disabilities. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But, as </span><span>we’ve</span><span> seen in recent months—and just today—the more generous your support system, the more oversight you need to make sure people </span><span>aren’t</span><span> taking unfair advantage.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>When I announced earlier this year that I </span><span>wouldn’t</span><span> be running for a third term, I promised that I would devote my energies to fighting fraud in our state’s human services programs. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Tonight, I want to update you on our progress. And I want to ask for your help in taking the next step.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>In February, I introduced a comprehensive anti-fraud package and began to implement a nine-part fraud prevention roadmap developed by Director of Program Integrity Tim O’Malley. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We’ve</span><span> created </span><span>additional</span><span> checks and balances. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We have brought on more investigators, more auditors, and more law enforcement agencies, as well as an outside firm to look at high-risk programs.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>People who have ripped us off are getting caught. And they are going to jail.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’ve</span><span> said the buck stops with me. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And I know some of you will take that as an open invitation to play politics with every incident of fraud that takes place here in Minnesota, even though far more is happening in red states across the country. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>So be it.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But taking responsibility </span><span>doesn’t</span><span> just mean taking the blame. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>It means taking it upon yourself to fix the problem. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And when it comes to the next step in fixing this problem, the legislature has a role to play.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’ve</span><span> proposed a legislative package that strengthens detection and oversight, using sophisticated analytics to </span><span>identify</span><span> suspicious activity more quickly and expanding our capacity to ensure funds are properly spent and misused dollars recovered. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>My bill also increases criminal penalties for defrauding </span><span>taxpayers, and</span><span> establishes a centralized office to lead our statewide fraud prevention efforts.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Meanwhile, </span><span>I’ve</span><span> rolled out a proposal to transform our entire human services system—a major structural overhaul of the way we administer these programs. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span> </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I want to move us away from the complex, layered administration managed by a patchwork of counties, Managed Care Organizations, and state agencies and towards a model where a single, centralized agency has control of the money before it goes out the door.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>My proposal would also modernize Medicaid administration, </span><span>consolidate</span><span> administrative functions, and </span><span>initiate</span><span> independent reviews to strengthen program integrity and improve how services are delivered to Minnesotans.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>My ask for you tonight is simple: If you take fraud seriously, take your responsibility to help me stop it seriously. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>If you talk about oversight, vote for oversight. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Act on these measures </span><span>immediately</span><span>. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Send them to my desk so I can sign them into law. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And </span><span>let’s</span><span> make sure our programs remain strong, accountable, and effective for Minnesotans who rely on them.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>---</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>For seven years now, </span><span>we’ve</span><span> been </span><span>writing</span><span> a story. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And the proposals </span><span>I’ve</span><span> made tonight represent the beginning of our last chapter working together. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I’m</span><span> hopeful that this chapter will be as productive as the </span><span>previous</span><span> seven—in fact, </span><span>I’m</span><span> insistent that it will. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I still have eight months left in this job, and I intend to use every hour of every day to make as much progress as I can. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>This is not goodbye, my friends.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>That said, this is my last State of the State address. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Next year, someone else will be giving this speech—someone who, </span><span>I’ll</span><span> just note, will inherit a state in tremendous fiscal condition with a AAA bond rating.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But, for now, I will just say that it has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as Minnesota’s 41st governor. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And </span><span>it’s</span><span> been a particular privilege to sit in this chair during such a pivotal moment in our history.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>I will never forget the way the people of this state showed up for each other during this consequential time. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>And I </span><span>don’t</span><span> think anyone should be allowed to forget it.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>That’s</span><span> why, recently, I signed an executive order </span><span>establishing</span><span> a Governor’s Council to document the impact of Operation Metro Surge—not just the trauma, but the redemptive stories of Minnesotans who came together to support one another and advocate peacefully for their neighbors.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Tonight, </span><span>I’ll</span><span> just share one of those stories I read on social media. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>It comes from a Minnesotan </span><span>I’ve</span><span> never met. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>He calls himself Norm, although I </span><span>don’t</span><span> think </span><span>that’s</span><span> his real name, and he usually posts about sports. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But </span><span>he’s</span><span> also been working in his community to help families who had loved ones abducted during the occupation of Minnesota, raising funds online to help those families stay in their homes despite the loss of their breadwinners.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Last week, ICE released one such person from a facility in South Texas. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>That was the good news. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>The </span><span>bad news</span><span> was that he was released without any cash, or any ID, or any way to get home. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Norm spent all day trying to figure out how to send this total stranger money for a bus </span><span>ticket, but</span><span> realized that getting home via Greyhound would take forever. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>So, eventually, he decided to take matters into his own hands. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>He bought a ticket on the night’s last flight to Austin, rented a car, and drove an hour in the rain to pick up his fellow Minnesotan near midnight outside a gas station in some random town in Texas.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>They stayed overnight in a hotel, and in the morning, Norm took his new friend to Walmart to buy clean clothes and bought a round of breakfast tacos before flying him back to Minnesota so he could reunite with his family, including his new baby.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>“On the drive home,” Norm wrote online, “he said he’d gotten taken in winter and now it was summer.”</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Every year around this time, Minnesotans watch the last of the snow melting and realize that brighter days are right around the corner. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>There will be Twins baseball, </span><span>maybe even</span><span> good Twins baseball, to build on a great Lynx season.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Fishing on the lake. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>The State Fair. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Summer is coming.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>This winter has been particularly cold and bitter for so many of our neighbors. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But we are ready to move beyond our season of grief.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span> </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We will never forget those we have lost. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>But neither will we forget what we have found to be true about ourselves and our neighbors—that we are strong, that we are resilient, that we are generous, that we are compassionate, that we are in this together.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Our work here in St. Paul is simply to make our state a place worthy of the incredible people who live here. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>For seven years, </span><span>we’ve</span><span> been doing that together. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>We have one more chance to do it again. </span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Let’s</span><span> get to work.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>Thank you.</span></span></p>7448432026-04-29T01:00:27Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-743781" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-24T03:01:51ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Caroline H. Lennon. This seat will be chambered in Shakopee in Scott County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/04/23/file_attachments/3627660/Bautista,%20Cassandra%20-%20Headshot.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cassandra Bautista:</a></strong> Cassandra Bautista is an attorney at Bautista Defense PLLC, where she represents clients facing criminal charges at all levels in Minnesota and Wisconsin. She also serves as a conciliation court referee in the Tenth Judicial District. Bautista previously served as a prosecutor for several municipalities in Dakota County and as an immigration attorney, representing clients before Immigration Court and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Her community involvement includes serving as administrator of the Dakota County Criminal Defense Panel, a board member of the Dakota County Bar Association, and the immediate past president of the First District Bar Association. Bautista also serves as a member of the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training and the Inver Grove Heights Fire Department Auxiliary.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/04/23/file_attachments/3627636/Carolan,%20Christina%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Christina Carolan:</a> </strong>Christina Carolan is an assistant attorney general at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General, where she represents state agencies and employees at all stages of civil and appellate litigation. Her practice focuses on defending and enforcing Minnesota's environmental and natural resource laws, as well as litigating civil rights cases. Carolan previously clerked for the Honorable Karen A. Janisch in the Fourth Judicial District. Her community involvement includes co-chairing the Attorney General’s Anti-Discrimination Work Group, assisting the Attorney General’s Task Force for the Future of Minnesota’s Water, and volunteering for pro bono eviction expungement clinics. She previously co-chaired the Attorney General’s Pro Bono and Volunteer Committee, served as a school council member at Highland Catholic School, and coached her daughter’s volleyball team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/04/23/file_attachments/3627638/Lyngaas,%20Zach%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Zachary Lyngaas</a>:</strong> Zachary Lyngaas is an assistant public defender in the First District Public Defender’s Office, where he represents adult and juvenile clients. He previously worked as an assistant county attorney in the McLeod County Attorney’s Office and as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Shereen M. Askalani in the Fourth Judicial District. Lyngaas is a member of the Minnesota Army National Guard and a veteran of the war in Afghanistan. He currently serves as First Sergeant for A Troop, 1-94 Cavalry. Lyngaas’s volunteer activities include mentoring law students as part of the University of St. Thomas School of Law Mentor Externship Program and coaching youth t-ball and baseball.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7437812026-04-24T03:14:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-742976" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-21T19:00:00ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed five bipartisan bills into law supporting veterans and their families, updating the state’s energy permitting processes, and clarifying policies related to liquor licensing and mortgage foreclosures.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] –</span><span> Governor Tim Walz today signed five bipartisan bills into law supporting veterans and their families, updating the state’s energy permitting processes, </span><span>and </span><span>clarifying</span><span>policies related to liquor licensing and mortgage foreclosures.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span><span>“Living in a nursing home or assisted living facility should not mean giving up everyday freedoms,”</span></span></strong><span><span> said Governor Walz. </span></span><strong><span><span>“This bipartisan bill increases independence and safety under clear regulations, while ensuring residents are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve—including the ability to </span><span>get together</span><span>for </span><span>happy hour</span><span>.”</span></span></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2025/0/SF/2511/"><span><span>SF</span><span>2511</span></span></a><span><span>updates Minnesota’s liquor laws by authorizing certain municipalities to issue liquor licenses, clarifying trade practices between manufacturers and wholesalers, and </span><span>modifying</span><span> licensing requirements for specific establishments, including nursing homes and those </span><span>operated</span><span> by the University of Minnesota.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/3802/"><span><span>HF 3802</span></span></a><span><span>modifies exemptions to the state’s certificate of need requirement for energy</span><span> infrastructure</span><span> projects, helping streamline the development and modernization of</span><span>transmission</span><span> lines.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/3741/"><span><span>HF 3741</span></span></a><span><span>expands and clarifies educational </span><span>assistance</span><span> for veterans’ spouses and children, ensuring continued access to tuition support and financial </span><span>assistance</span><span>.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/3544/"><span><span>HF 3544</span></span></a><span><span>updates eligibility for state-funded </span><span>veterans</span><span> benefits, specifying that individuals who have </span><span>forfeited</span><span> federal </span><span>veterans</span><span> benefits are not eligible for state programs, and </span><span>discontinues</span><span> the environmental hazards information and </span><span>assistance</span><span> program.</span></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/3479/"><span><span>HF3479</span></span></a><span><span>clarifies the process for postponing mortgage foreclosure sales, </span><span>providing additional </span><span>options </span><span>for homeowners</span><span> navigating foreclosure proceedings.</span></span></p>7429762026-04-21T20:30:52Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-742109" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-17T19:27:25ZThe Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments to the Board of Firefighter Training and Education, Board of Pharmacy, Board of Psychology, Board of Cosmetology Examiners, Great Lakes Fishery Commission, Midwestern Higher Education Compact Commission, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, Minnesota Health and Education Facilities Authority, Minnesota Rural Finance Authority, and the Statewide Independent Living Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dean Wrobbel – Annandale, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education  <br /> Home Rule Charter City Representative  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Firefighter Training and Education: <br /></em>The Board of Firefighter Training and Education supports firefighter training and education and works to fund standardized training and licensing of firefighters in Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Firefighter Training and Education can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/24">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ronda Chakolis-Hassan – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Pharmacy  <br /> Pharmacist #1  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Manahan – Bloomington, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Pharmacy  <br /> Public Member #2  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Pharmacy: <br /></em>The Board of Pharmacy regulates the practice of pharmacy and the quality, labeling, and distribution of drugs. It also administers the Minnesota Prescription Monitoring Program the Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program, and the Opiate Product Registration Fee Program. Additionally, the board investigates complaints, takes disciplinary actions, issues licenses and registrations, conducts inspections, and provides technical assistance to licenses/registrants, other state agencies, and elected public officials. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Pharmacy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/30">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lindsey Hickey – Rochester, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Psychology  <br /> Psychologist Training Program Rep  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Psychology:</em>  <br /> The Board of Psychology examines and licenses qualified individuals, establishes license fees, creates and enforces ethical requirements, establishes and approves continuing education programs, educates the public, and facilitates consumer complaints. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Psychology can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/33">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Zariyah Chude – Plaine, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Cosmetology Examiners  <br /> Private School Instructor  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alva McMillan – Apple Valley, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Cosmetology Examiners  <br /> Licensed Esthetician #1  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Simon – Owatonna, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Cosmetology Examiners  <br /> Public School Instructor  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Cosmetology Examiners:</em>  <br /> The Board of Cosmetology's mission is to serve and care for creative professional licensees, applicants, and the public. The Board is committed to public protection, superior service, and continuous improvement.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Cosmetology Examiners can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/165" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joel Hoffman – Duluth, MN</strong>  <br /> Great Lakes Fishery Commission’s Committee of Advisors <br /> Public at Large Advisor  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Great Lakes Fishery Commission:</em> <br /> The Great Lakes Fishery Commission was established in 1955 by the Canadian/U.S. Convention on Great Lakes Fisheries. The commission coordinates fisheries research, controls the invasive sea lamprey, and facilitates cooperative fishery management among the state, provincial, tribal, and federal agencies. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Great Lakes Fishery Commission can be found on the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fglfc.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C5f1a9c8ae1f44e2e8c6308de9ca19e7a%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639120415121091039%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=yxWJM21PlgTGVEkUPXyuSH0R%2B2XMM0WrX2rr%2Bvf5Xgc%3D&amp;reserved=0">Great Lakes Fishery Commission website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gretchen Ritter – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Midwestern Higher Education Compact Commission  <br /> At-Large Member  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Midwestern Higher Education Compact Commission:</em>  <br /> The Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC) brings together leaders from midwestern states to develop cost-savings, generate collaborative solutions to challenges and opportunities in higher education, and promote postsecondary alignment with workforce needs. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Midwestern Higher Education Compact Commission can be found on the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmhec.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C5f1a9c8ae1f44e2e8c6308de9ca19e7a%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639120415121109319%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=DHG1O1DUrWCLRor03BfFvNhxA9y19Bler8af%2BTRbyZ4%3D&amp;reserved=0">Midwestern Higher Education Compact website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Abby Loesch – Arden Hills, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service  <br /> Youth Education Representative  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nathan Prouty – Apple Valley, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service  <br /> Community Member #9  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, also known as ServeMinnesota, provides grants, training, and technical assistance to nonprofits, government agencies, and schools that run AmeriCorps programs. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/105">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Martha Earley – Woodbury, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Health and Education Facilities Authority  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Health and Education Facilities Authority:</em>  <br /> The purpose of the authority shall be to assist health care organizations and institutions of higher education in the construction, financing, and refinancing of projects.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Minnesota Health and Education Facilities Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/110">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Harold Wolle – Madelia, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Rural Finance Authority  <br /> Public Member #5  <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Rural Finance Authority:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Rural Finance Authority develops the state's agricultural resources by extending credit on farm real estate security and depreciable agricultural property. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Minnesota Rural Finance Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/115">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Angie Bosch – Fargo, MN</strong>  <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Center Director Member #1 <br /> Effective: April 22, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daniel Roherty – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council  <br /> Member #4 Effective: April 22, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Statewide Independent Living Council:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council (MNSILC) works collaboratively with the Centers for Independent Living to create, monitor, and evaluate the State Plan for Independent Living. MNSILC coordinates with other entities in the state that provide similar or complementary independent living services.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Statewide Independent Living Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/152">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p>7421092026-04-17T19:29:18Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-742106" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-17T19:26:33ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending four candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending four candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Suzanne Bollman, the Honorable Walter M. Kaminsky, and the Honorable Douglas B. Meslow. These seats will be chambered in Buffalo in Wright County, Elk River in Sherburne County, and Center City in Chisago County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/04/17/file_attachments/3621536/Fodness,%20Katheryn%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kathryn Fodness</a>:</strong> Kathryn Fodness is an assistant city attorney with the Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office, where her practice focuses on labor and employment law, including litigation and the creation and implementation of policies related to police reform. She previously served as general counsel for Minnesota Management and Budget, where she acted as the agency’s chief legal officer, the executive branch’s chief labor and employment law counsel, and the state ethics officer. Fodness also worked as an assistant attorney general at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General and a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Regina M. Chu in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Her community involvement includes serving as a volunteer mock mediator in skills courses at the University of Minnesota Law School and as a mentor for law students interested in public practice. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/04/17/file_attachments/3621540/Sosinski,%20Nathan%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nathan Sosinski</a>:</strong> Nathan Sosinski is the managing attorney at the Tenth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Washington County, where he represents clients in felony criminal cases. He was previously the managing attorney at the public defender’s office in Pine, Isanti, Chisago, and Kanabec counties and an assistant county attorney in Pine County. Sosinski’s community involvement includes serving as an instructor at the Minnesota Public Defender’s Office Trial School and as a member of the Washington County Community Corrections Advisory Board. He previously served as a member of the Criminal Sexual Conduct Statutory Reform Working Group, a board member for the Centennial Lakes Little League, a coach for middle school girls’ basketball and softball teams, and a judge for collegiate and high school mock trial. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/04/17/file_attachments/3621542/St%20George,%20Stacy%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stacy St George</a>:</strong> Stacy St George is an assistant chief of the Criminal Division at the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she has worked extensively in criminal prosecution with a focus on violent crimes. Through her role, she assisted in the development of the first Rule 20.01 Competency Court in the First Judicial District, which prioritizes treatment and support for individuals living with mental illness in the criminal justice system. St George previously served as the assistant head of the Criminal Division in the Anoka County Attorney’s Office and as an assistant county attorney in Isanti County. Her community involvement includes serving on the policy committee of the Minnesota Children’s Alliance and as a board member for the Forest Lake Athletic Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/04/17/file_attachments/3621543/Wolff,%20Karen%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Karen Wolff</a>:</strong> Karen Wolff is the assistant civil chief in the Wright County Attorney’s Office, where she handles child support cases, guardianships, and other civil matters, and is a team member for the Wright County drug treatment court. She previously served in the criminal division of the Wright County Attorney’s Office and as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Dale E. Mossey in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. Wolff is a board member of the Minnesota Family Support and Recovery Council. She also volunteers with the Cardinal Athletic Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, and as an attorney coach for the Buffalo High School Mock Trial team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>. </p>7421062026-04-17T19:29:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-741149" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-15T19:00:00ZOn Tax Day, Governor Tim Walz visited Rochester to meet with early learning students, educators, child care leaders, and local elected officials to highlight ongoing efforts to make child care more affordable for Minnesota families. Governor promotes expansion of Dependent Care Tax Credit to help working families manage rising costs 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – On Tax Day, Governor Tim Walz visited Rochester to meet with early learning students, educators, child care leaders, and local elected officials to highlight ongoing efforts to make child care more affordable for Minnesota families. This marks the second school visit in the past week as Governor Walz continues a statewide focus on child care affordability during the legislative session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Child care is not optional for working families,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Child care makes work possible, and when we bring that cost down, we are not just helping budgets, we are helping families build stability. The Dependent Care Credit is one of the most direct ways to do that, putting money right back in their hands.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The visit included a stop at Hoover Elementary School and Early Learning Program, where the Governor participated in classroom activities with students, toured early learning spaces, and met with educators and community partners. Governor Walz was joined by Minnesota Department of Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart, Rochester Mayor Kim Norton, and local early childhood education leaders. Together, they discussed rising child care costs and the Governor’s proposed solutions in the state budget.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s proposal would expand Minnesota’s refundable Dependent Care Tax Credit by increasing income eligibility, expanding allowable expenses for young children under age five, and increasing the credit rate for all dependents under age 13 to 50 percent of eligible expenses. In total, the proposal would benefit approximately 104,800 families, an increase of about 60,000 families compared to current eligibility, and increase refunds by an average of about $1,623 overall, and approximately $2,191 for families with young children in child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Tax Day, the Governor also highlighted the state’s existing Child Tax Credit as a major step toward family affordability. So far this year, more than 200,000 families have claimed the credit, benefiting nearly 414,000 children across Minnesota. Families are receiving an average credit of $2,591. The program is estimated to reduce child poverty by up to one-third, making it one of the most significant investments in children and families in state history.</p>7411492026-04-15T22:13:28Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-739676" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-09T20:00:00ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Max Schafer-LaCoursiere and Symon Schindler-Syme as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The seats will be chambered in Warren in Marshall County and Crookston in Polk County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/04/09/file_attachments/3613172/Schafer-LaCoursiere%20Max%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Max Schafer-LaCoursiere</a> and <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/04/09/file_attachments/3613194/Schindler-Syme,%20Symon%20-%20Headshot.JPG" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Symon Schindler-Syme</a> as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The seats will be chambered in Warren in Marshall County and Crookston in Polk County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Max Schafer-LaCoursiere will replace the Honorable Anne M. Rasmusson for a seat chambered in Marshall County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The people of Marshall County will be well served by Max Schafer-LaCoursiere,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “He has a wealth of legal experience that will make him a great judge, but more importantly, he possesses the character and compassion to truly see the people who appear before him. Those qualities will make him an exceptional judge.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Symon Schindler-Syme will replace the Honorable Jeffrey S. Remick for a seat chambered in Polk County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Symon Schindler-Syme is a talented litigator who will bring a thoughtful and balanced perspective to this role,”</strong> said Governor Walz<strong>. “Each day, he will take the bench prepared, focused, and committed to administering justice fairly to all. His dedication to the rule of law and public service makes him exceptionally well suited for this position.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District encompasses Aitkin, Beltrami, Cass, Clearwater, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Kittson, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau Counties. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Max Schafer-LaCoursiere</em>  <br /> Max Schafer-LaCoursiere is an assistant public defender in the Ninth District Public Defender’s Office in Thief River Falls, where he represents clients throughout Northwestern Minnesota. He previously served as an assistant county attorney in the Pennington County Attorney’s Office and as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Tamara L. Yon in the Ninth Judicial District. Schafer-LaCoursiere is president of the Oxbow Foundation. He also volunteers with the Association of the French of the North and serves on the University of Minnesota Extension Committee for Red Lake County. He earned his B.A. from the University of North Dakota and his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Symon Schindler-Syme</em>  <br /> Symon Schindler-Syme is an assistant county attorney in the Beltrami County Attorney’s Office, where he handles criminal and appellate cases. He was previously an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District. Schindler-Syme’s community involvement includes volunteering with the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the Rules of Public Access to Records of the Judicial Branch, the Minnesota County Attorney’s Association Criminal Law Committee, the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society, and Bemidji Great River Rescue. He earned his B.A. from St. Cloud State University and his J.D. from Seattle University School of Law. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7396762026-04-15T13:38:11Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-739677" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-09T19:00:00ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Duluth, where he met with students, education leaders, and families at a local school to discuss child care affordability. The Governor also visited the Port of Duluth-Superior as the second stop on his statewide infrastructure tour, highlighting the importance of continued investments and his proposed $907 million infrastructure plan. Photos from the event can be found here.Governor Walz meets with local leaders on the second stop of a statewide infrastructure tour 1055<table border="0" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <tbody> <tr bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <td> <div> <table border="0" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Duluth, where he met with students, education leaders, and families at a local school to discuss child care affordability. The Governor also visited the Port of Duluth-Superior as the second stop on his <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/735628" target="_blank" rel="noopener">statewide infrastructure tour</a>, highlighting the importance of continued investments and his <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/720201" target="_blank" rel="noopener">proposed $907 million infrastructure plan</a>. Photos from the event can be found <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mngov/albums/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p><strong>“Child care and infrastructure might seem like two different issues, but they’re both about whether Minnesota families can succeed,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“When parents can afford child care, and workers have access to good-paying jobs, our communities grow stronger, and our economy works for everyone. As we head into the final stretch of session, we have an opportunity, and a responsibility, to make life more affordable and create success across Minnesota.”</strong> </p> <p>At Piedmont Elementary School, the Governor read with preschool students and kicked off a roundtable discussion with the Department of Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart, child care providers, school leaders, and families. The discussion focused on rising child care costs and solutions proposed in the Governor’s budget. The Governor’s proposal would help lower costs by expanding the Dependent Care Tax Credit, benefiting more than 104,800 families and increasing the amount of the refund to families by an average of about $2,100 for families with young children in child care.  </p> <p>Following the school visit, the Governor toured the Port of Duluth-Superior to highlight the impact of infrastructure investments on regional and statewide economic growth, including support for union jobs and global trade. The Port of Duluth-Superior transports approximately 20 million tons of iron ore and one million tons of grain annually, making it the Great Lakes’ top tonnage port and supporting more than 7,000 jobs. As part of his proposed $907 million infrastructure plan, Governor Walz recommends $4 million for the Port Development Assistance Program, which helps ports like Duluth fund critical infrastructure upgrades and remain competitive in global markets. </p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>7396772026-04-10T02:20:44Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-739093" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-07T21:41:46ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued an executive order providing emergency assistance to Winona County following a cyberattack on Monday, April 6, 2026, that disrupted critical systems and digital services.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued an <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/Executive%20Order%2026-06_tcm1055-739085.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">executive order</a> providing emergency assistance to Winona County following a cyberattack on Monday, April 6, 2026, that disrupted critical systems and digital services. The attack continued into Tuesday, April 7, significantly impairing the county’s ability to deliver vital emergency and municipal services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Cyberattacks are an evolving threat that can strike anywhere, at any time,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Swift coordination between state and local experts matters in these moments. That's why I am authorizing the National Guard to support Winona County as they work to protect critical systems and maintain essential services.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Winona County officials have been working around the clock in coordination with Minnesota Information Technology Services, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the League of Minnesota Cities, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and external cybersecurity experts. Due to the scale and complexity of the incident, Winona County requested cyber protection support from the Minnesota National Guard to ensure continuity of municipal operations. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The executive order activating this support takes effect immediately.</p>7390932026-04-07T21:42:51Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-738700" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-06T17:10:39ZGovernor Tim Walz today congratulated Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice Natalie Hudson on her upcoming retirement. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today congratulated Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice Natalie Hudson on her upcoming retirement. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Chief Justice Hudson stands among the giants of Minnesota history. She will be remembered not only for the glass ceilings she shattered but for a lifetime of service to those seeking fairness and justice in our courts. The rule of law is stronger than ever in Minnesota, and it is in no small part due to her steady leadership. We thank Chief Justice Hudson for upholding and advancing our democracy and celebrate a career marked by profound integrity, wisdom, and grace.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Further details regarding the selection of her successor will be forthcoming. </p>7387002026-04-06T17:11:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-738380" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-03T19:04:56ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated new data from the Minnesota Department of Education showing Minnesota’s Class of 2025 achieved the highest four-year graduation rate in state history at 84.9%, marking the second consecutive year of record-breaking progress. Investments in schools, educators, and student support pay off with gains across nearly every student group 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated <a href="https://rc.education.mn.gov/#mySchool/p--3" target="_blank">new data from the Minnesota Department of Education</a> showing Minnesota’s Class of 2025 achieved the highest four-year graduation rate in state history at 84.9%, marking the second consecutive year of record-breaking progress.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is a moment worth celebrating,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Decades in the classroom have helped inform many of the goals I’ve set and the policies we’ve passed over the last seven years to support our students, teachers, and parents. Every student who receives that diploma is better equipped to navigate the challenges of landing a job, pursuing higher education, and building a future they feel excited about. Congratulations to an incredible class of students.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Graduation rates increased across nearly every student group, with notable gains among American Indian, Black, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino students, as well as students receiving special education services and those from lower-income families. The graduation rate for American Indian students increased by nearly 5 percentage points from last year and has risen 9 percentage points since 2021, one of the largest gains of any student group.  Achievement gaps also continued to narrow in many areas. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The progress we’re seeing among Native students is meaningful and long overdue,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.<strong> “This represents real momentum and reflects intentional investments in education. While we celebrate this progress, we remain committed to continuing this work until every student has the support and opportunity to graduate and thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our students are succeeding and leaving school prepared for career, college, and citizenship at record rates,” </strong>said Minnesota Department of Education Commissioner Willie Jett.<strong> “While there is still more to accomplish, it is clear our schools continue making gains in closing achievement gaps and ensuring every student of every background, zip code, and ability can thrive both in and out of school.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The data reflect continued progress following historic investments in education and family economic stability, including universal school meals, a nation-leading child tax credit, expanded mental health resources, increased teacher pay, and long-term funding increases for schools. These efforts help ensure students are supported both inside and outside the classroom.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota is also seeing improvements in student engagement and school climate. Recent data show students increasingly report feeling safe, supported, and connected at school – key indicators linked to academic success and graduation.</p>7383802026-04-07T14:53:40Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-737844" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-27T19:04:56ZThe Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments to the Board of Firefighter Training and Education, Board of Occupational Therapy Practice, Board of Electricity, Board of Psychology, Board of Soil and Water Resources, Home Care Orientation Trust, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, Plumbing Board, and the Technology Advisory Council. The Governor also reappointed Lisa Thompson as Ombudsperson for Family Child Care Providers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mark Niemi – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> MN State Fire Chief Association Representative - Volunteer <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gavin Peterson – Hackensack, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> Volunteer Firefighter POC/PT #3 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Firefighter Training and Education:</em> <br /> The Board of Firefighter Training and Education supports firefighter training and education and works to fund standardized training and licensing of the firefighters in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Firefighter Training and Education can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/24" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Oneka Jenkins – Fridley, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Electricity <br /> Power Limited Technician <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeff Peper – Oak Grove, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Electricity <br /> Master Electrician - Contractor - #1 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Allan Stadheim – Albert Lea, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Electricity <br /> Electrical Supplier in Rural Area #2 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Trevor Turek – Michael, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Electricity <br /> Journeyman Electrician #2 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Electricity:</em> <br /> Adopt rules, amend the National Electrical Code, final interpretations of code when submitted to the board, adopt rules to regulate electrical businesses and individual licenses and continued education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Electricity can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/210" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Regnier – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Occupational Therapy Practice <br /> Occupational Therapist #4 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice:</em> <br /> The Board of Occupational Therapy Practice licenses practitioners and enforces state rules and statues governing the practice of occupational therapy to ensure a reasonable standard of competent and ethical practice.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/235" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jacquelyn Cardinal – Anoka, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Psychology <br /> Public Member #3 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Psychology:</em> <br /> The Board of Psychology examines and licenses qualified individuals, establishes license fees, creates and enforces ethical requirements, establishes and approves continuing education programs, educates the public, and facilitates consumer complaints.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Psychology can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/33" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Fish – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Soil and Water Resources <br /> Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor #1 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kevin Paap – Garden City, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Soil and Water Resources <br /> County Commissioner #3 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Water and Soil Resources:</em> <br /> The Board of Water and Soil Resources works to improve and protect Minnesota’s water and soil resources by working in partnership with local organizations and private landowners. The agency is responsible for accomplishing various land and water protection, habitat restoration, and clean water programs and projects in collaboration with local governments statewide.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Water and Soil Resources can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/38" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Cohen – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Home Care Orientation Trust <br /> Alternate - State <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Home Care Orientation Trust:</em> <br /> The Home Care Orientation Trust is a fund that provides training to individual providers of direct support services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Home Care Orientation Trust can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/383" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Ellenberger – Orono, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Community Member #12 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Emerson- George – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Community Member #8 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michelle Langenfeld – Coon Rapids, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Local Government Representative <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Moncada – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Business Member <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jim Vogl – Plymouth, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Community Member #14 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carol Watson – White Bear Lake, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Community Member #10 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, also known as ServeMinnesota, provides grant funding, training, and technical assistance to nonprofits, government agencies, and schools that run AmeriCorps programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/105" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karl Abrahamson – Cottage Grove, MN</strong> <br /> Plumbing Board <br /> Municipal Plumbing Inspector #1 - Metro <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Samuel Arnold – Preston, MN</strong> <br /> Plumbing Board <br /> Non-Metro Commercial/Industrial Journeyworker Plumber #2 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bruce Pylkas – Saint Paul Park, MN</strong> <br /> Plumbing Board <br /> Metro Commercial/Industrial Plumbing Contractor #1 <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Yarwood – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Plumbing Board <br /> Municipal Public Water Supply System Operator or Superintendent <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Plumbing Board:</em> <br /> The Plumbing Board adopts the plumbing code and rules that regulate the licensing and registration of plumbing-related professions and issues code interpretations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Plumbing Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/132" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jamie Thingelstad – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Technology Advisory Council <br /> Private Business Representative <br /> Effective: April 1, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Technology Advisory Council:</em> <br /> The Technology Advisory Council advises the Commissioner of Minnesota IT Services on the development and implementation of a state information technology plan, critical information technology initiatives for the state, standards for state information architecture, and management of the state enterprise technology fund.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Technology Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/187" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz also announced the reappointment of Lisa Thompson as Ombudsperson for Family Child Care Providers, effective July 7, 2026. As Ombudsperson, Thompson will oversee an office to assist family child care providers with licensing, compliance, and other family child care issues. </p>7378442026-04-01T13:07:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-736401" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-27T19:04:56ZPassed on a broad bipartisan basis, new laws will enhance school bus safety, support small businesses, and eliminate statewide recognition of Cesar Chavez 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed four bipartisan bills into law, marking the first bill signings of the 2026 legislative session. The legislation will strengthen school bus safety standards, support Minnesota businesses by ensuring continued access to cannabis product testing, provide housing support, and eliminate Cesar Chavez Day. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These bills show what’s possible when we set party aside and focus on solving problems together,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“These first bills set the tone for the session – making kids’ mornings safer and allowing small businesses a little more stability.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FSF%2F3623%2Fversions%2Flatest%2F/1/0101019d30ef7dcf-f0b4412d-fb6d-4ff1-803a-a4ea83eb93f9-000000/2kFp_vT7ch4bMPV9Y-pazxTlc29K4ezFfPVICR6JAS0=450">SF 3623</a> enhances school bus safety by requiring drivers to stop at least 20 feet away from a school bus displaying flashing red lights. The law clarifies that drivers must remain stopped until the bus is no longer signaling, improving protections for students and bus drivers. The bill passed unanimously in both the House and Senate.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3615%2Fversions%2F0%2F/1/0101019d30ef7dcf-f0b4412d-fb6d-4ff1-803a-a4ea83eb93f9-000000/S8TsYq0elNWVQUSYawY94hZf7hGS5Lrf6DjMiZ19BAU=450">HF 3615</a> extends the timeline, allowing lower-potency hemp edible products to be tested at qualified out-of-state facilities. With limited in-state testing capacity, this measure prevents backlogs, ensures product availability for consumers, and provides stability for Minnesota businesses as the state’s cannabis market continues to develop. The bill extends current testing flexibility for lower-potency hemp edibles through May 31, 2027, allowing businesses to continue using out-of-state labs while Minnesota builds in-state testing capacity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F3425%2Fversions%2F0%2F/1/0101019d30ef7dcf-f0b4412d-fb6d-4ff1-803a-a4ea83eb93f9-000000/48T5xbZy0PF_beV69VfUu5SWQH9jQl8ExCQcpUPkPWc=450">HF 3425</a> directs $9 million from the Strengthen Supportive Housing Program to recipients of the federal Continuum of Care Program, which provides permanent supportive housing in many areas of Minnesota. This is a budget-neutral bill because this funding is coming from an existing appropriation from 2023. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2F94%2F2026%2F0%2FHF%2F4541%2Fversions%2F0%2F/1/0101019d30ef7dcf-f0b4412d-fb6d-4ff1-803a-a4ea83eb93f9-000000/ta2JXLM_N-BG_mWDmTUNt5Lxq1BUqt1B07Ki37wb4po=450">HF 4541</a> repeals the prior statute establishing Cesar Chavez Day in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We will continue to celebrate the farm labor movement and the many people throughout history who have contributed to the improvement of farm working conditions,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“I applaud the legislature for taking this swift action.”</strong> The Governor declared March 31 as <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fassets%2F03.31.26%2520Farmworkers%2520Day_tcm1055-736272.pdf/1/0101019d30ef7dcf-f0b4412d-fb6d-4ff1-803a-a4ea83eb93f9-000000/3Zfu6NcU9q9z8xv5oBs5Q5xd2N2OF3dx179lWwahzPA=450">Farmworkers Day</a> to continue recognizing the impact of agricultural workers. </p>7364012026-03-27T20:22:43Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-737845" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-26T19:04:56ZGovernor Tim Walz today applauded the federal government’s approval of a temporary fuel waiver, providing relief and expanding fuel markets.Temporary waiver will expand fuel markets, providing nationwide relief 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today applauded the federal government’s approval of a temporary fuel waiver, providing relief and expanding fuel markets. The waiver was granted following a <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/03/26/file_attachments/3597005/2026_03_06_FINAL_Letter_EPA_EmergencyFuelWaivers.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">request by Governor Walz</a> and a coalition of Midwest governors for emergency relief due to the ongoing fuel supply shortage.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The waiver goes into effect May 1, allowing nationwide sales of E15 – gasoline blended with 15 percent ethanol – and removing all federal restrictions to the sale of E10 – gasoline blended with 10 percent ethanol.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans should not pay the price for the actions of the Trump Administration. For farmers, daily commuters, and everyone in between, reliable and affordable fuel options are not a luxury, they’re a necessity,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Allowing the sale of E15 will provide economic relief and certainty in the fuel markets. This is one step in the right direction.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota has more than 550 gas stations, selling over 144 million gallons of E15 fuel in 2025. Drivers save an average of $0.14 per gallon by filling up with E15.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2022, Governor Walz wrote to the EPA Administrator, requesting permanent year-round sales of E15. In 2024, the federal government approved the Governor’s request, allowing year-round sales in eight Midwestern states, including Minnesota. The Governor continues to push for a permanent E15 waiver and urges Congress to take action and pass legislation that would fix the issue nationally.</p>7378452026-04-01T13:07:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-735628" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-25T19:04:56ZGovernor Tim Walz today kicked off a statewide infrastructure tour and highlighted his 2026 infrastructure plan at the Robbinsdale Centralized Water Treatment Plant. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today kicked off a statewide infrastructure tour and highlighted his 2026 infrastructure plan at the Robbinsdale Centralized Water Treatment Plant. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">His $907 million proposed investment would support public safety, clean water, transportation, and housing infrastructure. The Governor’s infrastructure tour will visit proposed and completed infrastructure projects, highlighting the impact of infrastructure investments on Minnesotans’ health, safety, and wellbeing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When we’re doing our jobs right, Minnesotans should never have to give a second thought to their water treatment plant and whether the water out of the tap will be clean and safe. We provided that assurance to the Robbinsdale community, and we have an opportunity to make another bipartisan investment to upgrade these facilities across the state,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Whether it’s clean water, affordable housing, or safe roads, the importance of investing in modernized, reliable infrastructure cannot be overstated. I look forward to continuing to see firsthand the impact of these investments statewide.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since opening in 2022, the Robbinsdale Centralized Water Treatment Plant has provided drinking water for the city’s 15,000 residents. The project received $36 million in 2020 from the Public Facility Authority’s Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund to replace three aging plants and centralize operations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/720201" target="_blank">The Governor’s proposed 2026 budget</a> is dedicated to preserving existing state infrastructure (35%), supporting water and transportation projects (19%), investing in public safety projects (16%), and investing in affordable housing and local economic development (11%). The remaining funds support outdoor recreation and environmental projects and farmer loan assistance through the Rural Finance Authority and various other projects.</p>7356282026-03-25T19:08:07Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-735583" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-25T16:28:57ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed an executive order establishing a Governor’s Council to document the impacts of Operation Metro Surge and Operation PARRIS. The council will create a public record of both the harm endured and the generosity and resilience of Minnesotans across the state. Council will document harms, elevate Minnesotans’ stories, and deliver recommendations to prevent future abuses 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed an executive order establishing a Governor’s Council to document the impacts of Operation Metro Surge and Operation PARRIS. The council will create a public record of both the harm endured and the generosity and resilience of Minnesotans across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The council, composed of leaders with a range of expertise and perspectives, will gather testimony, data, and firsthand accounts to ensure people’s experiences are preserved and heard. It will work to make recommendations to prevent future harm and support the state’s long-term recovery.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans know what happened in their communities, but too many stories have yet to be heard, documented, and shared,”</strong> said Governor Walz. “<strong>For months, families lived in fear, children were separated from their parents, and our neighbors were subjected to racial profiling and unlawful detentions. At the same time, people showed up for one another with compassion, courage, and resilience. This council will make sure we document Minnesota's history.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over more than 10 weeks, federal operations caused widespread harm across Minnesota, including family separations, civil and human rights violations, and economic disruption. In response, Minnesotans of all walks of life came together to support one another and advocate peacefully for their neighbors. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The council will include up to 15 members and partner with The Advocates for Human Rights to collect stories and hold public meetings. The council does not have a law enforcement role and will not interfere with ongoing investigations. Individuals can apply to be on the Governor’s Council through the Office of the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/398" target="_blank">Secretary of State</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This executive order is part of ongoing efforts to demand transparency, accountability, and justice for people in Minnesota impacted by federal immigration enforcement actions. The Governor continues to demand impartial investigations into the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. </p>7355832026-03-25T16:31:40Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-735170" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-24T14:51:46ZGovernor Tim Walz today sent a letter to President Donald Trump pressing the Trump administration to return tariff revenue that courts have ruled unlawful. As the state recognizes Agriculture Day, the Governor warned that the damage to Minnesota’s economy, particularly in agriculture, is deepening and will be difficult to reverse.Trump’s unlawful tariffs have contributed to a 70% rise in farm bankruptcies and cost American households roughly $1,745 each1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today sent a letter to President Donald Trump pressing the Trump administration to return tariff revenue that courts have ruled unlawful. As the state recognizes Agriculture Day, the Governor warned that the damage to Minnesota’s economy, particularly in agriculture, is deepening and will be difficult to reverse.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Financial stress is rising across rural Minnesota: 866 farmers entered debt mediation in early 2026, and <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/02/23/farm-bankruptcies-up-in-minnesota-and-across-the-midwest/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">farm bankruptcies across the Midwest rose 70% in 2025</a>. As markets shrink, many farmers are operating at a loss. The taxpayer-subsidized, $12 billion “Farmer Bridge Assistance” handout Trump recently announced is a temporary bridge that, by current estimates, covers only about 30% of losses for many farmers this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans can’t afford Trump’s tariffs,”</strong> said Governor Walz. “<strong>Families are paying more for groceries, farmers have been pushed toward bankruptcy in record numbers, small businesses have seen business dry up, and the manufacturing sector continues to shed jobs. These weren’t just bad policies – they were unlawful, and Minnesotans deserve every dollar back.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">According to the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jec.senate.gov%2Fpublic%2F_cache%2Ffiles%2F7cc03e65-d40a-465f-9e88-09dd53d3502f%2Fjec-fact-sheet-on-cost-of-tariffs-for-families-update.pdf&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C5de762c4fc064b4df54808de89b28cf1%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639099597130502302%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=da5H%2BXcCSxnye%2FCxFwlJHmGfJ7s0rdWKYoFdgn1UxfI%3D&amp;reserved=0">U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee</a>, tariffs imposed between February 2025 and January 2026 increased costs for American households by roughly $1,745 each. In Minnesota’s approximately 2.4 million households, that totals more than $4.1 billion. The <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flibertystreeteconomics.newyorkfed.org%2F2026%2F02%2Fwho-is-paying-for-the-2025-u-s-tariffs%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C5de762c4fc064b4df54808de89b28cf1%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639099597130530787%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=S%2FZ4Kn296aCEY1ERXBUtbaCQ2zX2f1vPQMpFcI4CzZY%3D&amp;reserved=0">Federal Reserve Bank of New York</a> reports that 90% of these tariff costs were absorbed by U.S. businesses and consumers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor warned that the long-term economic damage may be even more severe. Minnesota’s farmers, who <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkstp.com%2Fkstp-news%2Ftop-news%2Fchanges-in-trump-tariffs-have-minnesota-consumers-farmers-and-entrepreneurs-feeling-uncertain-about-the-future%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C5de762c4fc064b4df54808de89b28cf1%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639099597130549444%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=vFqBX92sd6P2XAzmEG0MUGURmYiZCdfPaTkvB0h0DTQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">export $8.3 billion annually</a>, are losing access to global markets. <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/kenroberts/2026/02/05/china-ends-longest-boycott-of-us-soybeans-still-a-99-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">U.S. soybean exports have fallen</a> from 47% of global market share in 2018 to 24.4% today, while competitors in South America have gained ground.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Farmers don’t want bailouts to replace functioning markets,”</strong> Governor Walz said. <strong>“They want stability, reliable trade relationships, and the ability to compete. Right now, they have none of those.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tariffs are also raising costs across the broader economy. Minnesota imports roughly $40 billion in goods annually, and retaliatory tariffs have driven up prices on groceries, construction materials, electronics, and critical farm inputs. Tariffs on Canadian energy have also contributed to an estimated 5% increase in gasoline prices, adding further strain on family budgets.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Following the Supreme Court’s ruling that the President lacked authority to impose these tariffs, Governor Walz <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/03/24/file_attachments/3594179/03.11.2026%20Governors%20Tariff%20Letter%20to%20Congress%20FINAL.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">joined 19 governors in urging Congress to pass legislation</a> such as the Tariff Refund Act of 2026 to return unlawfully collected tariffs to families and businesses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s full letter, urging the White House to quickly develop and implement a plan to return tariff revenues directly to Minnesota households, farmers, and businesses, is available <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/03/24/file_attachments/3594174/03.24.2026%20Tariff%20Refund%20Letter.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. The Governor also proclaimed March 24 as <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/03.26.26%20Agriculture%20Day_tcm1055-735152.pdf">Agriculture Day</a>, highlighting the vital contributions of agriculture and agricultural workers to the state.</p>7351702026-03-24T14:59:57Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-734024" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-19T19:32:35ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced three vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced three vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Bev Benson, the Honorable Laurie J. Miller, and the Honorable Edward T. Wahl. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on April 9 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-May. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Fourth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019d0793ccd7-264f300c-df64-4369-9164-ac6d1a28286d-000000/JwkUvNa5QtS9HxZDTYdTVOFgrTnAP4XZ3pmz9lilMlc=449" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7340242026-03-19T19:33:55Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-733308" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-18T00:16:04ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced Minnesota has secured more than $1 billion in federal investments to replace the Blatnik Bridge between Duluth and Superior, Wisconsin, clearing the way for the largest public works project in Minnesota history.Critical Infrastructure Investment Advances After Avoidable Federal Holdup 1055<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced Minnesota has secured more than $1 billion in federal investments to replace the Blatnik Bridge between Duluth and Superior, Wisconsin, clearing the way for the largest public works project in Minnesota history.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“This is a major win for Minnesota and the Twin Ports,” </span></strong><span>said Governor Walz. </span><strong><span>“Replacing the Blatnik Bridge will improve safety, strengthen our economy, and support thousands of good-paying jobs. This investment, signed into law by President Biden, should never have been put in jeopardy. Minnesota is ready to break ground and get this project started.”</span></strong></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“The Blatnik Bridge project is the top priority project for the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and securing this grant means the project can continue without delay,”</span></strong><span> said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. </span><strong><span>“This project is happening because of a strong partnership between Minnesota, Wisconsin, local, tribal, and federal officials, our industry partners and our building trades. We look forward to continuing to work with our partners as we get closer to breaking ground and replacing this bridge.”</span></strong></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Minnesota and Wisconsin have each committed $400 million in state funding. The project was awarded a $1.058 billion federal grant in January 2024 after passage of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. However, the U.S. Department of Transportation did not finalize the necessary grant agreement amendment to release the funds for design and construction until this week. Preliminary construction is expected to begin later this year.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The John A. Blatnik Bridge, which opened in 1961, carries I-535 over St. Louis Bay and serves approximately 33,000 vehicles each day. It is a critical freight corridor, supporting more than $3.7 billion in goods movement annually between the Twin Ports. The bridge is currently rated in poor condition, with weight restrictions and safety concerns, and is nearing the end of its service life.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The replacement project is estimated to cost $1.8 billion and will support approximately 1.5 to 1.75 million direct labor hours. Jointly owned and managed by MnDOT and WisDOT, the Blatnik Bridge is Minnesota’s second-longest bridge. MnDOT will lead the replacement effort, which will modernize infrastructure, improve safety, and better accommodate oversize and overweight freight.</span></p> </div>7333082026-03-18T00:17:17Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-733307" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-18T00:12:57ZGovernor Tim Walz today ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise on Wednesday, March 18, to sunset on Thursday, March 19, in honor and remembrance of Deputy Fire Marshal Shawn Johnson of the Minnetonka Fire Department, who passed away on March 5, 2026, after a two-year battle with cancer.1055<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] – </span><span>Governor Tim Walz today ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise on Wednesday, March 18, to sunset on Thursday, March 19, in honor and remembrance of Deputy Fire Marshal Shawn Johnson of the Minnetonka Fire Department, who passed away on March 5, 2026, after a two-year battle with cancer.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“Deputy Fire Marshal Shawn Johnson dedicated his life to protecting others and strengthening the fire service across Minnesota,” </span></strong><span>said Governor Walz.</span><strong><span> “Through two decades of service, he mentored firefighters, safeguarded communities, and built lasting relationships grounded in trust and professionalism. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, the Minnetonka Fire Department, and the many colleagues and friends whose lives he touched.”</span></strong></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Johnson joined the Minnetonka Fire Department in March 2006 as a Paid-on-Call Firefighter. During his time with the department, he served as a lieutenant and training captain before joining the department full-time in 2016 as a fire inspector in the Fire and Life Safety Division. In 2023, he was promoted to Deputy Fire Marshal.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>In addition to his service in Minnetonka, Johnson supported firefighters statewide as a testing evaluator with the Minnesota Fire Service Certification Board. A nationally certified Fire Investigator, he served as Vice President of the Minnesota Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators and was recognized as Minnesota Fire Investigator of the Year in 2020. He also served for more than a decade with the Hennepin County Fire Investigation Team in several leadership roles.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Deputy Fire Marshal Johnson’s life and legacy. Flags are currently lowered in honor of </span><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/730964" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Sergeant First Class Nicole M. Amor</span></span></a><span> and will remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of her interment. The Governor’s proclamation can be found </span><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/03.18.2026%20Shawn%20Johnson_tcm1055-732716.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a><span>.</span></p> </div>7333072026-03-18T00:17:17Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-733146" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-17T17:00:00ZGovernor Tim Walz today released his 2026 supplemental budget proposal at the Eastside YMCA. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released his <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/03/17/file_attachments/3586411/FINAL%20sup-budget2026_onepager.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2026 supplemental budget proposal</a> at the Eastside YMCA. The budget prioritizes lowering costs for middle class families, helping Minnesotans through workforce disruptions caused by artificial intelligence, and responding to Operation Metro Surge, while making responsible cuts to continue Minnesota's record of balanced budgets. The Governor’s full supplemental budget proposal is available <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/03/17/file_attachments/3586397/2026%20Supplemental%201%20page.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">online</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As families see higher prices and more economic uncertainty, we’re proposing legislation to make everything from child care, to housing, to property taxes more affordable for middle class families,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This is a fiscally responsible plan that cuts spending to maintain a balanced budget while preparing our economy and our workforce for the challenges of artificial intelligence.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s supplemental budget would cut $370 million in state spending in Fiscal Year 2029 and reduces the structural deficit by nearly 20%. By slowing the rate of growth in programs that for years have been key drivers of increased spending and minimizing the impacts on eligibility and service levels, the Governor’s budget would leave a projected balance of $1.8 billion on the bottom line in FY 28-29.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Lowering Costs for Families</em> <br /> The Governor’s proposed budget would offset rising child care costs by providing families with child care refunds. Expanding the Dependent Care Tax Credit would benefit 104,800 families with young and school aged children and increase the maximum allowable expenses by $3,000  for one child and $6,000 for two or more children under five years old. The budget also includes $33 million for permanent supportive housing, $34 million for first-time homebuyer downpayment assistance, and a cut to the statewide sales tax by .075%, which would be the first sales tax cut in state history.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Supporting Workers Impacted by Artificial Intelligence and Making Tech Companies Pay Their Fair Share</em> <br /> Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, business practices, and jobs. As tech companies see record profits while workers bear the costs, the Governor is proposing proactive steps to ensure workers and businesses are prepared to compete and succeed in the changing economic landscape. The Governor is proposing a social media tax on tech companies with over 100,000 monthly users. The revenue would be dedicated to workforce and economic development initiatives designed to prepare Minnesota’s workforce and businesses for increased AI adoption and other emerging technologies. He is also proposing a new Governor’s Council on the Future AI Economy that would help provide guidance on how funds should be invested to ensure Minnesota remains a leader in innovation while ensuring Minnesotans benefit from technological change.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Operation Metro Surge Response</em> <br /> Operation Metro Surge had significant financial and societal impacts on Minnesota families, children, schools, businesses, and the economy. The Governor’s supplemental budget prioritizes resources to help Minnesota recover, with $10 million in partially forgivable loans for businesses that faced significant revenue loss; a $10 million investment in the Human Services Response fund at the Department of Human Services to help support the health and wellbeing of Minnesotans; and rental support for 9,150 Minnesota renters through the Family Homelessness Prevention and Assistance Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Gun Violence Prevention, Safety, and Security</em> <br /> Gun violence has inflicted immense heartbreak and loss in Minnesota. The Governor’s budget would build on previous gun violence prevention measures taken in Minnesota with proposals to ban military-style assault rifles and high-capacity magazines; ensure accountability among responsible gun owners by requiring safe storage and reporting of lost or stolen firearms; close the ghost gun loophole; implement a firearm insurance requirement; establish a firearm and ammunition tax; and create and expand early intervention resources, including school resources. The supplemental budget also includes increased penalties for impersonating a police officer and funding for Capitol security enhancements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Fraud Prevention and Financial Integrity</em> <br /> Governor Walz and state leaders have taken extensive action to protect taxpayer dollars and strengthen program integrity across state government. The supplemental budget builds on these actions with increased detection and oversight, strengthened investigative and enforcement authority, and increased criminal penalties. The budget also establishes a Statewide Office of Inspector General; prohibits legislatively named grants; adds capacity for fraud prevention at the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Unit; strengthens program integrity at Managed Care Organizations; and allocates $30M over three years to update Minnesota’s legacy IT systems.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor also plans to work with the legislature this session to find a path forward to preserve Hennepin Healthcare’s Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC), an important statewide asset. He has tapped former Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm to work directly with hospital and health system leaders across the state to address financial challenges facing providers, strengthen coordination between the state and hospital systems, and develop recommendations.</p>7331462026-03-17T19:48:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-733018" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-17T14:38:39ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that longtime health care leader and former Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm will serve as Senior Advisor on Hospitals and Health Systems to the Governor’s Office and the Health Subcabinet.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that longtime health care leader and former Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm will serve as Senior Advisor on Hospitals and Health Systems to the Governor’s Office and the Health Subcabinet.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jan Malcolm is one of the most respected and experienced health leaders Minnesota has ever had, and I’m grateful she has agreed to lend her expertise to our state’s health system yet again,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “Her leadership will help us bring providers, policymakers, and communities together to confront the challenges facing our hospitals head-on, strengthen our health care system, and ensure every Minnesotan can get the care they need when they need it.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In this role, Malcolm will work directly with hospital and health system leaders across the state to address financial challenges facing providers, strengthen coordination between the state and hospital systems, and develop recommendations for the Governor’s Office and Health Subcabinet to support hospitals and maintain access to care across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Her service comes at a critical moment for Minnesota hospitals, which are facing rising costs, workforce shortages, and growing levels of uncompensated care. These pressures have placed significant strain on providers, including Hennepin Healthcare’s Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC), a vital safety-net hospital serving patients statewide, operating one of Minnesota’s largest emergency departments, and one of only a few hospitals equipped to handle the most severe trauma emergencies. Hennepin Healthcare’s financial strain has been further intensified by federal Medicaid changes under “the One Big Beautiful Bill”, which reduces funding for hospitals serving large numbers of publicly insured patients. Combined with rising costs and workforce pressures, these challenges put HCMC at serious risk and underscore the urgent need for state action to ensure continued access to critical care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Facilities like HCMC are simply too important to lose,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“A closure would be devastating for patients, the community, and health systems across the region that rely on Hennepin Healthcare’s trauma care and specialty services. We will be working with the Legislature and local partners to find a path forward to preserve this critical statewide asset.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Malcolm previously served as Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Health from 1999 to 2003 and again from 2018 to 2023. She has spent decades improving public health and health care delivery in Minnesota and nationally and is widely respected for her leadership across the state’s health care community.</p>7330182026-03-17T14:39:17Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-732714" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-16T21:31:25ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. One vacancy occurred upon the elevation of the Honorable Anne M. Rasmusson to the Court of Appeals, and the other will occur later this year upon the retirement of the Honorable Jeffrey S. Remick. These seats will be chambered in Warren in Marshall County and Crookston in Polk County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F03%2F16%2Ffile_attachments%2F3585796%2FSchafer-LaCoursiere,%2520Max%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019cf88e9ec1-f4d8075c-d6d1-4e22-9af0-99fa25b0c176-000000/7X3HqetQVwwgrNytfTig1LkuE9fBcM7Ap08M_pqQIjY=448" target="_blank">Max Schafer-LaCoursiere</a>:</strong> Max Schafer-LaCoursiere is an assistant public defender in the Ninth District Public Defender’s Office in Thief River Falls, where he represents clients throughout Northwestern Minnesota. He previously served as an assistant county attorney in the Pennington County Attorney’s Office and as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Tamara L. Yon in the Ninth Judicial District. Schafer-LaCoursiere is president of the Oxbow Foundation. He also volunteers with the Association of the French of the North and serves on the University of Minnesota Extension Committee for Red Lake County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F03%2F16%2Ffile_attachments%2F3585776%2FSchindler-Syme,%2520Symon%2520-%2520Headshot.JPG/1/0101019cf88e9ec1-f4d8075c-d6d1-4e22-9af0-99fa25b0c176-000000/XJVLioeqjCAhT5SnzyLeVNtPbEdikVtFddR_yychZ4E=448" target="_blank">Symon Schindler-Syme</a>:</strong> Symon Schindler-Syme is an assistant county attorney in the Beltrami County Attorney’s Office, where he handles criminal and appellate cases. He was previously an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District. Schindler-Syme’s community involvement includes volunteering with the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the Rules of Public Access to Records of the Judicial Branch, the Minnesota County Attorney’s Association Criminal Law Committee, the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society, and Bemidji Great River Rescue. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F03%2F16%2Ffile_attachments%2F3585777%2FScott,%2520Eliza%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019cf88e9ec1-f4d8075c-d6d1-4e22-9af0-99fa25b0c176-000000/8xoak9HwR_vU2AS-kujVSFmPUE2CekDZywkOI5ii9W8=448" target="_blank">Eliza Scott</a>:</strong> Eliza Scott is an assistant county attorney in the Roseau County Attorney’s Office, where she focuses on felony and gross misdemeanor criminal prosecution and civil commitment matters. She previously served as an assistant county attorney in Beltrami County and a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Donna K. Dixon in the Ninth Judicial District. Scott is a member of the Roseau County Drug and DWI Court Treatment Team, the Domestic Violence Coordinated Community Response Team, and Roseau County’s Community Justice Coordinating Committee. She is also a member of the Criminal Law and Civil Commitment committees of the Minnesota County Attorney’s Association, the Roseau Women of Today, and the Minnesota Cattlewomen’s Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019cf88e9ec1-f4d8075c-d6d1-4e22-9af0-99fa25b0c176-000000/49OUvDqTcf00NFwlBe1e9_tqilfiw6I_1ibvg-P2KVU=448">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7327142026-03-17T13:11:12Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-731743" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-13T23:05:14ZAhead of dangerous winter weather conditions expected this weekend, Governor Tim Walz today declared a peacetime emergency, authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide support for emergency storm operations.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Ahead of dangerous winter weather conditions expected this weekend, Governor Tim Walz today <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/03/13/file_attachments/3584005/Emergency%20Executive%20Order%2026-04.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">declared a peacetime emergency</a>, authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide support for emergency storm operations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Despite recent spring weather, Minnesotans know that a March snowstorm is never out of the question,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As we brace for this potentially dangerous round of winter weather, I am grateful to our National Guard for stepping in to keep Minnesotans safe.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The National Weather Service is predicting a major winter storm for much of Minnesota beginning the evening of Saturday, March 14. The storm is expected to bring snowfall and strong winds, potentially creating blizzard conditions. Travel is expected to become nearly impossible in parts of the state and widespread power outages could occur.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The state has received a request from Steele County for the Minnesota National Guard to provide the personnel, equipment, facilities, and resources necessary to respond to the severe weather. Due to the widespread nature of the storm, additional counties are likely to require assistance in the days to come.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This Executive Order and declaration of peacetime emergency is effective immediately and remains in effect until emergency conditions caused by the winter storm subside or March 19, 2026, whichever occurs first.</p>7317432026-03-14T17:00:59Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-731594" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-13T20:03:35ZThe Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments to the African American Health State Advisory Council, Board of Marriage and Family Therapy, Clean Water Council, Metropolitan Airports Commission, MN Board on Aging, Public Employees Retirement Association, Public Employment Relations Board, State Guardian Ad Litem Board, Statewide Independent Living Council, and the Technology Advisory Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Iman Ibrahim – Woodbury, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kiora Kamara – Richfield, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Inih Essien – Bloomington, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the African American Health State Advisory Council:</em>  <br /> The African American Health State Advisory Council advises the commissioner of health on issues to develop specific, targeted policy solutions to improve the health of African American Minnesotans, with a focus on United States-born African Americans.    </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the African American Health State Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/353" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Adam Arnold – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Marriage and Family Therapy  <br /> Licensed Marriage And Family Therapist #4  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thad Shunkwiler – Mankato, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Marriage and Family Therapy <br /> Licensed Marriage And Family Therapist #3 <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy:</em>  <br /> The Board of Marriage and Family Therapy is a statutorily-created health licensure board charged with the licensure, regulation and oversight of marriage and family therapists and the practice of marriage and family therapy in Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/26" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>April Swenby – Fertile, MN</strong>  <br /> Clean Water Council <br /> Watershed District  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Clean Water Council:</em>  <br /> The Clean Water Council advises on the administration and implementation of the Clean Water Legacy Act. The council is required to submit a biannual report to the legislature and Governor that includes recommendations for Clean Water Fund appropriations, and an evaluation of progress made by the Clean Water Fund. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Clean Water Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Forschler – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Metropolitan Airports Commission  <br /> District C Representative  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kyle O'Neill – Chanhassen, MN <br /></strong>Metropolitan Airports Commission  <br /> District B Representative <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Metropolitan Airports Commission:</em> <br /> The Metropolitian Airports Commission promotes air transportation locally, nationally, and internationally by developing the Twin Cities as an aviation center. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Metropolitan Airports Commission can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/79" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Bahr – Kimball, MN</strong> <br /> MN Board on Aging <br /> Member #17 <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the MN Board on Aging: <br /></em>The MN Board on Aging works to ensure that older Minnesotans and their families are effectively served by state and local policies and programs, so they can age well and live well. The MBA is Minnesota's federally designated State Unit on Aging for multi-year planning. The MBA administers federal funding from the Centers from Medicare and Medicaid (CMS), the Administration for Community Living (ACL), the Older Americans Act, as well as state-funded aging programs. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the MN Board on Aging can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/104" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Grace Molenaar-Maldonado – Champlin, MN</strong>  <br /> Public Employees Retirement Association  <br /> Member w/ Knowledge of Pensions  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 31, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Public Employees Retirement Association:</em>  <br /> The Public Employees Retirement Association provides retirement, survivor, and disability benefits for public employees of county and local government. The management of the public employee’s retirement fund is vested in a board of trustees.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Public Employees Retirement Association can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/133" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Aron – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Public Employment Relations Board  <br /> Representative of Public Employees  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Kaspari – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Public Employment Relations Board  <br /> Representative of Public Employees - Alternate <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katherine Megarry – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Public Employment Relations Board  <br /> Public Employers Representative  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Martin Munic – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Public Employment Relations Board  <br /> Public Employers Representative - Alternate  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Public Employment Relations Board:</em>  <br /> The Public Employment Relations Board investigates, hears, and resolves unfair labor practice charges and complaints, replacing the judicial process previously in place. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Public Employment Relations Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/223" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ruby Tolbert – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> State Guardian ad Litem Board  <br /> Member - Governor Appt (2)  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Guardian ad Litem Board:</em>  <br /> The State Guardian Ad Litem Board creates and administers a statewide independent guardian ad litem program to advocate for the best interests of children, minor parents, and incompetent adults in juvenile and family court cases; approves and recommends to the legislature a budget for the board and the guardian ad litem program; and establishes guardian ad litem program standards, administrative policies, procedures, and rules. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the State Guardian ad Litem Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/216" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Addyson Carpenter – Red Wing, MN</strong>  <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council  <br /> Member #16  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joseph Dailey – Prior Lake, MN</strong>  <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council  <br /> Member #17  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>KiloMarie Granda – Morris, MN</strong>  <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council  <br /> Member #11  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michele Severson – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council  <br /> State Council On Disability, Ex-Officio Non-Voting Member - Member #18  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Statewide Independent Living Council:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council (MNSILC) works collaboratively with the Centers for Independent Living to create, monitor, review, and evaluate the State Plan for Independent Living. MNSILC coordinates activities with other entities in the state that provide services similar or complementary to independent living services. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Statewide Independent Living Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/152" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Vincent Cabansag – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Technology Advisory Council  <br /> Chair  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stacie Christensen – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Technology Advisory Council  <br /> State Agency Business Planning - Member #6  <br /> Effective: March 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Technology Advisory Council:</em>  <br /> The Technology Advisory Council advises the Commissioner of Minnesota IT Services on the development and implementation of a state information technology plan, critical information technology initiatives for the state, standards for state information architecture, and management of the state enterprise technology fund. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Technology Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/187" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p>7315942026-03-13T20:30:24Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-730936" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-12T14:18:21ZGovernor Tim Walz today encouraged Minnesotans to file for the state’s nation-leading child tax credit, highlighting data showing that thousands of Minnesota families have already benefited from the credit, which helps families afford necessities and lifts children out of poverty.A signature accomplishment of the Walz Administration, more than 318,000 children have already benefited this year, with families receiving an average credit of $2,6691055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today encouraged Minnesotans to file for the state’s nation-leading child tax credit, highlighting data showing that thousands of Minnesota families have already benefited from the credit, which helps families afford necessities and lifts children out of poverty.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">So far this year, more than 154,000 tax returns have claimed the Child Tax Credit, benefiting over 318,000 children across Minnesota. Families are receiving an average credit of $2,669. The credit is estimated to reduce child poverty by up to a third in Minnesota, making it one of the most impactful investments in children and families in state history.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These numbers show exactly why we created the Child Tax Credit: to put money in the pockets of working families and lift children out of poverty,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Hundreds of thousands of Minnesota children are already benefiting this tax season, and we want every eligible family to make sure they claim the credit when they file their taxes this year.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Child Tax Credit allows families to receive up to $1,750 per qualifying child. The credit is refundable, meaning families can receive the full value even if they do not owe state income tax.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota is also the first state in the nation to offer an <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/advance-payments-child-tax-credit">advance payment option</a> for Child Tax Credit recipients. Families who choose this option while filing their taxes can receive a portion of next year’s credit in three payments during the second half of the year, helping households manage expenses throughout the year instead of receiving the entire credit at once.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Child Tax Credit is helping families afford the basics that kids need to thrive, from groceries to school supplies to child care,”</strong> said Department of Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart. <strong>“We encourage every eligible Minnesotan to file their taxes and claim the credit they’ve earned.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota families must file a state income tax return to receive the Child Tax Credit. Many taxpayers may also qualify for <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/free-tax-preparation-sites">free tax preparation</a> assistance through Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or AARP Tax-Aide programs available across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Updated Child Tax Credit totals will continue to grow throughout tax season as more Minnesotans file their returns. Minnesotans can learn more about eligibility requirements and how to claim the credit on the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit">Minnesota Department of Revenue website</a>.</p>7309362026-03-12T14:19:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-730514" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-10T16:52:43ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced a proposal to transform Minnesota’s human services system, outlining a major structural overhaul of the state’s administration of human services.1055<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced a <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/03/10/file_attachments/3578838/mndhs-transform_Fact%20Sheet-tall%20%282%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">proposal to transform Minnesota’s human services system</a>, outlining a major structural overhaul of the state’s administration of human services. The proposal would streamline Minnesota’s service delivery model, moving away from the complex, layered administration managed by a patchwork of counties, Managed Care Organizations, and state agencies to a single, centralized entity. </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The proposal would also modernize Medicaid administration, consolidate administrative functions, and initiate independent reviews to strengthen program integrity and improve how services are delivered to Minnesotans.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“Minnesota is consistently ranked as one of the best states to live because we invest in programs that support children, seniors, people with disabilities, and families,” </span></strong><span>said Governor Walz. </span><strong><span>“But systems built decades ago must evolve to meet today’s challenges. This proposal begins the work of modernizing how we deliver human services so we can strengthen oversight, increase efficiency, and improve the quality of services Minnesotans rely on. This is about asking whether the way our system is organized today best supports accountability, transparency, and effective service delivery for the future.”</span></strong></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The Governor’s proposal builds on <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/03/10/file_attachments/3578837/antifraud_Timeline2026-tall.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">recent efforts to strengthen fraud prevention</a> and accountability in state programs, including a comprehensive anti-fraud package introduced in February, the permanent appointment of Commissioner Gandhi to lead the state Department of Human Services’ ongoing efforts to combat fraud, and the implementation of a nine-part fraud prevention roadmap developed by Director of Program Integrity Tim O’Malley. </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Governor Walz unveiled the proposal alongside Minnesota Department of Human Services Commissioner Shireen Gandhi, Inspector General James Clark, Deputy Commissioner and State Medicaid Director John Connolly, and Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) State Budget Director Ahna Minge.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>Modernizing Medicaid Administration</span></em><span><br /></span><span>A central component of the proposal would change how Minnesota administers Medicaid. Currently, about 45 percent of Medicaid spending and nearly 80 percent of basic care services are administered through eight Managed Care Organizations (MCOs).</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Under the Governor’s proposal, Minnesota would transition from the MCO model and establish a single statewide Administrative Service Organization (ASO) responsible for administrative duties such as claims processing, financial transactions, and provider services.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>This change would allow Minnesotans receiving Medicaid to access the same provider networks, rates, and billing rules regardless of where they live, while strengthening consistency and program controls.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>Strengthening Eligibility Oversight </span></em><span><br /></span><span>The Governor’s proposal also calls for shifting the Medicaid eligibility determination process for health care and long-term services from counties to the state, streamlining eligibility processes, and improving oversight.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Under the proposal, the state would assume responsibility for eligibility determinations and certain specialized Medical Assistance eligibility processes by July 1, 2028. The state would also pilot assuming some MnCHOICES eligibility functions related to long-term care, disability, and older adult services.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>Evaluating the Future Structure of Human Services</span></em><span><br /></span><span>The Governor’s plan also includes funding for a comprehensive study examining how human services programs are administered across Minnesota. Counties and Tribal Nations play a critical role in delivering services, but Minnesota is one of a small number of states that continues to operate a large county-administered human services system.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The study will review how responsibilities are currently shared between the state, counties, and Tribal Nations and examine how other states structure their systems. It will also assess the administration of programs, including Medicaid (also known as Medical Assistance), MinnesotaCare, behavioral health services, housing support, economic assistance, child support, and child care programs.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The goal is to develop recommendations for a more transparent, efficient, and accessible system for Minnesotans. </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The Minnesota Department of Human Services today announced a <a href="https://osp.admin.mn.gov/PT-auto">Request for Proposals</a> (RFP)</span><span> to re-evaluate and restructure its organization, operations, and the work culture of the 2,300 people who provide funding for social services across the state. The state is seeking proposals from independent consulting firms to provide recommendations on improving the effectiveness of the department serving as the state’s Medicaid agency. </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The request for proposal kicks off an extensive process review of agency operations that was ordered last fall by Governor Tim Walz in an executive order to combat fraud in state programs.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Governor Walz emphasized that the proposal marks the continuity of a long-term effort to modernize Minnesota’s human services system and ensure programs remain strong, accountable, and effective for the Minnesotans who rely on them.</span></p> </div>7305142026-03-10T20:16:50Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-730637" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-10T16:52:43ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Holli Mayer as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F02%2F20%2Ffile_attachments%2F3560436%2FMayer,%2520Holli%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019cd9563af5-b287950d-b066-49d0-a07a-9c64fcd51220-000000/Wlrl3S3wCjfqILSSs1pqivVOmIxaf1FTxCyIavhC5i4=448" target="_blank">Holli Mayer</a> as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. Mayer will replace the Honorable Ross L. Leuning and will be chambered in Albert Lea in Freeborn County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Holli Mayer will bring extensive experience to the Freeborn County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “Her legal career has spanned both the courtroom and the boardroom, giving her a wide range of experience to draw on in this role. The Third Judicial District will be well served by her leadership on the bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Third Judicial District consists of Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca, and Winona counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Holli Mayer is senior counsel at Hormel Foods Corporation, where she manages all litigation for the company. She was previously an assistant county attorney in both Mower County and Freeborn County, where she handled a wide range of cases, including adult criminal offenses, juvenile delinquencies, child protection, civil commitments, guardianships, and conservatorships. Mayer’s community involvement includes serving on the Austin Police Civil Service Commission and the United Way Backpack Program Committee. She previously served on the board of directors for the Sacred Heart Care Center. She earned her B.S. from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and her J.D. from the University of St. Thomas School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019cd9563af5-b287950d-b066-49d0-a07a-9c64fcd51220-000000/jVUY2gBazSQ4AHe-isoU4Wb7l30p2Es8pMfBck2NNUg=448">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>7306372026-03-10T20:16:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-730964" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-05T15:18:21ZGovernor Tim Walz today ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota immediately and until sunset on the day of interment, in honor and remembrance of Sergeant First Class Nicole M. Amor of White Bear Lake, who was killed on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota immediately and until sunset on the day of interment, in honor and remembrance of Sergeant First Class Nicole M. Amor of White Bear Lake, who was killed on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Sergeant First Class Amor answered the call to serve and gave her life in service to our nation. She wore our nation’s uniform with courage and selflessness, demonstrating dedication and honor throughout her life and career,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her life was marked by service to others, and her memory will be treasured by all who were fortunate to know her. With deep gratitude, Minnesota recognizes Sergeant First Class Amor’s unwavering dedication and bravery, and I extend my deepest condolences to her loved ones.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sergeant First Class Amor was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) and was serving overseas in support of U.S. military operations when the strike occurred. She was one of six American service members killed in the incident, which remains under investigation by the Department of Defense. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sergeant First Class Amor enlisted in the Minnesota National Guard in 2005 before transferring to the Army Reserve in 2006. She previously deployed to Kuwait and Iraq in 2019 and served for more than 20 years with commitment and distinction in logistics operations supporting fellow service members. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Sergeant First Class Amor’s life and legacy. The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/03/05/file_attachments/3574774/03.05.2026%20Sgt.%20First%20Class%20Nicole%20M.%20Amor%20FAHS.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p>7309642026-03-12T15:52:41Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-728540" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-03T01:25:15ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced three vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced three vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Suzanne Bollman, the Honorable Walter M. Kaminsky, and the Honorable Douglas B. Meslow. These seats will be chambered in Buffalo in Wright County, Elk River in Sherburne County, and Center City in Chisago County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on March 23 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in early April. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Tenth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7285402026-03-03T01:28:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-728430" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-02T17:58:44ZGovernor Tim Walz today sent a second letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem demanding immediate answers about children detained by federal immigration agents and the continued surge of federal law enforcement in Minnesota1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today sent a second letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem demanding immediate answers about children detained by federal immigration agents and the continued surge of federal law enforcement in Minnesota. Nearly a month ago, Governor Walz <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/722109" target="_blank" rel="noopener">first requested information</a> on the number of children and other individuals detained in Minnesota and held in federal facilities. He has received no response.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We will not remain silent while Minnesota’s children remain missing,” </strong>said Governor Tim Walz.<strong> “Families deserve to know where their kids are. Communities deserve transparency. The continued refusal to provide answers is unacceptable, and I will not stop demanding accountability and transparency until every child is accounted for and returned home.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/03/02/file_attachments/3570096/03.02.26%20Sec.%20Noem%20Follow-Up%20Letter%20with%20Rolling%20Request.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">today’s letter</a>, the Governor calls out the Trump Administration’s failure to provide basic transparency about the whereabouts of children taken from Minnesota communities. Governor Walz also raised concerns about the ongoing federal immigration enforcement surge and horrific conditions reported in detention facilities. State and local leaders report that the continued presence is harming businesses, disrupting schools, and placing strain on local law enforcement.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To ensure public accountability and begin restoring transparency, the Governor’s Office has filed a Freedom of Information Act request seeking official documents related to Operation Metro Surge, Operation Parris, and the detention of children in Minnesota.</p>7284302026-03-02T18:00:01Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-728189" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-27T21:04:35ZThe Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] –The Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments to the African American Health State Advisory Council, Board of Accountancy, Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design, Board of Barber Examiners, Board of Optometry, Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Board of Podiatric Medicine, Board of School Administrators, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Minnesota Forest Resources Council, and the MN Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Demitrea Kelley – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the African American Health State Advisory Council:</em>  <br /> The African American Health State Advisory Council advises the commissioner of health on issues to develop specific, targeted policy solutions to improve the health of African American Minnesotans, with a focus on United States-born African Americans.    </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the African American Health State Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/353">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jason Amberg – Eden Prairie, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design  <br /> Licensed Landscape Architect #1  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stacee Demmer – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design  <br /> Licensed Architect #1  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carolee Lindsey – Saint Anthony, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design  <br /> Public Member #4  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alan Johnson – Mountain Iron, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design  <br /> Licensed Engineer #5  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Travis Thul – Mankato, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design  <br /> Licensed Engineer #3  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design:</em>  <br /> The Board licenses and regulates architects, engineers, land surveyors, landscape architects, geologists, and soil scientists, and certifies interior designers. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F18/1/01010194e225f329-bb920968-134e-48c0-bbda-9b51a554156c-000000/W7MHhJCDJzgD-6u6L_O9kcKg9sXolANCyUVXb1Nzs00=391">Secretary of State’s website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rod Axtell – Bloomington, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Accountancy  <br /> Certified Public Accountant #7  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Accountancy:</em>  <br /> The Board of Accountancy examines, licenses and regulates certified public accountants and registered accounting practitioners.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Accountancy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/16">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Josh Kirkpatrick – Waconia, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Barber Examiners  <br /> Barber #1 Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Barber Examiners:</em>  <br /> The Board of Barber Examiners oversees the administration, enforcement, regulation, and adoption of rules regulating the barber profession; make rule changes; when applicable approve variances; and enter contracts to protect the public through the regulation of all license types issued to practice or participate in barbering in Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Barber Examiners can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/164">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Leah Colby – Rogers, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Optometry  <br /> Optometrist #4  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Optometry:</em>  <br /> The board licenses optometrists, adopts rules and investigates complaints. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Optometry can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/28">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Kent – Alexandria, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training  <br /> Police Chief #1  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training:</em>  <br /> The Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training licenses peace officers and part-time peace officers; establishes minimum qualifications and standards of conduct; and regulates professional peace officer education and continuing education for peace officers. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/29">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Naomi Schmid – Baxter, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Podiatric Medicine  <br /> Doctor #4  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mitzi Shimanksi – Silver Lake, MN <br /></strong>Board of Podiatric Medicine  <br /> Public Member #2  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Podiatric Medicine:</em>  <br /> The Board of Podiatric Medicine licenses doctors of podiatric medicine, disciplines licensees, and registers corporations. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Podiatric Medicine can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/31">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Boguszewski – Roseville, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of School Administrators  <br /> Public Member (School Board Member)  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christine Tucci Osorio – Woodbury, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of School Administrators <br /> Superintendent  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of School Administrators:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Board of School Administrators licenses school administrators in order to establish and maintain high standards for a quality administrator licensing system for Minnesota public schools, and ensures that the highest quality administrators serve the needs of people in Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of School Administrators can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/34">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephen Spears – Plymouth, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Housing Finance Agency  <br /> Public Member #6  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency provides financing for housing low- and moderate-income persons. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/71">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tom Radovich – Duluth, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Forest Resources Council  <br /> Rep (Forest Products Industry) <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Forest Resources Council: <br /></em>The Council shall develop recommendations to the governor and to federal, state, county and local governments with respect to forest resources policies and practices. The council also has responsibility for implementing the policies and programs called for.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Minnesota Forest Resources Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/88">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heidi Hamilton – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> State Agency Representative - Dept of Human Service - Disability Services Division  <br /> Effective: March 4, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities:</em>  <br /> The Council carries out the responsibilities in P.L. 106-402 to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports/services to achieve increased independence, productivity, self determination, integration and inclusion in the community. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/109">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Office are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p>7281892026-02-27T21:07:17Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-728188" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-27T21:02:06ZToday, Governor Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Chief Justice Natalie Hudson announced the appointment of Liz Kramer to the Commission on Uniform State Laws. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Chief Justice Natalie Hudson announced the appointment of Liz Kramer to the Commission on Uniform State Laws. She will serve the remainder of the late Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman’s term, expiring on May 31, 2027.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Appointee</em>  <br /> <strong>Liz Kramer: </strong>Liz Kramer is the solicitor general for the State of Minnesota, where she defends the constitutionality of state laws and represents Minnesota in state and federal appellate courts. She was previously a partner at Stinson LLP, where she practiced complex commercial litigation, and a law clerk to the Honorable Helen M. Meyer on the Minnesota Supreme Court. Kramer’s community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee for the Rules on Civil Appellate Procedure and the boards of the Minnesota State Fair Foundation and Minnesota Supreme Court Historical Society. Kramer’s community involvement has also included serving on the Appellate Practice Section Council of the Minnesota State Bar Association and helping found the Appeals Self-Help Clinic for self-represented parties in appeals. She earned her B.A. from Mount Holyoke College and her J.D. from Yale Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Commission on Uniform State Laws</em>  <br /> The Commission on Uniform State Laws studies and provides recommendations and drafting services for uniform acts around the country. The commission consists of the Revisor of Statutes and three members appointed by the Governor, Chief Justice, and Attorney General. Commission members represent Minnesota at the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws and other similar conventions.</p>7281882026-02-27T21:07:17Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-728186" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-27T20:59:09ZGovernor Tim Walz released the following statement on the State of Minnesota’s February Budget and Economic Forecast issued today by Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB).1055<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz released the following statement on the State of Minnesota’s February Budget and Economic Forecast issued today by Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB):</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“Minnesota is in a strong financial position. Our economy is one of the most resilient and diverse in the country and today’s budget forecast reflects improvements in both the short and long term, despite the Trump Administration’s tumultuous campaign of retribution.</span></strong></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“Yet the implications of federal actions cannot be underestimated. Minnesota continues to weather economic blows from Operation Metro Surge and faces unprecedented threats to the federal funding we rely on, including potentially devastating cuts to Medicaid. </span></strong></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“Our goal is to keep Minnesota on solid financial footing and ready to handle whatever comes our way. Together we’ve worked to make responsible cuts and scale growth in spending to put Minnesota in a strong spot for years to come. Our disciplined, responsible budgeting has helped protected Minnesotans and I look forward to releasing a thoughtful, measured supplemental budget to keep us on that path.”</span></strong></p> </div>7281862026-02-27T21:07:19Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-728185" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-26T20:57:59ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Caroline H. Lennon. This seat will be chambered in Shakopee in Scott County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on March 19 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in April. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the First Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7281852026-02-27T21:07:17Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-727986" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-26T16:39:48ZGovernor Tim Walz today introduced a comprehensive legislative package aimed at preventing, detecting, investigating, and holding accountable those who commit fraud in Minnesota’s state programs. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today introduced a comprehensive legislative package aimed at preventing, detecting, investigating, and holding accountable those who commit fraud in Minnesota’s state programs. The Governor was joined by Department of Human Services (DHS) Commissioner Shireen Gandhi, DHS Inspector General James Clark, and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) Superintendent Drew Evans. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Fraud steals from the people of Minnesota and undermines the programs we all rely on,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“This package strengthens oversight, improves detection, expands enforcement, and increases penalties to protect every dollar Minnesotans depend on. We’ve followed the experts, audits, and proven roadmaps; now it’s time for the Legislature to act.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The proposal builds on <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/02/26/file_attachments/3566304/Anti-Fraud%20Timeline%200226.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">steps taken over the past several years</a>, including the creation of the BCA’s Financial Crimes and Fraud Section, the appointment of a statewide Director of Program Integrity, executive orders empowering state agencies to combat fraud, and improved leadership at DHS. The package incorporates recommendations from independent experts and Director Tim O’Malley’s roadmap, focusing on proactive prevention, stronger accountability, and modernized systems. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Key elements of the Governor’s Anti-Fraud Package include:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Better Detection and Oversight </strong> </p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Strengthens program integrity in Managed Care Organizations</li> <li>Expands audit and internal control capacity to ensure funds are properly spent and misused dollars are recovered.</li> <li>Uses predictive analytics and machine learning to identify suspicious billing earlier.</li> <li>Prohibits legislatively named grants, requiring competitive processes to ensure fairness and transparency.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Strengthened Investigative and Enforcement Authority</strong> </p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Establishes a centralized Office of Inspector General to lead statewide fraud prevention, set standards, and refer cases for civil or criminal enforcement.</li> <li>Expands BCA Financial Crimes and Fraud Unit capacity and subpoena authority.</li> <li>Enhances authority for on-site investigations across Minnesota Health Care Programs, including providers who have not yet billed claims.</li> <li>Adds capacity for fraud prevention at the Department of Revenue and the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Unit.</li> <li>Establishes permanent bans from state contracts and grants for individuals convicted of fraud, including new businesses and subcontractors.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Increased Criminal Penalties</strong> </p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Creates a new Theft of Public Funds statute, increasing penalties by 20 percent.</li> <li>Extends statutes of limitations to seven years for certain fraud-related crimes.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s full anti-fraud package is available <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/02/26/file_attachments/3566317/Anti-Fraud%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p>7279862026-02-26T18:07:15Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-727531" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-24T16:39:48ZGovernor Tim Walz today joined legislators, community advocates, and survivors of gun violence to announce a comprehensive gun violence prevention package. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today joined legislators, community advocates, and survivors of gun violence to announce a comprehensive gun violence prevention package. The package includes a number of provisions aimed at strengthening gun safety, reflecting concerns raised directly by Minnesotans who have expressed growing frustration with continued legislative inaction. The Governor’s legislative package can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F02%2F24%2Ffile_attachments%2F3563553%2FGVP_Fact%2520Sheet.pdf/1/0101019c907c542f-03268358-29af-4f3d-aff5-490d100425c8-000000/P4XEkEg_T4CMbpnhx54AFPCK8YHGwZYK_sYVgm35T7E=445" target="_blank">here</a>; photos from the event can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.flickr.com%252Fphotos%252Fmngov%252Falbums%252F72177720332215219%252F%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C02fe4f4f7f9c49f0e50108de73bf8a32%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C639075463648246918%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=xlXhXV9W9MwhRzC3rk4FAqAyRC%252B3h5y5P7RFB4O1Y1o%253D%26reserved=0/1/0101019c907c542f-03268358-29af-4f3d-aff5-490d100425c8-000000/sxeOO5C8ly7Sikp9_Fx8_ot7xNdf8IxKeL8kx8Kmwwk=445">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In the past year we have seen gun violence inflict immense heartbreak and loss in Minnesota. It’s time for us to come together to take real, actionable steps toward common sense gun laws,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We are ready to make significant progress, and I look forward to working across the aisle to pass the gun violence prevention legislation that Minnesotans deserve.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s comprehensive gun violence prevention package includes several proposals aimed at protecting the safety, health, and wellbeing of Minnesotans. Actions include a ban on military-style assault rifles and high-capacity magazines; ensuring accountability among responsible gun owners by requiring safe storage and reporting of lost or stolen firearms; closing the ghost gun loophole; implementing a firearm insurance requirement; establishing a firearm and ammunition tax; and creating and expanding early intervention resources, including school resources, working upstream to prevent gun violence.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In December, Governor Walz became the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F716493/1/0101019c907c542f-03268358-29af-4f3d-aff5-490d100425c8-000000/pTth5nnhty9B0nRBOFFQMzQV_RGhO9i5kJz2VrJUq0A=445" target="_blank">first Minnesota Governor to take executive action on Gun Violence</a>, passing executive orders 25-12 and 25-13 directing state agencies to pursue a range of strategies to reduce gun violence.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In January, the Governor issued an executive order <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F721431/1/0101019c907c542f-03268358-29af-4f3d-aff5-490d100425c8-000000/I13vEbHhiXo0N2mg_wp0E_BSE20L_37zeugQtgxxKIE=445" target="_blank">implementing weapons screening</a> at the Minnesota State Capitol. The implementation enables security personnel to detect and prevent the introduction of unlawful, dangerous items into the Capitol, serving as a deterrent to those who wish to commit violence, intimidate people, or interfere with the orderly work of government.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">From 2023-2025, Governor Walz signed several gun safety bills into law, maintaining gun violence prevention legislation as a top priority:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><em>Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO):</em>Part of the Governor’s 2023 public safety budget, ERPOs allow judges to temporarily remove firearms from individuals following a petition filed by a family member or law enforcement that proves the individual is a risk to others or themselves.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><em>Expanded Background Checks: </em>Included in the Governor’s 2023 public safety budget, expanded background checks require a background check for private party transfers of pistols and semiautomatic military style assault weapons.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><em>Increased Penalties for Straw Purchases: </em>Increased the penalties for straw purchases from a gross misdemeanor to a felony, passed in 2023.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><em>ETrace Requirements:</em> Passed in 2025 and requires law enforcement to enter found and confiscated firearms into the federal ETrace system, used to trace the purchase and use history of firearms used in violent crimes.</li> </ul>7275312026-02-24T16:46:30Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-726268" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-23T16:36:35ZGovernor Tim Walz today ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Wednesday, February 25, 2025, to sunset on Thursday, 26, 2026, in honor and remembrance of the Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., who passed away at the age of 84.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Wednesday, February 25, 2025, to sunset on Thursday, 26, 2026, in honor and remembrance of the Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., who passed away at the age of 84.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Reverend Jackson spent his life pushing America to live up to its highest ideals,” </strong>said Governor Walz<strong>. “His fight for civil rights, dignity, and fairness changed our country and will inspire generations to come. Gwen and I extend our deepest condolences to the Jackson family and to all who mourn his passing.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reverend Jackson rose to national prominence in the civil rights movement, working alongside Martin Luther King Jr. to advance equality and economic justice. He later founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, expanding opportunities through social justice advocacy and civic engagement, and his work touched Minnesota through efforts like advocating for farmers, encouraging voter registration, and standing with communities after the killings of Philando Castile, George Floyd, and Daunte Wright.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">He mobilized millions of voters, championed economic inclusion, and built multiracial coalitions to expand opportunity for working families and marginalized communities. His historic presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988 broadened civic participation and inspired future generations of leaders, including Barack Obama. Reverend Jackson’s call to “keep hope alive” inspired generations and helped shape a global movement for dignity, unity, and human rights.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Reverend Jackson’s life and legacy. The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/02.25.2026%20Jesse%20Jackson%20FAHS_tcm1055-726248.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p>7262682026-02-23T16:56:44Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-726245" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-23T15:57:13ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Shireen Gandhi to serve as commissioner for the Minnesota Department of Human Services. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Shireen Gandhi to serve as commissioner for the Minnesota Department of Human Services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Gandhi has served as the temporary human services commissioner since February 2025. During that time, she led work to root out Medicaid fraud and strengthen program integrity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Commissioner Gandhi understands that protecting public programs and delivering high-quality care go hand in hand,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Over the past year, she has demonstrated steady, decisive leadership at the Minnesota Department of Human Services, strengthening program integrity, rooting out fraud, and ensuring taxpayer dollars reach the Minnesotans who rely on these services. Shireen brings the experience and accountability needed to safeguard vital services while building a system Minnesotans can trust.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Under Gandhi’s leadership, the department set an aggressive course on program integrity, including bringing in a new inspector general. The department expanded the use of data analytics to identify program vulnerabilities, evidence of fraudulent activities and potentially suspicious patterns of billing. Based on the data, Minnesota tightened oversight of high-risk Medicaid businesses – adding fingerprint background studies for owners, requiring an external review of claims before payments are made, instituting a pause on enrolling new businesses for some services and disenrolling inactive providers. By the end of May, state employees will have conducted on-site visits to revalidate more than 5,800 providers across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We must protect the human services programs we provide to improve the lives of Minnesotans that have helped our state to be ranked among the best in the country for children and families, older adults, and people with disabilities.”</strong> Gandhi said. <strong>“As commissioner, I look forward to working with all partners across the human services system to make our state a national model for program integrity.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Gandhi’s appointment is effective February 23, 2026.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Shireen Gandhi</em> <br /> Gandhi joined the Minnesota Department of Human Services in 2017, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience in health care to the agency. Prior to her temporary commissioner appointment, Gandhi served as a deputy commissioner overseeing budgeting and financial operations, agency operations strategy, and other agency operations. Since 2022, Gandhi has served on the Technology Advisory Council, which advises the commissioner of Minnesota IT Services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Gandhi earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communications from the University of Minnesota and a law degree from Hamline University School of Law. She is active in the Minnesota State Bar Association and a past chair of its Health Law Section. She is also a member of the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Department of Human Services</em> <em><br /></em> Minnesota Department of Human Services' mission is driven by collaboration with community and partners – counties, Tribes, and nonprofits – supporting people to thrive in community and live their healthiest and fullest lives. The department’s vision is that all people in Minnesota have what they need to thrive in community with no disparities. The agency is responsible for providing health care coverage for approximately 1.2 million Minnesotans on Medicaid (also known as Medical Assistance), including services for elders, people with disabilities and behavioral health needs, and those experiencing homelessness.</p>7262452026-02-23T15:57:53Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-726246" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-23T14:00:00ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has been ranked the second-best state in the nation to raise a family, according to a new report from WalletHub. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has been ranked the second-best state in the nation to raise a family, according to a new report from <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwallethub.com%252Fedu%252Fbest-states-to-raise-a-family%252F31065%26data=05%257C02%257CMaren.Stewart%2540state.mn.us%257C522b3b6fa5ec47904f6a08de72c89e61%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C639074403154714516%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=zt8DOwIfBcilE5HYlCU%252BSjSKOqkDQ%252F4r3XstoJbXYBM%253D%26reserved=0/1/0101019c8acd4763-976db44d-77b6-4f34-8e71-b6c91ca771bb-000000/77IhB1n23FLgHguQy4cWa2m_EKCdIOTJVJqWijqOXiw=445" target="_blank">WalletHub</a></u>. The study evaluated all 50 states across 50 indicators, including affordability, health and safety, education and child care, and socio-economic factors. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is built around the simple idea that families come first,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“When parents can afford child care, take paid time to care for a new baby or a loved one, access innovative and quality health care, and trust their kids are receiving a world-class education, families thrive. That’s how we build strong communities and a stronger future for every Minnesotan.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota scored highly on the factors that matter most to families. The state has the second-highest median family income in the nation when adjusted for cost of living, one of the lowest family poverty rates, strong access to employer-based retirement plans, and a relatively small wealth gap between households. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The report highlighted Minnesota’s strong health outcomes and quality of life, including one of the nation’s highest life expectancies and highly ranked public hospitals. Children in Minnesota benefit from access to parks and recreational spaces, contributing to healthy lifestyles and overall well-being. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz has prioritized policies that strengthen family stability and affordability, including establishing Paid Family and Medical Leave, delivering a nation-leading Child Tax Credit that reduces child poverty, expanding access to affordable child care and early learning, and investing in strong public schools. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This recognition adds to a growing list of national rankings, most recently <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F700050/1/0101019c8acd4763-976db44d-77b6-4f34-8e71-b6c91ca771bb-000000/YLLZ7PIBw1JQVgWV6dMA3VJMQ6MYIB2RQWtP3Zo06P8=445" target="_blank">for health care</a></u>, <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F711097/1/0101019c8acd4763-976db44d-77b6-4f34-8e71-b6c91ca771bb-000000/TqLznhLvZoD_4VCmP4wx8hbI7PoGok-LAR6LmYa2CO0=445" target="_blank">jobs</a></u>, and <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F709850/1/0101019c8acd4763-976db44d-77b6-4f34-8e71-b6c91ca771bb-000000/oAAq2JzAeo1FIgIrag4r_GJp0SFaWtAQhC0-RkCW4Dg=445" target="_blank">children</a></u>, highlighting Minnesota’s high quality of life, strong economy, and commitment to supporting children and families. </p>7262462026-02-23T16:02:08Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-726039" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-20T19:15:29ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The new application deadline is 4:00 pm on February 27. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-March.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Please refer to the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/judicialnews.jsp#/detail/appId/1/id/721592" target="_blank" rel="noopener">original vacancy announcement</a> issued on January 29:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the elevation of the Honorable Anne M. Rasmusson to the Court of Appeals and the retirement of the Honorable Jeffrey S. Remick. These seats will be chambered in Warren in Marshall County and Crookston in Polk County.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at </em><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</em></a><em>. </em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the </em><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</em></a><em>.</em></p>7260392026-02-20T19:18:03Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-726037" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-20T19:13:54ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Ross L. Leuning. This seat will be chambered in Albert Lea in Freeborn County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/02/20/file_attachments/3560453/Brooks,%20John%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">John Brooks</a>: </strong>John Brooks is an assistant public defender in the Third District Public Defender’s Office, where he represents clients charged with felonies. He previously served as a lead assistant county attorney in the Mower County Attorney’s Office, where he prosecuted serious violent felonies and complex financial crimes, and at the Massachusetts Office of the Inspector General, where he led and conducted complex investigations into government fraud and corruption. His past community involvement includes serving as the president of the Mower County Law Library.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/02/20/file_attachments/3560436/Mayer,%20Holli%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Holli Mayer</a>:</strong> Holli Mayer is senior counsel at Hormel Foods Corporation, where she manages all litigation for the company. She was previously an assistant county attorney in both Mower County and Freeborn County, where she handled a wide range of cases, including adult criminal offenses, juvenile delinquencies, child protection, civil commitments, guardianships, and conservatorships. Mayer’s community involvement includes serving on the Austin Police Civil Service Commission and the United Way Backpack Program Committee. She previously served on the board of directors for the Sacred Heart Care Center. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/02/20/file_attachments/3560454/Palm,%20Sarah%20-%20Headshot.jpeg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sarah Palm</a>:</strong> Sarah Palm is a senior staff attorney for Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services (“SMRLS”), where she represents low-income clients and victims of domestic abuse in family law cases. She was previously a judicial law clerk to the Honorable James A. Fabian in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. Palm’s community involvement includes membership in the Freeborn County Bar Association and serving as president of the SMRLS employee union. She also volunteers with the Wilson Elementary School PTO, works with the Rice County Blueprint for Safety, and participates in activities with the Cub Scouts of America.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7260372026-02-20T19:18:03Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-725123" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-13T23:54:14ZThe Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments to the African American Health State Advisory Council, Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy, Board of Dentistry, Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Board of the Perpich Center for the Arts, Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations, Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council, Minnesota State Arts Board, MN Board on Aging, MN Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, and the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carol Houston – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the African American Health State Advisory Council:</em>  <br /> The African American Health State Advisory Council advises the commissioner of health on issues to develop specific, targeted policy solutions to improve the health of African American Minnesotans, with a focus on United States-born African Americans.   </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the African American Health State Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/353" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website.</a>  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Derrick Crim – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy <br /> Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor #3  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Corey Harland – Saint Anthony, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy <br /> Public Member #3  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Landyn Prescott-Miles – Royalton, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy <br /> Licensed Professional Counselor #3  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy:</em>  <br /> The Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy is a statutorily created health licensing board. The Board regulates the licensure of professional counselors, professional clinical counselors, and alcohol and drug counselors in Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laurie Goldenberg – Maple Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Dentistry  <br /> Dentist #2  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jodie Quinn – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Dentistry <br /> Dental Assistant  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Dentistry:</em>  <br /> The board examines, licenses and regulates dentists, dental therapists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants and enforces the Minnesota Dental Practices Act. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Dentistry can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/21" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tom Draper – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training  <br /> Instructor Of Peace Officer Education Programs #1  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training:</em>  <br /> The Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training licenses peace officers, establishes minimum qualifications and standards of conduct, and regulates professional peace officer education and continuing education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F29/1/01010197a3ffd943-9cb40c5d-4008-4f5f-bc47-6ee9db651c3f-000000/VU_4_-wy8F3wCL4GSiTinv8qcrcDemffZoNtYaUIRns=411" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeimmy Yusty Rojas – Red Wing, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education  <br /> Member #1  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Winslow – Fridley, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education  <br /> Member #6  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Hustoles – Minnetonka, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education  <br /> Member #15  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of the Perpich Center for the Arts:</em>  <br /> The board shall have the powers necessary for the care, management and control of the Perpich Center for Arts Education. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of the Perpich Center for the Arts can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/36" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ryan McCarthy – Lakeville, MN</strong>  <br /> Commission on Judicial Selection  <br /> First Judicial District Attorney Member <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daniel Moddes – Baxter, MN <br /></strong>Commission on Judicial Selection <br /> Ninth Judicial District Non-Attorney Member <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Commission on Judicial Selection: <br /></em>The Commission on Judicial Selection solicits, considers, and recommends candidates to the Governor for vacancies in the District Courts and the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. The Commission is comprised of nine at-large members, including the Chair, and four district members from each of the ten Judicial Districts. The Commission’s members are appointed by the Governor and Minnesota Supreme Court. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Commission on Judicial Selection can be found on the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstatics.teams.cdn.office.net%2Fevergreen-assets%2Fsafelinks%2F2%2Fatp-safelinks.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7Cb5d57da3298a4b179fed08de6b393ff0%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639066090811622514%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=hH3UkJwX52AFSY8l0pjwbWczT3PGwJ0%2BtcuOGoO96p8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor's Office Appointments Page</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Danette Seboe – Duluth, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations  <br /> Middle School Administrator <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations promotes and supports career and technical student organizations as they work to provide student opportunities for leadership, personal development, community service, and career preparation. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/287" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Orchard – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council  <br /> Physician  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Arthur Beisang – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Lando-King – Zumbrota, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Rare Disease Patient/Caregiver (Rural Minnesota Resident) <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jackie Foster – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Rare Disease Patient Organization  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Peterson – Maple Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council  <br /> Dentist  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelsey Dundas – Austin, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council  <br /> Nurse or Advanced Practice Nurse  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marnie Falk – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Hospital Administrator or Designee <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laura Lambert – Rochester, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council  <br /> Researcher  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council (MNRDAC) supports and promotes public policy goals that positively impact the rare disease community. We help policymakers understand how their decisions affect the rare disease community. Read our 2024 Policy Guide, our 2024 Legislative Summary, or our Principles Procedures for Policy Identification. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/304" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Johanna Rian – Lakeville, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota State Arts Board  <br /> Member - Congressional District 2  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Sweeney – Wayzata, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota State Arts Board  <br /> Member - Congressional District 3  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christina Woods – Duluth, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota State Arts Board  <br /> Member - Congressional District 8 <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota State Arts Board:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota State Arts Board encourages the creation, performance, and appreciation of the arts in the state. It is dedicated to making the arts available to all Minnesotans. The development of the arts is fostered through a series of grants, programs, and services which are administered by a professional staff. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota State Arts Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/117" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a> . </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christina Cauble – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Board On Aging  <br /> Member #23  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the MN Board On Aging:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Board on Aging (MBA) works to ensure that older Minnesotans and their families are effectively served by state and local policies and programs, so they can age well and live well. The MBA is Minnesota's federally designated State Unit on Aging for multi-year planning. The MBA administers federal funding from the Centers from Medicare and Medicaid, the Administration for Community Living, the Older Americans Act, as well as state-funded aging programs.    </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Board on Aging can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F104/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/AC-HdF-TrskHo3Dk-7GX1P4shi3izfmt2sTcQeTSPOE=428" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Luke Bourdeaux – Ramsey, MN <br /></strong>MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Consumer Member #2  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Prince Cole – Blaine, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Consumer Member #5 <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Jemtrud – Savage, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Parent Member #1  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heather Kainz – Britt, MN</strong> <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Parent Member #3  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joel Liestman – Maple Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Private Non-profits Rep #2  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Marsh – Mora, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Parent Member #6  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carolyn Perron – Fridley, MN <br /></strong>MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> State Agency Representative - MN Board on Aging Representative  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Raasch – Maplewood, MN</strong> <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Adult with Developmental Disabilities <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kaylie Schmidt – Otsego, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Parent Member #4 <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bonnie Jean Smith – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Parent Member #10  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sumukha Terakanambi – Lakeville, MN</strong> <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Consumer Member #1  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities carries out responsibilities outlined in P.L. 106-402 to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports/services to achieve increased independence, productivity, self-determination, integration, and inclusion in the community.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/109" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tiffany Allbee – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training  <br /> Public Member #2  <br /> Effective: February 18, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training:</em>  <br /> The State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training directs the Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training which serves parents and children in the child legal welfare system. The board works with the head appellate counsel to govern the office and provide fiscal oversight.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F352/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/Exmmx4M6tbjxRATFtkTf-3QYizv_4_SZykA3SX6VwBE=414" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p>7251232026-02-13T23:57:16Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-725104" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-13T21:09:20ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued an executive order to enhance the efficiency and transparency of environmental permitting.1055<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued an executive order to enhance the efficiency and transparency of environmental permitting. Enhancing permitting efficiency will promote economic growth for workers and businesses while maintaining Minnesota’s strong environmental protections. </p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p>The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) manages more than 28,000 air, water, and land permits at 22,500 sites across the state. <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/02/13/file_attachments/3554364/Executive%20Order%2026-03.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Executive Order 26-03</a> will ensure continued environmental protection while realizing sustainable economic growth and opportunity. </p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p>The executive order will reduce permitting times for certain air permits to cut down on turnaround time for eligible projects. It also instructs MPCA to revisit their permitting goals and incorporate them into a strategic plan; and instructs the Department of Employment and Economic Development, through the Minnesota Business First Stop, to work with MPCA to identify gaps in current environmental permitting and initiatives to improve permitting efficiency and customer experience.</p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p>This executive order is effective fifteen days after publication in the State Register and filing with the Secretary of State. </p> </div>7251042026-02-13T21:12:41Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-724810" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-12T17:16:29ZFollowing Border Czar Tom Homan’s announcement that the federal surge in Minnesota is coming to an end, Governor Tim Walz today announced a proposal for $10 million one-time emergency relief aimed at Minnesota businesses that have been impacted by the operation.DEED investment would provide partially forgivable loans to support small businesses 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Following Border Czar Tom Homan’s announcement that the federal surge in Minnesota is coming to an end, Governor Tim Walz today announced a proposal for $10 million one-time emergency relief aimed at Minnesota businesses that have been impacted by the operation. The funding will be part of the Governor’s 2026 legislative session package and would be administered through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). The Governor was joined by DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek, CentroMex Supermarket owner Henry Garnica, and small business owners.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The campaign of retribution by the federal administration has been more than a short-term disruption; it has inflicted long-term damage on Minnesota communities,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Recovery will not happen overnight. Families, workers, and business owners are feeling the effects, and our responsibility is clear: we will help rebuild, stabilize these businesses, protect jobs, and ensure Minnesota’s economy can recover and thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Under the proposal, one-time funding would be distributed in forgivable loans ranging from $2,500 to $25,000. Eligible businesses must be able to demonstrate substantial revenue loss during specified dates tied to the surge.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“While the human toll of this action may be apparent through local and national press coverage, the negative impact on Minnesota’s economy is a critical but less visible part of the story,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek <strong>. “Many Minnesota businesses — especially small businesses — are facing economic hardships that may prove insurmountable for some. While we know economic repercussions for small businesses will be ongoing, this package could provide some fast relief to businesses that are just barely keeping their doors open.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Commissioner Varilek is also working with the private sector to urge a temporary waiver or reduction of fees for services provided to Minnesota businesses impacted by the surge. He has asked private sector partners to consider measures that could help businesses stay open and recover more quickly, emphasizing that fast relief from these fees could be a lifeline for struggling businesses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The past few months have been some of the hardest I’ve experienced as a business owner,”</strong> said Henry Garnica, owner of CentroMex in East St. Paul. <strong>“Sales are down, we have limited hours, and we have had to change how we operate. That’s not who we are as a neighborhood store. This proposed forgivable loan package would give businesses like mine breathing room — to keep employees on payroll and keep our doors open. For some of us, it could mean the difference between surviving and closing for good.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This announcement builds on efforts to highlight the economic impact of the surge on Minnesota businesses. Earlier this week, Governor Walz <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/724452" target="_blank" rel="noopener">visited Malcolm Yards</a> and was joined by local business owners to hear firsthand accounts of challenges in the hospitality and retail sectors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz also continues to encourage Minnesotans to support neighborhood businesses through February’s <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/721591" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shop Local Month</a> and the “Shop Local, Stand Together” initiative, reinforcing community support, alongside state-backed relief, will be essential to a strong and sustained recovery.</p>7248102026-02-12T17:17:28Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-724642" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-11T19:09:58ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Susan DeVos as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F02%2F04%2Ffile_attachments%2F3543821%2FDeVos,%2520Susan%2520-%2520Headshot.JPG/1/0101019c4e154cff-f44eb58f-f797-4555-8207-11988a923476-000000/2iDf_nltEDPSJxorsuV9H326P2aKgCLO2gjA2ogVIas=444" target="_blank">Susan DeVos</a> as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. DeVos will replace the Honorable Krista J. Jass and will be chambered in Mankato in Blue Earth County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to appoint Susan DeVos,”</strong> said Governor Walz<strong>. “She has devoted her career to advancing fairness and justice within the Blue Earth County justice system.</strong><strong>That strong foundation will not only make her an effective judge, but also a trusted leader who will uphold the rule of law and the dignity of everyone who comes before her.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Fifth Judicial District consists of 15 counties in southwest Minnesota: Blue Earth, Brown, Cottonwood, Faribault, Jackson, Lincoln, Lyon, Martin, Murray, Nicollet, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, Rock, and Watonwan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Susan DeVos is an assistant county attorney in the Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office, where she represents the county in numerous areas, including child protection, civil commitment, and appeals. She is a member of the Blue Earth County Family Dependency Treatment Court, Blue Earth County Child Protection Team, and Children’s Justice Initiative. DeVos was previously an associate attorney at Meagher &amp; Geer and a law clerk to the Honorable R.A. (Jim) Randall on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Her community involvement includes volunteering backstage for Mankato Ballet Company productions and as a judge for the McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court. She earned her B.A. from the University of Minnesota Duluth and her J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019c4e154cff-f44eb58f-f797-4555-8207-11988a923476-000000/FmYvA9YdU5LHfCGUsuSThn8ZhG91Gx-vhOla3TxayYc=444" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7246422026-02-11T19:18:48Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-724819" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-11T17:16:29Z Governor Tim Walz today announced the authorization of emergency assistance in response to a cyber incident that disrupted digital services in Saint Paul beginning July 29, 2025. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="normaltextrun" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the authorization of emergency assistance in response to a cyber incident that disrupted digital services in Saint Paul beginning July 29, 2025.</span><span class="eop" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4;"> </span></p> <p class="paragraph" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 1.4; font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 8px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="normaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;"><strong>“We remain committed to working alongside the City of Saint Paul to restore critical services and cybersecurity,” </strong></span><span class="normaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">said Governor Walz. <strong>“The allocation of state disaster assistance will ensure the continued provision of essential services impacted by the cyberattack and enhance protective measures.”</strong></span><span class="eop" style="line-height: 1.4;"> </span></p> <p class="paragraph" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 1.4; font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 8px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="normaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">On July 29, a digital security incident caused disruptions to critical systems and access to digital services in Ramsey County. The magnitude and complexity of the cybersecurity incident exceeded the city’s response capacity. State disaster assistance totaling $1.2 million will provide necessary resources to respond to the incident and restore critical systems to ensure continuity of vital services and the safety and security of Saint Paul residents. </span><span class="eop" style="line-height: 1.4;"> </span></p> <p class="paragraph" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 1.4; font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 8px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="normaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">In July, </span><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-699945" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(29, 87, 130);"><span class="normaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">Governor Walz issued an executive order</span></a><span class="normaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;"> activating cyber protection assets from the Minnesota National Guard in response to the cyberattack.</span></p> <p class="paragraph" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 1.4; font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 8px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="eop" style="line-height: 1.4;" /></p>7248192026-02-12T18:10:25Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-724452" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-10T18:09:19ZGovernor Tim Walz, alongside the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and local business owners, today warned of the real and growing impact that the presence of federal agents in Minnesota is having on local businesses.Governor encourages Minnesotans to shop local and support immigrant-owned businesses 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz, alongside the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and local business owners, today warned of the real and growing impact that the presence of federal agents in Minnesota is having on local businesses. The impact has been felt particularly in immigrant-owned businesses, causing reduced foot traffic, staffing challenges, lost revenue, and increased fear and uncertainty. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Small business owners represent the American Dream – and this fear and uncertainty is crushing all the hard work they’ve put into building their business, supporting their employees, and enriching their communities,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“When people are afraid to go to work, afraid to shop, or afraid to gather in their community, it hurts families, neighborhoods, and our entire economy. Minnesota must remain a place where businesses can thrive and where everyone feels safe contributing to our shared success.” </strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In addition to the other traumatic impacts to our communities, these federal actions continue to have a chilling effect on Minnesota’s economy, especially for small businesses,” </strong>said DEED Commissioner Varilek. <strong>“The Governor's Shop Local campaign has been well received and impactful – even so, we hear daily from entrepreneurs, workers, and support organizations who say their own federal government is deeply harming their individual livelihoods and the state's economy as a whole.” </strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“What we are experiencing from the expanded federal immigration enforcement presence is not just a momentary disruption; it is a threat to the stability of our employees, our businesses, our city and the broader local economy,” </strong>said Saed Wadi, owner of World Street Kitchen, Milkjam, and Saffron.<strong> “Financial losses are certainly part of the story – we’ve seen foot traffic decline and economic activity slow – but the uncertainty is affecting future growth, too. January and February are typically when we book a large share of summer catering events, but this year, bookings have dropped significantly as customers hesitate to make commitments. Many of us feel our community’s sense of safety and normal economic life has been deeply disrupted.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A January <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.twincities.com%2F2026%2F02%2F04%2Fheres-how-to-support-small-businesses-in-twin-cities-impacted-by-ice-surge%2F/1/0101019c48ecf4fe-e54372d1-4886-4c28-a5df-edc04806e1bb-000000/QR3lnBH1fK2x69U5xoZAhQtSMRR7WHJOCl93ccpHDaY=443">survey</a> conducted by the Latino Economic Development Center in St. Paul found that 44% of surveyed businesses had temporarily closed, while fewer than 20% were operating normally. Nearly 40% said they could remain viable with outside support, 25% reported downsizing staff to stay open, and 9% were considering permanent closure. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">According to <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.bizjournals.com%2Ftwincities%2Fnews%2F2026%2F01%2F28%2Fmeet-minneapolis-survey-on-immigration-enforcement.html/1/0101019c48ecf4fe-e54372d1-4886-4c28-a5df-edc04806e1bb-000000/yA4WcVnwnWNoPqD4hwW7nSiUZKkbrFZH8TMouH967ME=443">City of Minneapolis</a> estimates, businesses are losing $10 million to $20 million in revenue each week, with the Lake Street corridor losing $46 million between December 2025 and January 2026. A Meet Minneapolis survey found that 90% of restaurants, hotels, retail, and service providers have been impacted, 72% reported staffing absenteeism, and 90% said fear and stress are affecting operations. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The economic impacts extend beyond retail and hospitality. Twin Cities home builders and developers report project delays and workforce shortages, contributing to reduced rental income and slowed home listings. Pending home sales in the Twin Cities metro fell 19.2% last month, compared to a 1.6% national decline, according to <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.startribune.com%2Fice-immigration-crackdown-minneapolis-delaying-construction-new-home-builders-real-estate%2F601575566/1/0101019c48ecf4fe-e54372d1-4886-4c28-a5df-edc04806e1bb-000000/IG7VyKSXt-yVrlbdZO3gGOSmz99Amfe6taUAPOBFXrE=443">Redfin</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F721591/1/0101019c48ecf4fe-e54372d1-4886-4c28-a5df-edc04806e1bb-000000/FM-PelqUnmkqGl6qcQZ4SZZ2oU3M029IbB3Ysee8xIk=443">proclaimed February as Shop Local Month</a> in Minnesota, encouraging community support for small businesses and connecting owners with available resources. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz also emphasized the need to address these economic and workforce impacts during the upcoming legislative session.</p>7244522026-02-10T19:05:13Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-723193" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-06T18:09:19ZGovernor Tim Walz today congratulated Tarek Tomes upon his departure after serving seven years as Commissioner of Minnesota IT Services (MNIT) and thanked him for his service to the state. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today congratulated Tarek Tomes upon his departure after serving seven years as Commissioner of Minnesota IT Services (MNIT) and thanked him for his service to the state. Tomes’ departure on March 15 marks the conclusion of a transformative tenure focused on modernizing state government and improving how Minnesotans access public services.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“Commissioner Tomes helped lead Minnesota through some of the most complex technological challenges our state has ever faced,” </span></strong><span>said Governor Walz. “</span><strong><span>From strengthening cybersecurity, to modernizing state systems – including the technology behind Minnesota’s Paid Family and Medical Leave – Tarek brought steady leadership, a people-first approach, and a clear vision for how technology can make government work better. Minnesota is stronger because of his service, and I am deeply grateful for his contributions.”</span></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“Serving as Minnesota’s CIO has been an incredible honor,”</span></strong><span> said Tomes. </span><strong><span>“I want to thank Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan for their leadership and their steadfast commitment to investing in, leveraging, and relying on technology innovation to transform government. Their support empowered MNIT to deliver more secure, accessible, and people-centered services for Minnesotans.” </span></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>Tomes was appointed MNIT Commissioner in 2019 after serving as Chief Innovation Officer and Chief Information Officer for the City of Saint Paul. During his tenure, MNIT advanced major resident-facing initiatives that improved access, reliability, and trust in government services. These accomplishments include the Driver and Vehicle Services transformation, modernization of critical child welfare tools to reduce friction in everyday documentation, delivery of secure technology platforms that supported COVID-19 vaccination efforts during a public health emergency, and partnership work to launch Minnesota’s Paid Leave program, helping build one of the state’s most significant new public benefit initiatives. Across these efforts, Tomes emphasized strong cybersecurity, human-centered design, and whole-of-state collaboration.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>Commissioner Tomes’ departure marks the close of a chapter defined by collaboration, modernization, and measurable progress. MNIT’s leadership team will continue advancing this work to deliver secure, reliable, and people-centered technology services for Minnesota. </span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>Deputy Commissioner Jon Eichten will succeed Tomes as commissioner of MNIT on March 16. </span></p>7231932026-02-06T18:15:21Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-722772" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-04T19:46:33ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Krista J. Jass. This seat will be chambered in Mankato in Blue Earth County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/02/04/file_attachments/3543821/DeVos,%20Susan%20-%20Headshot.JPG">Susan DeVos</a></u>: Susan DeVos is an assistant county attorney in the Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office, where she represents the county in numerous areas, including child protection, civil commitment, postconviction, and appeals. She is a member of the Blue Earth County Family Dependency Treatment Court, Blue Earth County Child Protection Team, Children’s Justice Initiative, and Yellow Line Project. DeVos was previously an associate attorney at Meagher &amp; Geer and a law clerk to the Honorable R.A. (Jim) Randall on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Her community involvement includes volunteering backstage for Mankato Ballet Company productions and as a judge for the McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/02/04/file_attachments/3543800/Lindee,%20Stephen%20-%20Headshot.JPG">Stephen Lindee</a></u>: Stephen Lindee is an assistant public defender in the Fifth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Fairmont, where he represents clients charged with felonies, gross misdemeanors, and misdemeanors. He was previously the county attorney in the Watonwan County Attorney’s Office, where he prosecuted criminal matters ranging from serious felonies to speeding tickets, as well as child protection and juvenile cases. Lindee was previously a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Jeffrey L. Flynn in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. His community involvement includes serving on the St. James City Council, the church council for St. Paul’s Lutheran, and coaching baseball for the St. James Youth Baseball Association. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/02/04/file_attachments/3543823/Passe,%20Julianna%20-%20Headshot.jpg">Julianna Passe</a></u>: Julianna Passe is an assistant county attorney in the Lyon County Attorney's Office, where she focuses on criminal prosecution, appeals, and child support. She previously served as an assistant county attorney in the Kandiyohi County Attorney's Office and as an assistant attorney general with the Minnesota Attorney General's Office, where she represented the State of Minnesota in employment, tort, and constitutional litigation. Passe also clerked for the Honorable Carol A. Hooten on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Her community involvement includes playing with a community band, volunteering as a high school mock trial judge, and serving on the appellate committee of the Minnesota County Attorneys Association.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>. </p>7227722026-02-05T16:53:48Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-722109" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-03T19:27:36ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced the launch of “Shop Local, Stand Together,” a new campaign encouraging Minnesotans to support small, locally owned businesses.Walz sends letter to DHS demanding answers on number of kids taken from Minnesota1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today joined Attorney General Keith Ellison, education, health, and public safety leaders to discuss the growing harm federal immigration enforcement actions are causing to children, families, and Minnesota schools. Educators, social workers, and families shared firsthand accounts of fear in school communities, sharp declines in attendance, and disruptions to learning and wellbeing tied to recent federal activity near schools and child care centers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“What we are seeing is not public safety—it’s chaos,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“When parents are afraid to send their kids to school, when classrooms sit half-empty, and when children are taken to detention facilities on their way to learn, we’ve crossed a line. This is beyond unacceptable. Minnesotans need to know how many children are in detention facilities, who they are, and where they’re being held.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Kidnapping young children is a feature, not a bug, of Trump’s campaign of revenge and retribution against Minnesota,”</strong> said Attorney General Ellison. <strong>“It is immoral, but it shouldn’t be a surprise, since he already tried cutting all legal funding for food assistance and child care for Minnesota’s children. We beat him in court on both those efforts to punish our kids; now federal agents are detaining them and using them as hostages. A courageous federal judge ordering Liam and his father freed is welcome news — now we need to get all of our children the federal government is holding hostage back home to Minnesota. I will keep matching the bravery of the Ramos family and the community in fighting to end this illegal and unconstitutional surge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz today sent a <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F02%2F03%2Ffile_attachments%2F3542709%2F02.03.2026%2520Kristi%2520Noem%2520Letter%2520%2528002%2529.pdf/1/0101019c24f8135a-3d1cc692-e9cf-40a6-97df-37199800e685-000000/_0CdWpLTf9y0NDPoXjcvaXcu74IclSsnD1iYpNlCjfU=443" target="_blank">letter</a> to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem demanding details about the number of children currently held in federal detention facilities, who they are, and where they’re being held.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since December 1, 2025, over 600 individuals have filed cases in federal district in Minnesota challenging their detention. Minnesota’s federal bench, including those appointed by President Trump, has said clearly and uniformly that DHS’s detention practices are not following the law. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Educators and state leaders report that fear is keeping children home, driving steep attendance declines, and forcing schools to deliver meals to absent students. Officials warn that prolonged absenteeism harms learning, school funding, and children’s mental and physical health, while fear and instability deepen trauma and erode trust in institutions meant to protect families.</p>7221092026-02-05T16:53:54Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-721884" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-30T21:10:32ZThe Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments to the African American Health State Advisory Council, Board of High Pressure Piping Systems, Board on Judicial Standards, Board of Medical Practice, Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board, MN Board on Aging, and the Trust Fund Citizen Selection Committee. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Office of the Governor today announced the following appointments to the African American Health State Advisory Council, Board of High Pressure Piping Systems, Board on Judicial Standards, Board of Medical Practice, Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board, MN Board on Aging, and the Trust Fund Citizen Selection Committee.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matthew Arries – Shoreview, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joel Boyd – Saint Louis Park, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cindy Devonish – Eagan, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jamie Hackett – Cottage Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council Member  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Susan McPherson – Maple Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lola Muhammad – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christopher Smith – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>La Sheenlaruba Tyacke – Duluth, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gage Urvina – Brooklyn Center, MN</strong>  <br /> African American Health State Advisory Council  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the African American Health State Advisory Council:</em>  <br /> The African American Health State Advisory Council advises the commissioner of health on issues to develop specific, targeted policy solutions to improve the health of African American Minnesotans, with a focus on United States-born African Americans.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the African American Health State Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/353" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joseph Abbott – Nowthen, MN <br /></strong>Board of High Pressure Piping Systems  <br /> High Pressure Piping Master Pipefitter #1 (Metro)  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aubrey Archer – Big Lake, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of High Pressure Piping Systems  <br /> Public Member  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Edgar Castro – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of High Pressure Piping Systems  <br /> Utility Company in Minnesota Representative  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erik Hansen – Foley, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of High Pressure Piping Systems  <br /> Licensed Mechanical Engineer  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Lind – Otsego, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of High Pressure Piping Systems  <br /> High Pressure Piping Master Pipefitter #3 (Non-metro)  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jake Pettit – Sartell, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of High Pressure Piping Systems  <br /> High Pressure Piping Journeyworker #2 (Non-metro)  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dennis Theisen – Inver Grove Heights, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of High Pressure Piping Systems  <br /> Industrial Company Representative  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of High Pressure Piping Systems:</em>  <br /> Adopt rules for high pressure piping code for Minnesota, final interpretations of code when submitted to the board, adopt rules to regulate high pressure piping licensure registration. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of High Pressure Piping Systems can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/25" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Theresa Harris – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Board on Judicial Standards  <br /> Attorney #1  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Friedman – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Board on Judicial Standards  <br /> Public Member #2  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board on Judicial Standards:</em>  <br /> The Board on Judicial Standards investigates allegations of misconduct by Minnesota judges and other judicial officers and recommends judicial discipline to the Supreme Court, including censure, suspension, retirement, or removal of judges. The board also educates the judiciary and the public on the role of the Board on Judicial Standards and on the Code of Judicial Conduct.   </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board on Judicial Standards can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/3/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/2CSYH1aQ4k2WUrbrc9DoUkcZ2_9aSITNmjyg1kP4mCg=406" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website.</a>  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Peter Henry – Baxter, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Medical Practice  <br /> Physician #8 - Congressional District #8  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anne Pereira – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Medical Practice  <br /> Physician #1 - At-Large  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karen Thullner – Vadnais Heights, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Medical Practice  <br /> Public Member #5  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Averi Turner – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Medical Practice  <br /> Public Member #1  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Duane Wallace – Park Rapids, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Medical Practice  <br /> Public Member #4  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Medical Practice: <br /></em>The board licenses and registers physicians, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, acupuncturists, athletic trainers, genetic counselors, naturopathic doctors, and traditional midwives; and enforces the relevant practice acts. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Medical Practice can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/27" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Asp – Apple Valley, MN</strong>  <br /> Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board  <br /> Member #3  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Charles Spevacek – Minnetrista, MN</strong>  <br /> Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board  <br /> Member #1  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board: <br /></em>The Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board administers programs for campaign finance disclosure for state elections, economic interest disclosure for state public officials and local officials in metropolitan governmental units, lobbyist registration and disclosure, and public subsidy of state candidates and political party committees. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F41/1/01010197b3000356-0291bd68-4068-4d03-8266-55b00eb9782a-000000/6Ko8sBDWnORs_Ri-_p-GM6viz1TlXLI2LU6DbNwJaQM=411" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a> . </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Colleen Aho – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>MN Board On Aging  <br /> Member #1 <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jane Danner – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Board On Aging  <br /> Member #10  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Danielle Luniewski – Fairmont, MN <br /></strong>MN Board On Aging  <br /> Member #14  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pamela Parker – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Board On Aging <br /> Member #13 <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carolyn Perron – Fridley, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Board On Aging  <br /> Member #3  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the MN Board on Aging:  <br /></em>The Minnesota Board on Aging (MBA) works to ensure that older Minnesotans and their families are effectively served by state and local policies and programs, so they can age well and live well. The MBA is Minnesota's federally designated State Unit on Aging for multi-year planning. The MBA administers federal funding from the Centers from Medicare and Medicaid, the Administration for Community Living, the Older Americans Act, as well as state-funded aging programs.   </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Board on Aging can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F104/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/AC-HdF-TrskHo3Dk-7GX1P4shi3izfmt2sTcQeTSPOE=428" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Casey – Mound, MN</strong>  <br /> Trust Fund Citizen Selection Committee  <br /> Member #1  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nancy Gibson – Saint Louis Park, MN</strong>  <br /> Trust Fund Citizen Selection Committee  <br /> Member #2  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Craig Sterle – Barnum, MN</strong>  <br /> Trust Fund Citizen Selection Committee  <br /> Member #3  <br /> Effective: February 4, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Trust Fund Citizen Selection Committee:</em>  <br /> The Trust Fund Citizen Selection Committee for the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) is responsible for identifying candidates to serve as citizen members of the commission. The committee requests and reviews applications from citizen candidates, conducts interviews, and recommends a suitable pool of candidates to the governor for selection to commission membership. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Trust Fund Citizen Selection Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/278" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/vlsV72RIYEaByOfmWMr-Dgs3Zz17E5Kd0-O5KMiGELI=428" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p>7218842026-02-05T16:53:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-721591" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-30T02:29:27ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced the launch of “Shop Local, Stand Together,” a new campaign encouraging Minnesotans to support small, locally owned businesses.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced the launch of <em>“Shop Local, Stand Together,” </em> a new campaign encouraging Minnesotans to support small, locally owned businesses—particularly those which have seen reduced foot traffic and heightened fear and uncertainty due to the ongoing federal presence in Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The federal presence in Minnesota has hit local businesses where it hurts most,</strong>” said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesotans have a long tradition of supporting one another in peaceful, actionable ways. Choosing to shop local, grab takeout, or visit a neighborhood store is one way we can stand with our neighbors and continue to show the nation what it means to respond with care and decency.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In addition to the other traumatic impacts to our communities, these federal actions have had a chilling effect on Minnesota’s economy, especially for small businesses,” </strong>said DEED Commissioner Varilek. <strong>“Minnesotans have stepped up for their communities in many ways over the last several weeks, and we are asking them to step up again by being thoughtful about where their dollars go. Our state’s local businesses have so much to offer, and this push is a great opportunity for shoppers to go out and patronize a business that might be new to them or remember an old favorite they are overdue to revisit.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Right now, many immigrant-owned businesses and communities are carrying a heavy burden,” </strong>said Julian Ocampo, Co-Owner and Vice President of Los Ocampo, a Twin-Cities Mexican restaurant. <strong>“People are hurting, families are being disrupted, and workers are living with fear while trying to care for their loved ones. We are living this reality every day. When our neighbors are afraid to leave their homes, whether it’s to go to work, take their kids to school, or carry out daily life activities, it affects everyone in the community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz has proclaimed February as <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/02.01.2026%20Shop%20Local%20Month_tcm1055-721464.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shop Local Month</a> in Minnesota. Through this campaign, DEED and the State of Minnesota are partnering with local governments, economic development organizations, and business associations to promote community-based support for small businesses and connect owners with available resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to encouraging everyday community support, business and philanthropic leaders across the state are mobilizing resources to help small businesses during this time. The Minneapolis Foundation, a nonprofit community foundation, recently activated an Economic Response Fund, <a href="https://www.minneapolisfoundation.org/stories/grant-announcement/minnesota-companies-mobilize-3-5-million-for-immediate-small-business-support/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">launching $3.5 million in grants</a> to support small businesses facing urgent challenges, including payroll, rent, staffing, and inventory needs. This is one of the many examples of Minnesotans stepping up to support one another.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek was joined by local elected officials and small business owners at Los Ocampo in Saint Paul to announce the campaign and encourage Minnesotans to support local and immigrant-owned businesses through everyday purchasing decisions.</p>7215912026-01-29T21:17:51Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-721593" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-29T21:10:32ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of John Fitzgerald as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of John Fitzgerald as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. Fitzgerald will replace the Honorable Jennifer K. Fischer and will be chambered in Willmar in Kandiyohi County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“John Fitzgerald’s approach to justice centers around humility and kindness. Those skills will not only make him an excellent addition to the Kandiyohi County bench but will help serve his community,”</strong> said Governor Walz.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District encompasses Big Stone, Chippewa, Grant Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle, Meeker, Pope, Renville, Stevens, Swift, Traverse, Wilkin, and Yellow Medicine Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">John Fitzgerald is the first assistant county attorney at the Meeker County Attorney’s Office, where he supervises attorneys and support staff in the prosecution of criminal matters. In addition, he prosecutes a variety of misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, and felony-level offenses. Fitzgerald also represents Meeker County in civil commitment proceedings and guardianship matters. He was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Kristine R. DeMay in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. Fitzgerald’s community involvement includes serving as chair of the Meeker Area Food Shelf and as a member of the board of directors of the Litchfield Lions Club. He earned his B.A. from the University of North Dakota and his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7215932026-01-29T21:17:19Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-721592" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-29T21:08:12ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the elevation of the Honorable Anne M. Rasmusson to the Court of Appeals and the retirement of the Honorable Jeffrey S. Remick. These seats will be chambered in Warren in Marshall County and Crookston in Polk County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at<a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on Thursday, February 19 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in March. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Ninth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7215922026-01-29T21:17:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-721431" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-27T02:29:27ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued an executive order implementing weapons screening at the Minnesota State Capitol.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[<span>ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued an executive order implementing weapons screening at the Minnesota State Capitol. The implementation follows the recommendation of the Advisory Committee on Capitol Area Security (ACCAS) based on an independent security assessment commissioned by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.</span></p> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“Government cannot function effectively when elected officials fear for their safety. In the last year, Minnesota has seen horrific acts of political violence,</span></strong><span>” said Governor Walz. </span><strong><span>“This executive order will make the Capitol – the central seat of Minnesota’s state government – safer, ensuring the people’s house remains open, welcoming, and secure.”</span></strong></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“In Minnesota we have witnessed acts of gun violence and politically motivated attacks that have stoked fear and prompted questions of public safety,” </span></strong><span>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.</span><strong><span> “As Chair of the Advisory Committee on Capitol Area Security I know that weapons screening is common sense. I am proud of the work that this committee has done to protect the home of our democracy and ensure that every person who enters the State Capitol can do so without fear.”</span></strong></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/01/26/file_attachments/3533800/Executive%20Order%2026-02.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Executive Order 26-02</a> follows recommendations from ACCAS based on suggested improvements outlined by the Axtell Group, a private security firm contracted by the Minnesota State Patrol to assess the security of four buildings on the capitol complex. The Axtell Group’s independent Capitol security assessment recommended a consistent weapons and hazardous materials screening model to keep dangerous items out of public spaces and keep the Capitol safe for employees, public officials, and visitors.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The Minnesota State Capitol hosts thousands of visitors annually and regularly accommodates large gatherings involving all three branches of government. Weapons screening will enable security personnel to detect and prevent the introduction of unlawful dangerous</span><span>items into the Capitol, maintaining safety during high-activity periods. Screening will serve as a deterrent to those who may wish to bring illegal weapons into the Capitol to commit violence, intimidate people, or interfere with the orderly work of government.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Weapons screening is a standard, widely used safety practice in government buildings including most state capitol buildings across the country. The executive order requires the Department of Public Safety and the Minnesota State Patrol to implement weapons screening at the Minnesota State Capitol and have the necessary equipment and trained personnel in place by the beginning of the legislative session on February 17, 2026. The weapons screening protocols will be paid for with money from the Minnesota State Patrol’s general fund dollars.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The executive order is effective fifteen days after publication in the State Register and filing with the Secretary of State. It will remain in effect until rescinded by proper authority or until the end of the 2026 legislative session.</span></p> </div>7214312026-01-29T02:31:11Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-720885" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-26T18:42:19Z Following recent events in Minnesota, Governor Tim Walz has written an op-ed, originally published in the Wall Street Journal. The full piece is available below.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Following recent events in Minnesota, Governor Tim Walz has written an op-ed, originally published in the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.wsj.com%252Fopinion%252Ftim-walz-the-un-american-assault-on-minnesota-67730de4%253Fgaa_at%253Deafs%2526gaa_n%253DAWEtsqenwUCKVSgO0heIG2MUuihfKQLCFn_RVT2miK7Q9mW331PwUP4-C6ra5FmpQr8%25253D%2526gaa_ts%253D6977b02d%2526gaa_sig%253DFbULC7mFTgEZKKReKgBUYCfQJTWN_2zBZMwpksIZHMqLUeDZrit736UKriFU416btdxvemwhIv7l6w5yiqTxxg%25253D%25253D%26data=05%257C02%257CMaren.Stewart%2540state.mn.us%257Cabb670803ac54a1dd1fe08de5d0869f8%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C639050487871421173%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=iPL8a0ui9NXV8CPAkGF1yPRznc6dU034TGDWxjIapWQ%253D%26reserved=0/1/0101019bfb959c56-e6e9caa4-2006-4069-957a-063421eec85f-000000/tD7mnfWSK9KfKzIn3kcupi94ON56TwwWGOjFMUGdQPU=441">Wall Street Journal</a>. The full piece is available below.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tim Walz: The Un-American Assault on Minnesota <br /> <em>The Trump administration’s assault on Minnesota long ago stopped being a matter of immigration enforcement. It is a campaign of organized brutality against the people of our state. It isn’t just. It isn’t legal. And, critically, it isn’t making anyone any safer.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Quite the opposite: Immigration agents have now shot and killed two of our neighbors: Renee Good and Alex Pretti. And there are countless other stories of protesters and bystanders being physically attacked by federal agents, to say nothing of the chaos and violence being unleashed against the targets of these raids, many of whom have done nothing wrong except exist as a person of color.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The pretext for all this is the Trump administration’s insistence that our immigration laws would otherwise go unenforced. This federal occupation of Minnesota is, administration officials insist, about our predilection for releasing “violent criminal illegal aliens” from state custody.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>I can’t stress this enough: The Trump administration has its facts wrong about Minnesota.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The administration claims that Minnesota jails release “the worst of the worst.” In reality, the Minnesota Department of Corrections honors all federal and local detainers by notifying Immigration and Customs Enforcement when a person committed to its custody isn’t a U.S. citizen. There is not a single documented case of the department’s releasing someone from state prison without offering to ensure a smooth transfer of custody.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Yet the lies persist. This week, ICE tweeted that rural Cottonwood County had refused to honor a detainer for an alleged child sex predator. That’s not true. The county sheriff followed procedure and contacted ICE when the subject posted bail, but ICE agents were too busy wreaking havoc in the Twin Cities to do their actual job and pick the prisoner up.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Some of the administration’s claims are ridiculous on their face. For example: It claims that 1,360 non-U.S. citizens are in Minnesota prisons. The truth: Our total state prison population is roughly 8,000, and only 207 of them are noncitizens.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Earlier this month, the administration published what it claimed was a list of people who have been arrested as part of this ICE sweep, asserting that this list represents “the worst of the worst” criminals, and implying that we have been protecting them from capture.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Minnesota Public Radio investigated this claim and found it to be completely false: “Most of the people on the list had been immediately transferred to ICE custody at the end of time served in Minnesota prisons. All of those transfers happened before ICE began its surge of operations in Minnesota on Dec. 1, 2025, with some even happening years before.”</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>In other words, ICE is taking credit for arrests that state and local law enforcement made, activity that took place before this assault on our state even began.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Everyone wants to see our immigration laws enforced. That isn’t what is happening in Minnesota. In recent weeks, masked agents have abducted children. They have separated children from their parents. They have racially profiled off-duty police officers. They have aggressively pulled people over and demanded to see their papers. They have broken into the homes of elderly citizens without warrants to drag them outside in freezing temperatures.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>That isn’t effective law enforcement. It isn’t following the rule of law. It’s chaos. It’s illegal. And it’s un-American.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>I have repeatedly appealed to President Trump to lower the temperature. But he refuses. I fear that his hope is for the tension between ICE agents and the communities they’re ransacking to boil over—that he wants you to see more chaos on your TV screens, protests turn into riots, more people get hurt.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Minnesotans aren’t taking the bait. They are protesting—loudly and urgently, but also peacefully. They are helping their neighbors cope with this violent, lawless assault on people of color throughout the state—walking children to school safely, preparing mutual-aid packages, and organizing to make sure these atrocities are well-documented so that those responsible can face justice.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Minnesota is a state that believes in the rule of law and in the dignity of all people. We know that true public safety comes from trust, respect and shared purpose, not from intimidation or political theater.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>This assault on our communities is not necessary to enforce our immigration laws. We don’t have to choose between open borders and whatever the hell this is. Mr. Trump can and must end this unlawful, violent and chaotic campaign, and we can and must rebuild an immigration enforcement system that is secure, accountable and humane.</em></p>7208852026-01-26T18:47:22Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-720841" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-24T21:30:25ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued the following statement in response to a third shooting involving federal law enforcement agents in Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued the following statement in response to a third shooting involving federal law enforcement agents in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The federal occupation of Minnesota long ago stopped being a matter of immigration enforcement. It is a campaign of organized brutality against the people of our state. And today, that campaign claimed yet another life.</strong> <br /> <br /> <strong>“I have seen the video. It is sickening. But Minnesota’s justice system will have the last word. It <em>must</em> have the last word.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As I told the White House in no uncertain terms this morning, the federal government cannot be trusted to lead this investigation. The state will handle it. Period.</strong> <br /> <br /> <strong>“All of us understand the potential this incident has to further inflame tensions on our streets. The difference is, we want calm, and they want chaos. We cannot – we will not – give them what they want by meeting violence with violence.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans and our local law enforcement have done everything we can to deescalate. The federal government <em>must</em> deescalate. I once again call on the President to remove the <em>3</em>,000 agents from Minnesota who are sowing chaos and violence.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Despite these horrific acts by the federal government, Minnesotans are still standing up for the rule of law and the dignity of all people. They are protesting – loudly, urgently, but also peacefully – and it must stay that way. Minnesotans are witnessing, creating a log of evidence for future prosecution of ICE agents and officials. They are helping their neighbors, walking their kids to school, and feeding their families. I salute their courage – and their restraint.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“They think they can provoke us into abandoning our own values. They are wrong. We will keep the peace. We will secure justice for our neighbors. And we will see this occupation end.”</strong></p>7208412026-01-24T21:35:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-720130" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-20T17:49:59ZGovernor Tim Walz released the following statement today amid the federal government’s ongoing presence in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz released the following statement today amid the federal government’s ongoing presence in Minnesota.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Mr. President, Minnesota invites you to see our values in action. Come see how communities from all walks of life are working together, and how the spirit of this state refuses to be defined by division or fear. I invite you to join me, and others in our community, to help restore calm and order and reaffirm that true public safety comes from shared purpose, trust, and respect.</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“But let me be absolutely clear: The State of Minnesota will not be drawn into political theater. This Justice Department investigation, sparked by calls for accountability in the face of violence, chaos, and the killing of Renee Good, does not seek justice. It is a partisan distraction. Minnesotans are more concerned with safety and peace than baseless legal tactics aimed at intimidating public servants standing shoulder to shoulder with their community.</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“My focus has always been protecting the people of this state. Families are scared. Kids are afraid to go to school. Small businesses are hurting. A mother is dead, and the people responsible have yet to be held accountable. That’s where the energy of the federal government should be directed: toward restoring trust, accountability, and real law and order, not political retaliation. </strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota will not be intimidated into silence and neither will I.”</strong> </p>7201302026-01-20T17:50:46Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-720199" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-19T17:49:59ZGovernor Tim Walz today recognized the 40th anniversary of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today recognized the 40th anniversary of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The Governor joined celebrations at the Ordway Center for Performing Arts, elevating Dr. King’s messages of justice, persistence, and mobilization against systems of oppression.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today serves as a stark reminder of the legacy of Dr. King and his contributions to social justice, nonviolence, and freedom,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “As we grapple today with unjust actions of the federal government, we are guided by Dr. King’s teachings of resilience and peaceful protest. I am proud to recognize the legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and I ask Minnesotans to mark this day by following his words in peacefully speaking up for the weak and for the voiceless.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Every year since 1986, the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday has hosted a statewide event. 2026 marks the 40th annual State of Minnesota Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Echoes of Unity.” To recognize the significant anniversary, the event series included a historical landmark tour, a youth summit, and a community march, leading up to the grand finale celebration at the Ordway. The Governor also proclaimed today <a target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday coordinates and executes observances of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Junior's birthday at the state level in Minnesota and ensures that Dr. King’s memory and his mission are kept alive. In May 2023, Governor Walz announced the continuation of the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday through <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/EO%2023-08_tcm1055-579328.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Executive Order 23-08</a>. The council was first established by Governor Rudy Perpich in 1986 and has been re-established or continued by succeeding governors.</p>7201992026-01-20T19:55:26Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-720072" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-17T00:30:52ZGovernor Tim Walz today released the following statement after reports of an alleged investigation by the Department of Justice. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released the following statement after reports of an alleged investigation by the Department of Justice.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Two days ago it was Elissa Slotkin. Last week it was Jerome Powell. Before that, Mark Kelly. Weaponizing the justice system and threatening political opponents is a dangerous, authoritarian tactic.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The only person not being investigated for the shooting of Renee Good is the federal agent who shot her.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The office of the Governor has not received any notice of the investigation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor has repeatedly, unequivocally, called for peace and a lowering of the temperature. He has made that appeal directly to the President.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Federal forces have stormed the state, shooting two people and killing Renee Good. The Department of Justice drove six federal prosecutors – including the longtime career prosecutor leading the charge to investigate and eliminate fraud in our state’s programs – to quit their jobs rather than go along with this assault on the United States Constitution. Leaders of the Republican Party have called for impeachment, for the Governor to be put in cuffs, for a day of retribution.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We trust Minnesotans to see past this projection.</p>7200722026-01-17T00:31:28Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-720200" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-16T17:49:59ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – <span>Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Executives for Long Term Services and Supports; Interstate Medical Licensure Compact; Metropolitan Airports Commission; Minnesota Board of Social Work; Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine; Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority; Public Utilities Commission; State Advisory Council on Mental Health; and the State Rehabilitation Council. </span></p> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Jeffrey Heinecke – Vadnais Heights, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports</span><span><br /></span><span>Manager - Non-Profit Nursing Home</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Drew Hood – Mankato, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports</span><span><br /></span><span>Assisted Living Director actively engaged AL</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>About the Board of Executives for Long Term Services and Supports:</span></em>  <br /> <span>The board licenses administrators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities; conducts studies of nursing home and assisted living administration; approves continuing education programs for administrators; and investigates complaints and allegations of rule violations. </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Additional information about the Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports can be found on the </span><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/23" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Secretary of State's website</span></span></a><span>. </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Leopold Arko – Lauderdale, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Interstate Medical Licensure Compact</span><span><br /></span><span>Commissioner</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 1, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>About the Interstate Medical Licensure Commission:</span></em>  <br /> <span>The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact offers a streamlined licensing process for physicians practicing in multiple states. Thirty-three states, the District of Columbia, and the Territory of Guam currently participate in the Compact.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Additional information about the Interstate Medical Licensure Commission can be found on the </span><a href="https://mn.gov/boards/medical-practice/consumers/imlc/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Minnesota Board of Medical Practice website.</span></span></a></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>James Lawrence – Minneapolis, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Metropolitan Airports Commission</span><span><br /></span><span>Chair</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 4, 2027</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>About the Metropolitan Airports Commission:</span></em><span><br /></span><span>The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) owns and operates Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and six reliever airports throughout the Twin Cities area. The MAC promotes air transportation locally, nationally, and internationally by developing the Twin Cities as an aviation center.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Additional information about the Metropolitan Airports Commission can be found on the </span><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F79/1/01010197b3000356-0291bd68-4068-4d03-8266-55b00eb9782a-000000/8LHEH3OX3Uv-_aRNcEOyZtEaoWp1GMY6uFlqXzFx0KI=411" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Secretary of State’s website</span></span></a><span>.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Rachel Depa – Delano, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Minnesota Board of Social Work</span><span><br /></span><span>Public Member</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 1, 2029</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Carrie Enright – Harmony, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Minnesota Board of Social Work</span><span><br /></span><span>Licensed Social Worker #2</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Debra Klaverkamp – Clearwater, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Minnesota Board of Social Work</span><span><br /></span><span>Licensed Social Worker #1</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Yolanda Rogers – Plymouth, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Minnesota Board of Social Work</span><span><br /></span><span>Licensed Graduate Social Worker or Licensed Independent Social Worker or Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>About the Minnesota Board of Social Work:</span></em><span><br /></span><span>The Board of Social Work promotes and protects public health, safety, and welfare through the licensure and regulation of persons who practice social work in this state.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Additional information about the Minnesota Board of Social Work can be found on the </span><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F102/1/0101019746e5a643-5b8d69f7-65d4-4b17-a6ae-b37e7a19dc31-000000/fXPcuPMsqFWTSBXpn1rR7thByjmJsWG9Xz4L7rkIMW4=408" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Secretary of State’s website.</span></span></a></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Steven Shadwick – Stillwater, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>MN Board of Veterinary Medicine</span><span><br /></span><span>Veterinarian Member #4</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Raye Taylor – Centerville, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>MN Board of Veterinary Medicine</span><span><br /></span><span>Veterinarian Member #5</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>About the Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine:</span></em>  <br /> <span>The board of Veterinary Medicine licenses and regulates veterinarians, registers veterinary corporations, and investigates complaints against veterinarians and unlicensed persons practicing veterinary medicine.</span> <span>Additional information about the MN Board of Veterinary Medicine can be found on the </span><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F103/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/Zxe18PDexZnDEObaynvdWiY1LEE6ULSSMPdjzU3_M30=393" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Secretary of State’s website.</span></span></a></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Julia Nelmark – Detroit Lakes, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority</span><span><br /></span><span>Member with Expertise in Financing Projects at a Community Bank, Credit Union, Community Development Institution, or Local Government</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Axaule Sultanova – Minneapolis, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority</span><span><br /></span><span>Member with Expertise in Sustainable Development and Energy Conservation</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>About the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority:</span></em><span><br /></span><span>The Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority helps accelerate the deployment of clean energy projects, greenhouse gas emissions reduction projects, and other qualified projects using public funds in the form of grants, loans, credit enhancements, and other financing mechanisms.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Additional information about the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority can be found on the </span><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/329" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Secretary of State’s website.</span></span></a></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Joseph Sullivan – Mankato, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>Public Utilities Commission</span><span><br /></span><span>Member #2</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2032</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>About the Public Utilities Commission:</span></em>  <br /> <span>The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission regulates the electricity, natural gas, and telephone services industries in Minnesota ensuring safe, reliable, and effective utility services. The PUC is a five-member body with legislative and quasi-judicial functions.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Additional information on the Public Utilities Commission can be found on the </span><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/134" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Secretary of State’s website</span></span></a><span>. </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Ellie Miller – Saint Paul, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>State Advisory Council on Mental Health</span><span><br /></span><span>Minnesota Housing Finance Agency Representative</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: July 18, 2029</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Jamie Hayes – Le Center, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>State Advisory Council on Mental Health</span><span><br /></span><span>County Social Service Director</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 4, 2027</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>About the State Advisory Council on Mental Health:</span></em><span><br /></span><span>The State Advisory Council on Mental Health is charged with advising the Governor and state agencies on policy, programs, and services affecting people with mental illness as well as educating the public about mental health.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Additional information about the State Advisory Council on Mental Health can be found on the </span><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/142" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Secretary of State’s website.</span></span></a></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>April Smith – Albert Lea, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>State Rehabilitation Council - General</span><span><br /></span><span>Statewide Independent Living Council Representative</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Deborah Gleason – Minnetonka, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>State Rehabilitation Council - General</span><span><br /></span><span>Governor’s Workforce Development Representative</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Ryan Haenze – New Brighton, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>State Rehabilitation Council - General</span><span><br /></span><span>Client Assistance Project Representative</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Thomas Delaney – Roseville, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>State Rehabilitation Council - General</span><span><br /></span><span>MN Dept of Education Rep</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Katie Legrid – Richfield, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>State Rehabilitation Council - General</span><span><br /></span><span>Current or Former Vocational Recipient of VR Services #4</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Jenna Askevold – Mankato, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>State Rehabilitation Council - General</span><span><br /></span><span>Community Rehabilitation Program Provider Representative</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>James Ross – Red Wing, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>State Rehabilitation Council - General</span><span><br /></span><span>Business, Industry, and Labor Representative #4</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>Michael Etten – Shoreview, MN</span></strong><span><br /></span><span>State Rehabilitation Council - General</span><span><br /></span><span>Current or Former Recipient of VR Services #1</span><span><br /></span><span>Effective: January 21, 2026</span><span><br /></span><span>Term Expires: January 7, 2030</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><em><span>About the State Rehabilitation Council - General:</span></em><span><br /></span><span>The council is responsible for advising state government on the performance of Minnesota's Vocational Rehabilitation programs.</span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>Additional information on the State Rehabilitation Council - General can be found on the </span><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/150" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Secretary of State’s website.</span></span></a></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the </span><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</span></span></a></p> </div>7202002026-02-05T16:53:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-720201" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-15T17:49:59ZIn accordance with a statutory requirement that the Governor release his capital budget by January 15, Governor Tim Walz today announced his 2026 infrastructure plan.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – In accordance with a statutory requirement that the Governor release his capital budget by January 15, Governor Tim Walz today announced his 2026 infrastructure plan. The $907 million investment will support public safety, clean water, transportation, and housing infrastructure Minnesotans rely on.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The proposed budget is dedicated to preserving existing state infrastructure (35%), supporting water and transportation projects (19%), investing in public safety projects (16%), and in affordable housing and local economic development (11%). The remaining funds support outdoor recreation and environmental projects and farmer loan assistance through the Rural Finance Authority and various other projects.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Priority projects include $61 million for the Department of Corrections Rush City Education and Program expansion and $47 million for the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s Bemidji Regional Office and Lab expansion. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The proposal would be funded with $700 million in general obligation bonds and $207 million in other funding sources, including appropriation bonds, general fund cash, user-financed general obligation bonds, and trunk highway cash and trunk highway bonds. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Public Safety </em> <br /> Governor Walz continues to prioritize public safety and recommends $149 million in related investments. Based on recommendations of the Capitol Area Advisory Committee, that includes $41 million for security upgrades in and around the Capitol Complex, building on the $13 million previously appropriated since 2020. The plan also includes renovation and expansion of the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Bemidji Regional Office and Forensic Science Laboratory as well as expanded education and other programming at the Department of Corrections’ Rush City facility.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Farmer Loan Assistance</em> <br /> The plan includes $50 million for Rural Finance Authority loans to help Minnesota farmers obtain affordable financing. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>State Infrastructure Preservation </em>  <br /> The 2026 infrastructure plan includes $316 million for preserving state infrastructure for state agency and higher education facilities. That number includes $150 million for improvements across the Minnesota State and the University of Minnesota campuses. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Water and Transportation Infrastructure</em> <br /> The Governor’s recommendation includes $172 million for water and transportation infrastructure funding. That includes $113 million for water infrastructure grants and low interest loans. It also includes $50 million for high-priority highway pavement projects.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Affordable Housing and Economic Development </em>  <br /> The 2026 infrastructure plan recommends $99 million for affordable housing and economic development. That number includes $50 million in housing infrastructure bonds, $10 million in public housing rehabilitation grants to local governments, and $35 million for local projects. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Outdoor Recreation and Environment </em>  <br /> The Governor recommends $52 million for outdoor recreation and environmental protection. Highlights include: $10 million for dam safety repairs to protect public safety, improve fish and wildlife habitat, and enhance the quality, availability and recreational value of the state’s waters; $9 million for grants to reduce flood risk by constructing levees, pumping stations, and multi-purpose flood impoundments; and $5 million for infrastructure upgrades to the Department of Natural Resources’ aviation facilities at the Brainerd Regional Airport, supporting emergency responses for wildfires, search and rescue operations, and other safety and natural resource management needs. </p>7202012026-01-20T19:55:39Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-719765" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-15T01:26:52ZGovernor Tim Walz today made the following remarks addressing the federal government's ongoing presence in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today made the following remarks addressing the federal government's ongoing presence in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“My fellow Minnesotans:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“What’s happening in Minnesota right now defies belief.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“News reports simply don’t do justice to the level of chaos and disruption and trauma the federal government is raining down upon our communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Two to three thousand armed agents of the federal government have been deployed to Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Armed, masked, undertrained ICE agents are going door to door, ordering people to point out where their neighbors of color live.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“They’re pulling over people indiscriminately, including U.S. citizens, and demanding to see their papers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And at grocery stores, at bus stops, even at schools, they’re breaking windows, dragging pregnant women down the street, just plain grabbing Minnesotans and shoving them into unmarked vans, kidnapping innocent people with no warning and no due process.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Let’s be very, very clear: This long ago stopped being a matter of immigration enforcement. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Instead, it is a campaign of organized brutality against the people of Minnesota by our own federal government.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Last week, that campaign claimed the life of Renee Nicole Good.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We’ve all watched the video.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We all have seen what happened.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And yet, instead of conducting an impartial investigation so we can hold accountable the officer responsible for Renee’s death, the Trump administration is devoting the full power of the federal government to finding an excuse to attack the victim and her family.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Just yesterday, six federal prosecutors – including the longtime career prosecutor leading the charge to investigate and eliminate fraud in our state’s programs – quit their jobs rather than go along with this assault on the United States Constitution.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“But as bad as it’s been, Donald Trump intends for it to get worse.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“This week, he went online to promise that, quote, “the day of retribution and reckoning is coming.”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“That is a direct threat against the people of this state, who dared to vote against him three times, and who continue to stand up for freedom with courage and empathy and profound grace.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“All across Minnesota, people are stepping up to help neighbors who are being unjustly, and unlawfully, targeted.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“They’re distributing care packages and walking kids to school and raising their voices in peaceful protest even though doing so has made many of our fellow Minnesotans targets for violent retribution.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Folks, I know this is scary.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And I know it’s absurd that we all have to be defending law and order, justice, and humanity while also caring for our families and doing our jobs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“So, tonight, let me say, once again, to Donald Trump and Kristi Noem: End this occupation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“You’ve done enough.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Let me say four critical things to the people of Minnesota – four things I need you to hear as you watch the news and look out for your neighbors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“First: Donald Trump wants chaos.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“He wants confusion.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And, yes, he wants more violence on our streets.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We cannot give him what he wants.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We can – we must – protest: loudly, urgently, but also peacefully.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Indeed, as hard as we will fight in the courts and at the ballot box, we cannot, and will not, let violence prevail.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“You’re angry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“I’m angry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Angry might not be strong enough of a word.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“But we must remain peaceful.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Second: You are not powerless.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“You are not helpless.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And you are not alone.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“All across Minnesota, people are learning about opportunities not just to resist, but to help people who are in danger.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Thousands upon thousands of Minnesotans are going to be relying on mutual aid in the days and weeks to come, and they need our support.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Tonight, I want to share another way you can help: Witness.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Help us establish a record of exactly what’s happening in our communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“You have an absolute right to peacefully film ICE agents as they conduct their activities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“So carry your phone with you at all times.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And if you see ICE in your neighborhood, take out that phone and hit record.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Help us create a database of the atrocities against Minnesotans – not just to establish a record for posterity, but to bank evidence for future prosecution.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“That’s the third thing I want to tell you tonight: We will not have to live like this forever.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Accountability is coming, at the voting booth and in court.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We will reclaim our communities from Donald Trump.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We will re-establish a sense of safety for our neighbors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We will bring an end to this moment of chaos and confusion. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We will find a way to move forward – together.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And we will not be alone.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Every day, we are working with business leaders, faith leaders, legal experts, and elected officials from all across the country.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“They have seen what Donald Trump is trying to do to our state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“They know their states could be next.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And that brings me to the fourth thing I want to tell you tonight. Minnesota, I’m so proud of the way we’ve risen to meet this unbearable moment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“But I’m not surprised.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Because this – this is who we are.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Minnesotans believe in the rule of law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And Minnesotans believe in the dignity of all people.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We’re a place where there’s room for everybody, no matter who you are or who you love or where you came from.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“A place where we feed our kids, take care of our neighbors, and look out for those in the shadows of life.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We’re an island of decency in a country being driven towards cruelty.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“We will remain an island of decency, of justice, of community, of peace.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And, tonight, I come before you simply to ask: Do not let anyone take that away from us.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Thank you.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“Protect each other</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“And God bless the people of Minnesota.”</p>7197652026-01-15T01:30:11Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-719663" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-14T18:02:36ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Madelyn Adams and Jennifer Bovitz as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F01%2F14%2Ffile_attachments%2F3522364%2FAdams,%2520Madelyn%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019bbd9d086e-4593204c-6d73-406a-8a0d-aa747487580c-000000/jLCRLN3PFG52ELU5y0nVuBdq8jJSZbK-zJe_NFEu4XE=440" target="_blank">Madelyn Adams</a> and <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F01%2F14%2Ffile_attachments%2F3522363%2FBovitz,%2520Jennifer%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019bbd9d086e-4593204c-6d73-406a-8a0d-aa747487580c-000000/Ses8vhAuLTajj6DU80Jwc6Dk_ZG33fC3ZtaiTwlF6bA=440" target="_blank">Jennifer Bovitz</a> as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Anoka in Anoka County and Elk River in Sherburne County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Madelyn Adams will be replacing the Honorable John P. Dehen for the seat chambered in Anoka County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Madelyn Adams is an attorney who seeks and finds justice in every case she touches,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her commitment to balanced and appropriate justice for youth sets her apart. She believes in holding young people accountable in ways that teach and uplift, while also ensuring they receive the support and opportunities necessary to build successful futures.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jennifer Bovitz will replace the Honorable Jenny Walker Jasper for the seat chambered in Sherburne County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jennifer Bovitz comes to the bench with an outstanding and diverse practice background,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “She stands out as a trial lawyer who has excelled in various legal disciplines, from civil litigation and criminal prosecution to regulatory matters. With her depth of experience and commitment to justice, she will be a valuable addition to the Sherburne County bench.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District encompasses Anoka, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Pine, Sherburne, Washington, and Wright counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Madelyn Adams:</em><em><br /></em>Madelyn Adams is a senior attorney in the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, where she prosecutes complex violent felonies and cases involving sensitive victims. She also supervises attorneys handling juvenile delinquency matters, oversees restorative justice initiatives, and played a central role in establishing a restorative specialty court for youth. Adams previously served as an assistant county attorney in Washington County and as a public defender in the Second Judicial District. She began her career in adult criminal defense and appellate practice after serving as an honors clerk for Justice Bruce Zager on the Iowa Supreme Court. She remains active in her community through service on her local school board, volunteer work at naturalization ceremonies and children’s theater programs, and membership on state and local task forces dedicated to expanding fair and accessible opportunities for young people. She earned her B.S. from Iowa State University and her J.D. from Drake University Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Jennifer Bovitz:</em><em><br /></em>Jennifer Bovitz is a shareholder and associate general counsel at Bassford Remele, where she defends professionals in complex civil litigation and regulatory matters. She previously served as an attorney at Burke and Thomas, a managing attorney at the Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility, and a prosecutor of adult felonies in Dakota, Chisago, and Washington counties. Bovitz’s community involvement includes serving as board president of the Friends in Need Food Shelf, a mentor at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, and a member of the Washington County Community Corrections Advisory Board. She earned her B.A. from St. Cloud State University and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019bbd9d086e-4593204c-6d73-406a-8a0d-aa747487580c-000000/jfvE_Mncv9fzcJoq0Kj1oOHGSAa7_q4ODSA3m_kQtDM=440">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7196632026-01-14T18:04:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-719552" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-13T19:21:34ZGovernor Tim Walz today released the following statement following the resignation of at least six prosecutors, including former acting U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson, from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released the following statement following the resignation of at least six prosecutors, including former acting U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson, from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Joe Thompson is a principled public servant who spent more than a decade achieving justice for Minnesotans. This is a huge loss for our state,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “This is the latest sign that President Trump is pushing nonpartisan career professionals out of the Department of Justice and replacing them with his sycophants.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thompson has worked extensively with state regulators and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to bring federal prosecutions against fraud involving public programs. His work supported oversight, enforcement, and program integrity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thompson also oversaw and advanced prosecutions in several high-profile violent crime cases, including federal charges connected to the murders of Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, and the attempted murders of Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thompson’s resignation is the latest example of the Trump Administration overtaking traditionally nonpartisan positions within the Department of Justice and replacing experienced career professionals with political loyalists. It comes two days after news that the Trump Administration has launched a criminal investigation of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, and on the same day, he threatened retribution for Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota has taken sustained action through <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/706056" target="_blank" rel="noopener">executive orders</a>, <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/663528" target="_blank" rel="noopener">enhanced enforcement tools</a>, <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/711001" target="_blank" rel="noopener">audits</a>, an<a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/716178" target="_blank" rel="noopener">d partnerships with state and federal law enforcement experts</a> to detect fraud and ensure accountability. Governor Walz reaffirmed that these efforts will continue, regardless of who the U.S. Attorney is.</p>7195522026-01-14T18:04:23Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-719181" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-09T18:11:52ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Ross L. Leuning. This seat will be chambered in Albert Lea in Freeborn County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on January 30 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-February.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Third Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7191812026-01-12T21:02:21Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-719180" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-09T18:08:02ZGovernor Tim Walz announced the appointment of Heidi Hovis as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F01%2F09%2Ffile_attachments%2F3516263%2FHovis,%2520Heidi.jpg/1/0101019ba3dcd59f-93faf4a6-dd7b-48b3-b6b1-abf2251bbae1-000000/AopBVviAg-wRnIpEfeOLqPR7hYqxtliaBwF4qNgRT4M=439" target="_blank">Heidi Hovis</a> as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. Hovis will replace the Honorable Daniel A. Benson and will be chambered in Long Prairie in Todd County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Heidi Hovis’ experience as a public defender, legal aid attorney, judicial officer, tribal attorney, and senior general counsel has given her the skills and insight Todd County deserves,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I have full confidence that she will be an excellent judge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District encompasses Becker County, Benton County, Clay County, Douglas County, Mille Lacs County, Morrison County, Otter Tail County, Stearns County, Todd County, and Wadena County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Heidi Hovis is an assistant public defender in the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender’s Office and an adjunct professor in the paralegal program at North Hennepin Community College. She is a member of Stearns County Treatment Court and also serves as a volunteer conciliation court referee in Wright County. Hovis previously worked as a staff attorney with Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid and as senior associate general counsel at the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency. Her community involvement includes serving on the board of Central Minnesota Habitat for Humanity and the Minnesota Women Lawyers Central Chapter, as well as serving on the advisory board of the Wirth Center for the Performing Arts. She received her B.A. from Winona State University and her J.D. from the University of St. Thomas School of Law. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019ba3dcd59f-93faf4a6-dd7b-48b3-b6b1-abf2251bbae1-000000/1T16hyPc1X9SHza47WdXVSMMEawQPTsan01KBCzYUKE=439">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></u></p>7191802026-01-12T21:02:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-719160" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-09T17:41:19ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in honor and remembrance of Firefighter Andy Ziegler, who tragically passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in honor and remembrance of Firefighter Andy Ziegler, who tragically passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Andy Ziegler lived every day with courage, compassion, and a commitment to others that few could match,”</strong> said Governor Walz<strong>. “Whether answering a call for help or spending time with his family, Andy gave his all. Minnesota mourns the loss of this extraordinary firefighter and community member. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Jojean, his children, grandchildren, family, friends, and fellow firefighters.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Firefighter Ziegler served the Milaca Fire Department with distinction for 15 years. He was known for his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of his community, his readiness to help anyone in need, and his steadfast dedication to his colleagues and neighbors. Beyond his work as a firefighter, Andy was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose humor, authenticity, and generosity left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to join in honoring Firefighter Ziegler by lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A copy of the Governor's proclamation can be found <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2026%2F01%2F09%2Ffile_attachments%2F3516223%2F01.10.2026%2520Andy%2520Ziegler.pdf/1/0101019ba3c470dd-57a58924-dd0e-4ba2-80bb-67f206273716-000000/YTC3fjNFrWa7yDpsM4QBGMy1MzWM79zxXl1u3aU6HSM=439">here</a></u>.</p>7191602026-01-09T18:14:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-719106" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-09T00:11:13ZGovernor Tim Walz today proclaimed Friday, January 9, 2026, as a Day of Unity, inviting all Minnesotans and Americans to participate in acts of service in honor and remembrance of Renee Nicole Good. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today proclaimed Friday, January 9, 2026, as a <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps:%252F%252Fcontent.govdelivery.com%252Fattachments%252FMNGOV%252F2026%252F01%252F08%252Ffile_attachments%252F3515513%252F01.9.2026%252520Day%252520of%252520Unity.Signed.pdf%2F1%2F0101019b9ff7262d-e16d9941-8ef8-4f26-a500-cd9ed345dbc8-000000%2FDm7Bv6r66TGW_e7kDr3oNzqIC9UUb-XMBXfV1qW9AAs=439/1/0101019ba00cef9d-15f9c6f2-cc22-4168-b008-793ab64865ea-000000/zUeKzu-0WqI5YC9anc8oQuRNFsPtzyUViwN-g4by4wg=439" target="_blank">Day of Unity</a>, inviting all Minnesotans and Americans to participate in acts of service in honor and remembrance of Renee Nicole Good.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Renee Nicole Good was a loving mother, partner, daughter, and neighbor whose life was defined by compassion, creativity, and care for others,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“While we cannot bring back Renee Nicole Good, we can honor her life by standing together for decency, democracy, compassion, and our shared values. I invite all Minnesotans and Americans to join me in a day of unity, and honoring her with a moment of silence and participating in acts of service.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz encourages individuals, businesses, faith institutions, and organizations to observe a moment of silence at 10:00 am, and use the day to connect in your community and engage in acts of service.</p>7191062026-01-09T00:11:23Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-719092" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-08T21:40:03Z Following a shooting involving federal ICE agents in Minneapolis, Governor Tim Walz today directed state agencies to mobilize resources to support public safety efforts in Minneapolis and Saint Paul. The National Guard remains ready if needed to help keep the peace, ensure public safety, and allow for peaceful demonstrations 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz has authorized the Minnesota National Guard to be staged and ready to support local and state law enforcement in protecting critical infrastructure and maintaining public safety following a shooting involving federal immigration enforcement agents in south Minneapolis.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/01/08/file_attachments/3515363/Executive%20Order%2026-01.pdf" target="_blank">Executive Order 26-01</a> provides the ability for the Minnesota National Guard to protect critical infrastructure and to assist local law enforcement with additional tasks as requested. The state is providing additional law enforcement resources in a coordinated response to aid local law enforcement. The Minnesota State Patrol has mobilized 85 members of its Mobile Response Team to support law enforcement efforts in the Twin Cities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans have met this moment. Thousands of people have peacefully made their voices heard. Minnesota: thank you. We saw powerful peace,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong> “We have every reason to believe that peace will hold. Yesterday, I directed the National Guard to be ready should they be needed. They remain ready in the event they are needed to help keep the peace, ensure public safety, and allow for peaceful demonstrations.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/01/08/file_attachments/3515363/Executive%20Order%2026-01.pdf" target="_blank">Executive Order 26-01</a> authorizes the Adjutant General to place National Guard personnel, equipment, and facilities on state active duty to coordinate and support public safety and security services in Minnesota. The Guard will serve in a support role, focused on protecting property, safeguarding critical infrastructure, and allowing local law enforcement to remain focused on community safety and investigative responsibilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/01/08/file_attachments/3515363/Executive%20Order%2026-01.pdf" target="_blank">Executive Order 26-01</a> provides access to an additional tool that can include preparation and planning in support of local and state law enforcement and emergency management agencies, as well as the support of local law enforcement efforts to protect life and property, ensure public safety, and protect freedom of speech by allowing for peaceful demonstrations.</p>7190922026-01-08T21:45:07Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-718904" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-07T20:37:10Z Following a shooting involving federal ICE agents in Minneapolis, Governor Tim Walz today directed state agencies to mobilize resources to support public safety efforts in Minneapolis and Saint Paul. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Following a shooting involving federal ICE agents in Minneapolis, Governor Tim Walz today directed state agencies to mobilize resources to support public safety efforts in Minneapolis and Saint Paul. The Governor has directed the National Guard to conduct necessary preparation in the event they are needed to assist local and state authorities. The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) has been activated to coordinate the state’s response and ensure resources are positioned efficiently.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At this time, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is jointly investigating the incident along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). State leadership in the SEOC is also coordinating with Minneapolis and Saint Paul police departments, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Minnesota National Guard.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota State Patrol has mobilized 85 members of its Mobile Response Team to support law enforcement efforts in the Twin Cities. The National Guard remains on standby and prepared to deploy if needed to assist with public safety and emergency response operations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our top priority is keeping Minnesotans safe,”</strong> said Governor Walz. “<strong>State and local leaders are taking every step to support law enforcement and protect residents, and state resources have been deployed to ensure our neighborhoods remain safe. We have repeatedly warned that this federal mobilization was putting residents at risk. I encourage Minnesotans to remain calm. This mobilization was about putting on a show from the beginning – let’s not give it to them.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The SEOC will continue to oversee state response efforts, coordinating the Guard, State Patrol, and other agencies to respond quickly to threats and ensure public safety.</p>7189042026-01-07T21:33:08Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-718686" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-06T20:37:10ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Krista J. Jass. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Krista J. Jass. This seat will be chambered in Mankato in Blue Earth County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on January 27 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-February. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Fifth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">s are encouraged to explore eligibility, estimate benefits, and apply through the state’s <u><a href="https://paidleave.mn.gov/">Paid Leave website</a></u>.</p>7186862026-01-12T21:06:23Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-718685" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-06T20:33:21ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today provided an update on the rollout of Minnesota’s Paid Leave program.Over 3,500 Minnesota workers have started their leave1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today provided an update on the rollout of Minnesota’s Paid Leave program. Since applications opened, 17,983 people have applied to the program and 3,510 people have started their leave. Photos from the event are available online <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C0147868a35194e41231408de31d69063%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639002994771064739%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=kHjh3HaYUZdCmo7ftqM4KKE%2Btick%2FTe8HGQ%2F6owrRe8%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Paid Leave is doing exactly what we promised: helping Minnesotans care for their families without worrying about making ends meet,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“We built this program carefully with employers and launched it on time and under budget. Paid Leave is one of the most important investments we’ve made in working families, because life doesn’t pause when you welcome a child or get sick — and neither should your paycheck.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"After many months of hard work and effort from DEED staff and partners, we’re absolutely thrilled to share Paid Leave with our fellow Minnesotans,"</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>"Great things take time to build. Thank you to all of DEED's partners, employers and Minnesota officials for putting in the work and dedication to make this program successful and long-lasting."</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Paid Leave Law, passed in 2023 and signed by Governor Walz, created a statewide paid family and medical leave program providing eligible workers with paid time off for major life events like welcoming a child or caring for themselves or a family member. Paid Leave guarantees eligible workers up to 12 weeks of paid, job-protected leave to welcome a new child, care for a loved one, or manage their own medical needs. Workers needing both family and medical leave in the same benefit year may take up to 20 weeks total. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Paid Leave began taking applications from new parents last month and from all Minnesotans earlier this week. Launch of the intuitive, accessible program makes Minnesota only the 13^th state in the nation to offer paid leave for families welcoming a child or taking care of medical needs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The program’s arrival comes after more than two and a half years of design, construction, and testing to ensure an effective launch. DEED and Paid Leave worked closely with employers in building the Paid Leave employer portal, and leveraged Minnesota’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) program to build on an existing wage reporting system that employers already know and trust. The program launched with strong systems in place to verify identities and work histories and to detect and prevent fraud and came in significantly under the implementation budget set by the legislature.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In December, <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/714988">Governor Walz visited Marty’s Deli</a></u> to highlight the importance of Paid Leave for workers and employers. Minnesotans planning to take leave in 2026 for bonding, caregiving, or medical reasons are encouraged to explore eligibility, estimate benefits, and apply through the state’s <u><a href="https://paidleave.mn.gov/">Paid Leave website</a></u>.</p>7186852026-01-06T20:40:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-718148" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-05T14:04:31ZGovernor Tim Walz today released the following statement announcing that he will not seek a third term as Governor of Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released the following statement announcing that he will not seek a third term as Governor of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Good morning, and Happy New Year.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Like many Minnesotans, I was glad to turn the page on 2025. It was an extraordinarily difficult year for our state. And it ended on a particularly sour note.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“For the last several years, an organized group of criminals have sought to take advantage of our state’s generosity. And even as we make progress in the fight against the fraudsters, we now see an organized group of political actors seeking to take advantage of the crisis.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I won’t mince words here. Donald Trump and his allies – in Washington, in St. Paul, and online – want to make our state a colder, meaner place. They want to poison our people against each other by attacking our neighbors. And, ultimately, they want to take away much of what makes Minnesota the best place in America to raise a family. They’ve already begun by taking our tax dollars that were meant to help families afford child care. And they have no intention of stopping there.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Make no mistake: We</strong> <em><strong>should</strong></em><strong> be concerned about fraud in our state government. We cannot effectively deliver programs and services if we can’t earn the public’s trust. That’s why, over the past few years, we’ve made systemic changes to the way we do business.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’ve gone to the legislature time and again to get more tools to combat fraud. We’ve fired people who weren’t doing their jobs. We’ve seen people go to jail for stealing from our state. We’ve cut off whole streams of funding, in partnership with the federal government, where we saw widespread criminal activity. We’ve put new locks on the doors of our remaining programs, and we’ve hired a new head of program integrity to make sure those locks can’t be broken.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“All across the state, Minnesotans are hard at work on this problem. Advocates, administrators, investigators are on the front lines defending the integrity of our state’s programs, and I want to thank them for their efforts.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“There’s more to do. A single taxpayer dollar wasted on fraud is a dollar too much to tolerate. And while there’s a role to play for everyone – from the legislature to prosecutors to insurance companies to local and county government – the buck stops with me. My administration is taking fast, decisive action to solve this crisis. And we will win the fight against the fraudsters.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“But the political gamesmanship we’re seeing from Republicans is only making that fight harder to win.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’ve got Republicans here in the legislature playing hide-and-seek with whistleblowers.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’ve got conspiracy theorist right-wing YouTubers breaking into daycare centers and demanding access to our children.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’ve got the President of the United States demonizing our Somali neighbors and wrongly confiscating childcare funding that Minnesotans rely on.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is disgusting. And it is dangerous.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Republicans are playing politics with the future of our state. And it’s shameful. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: We welcome ideas from anyone, in any party, who wants to help us continue to stay ahead of the criminals.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“And we welcome the involvement of the federal government. I’m grateful to the career professionals at the U.S. Attorney’s office and the FBI who are helping us win this fight.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“But I cannot abide the actions of the political leadership in Washington – these opportunists who are willing to hurt our people to score a few cheap points. They and their allies have no intention of helping us solve the problem – and every intention of profiting off of it.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Which brings me to this: 2026 is an election year. And election years have a way of ramping up the politics at a time when we simply can’t afford more politics.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In September, I announced that I would run for a historic third term as Minnesota’s Governor. And I have every confidence that, if I gave it my all, I would succeed in that effort.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“But as I reflected on this moment with my family and my team over the holidays, I came to the conclusion that I</strong> <em><strong>can’t</strong></em><strong> give a political campaign my all. Every minute I spend defending my own political interests would be a minute I can’t spend defending the people of Minnesota against the criminals who prey on our generosity and the cynics who prey on our differences.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“So I’ve decided to step out of the race and let others worry about the election while I focus on the work.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I know this news may come as a surprise. But I’m passing on the race with zero sadness and zero regret. After all, I didn’t run for this job so I could</strong> <em><strong>have</strong></em><strong> this job. I ran for this job so I could</strong> <em><strong>do</strong></em><strong> this job. Minnesota faces an enormous challenge this year. And I refuse to spend even one minute of 2026 doing anything other than rising to meet the moment. Minnesota has to come first – always.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“That’s what I believe servant leadership demands of me. And as an optimist, I will hold out some hope that my friends on the other side of the aisle will consider what servant leadership demands of them in this moment. We can work together to combat the criminals, rebuild the public’s trust, and make our state stronger. But make no mistake: If Republicans continue down this path of abusing power, smearing entire communities, and running their own fraudulent game at the expense of Minnesotans – we will fight back every step of the way.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m confident that a DFLer will hold this seat come November. I’m confident that I will find ways to contribute to the state I love even after I’ve left office next January. But there will be time to worry about all that later.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today, I’m proud of the work we’ve done to make Minnesota America’s best place to live and raise kids – from our new paid leave policy to our child tax credit to our free lunch program.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“And I’m doubly proud of the incredible team we’ve put together to make that vision a reality. Thank you to every member of my staff, and every state employee, who’s part of this fight. We need you on the job to tackle the important work ahead.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Most of all, I want Minnesotans to know that</strong> <em><strong>I’m</strong></em><strong> on the job, 24/7, focused on making sure we</strong> <em><strong>stay</strong></em><strong> America’s best place to live and raise kids. No one will take that away from us. Not the fraudsters. And not the President. Not on my watch."</strong></p>7181482026-01-05T14:12:07Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-717530" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-28T20:45:04ZAmid heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions, Governor Tim Walz today declared a peacetime emergency, authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide support for emergency storm operations. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] — Amid heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions, Governor Tim Walz today <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F12%2F28%2Ffile_attachments%2F3505792%2FExecutive%2520Order%252025-15.pdf/1/0101019b67463ef5-79b5cefa-018b-4eb4-a348-4ec9ee3fac19-000000/YOJj5rgbFVY5MlkdZiJ85_Qwv0qRpG0WixtKfzBgTq8=437" target="_blank">declared a peacetime emergency</a>, authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide support for emergency storm operations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“During a time of peak holiday travel, the winter weather moving across the state poses a major risk for anyone on the roads,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As we work to alleviate the dangerous conditions, I’m grateful to the National Guard for stepping up to help drivers get home safely.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The state has received a request for National Guard assistance from the Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office to provide the personnel, equipment, facilities, and resources necessary to respond to the severe weather and rescue stranded motorists. The Minnesota Department of Transportation has issued a No Travel Advisory for all state highways and I-90 in South Central Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The executive order is effective immediately and remains in effect until emergency conditions caused by the winter storm subside or until January 2, 2026.</p>7175302025-12-29T15:59:55Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-717529" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-26T20:45:04ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota on Monday, December 29, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Firefighter Timothy Bertz, who tragically passed away on Monday, December 22, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota on Monday, December 29, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Firefighter Timothy Bertz, who tragically passed away on Monday, December 22, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Tim Bertz was the true definition of a public servant,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “From serving his country as a Navy SEAL to fulfilling his lifelong dream of joining the Saint Paul Fire Department, Tim’s dedication to others left a lasting impact on the communities he served. Minnesota mourns his loss and extends our deepest condolences to his wife, Andrea, his family, friends, and fellow firefighters.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Firefighter Bertz began his firefighting career in 2017 with the Harris Fire Department, later serving with the Lino Lakes Fire Department, and had just graduated from the Saint Paul Fire Academy on December 17, 2025. Despite his brief time with the department, his leadership and dedication left a profound impression on colleagues and the community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to join in honoring Firefighter Bertz by lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A copy of the Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F12%2F26%2Ffile_attachments%2F3505279%2F12.29.2025%2520Timothy%2520Bertz%2520FAHS.pdf/1/0101019b5c36669b-29198f53-4c71-42e0-a5c9-9ff750023984-000000/OX9ICqK0rpJfaPmDWi5HyAjhEzGgAGDzehNp5cGkz2o=437" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>7175292025-12-29T15:59:55Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-717482" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-23T20:45:04ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 25-14 exempting certain motor carriers and drivers transporting propane and diesel from service hour regulations. The federal government failed to release funds for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program on time, resulting in elevated demand and increased propane and diesel fuel deliveries in December. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/23/file_attachments/3504114/Executive%20Order%2025-14.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Executive Order 25-14</a> exempting certain motor carriers and drivers transporting propane and diesel from service hour regulations. The federal government failed to release funds for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program on time, resulting in elevated demand and increased propane and diesel fuel deliveries in December.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The federal government’s delay threatened the availability of the fuel supplies that keep homes warm as temperatures drop,” </strong>said Governor Walz. “<strong>This executive order will help counter federal delays and ensure reliable access to propane and diesel to keep Minnesotans safe in the weeks and months ahead.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With the onset of winter and extremely cold temperatures over the past month, demand for propane and diesel fuel is high across the country, resulting in low inventory throughout the Midwest. It may take a month, or longer, to get back to normal supply and inventory levels due to the federal government’s delays.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Approximately 10% of Minnesota households, or over 200,000 homes, use propane gas as their primary heating fuel. Temporary relief is needed to allow carriers and drivers to provide necessary and time-sensitive assistance to our state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This executive order is effective immediately.</p>7174822025-12-24T20:53:35Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-717393" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-23T19:44:42Z Governor Tim Walz today joined faith leaders, mayors, public safety officials, and community advocates at Shiloh Temple International Ministries to address increased federal immigration enforcement activity in the Twin Cities and reaffirm Minnesota’s commitment to public safety, dignity, and community trust.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[MINNEAPOLIS, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today joined faith leaders, mayors, public safety officials, and community advocates at Shiloh Temple International Ministries to address increased federal immigration enforcement activity in the Twin Cities and reaffirm Minnesota’s commitment to public safety, dignity, and community trust.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota takes public safety seriously,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “Public safety is strongest when law enforcement can focus on real threats and when communities trust that they will be treated fairly and with dignity. What we are seeing from the Trump Administration is not about safety – it is political theater that creates fear and weakens trust.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Trump administration has created a dangerous atmosphere of chaos and instability that is making it harder for our police officers to keep Minneapolis safe</strong>,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. <strong>“Fear and escalation don’t make our streets safer – they put everyone involved at risk.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This administration’s agenda violates human dignity and undermines the principles of community safety,”</strong> said Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter. <strong>“We stand with our immigrant and refugee neighbors, and reject these messages of hate and fear coming from our federal government.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Truthfully, the federal government does not care about our election certificates or our official power,”</strong> said St. Paul Mayor-Elect Kaohly Her. <strong>“Real power lies in community. When we stay united and stand together, we are stronger than any attempt to divide us. It is the people, working together, who are truly powerful.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz emphasized that while immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, recent ICE operations in Minnesota have been marked by a lack of coordination, professionalism, and communication from the Trump Administration and the Department of Homeland Security under Secretary Krisit Noem.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That lack of coordination has extended to basic operational standards. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has raised concerns to the Department of Homeland Security about the improper use of Minnesota license plates on unmarked federal vehicles, including reports of plates being swapped. State officials made clear that this conduct violates Minnesota law, puts officers at risk, and must stop immediately.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In recent weeks, the Governor has <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F715940/1/0101019b4c81754a-b3271b57-7125-4a36-9322-085feec51a42-000000/ZuYPj9IsRD5ca6fkZWpAJYeOgKcJSJENIuVBYoqSEOk=437">repeatedly pressed federal officials</a> for answers following incidents in which U.S. citizens were detained during ICE operations in Minnesota. The administration continues to monitor federal activity closely, engage with community leaders, and evaluate additional steps to ensure federal operations comply with Minnesota law and constitutional protections.</p>7173932025-12-23T18:49:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-717314" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-23T14:21:56ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced the recipients of $8.8 million in grants to grow Minnesota’s workforce through the Drive for 5 Workforce initiative.24 workforce development partners will create training and placement programs focused on five high-demand industries1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced the recipients of $8.8 million in grants to grow Minnesota’s workforce through the Drive for 5 Workforce initiative. Drive for 5 is the state’s program for preparing Minnesotans for high-demand jobs in five occupational categories: the caring professions, education, manufacturing, technology, and the trades. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota maintains one of the most skilled, trained, and active workforces in the country,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By investing in skills training and job placement, we are investing in our workforce and our economy, ensuring that businesses have skilled workers, and that workers have fulfilling, family-sustaining employment.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are partnering with organizations across the state to ensure every Minnesotan has the support they need to find long-term success in high-demand industries with family-sustaining wages,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek<strong>. “Drive for 5 addresses two of Minnesota’s greatest economic hurdles by providing pathways to careers for workers and a skilled workforce for employers. DEED is proud to continue our work with our workforce development partners to support Minnesota’s workforce and economy.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are excited to announce another round of awards to strengthen Minnesota’s workforce and economy, continuing this innovative initiative and building on past successes,”</strong> said DEED Deputy Commissioner of Workforce Development Marc Majors. <strong>“I look forward to working with these training program providers, industry associations, chambers of commerce, and other business organizations to empower more Minnesotans to move into family-sustaining careers.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor launched Drive for 5 in 2023 to expand access to workforce training in occupational groups where there is high demand for employees and a pathway to careers with family-sustaining wages. Drive for 5 is a unique approach to two of Minnesota’s most challenging problems: employment disparities faced by Minnesotans and a labor force shortage in key fields. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Previous Drive for 5 graduates have shared stories about how their programs led to gainful employment, including Daniel, whose Semiconductor Career Pathways Program <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdeed%2Fnewscenter%2Fsocial-media%2Fdeed-developments%2Findex.jsp%3Fid=1045-711085/1/0101019b4c430bfc-0b115a8b-bd0a-425d-8be1-f76e5fa24848-000000/FQN-FQz7MPtmNcuSu6SI9nbj3QWIrBwoQPQ_3OGGTI8=437">helped him land a position at Seagate</a></u>, and Emma, who <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdeed%2Fnewscenter%2Fsocial-media%2Fdeed-developments%2Findex.jsp%3Fid=1045-701643/1/0101019b4c430bfc-0b115a8b-bd0a-425d-8be1-f76e5fa24848-000000/1GMZedTeFQ7USHm7VUppn9kja1PWtHEo8iWurzkUzPA=437">secured a job as an RN at a Twin Cities hospital</a></u> after a Pre-Licensure Nursing Apprenticeship pilot program. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Drive for 5 awards announced today are comprised of two programs: </p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Industry sector training funding for partners that provide workforce development services, work-based learning opportunities, and job placement and retention services. These programs prioritize transitioning participants from credentialed training to paid work-based learning opportunities, with the ultimate goal of securing employment or achieving career advancement within a related company or industry. </li> <li>Job placement services funding for partners that help ensure Drive for 5 industry sector training program graduates are connected with employers that are currently hiring or anticipate near future employment opportunities in the program’s five targeted sectors. </li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Drive for 5 grantees includes:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Avivo, $400,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services, Inc. (CMJTS), $600,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Duluth Workforce Development, $300,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Minneapolis, $450,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce, $325,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">EMERGE Community Development, $500,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Faribault Public Schools, $300,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Greater Mankato Growth, $65,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hennepin Technical College, $175,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hired, $400,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Latino Chamber of Commerce, $325,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Midwest Manufacturers Association, $400,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association, $450,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Training Partnership, $600,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">National Able Network, $325,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Regents of the University of Minnesota, $300,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Minnesota CEP, Inc., $375,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Shakopee Chamber of Commerce, $500,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council, Inc., $425,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">St. Paul Chamber of Commerce, $635,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">St. Paul Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Center, $90,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Stearns-Benton Employment &amp; Training Council; DBA Career Solutions, $325,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Twin Cities Rise, $85,000 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Willmar Public Schools, $425,000 </p>7173142025-12-23T18:46:05Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-717228" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-22T21:21:56ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Lisa Beane and the Honorable Anne M. Rasmusson to the Minnesota Court of Appeals.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/22/file_attachments/3502323/Beane,%20Lisa%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lisa Beane</a></u> and the Honorable <u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/22/file_attachments/3502329/Rasmusson,%20Anne%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anne M. Rasmusson</a></u> to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Beane and Rasmusson will fill the vacancies that will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Louise Dovre Bjorkman and the Honorable Randall J. Slieter. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lisa Beane will replace the Honorable Louise Dovre Bjorkman, who serves in an at-large capacity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m honored to appoint Lisa Beane to help tackle the evolving challenges facing the Minnesota Court of Appeals,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “Her diverse perspective and lived experience, coupled with an appellate background on par with some of Minnesota’s most revered jurists, will add to the wealth of talent already on the Minnesota Court of Appeals.” </strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m delighted to hear of Lisa’s appointment to the Minnesota Court of Appeals,” </strong>said Justice Margaret Chutich, retired Minnesota Supreme Court justice. <strong>“Her impressive intellect, appellate expertise, diligence, and collegial demeanor will make her an outstanding addition to the court. The people of Minnesota will be well-served by her presence there.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I can think of no one more able and deserving to serve the people of Minnesota on the Court of Appeals,” </strong>said Judge Wilhelmina Wright, retired United States District Court for the District of Minnesota and former Minnesota Supreme Court justice.<strong> “Lisa understands that the law affects everyday people in their most important affairs. I know that she will serve our state, the people of Minnesota, and the interest of justice with great intellect, integrity, empathy, and respect.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Lisa Beane:</em>   <br /> Lisa Beane is a senior associate general counsel in the University of Minnesota's Office of the General Counsel. She previously was an associate in the Minneapolis office of Jones Day and at Robins Kaplan LLP. Beane also previously served as a law clerk to the Honorable Wilhelmina M. Wright on the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota and Minnesota Supreme Court. Her community involvement includes serving on the boards of the Minnesota Lavender Bar Association and the Minnesota Women Lawyers Foundation. Beane earned her B.A. from Augustana College, her M.P.A. from the University of Wisconsin, LaFollette School of Public Affairs, her M.A. in political science from Pennsylvania State University, and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Honorable Anne M. Rasmusson will replace the Honorable Randall J. Slieter, whose seat is designated for Minnesota’s Seventh Congressional District. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Judge Rasmusson is a remarkable judge who has dedicated her career to administering fair and equitable justice in Greater Minnesota,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “Having her perspective on the Minnesota Court of Appeals not only enriches and informs the court’s work, but it deepens the bench’s understanding of the communities it serves throughout the state.” </strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Governor made a wise choice in elevating Judge Anne Rasmusson of Crookston to the Court of Appeals,” </strong>said Justice David Lillehaug, retired Minnesota Supreme Court justice. <strong>“She’ll bring to the Judicial Center a Greater Minnesota sensibility, having litigated and decided business and family disputes in the ag-based economy of the northwest. Those who appear before her will notice her strong work ethic, keen eye for fairness, and easy laugh.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Judge Anne Rasmusson's elevation from the Minnesota District Court to the Minnesota Court of Appeals is a testament to her common sense, exceptional people skills, and deep understanding of the values rooted in our state's rural communities,” </strong>said Justice Anne McKeig of the Minnesota Supreme Court.<strong> “Her journey reflects a dedication to justice that resonates with all Minnesotans. Congratulations to the Governor on a great choice.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Anne Rasmusson: <br /></em>Anne Rasmusson is the assistant chief judge of the Ninth Judicial District and is chambered in Polk County. Through her work, she established and served on the White Earth/Mahnomen DWI and Drug Courts, and the DWI Courts for Polk, Red Lake, and Norman counties. Rasmusson was previously a partner at Rust, Stock, &amp; Rasmusson, P.A. She is chair of the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the General Rules of Practice, chair of the Ninth Judicial District Case Flow Committee, and a member of the Children’s Justice Initiative Committee.  Rasmusson’s community involvement includes chairing the RiverView Healthcare Association Board of Directors and the Polk County Developmental Achievement Center. She earned her B.A. from St. Catherine University, M.A. from the University of Minnesota Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Policy, and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>. </p>7172282026-02-05T16:56:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-717227" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-22T21:21:56ZGovernor Tim Walz today joined Minnesota National Guard leadership for a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of the New Ulm National Guard Readiness Center.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[NEW ULM, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today joined Minnesota National Guard leadership for a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of the New Ulm National Guard Readiness Center. Photos from the event are available on <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C490bb289d87448a38c0808de418cab97%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639020269600311505%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=sZEXo7TIR2inxl95%2Bd79Rzpoiz%2FqjFLRK4XJWHAoMBE%3D&amp;reserved=0">Flickr</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This readiness center is more than a building,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“It’s where Guard members maintain the skills needed to protect our communities and respond wherever they’re called. I served out of the old site myself and know this upgrade was much needed. The men and women of the 125th will be better equipped to respond, and this facility ensures they’re ready for whatever comes next.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 40,374-square-foot facility began construction in April 2024 and will support training, readiness, and state and federal missions for the 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery Regiment. The readiness center will house approximately 20 full-time staff and 240 traditional drilling Soldiers, serving as a hub for training, coordination, and emergency response.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The battalion has a distinguished history of federal service spanning more than a century, including deployments in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and Operation Enduring Freedom, and a long record of State Active Duty responding to natural disasters and emergencies across Minnesota.</p>7172272025-12-22T21:26:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-717015" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-19T21:21:56ZGovernor Tim Walz today warned that Congress’s decision to recess without extending the enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits will cause health insurance costs to skyrocket for tens of thousands of Minnesotans, putting coverage at risk across the state and nation.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today warned that Congress’s decision to recess without extending the enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits will cause <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/19/file_attachments/3500616/DEC25_eptc_healthcare-costs-increase_ONEPAGER.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">health insurance costs to skyrocket for tens of thousands of Minnesotans</a>, putting coverage at risk across the state and nation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Congress had a choice,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“They could extend the ACA subsidies and keep health care affordable, or they could do nothing and force Minnesotans to pay hundreds more each month for the same coverage. By leaving town without acting, they have chosen inaction and allowed premiums to rise to unaffordable rates. Families cannot afford this, and the consequences will be immediate.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MNsure analysis shows Minnesota currently has approximately 133,000 people enrolled in ACA marketplace coverage. About 83,000 of those enrollees rely on federal tax credits to lower their monthly premiums. The enhanced premium tax credits, first expanded in 2021, were set to expire at the end of 2025 unless Congress extended them. Without Congressional action, eligibility for financial help could drop to as low as 46 percent.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We know that Minnesotans recognize the importance of having health coverage, but Washington’s inaction could make insurance for many working families out of reach. Faced with these costs, some may feel forced to go without coverage, leaving them exposed and unprotected in the event of a medical emergency,”</strong> said Libby Caulum, CEO of MNsure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Without congressional action, MNsure estimates:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>90,000 Minnesotans will lose some level of financial support</li> <li>19,000 Minnesotans will lose all access to premium assistance</li> <li>Average premiums will increase by $240 per month per household</li> <li>An individual earning about $30,000 a year will see monthly premiums jump from roughly $50 to about $172, more than triple the cost</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Healthcare providers warned that rising premiums den coverage losses will ripple throughout the health system, particularly in rural communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz emphasized that Minnesota has taken strong action at the state level to hold down health care costs, including investing in the state’s reinsurance program, which lowers premiums for Minnesotans in the individual market. However, state efforts alone cannot replace the federal assistance Congress has allowed to expire.</p>7170152025-12-19T18:49:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-716808" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-18T21:21:56ZGovernor Tim Walz today highlighted Minnesota’s comprehensive, multi-year efforts to combat fraud and protect taxpayer dollars, following new federal action against individuals accused of defrauding public programs. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today applauded the fraud charges brought against individuals accused of defrauding public programs and highlighted Minnesota’s comprehensive, <u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/12/file_attachments/3492644/AntiFraud-Timeline.pdf">multi-year efforts to combat fraud</a></u> and protect taxpayer dollars. The Governor emphasized that today’s developments validate Minnesota’s earlier decision to <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/711001">audit and pause payments for 14 high-risk Medicaid programs</a></u> tied to the federal investigation and <a href="https://mn.gov/dhs/media/news/?id=1053-700501">shut down Housing Stabilization Services (HSS) entirely</a>, demonstrating why the state moved early to strengthen oversight, stop improper payments, and support criminal prosecutions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is exactly the type of strong action we need from prosecutors to ensure fraudsters are put behind bars,”</strong> Governor Walz said. <strong>“This infuriating greed and criminal activity is why we took action earlier this year to shut down Housing Stabilization Services and hired an outside firm to audit these programs and stop payments to fraudulent providers. We will not tolerate fraud, and we will continue to work with federal partners to ensure fraud is stopped and fraudsters are caught.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over the last several years, Governor Walz and state leaders have <u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/12/file_attachments/3492458/Fraud%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf">taken sustained action</a></u> to strengthen program integrity across state government. These efforts include executive action, bipartisan legislation, enhanced enforcement tools, and partnerships with outside experts to stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated fraud schemes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In October, Governor Walz ordered a third-party audit of billing for 14 high-risk Medicaid services and paused payments while suspicious claims were reviewed. Using funding approved during the 2025 legislative session, the Minnesota Department of Human Services contracted with Optum to analyze fee-for-service claims data, flag irregularities, and prevent improper payments before funds are distributed. That work remains ongoing, and Minnesota continues to support federal law enforcement as investigations proceed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Through executive action, bipartisan legislation, and agency-level reforms, Minnesota has also:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Ordered audit and pause of payments for 14 high-risk Medicaid programs tied to the federal investigation and shut down HSS entirely</li> <li>Created a centralized fraud investigations unit within the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension</li> <li>Established a statewide Inspector General Coordinating Council to improve cross-agency collaboration</li> <li>Funded additional auditors, internal control specialists, and grant oversight professionals</li> <li>Expanded whistleblower protections and anti-kickback penalties</li> <li>Required enhanced licensing, documentation, training, and unannounced site visits for high-risk providers</li> <li>Implemented new tools for data analytics, prepayment review, and fraud reporting</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last Friday, Governor Walz announced the appointment of <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-711001#/detail/appId/1/id/716178">Tim O’Malley as Director of Program Integrity</a></u> and a partnership with WayPoint to implement a statewide fraud prevention program. This initiative will establish consistent investigative standards across agencies, improve data sharing, and enhance auditing and enforcement capacity statewide.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are thankful for the charges brought today. The public should expect these investigations to continue until we root out all criminals who seek to defraud Minnesotans of their hard-earned tax dollars,”</strong> Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans said. <strong>“Our financial crimes and fraud agents and analysts are highly experienced, highly trained and will continue to work alongside and in coordination with other local, state and federal investigative and prosecution entities to get the job done.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz emphasized that Minnesota will continue to pursue fraud aggressively at every level of government.</p>7168082025-12-19T02:43:26Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-716738" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-18T17:32:01ZGovernor Tim Walz today highlighted that Minnesota Paid Leave, the state’s new paid family and medical leave program, officially begins on January 1, 2026.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today highlighted that Minnesota Paid Leave, the state’s new paid family and medical leave program, officially begins on January 1, 2026. Just two weeks out from launch, the program is seeing strong early interest from families. Over 5,000 Minnesotans have submitted applications for <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/714988">leave to bond with babies born in 2025</a></u> since applications opened in December.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“No one should have to rush back to work days after welcoming a baby or ignore a health scare because they can’t afford to miss a paycheck,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “Paid Leave strengthens families, supports employers, and makes Minnesota an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Paid Leave guarantees eligible workers up to 12 weeks of paid, job-protected leave to welcome a new baby, care for a loved one, or manage their own medical needs. Workers needing both family and medical leave in the same benefit year may take up to 20 weeks total. Minnesota is now one of 13 states with a statewide program, marking a historic expansion of support for families. Research shows paid leave supports child development and benefits employers by improving retention, morale, and productivity. A survey this summer found that 72% of Minnesotans who were aware of the program support it.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Earlier this month, Governor Walz highlighted the importance of Paid Leave for workers and employers alike during a visit to Marty’s Deli in Minneapolis.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans planning to take leave in 2026 for bonding, caregiving, or medical reasons are encouraged to explore eligibility, estimate benefits, and apply through the state’s <u><a href="https://paidleave.mn.gov/">Paid Leave website.</a></u></p>7167382025-12-18T18:00:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-716736" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-18T17:21:58ZGovernor Tim Walz today called on Minnesota House Republican leadership to immediately provide any and all information related to alleged fraud to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) and the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Inspector General, warning that withholding whistleblower tips and evidence undermines efforts to protect taxpayers and stop criminal activity.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today called on Minnesota House Republican leadership to immediately provide any and all information related to alleged fraud to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) and the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Inspector General, warning that withholding whistleblower tips and evidence undermines efforts to protect taxpayers and stop criminal activity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is outrageous,”</strong> Governor Walz said.<strong> “I expect political attacks in an election year. What is unacceptable is actively withholding information about fraud and blocking investigations in order to advance a political agenda. If there is fraud, it needs to be investigated immediately — not sat on, redirected, or used for political theater.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">According to <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkstp.com%2Fkstp-news%2Ftop-news%2Fhouse-fraud-committee-withholding-whistleblower-tips-from-dhs-investigators%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C8cba9280e568452f1d2508de3e551573%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639016732307716276%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=8rlrCaCaPfUrcjVuEYekDMTPv4SoZzXVegqDpztQvCw%3D&amp;reserved=0">reporting by KSTP</a>, the Republican-led House Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy Committee has allegedly received hundreds of whistleblower tips through its hotline but has not forwarded those tips to state law enforcement at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension or to DHS, the agency responsible for stopping fraudulent payments in state programs. Instead, committee leadership has acknowledged keeping that information from DHS investigators and the BCA.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">While Governor Walz continues to take concrete, effective <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/716178">steps to root out fraud</a>, including <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/Executive%20Order%2025-01_tcm1055-663516.pdf">Executive Order 25-01</a> which requires agencies to share data and suspected cases with law enforcement and oversight partners, House GOP leaders are choosing to withhold information that could stop payments and hold criminals accountable. Through executive action, bipartisan efforts in the Legislature, and collaboration with <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/711001">outside experts</a>, Governor Walz has taken, and continues to take, comprehensive action to identify fraud and protect taxpayer dollars. In contrast, the Republican-led committee has not passed any legislation out of its committee and has offered no concrete solutions to stop fraudulent activity.</p>7167362025-12-18T17:26:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-716493" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-16T18:27:41ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued two executive orders to reduce gun violence and improve public safety across Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued two executive orders to reduce gun violence and improve public safety across Minnesota. These orders, the first executive actions taken by a Minnesota Governor focused on gun violence prevention, creates a Statewide Safety Council and directs state agencies to take concrete steps to prevent gun-related injuries and deaths. These actions come after Republican legislative leadership refused to hold a vote on gun safety measures <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lumaris.com%2Fblog%2Fmost-minnesotans-support-assault-weapons-ban-with-a-suburban-surprise%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C328da7f4cf7945b20de708de3bfd20b9%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639014155513762925%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=HjU%2BDFun8zWLH9TGI2mQlsNh57j0jtgrLi5Za%2FmidpM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">supported by seven in ten Minnesotans</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Gun violence has inflicted heartbreak and loss for families in Minnesota and across the country time and time again. Enough is enough,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “We have repeatedly met with Republican legislators to find a path forward but were met with excuses and stonewalling, so today I am taking executive action. These executive orders lay a critical foundation for the upcoming legislative session, and now we need Republicans in the Legislature to show courage and pass comprehensive gun violence prevention legislation, including a ban on high-capacity magazines and assault-style weapons. Minnesotans are demanding action.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Orders <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/16/file_attachments/3496943/Executive%20Order%2025-12.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">25-12</a> and <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/16/file_attachments/3496944/Executive%20Order%2025-13.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">25-13</a> direct state agencies to pursue a range of strategies to reduce gun violence:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Establishing the Governor’s Statewide Safety Council: The Safety Council brings together leaders from law enforcement, education, mental health, and community organizations to develop a blueprint for preventing mass violence, domestic terrorism, and politically motivated attacks. The council will make policy and funding recommendations to the Governor.</li> <li>Data Collection on Firearms and Insurance: The Department of Commerce will work with insurers to collect and analyze firearm-related claims, providing a clearer understanding of the financial and societal impacts of guns and identifying opportunities to prevent harm – laying the groundwork to hold gun manufacturers accountable.</li> <li>Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs): The Department of Public Safety will expand public education, training, and best practices for law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, schools, and mental health professionals to prevent individuals in crisis from accessing firearms. ERPO data will be tracked and reported to increase transparency and effectiveness.</li> <li>Safe Storage Education: In partnership with the Department of Education and local schools, families will have access to guidance, gun locks, and safes to prevent accidental injuries and deaths, particularly among children.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz’s actions build on prior legislative and administrative efforts to strengthen public safety. The executive orders also reflect concerns raised directly by Minnesotans during town halls held across the state, where residents shared personal stories of loss and expressed growing frustration with continued legislative inaction as Minnesota approaches the next legislative session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Photos from today’s signing can be found <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mngov/">here</a>.</p>7164932025-12-16T18:29:07Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-716341" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-15T17:33:57ZFollowing Governor Tim Walz’s December 12 announcement that he has appointed Tim O’Malley to serve as the Director of Program Integrity, he has written an op-ed detailing the steps his administration is taking to combat fraud in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Following Governor Tim Walz’s December 12 <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/716178">announcement that he has appointed Tim O’Malley</a> to serve as the Director of Program Integrity, he has written an op-ed detailing the steps his administration is taking to combat fraud in Minnesota. Originally published in the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.startribune.com%2Fmn-fraud-scandals-trump-administration-concerns%2F601544952&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C803ee659b5c646442b3508de3bfd84a8%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639014157194562931%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=sp8bda3v0i1gbPXFyUbIkD3FXpr3XhUJ6Oll06vo%2BRo%3D&amp;reserved=0">Star Tribune</a>, the full piece is available below.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Minnesota is a great place to live. We rank among the top states for quality of life, affordability, safety, retirement-friendliness and job opportunity. We are not a state that chooses to let people go hungry.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>But we cannot effectively deliver programs and services if they don’t have the backing of the public’s trust. And our state’s generosity has been taken advantage of by an organized group of fraudsters who’ve put their greed and self-dealing above the needs of children, seniors and people with disabilities.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Those bad actors and criminals have required us to reframe our mindset. We have turned the dial from prioritizing generous services toward greater skepticism. Any amount of fraud is too much and undermines the very programs that do so much to raise our quality of life.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Over the last three years we have made systematic changes to state government. Detecting fraud is resource intensive and time consuming — especially when it comes to the federal Medicaid programs that have a complex interplay between private insurance companies and federal, state and county governments. Is it impossible? No. We have made significant progress. We have much more to do.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>And it’s my responsibility to fix it. We have replaced key leaders. People have gone to jail. This week we announced that Tim O’Malley has joined our effort as head of program integrity across state government. As a judge, former superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, former FBI agent and reformer in the archdiocese where he led nationally recognized work in child protection and clergy accountability, O’Malley will work across state government to root out fraud and protect taxpayer dollars.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>We have created additional checks and balances. We have hired investigators, auditors and law enforcement. We have brought in an outside firm to audit payments to high-risk programs at the Department of Human Services and created a specialized fraud-fighting law enforcement unit at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. All to fight off a group of highly determined, sophisticated fraudsters.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>When the pandemic hit in 2020, states received an unprecedented surge in federal funding to shield the economy and support a reeling population. To suggest disingenuously that anyone at the time said we should do differently — when there were hungry people at the gates — flies in the face of the facts.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>When the Department of Education noticed suspicious activity, it brought the fraudsters to court and lost. When they brought their concerns to the Trump administration, they were rebuffed. We were not alone in facing this issue. Other states faced billions of dollars in COVID-era fraud.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>When Congress built those pandemic programs, and President Donald Trump signed them into law, they intentionally made getting help to people rapidly a priority. The unintended result was to weaken the guardrails and make the programs an open door to fraud. Acknowledging that the goal was to get money out the door as fast as possible, the normal hurdles to securing funding were barely a doorstep. I say that not to place blame. That was reality. It was a perfect storm for fraud to occur.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>But we have learned from this — as we would hope any administration would. And it does not need to be a partisan issue. But anyone can call fire. I hope to see those calls from my Republican colleagues paired with serious, thoughtful ideas to aid our efforts in putting it out. If there were a silver bullet to solve this issue, we wouldn’t be seeing similar issues in these federal Medicaid programs in red and blue states across the country — including multi-million-dollar Medicaid fraud schemes in Ohio, Arizona, Nebraska, Texas and Pennsylvania.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>We welcome ideas from anyone — Democrat or Republican — to continue to stay ahead of the criminals. Because as long as there are programs aimed at helping people, there will be fraudulent actors looking to steal from those who need help the most. Our job is to stay one step ahead of them. What is not helpful is the president of the United States demonizing an entire community or pardoning someone single-handedly responsible for $1.6 billion in fraud.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The buck stops with me, and my focus now is on ensuring that not a single dollar falls into the wrong hands. That’s why we’ve put locks on the doors — why we’ve installed new leadership at DHS with a single-minded focus on stopping fraudulent payments. Many of the changes have not been flashy or headline-grabbing, but rather just the hard work of building stronger safeguards throughout state government. Year after year, we’ve brought new ideas to the Legislature to stay ahead of the fraudsters’ evolving tactics. We’ve sought a top-to-bottom change in state government to create stronger oversight, leverage outside experts, modernize technology and hold criminals accountable.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Minnesota’s long-standing culture of good governance and high standards for the integrity of public funds go hand-in-hand with our culture of generosity. You cannot have one without the other. As we continue to root out fraud and hold those responsible to account, you will continue to see fraud in the news. My hope is that each of those stories moving forward is about a successful investigation that ends in a fraudster sentenced to prison. My message is clear: If you threaten everything that makes our state a great place to live by committing fraud in Minnesota, you will be caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.</em></p>7163412025-12-15T17:45:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-716340" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-15T17:30:20ZGovernor Tim Walz today highlighted statewide polling that shows strong, widespread support for banning the sale of assault-style weapons in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today highlighted <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lumaris.com%2Fblog%2Fmost-minnesotans-support-assault-weapons-ban-with-a-suburban-surprise%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C328da7f4cf7945b20de708de3bfd20b9%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639014155513762925%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=HjU%2BDFun8zWLH9TGI2mQlsNh57j0jtgrLi5Za%2FmidpM%3D&amp;reserved=0">statewide polling</a></u> that shows strong, widespread support for banning the sale of assault-style weapons in Minnesota. According to the poll, nearly seven in ten Minnesotans (69%) support a ban, with even higher levels of support in the suburbs (79%). The poll comes as gun violence incidents have shaken the state and nation and after the Governor held town halls in communities across the state focused on solutions to gun violence.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It could not be any more clear that the public is demanding action on the assault weapons that have caused terror and heartbreak for our state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m a lifelong hunter and gun owner, but there is no reason for anyone to have the ability to fire 119 rounds into a building full of children in a matter of seconds. With a divided legislature, we are going to need to see courage from Republican legislators in getting this done.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The poll shows that 69 percent of Minnesotans support banning assault-style weapons such as AR-15s. Support is strong across the state, with 71 percent in the Twin Cities, 79 percent in the suburbs, and 62 percent in Greater Minnesota. The poll shows that 46 percent of Republican respondents support an assault-style weapons ban.</p>7163402025-12-15T17:36:58Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-716178" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-12T22:00:39ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Tim O’Malley will join the state as Director of Program Integrity. O’Malley will partner with WayPoint to implement a statewide fraud prevention program 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Tim O’Malley will join the state as Director of Program Integrity. A judge, former superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), former FBI agent, and reformer in the archdiocese, O’Malley will work across state government to strengthen fraud prevention and protect taxpayer dollars. Governor Walz also announced a state partnership with third party experts at WayPoint to implement a statewide fraud prevention program.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“I’m proud to announce that Tim O’Malley is joining our team to lead the charge in fighting fraud against Minnesota taxpayers. Today we are building on the work of the last several years and strengthening Minnesota’s defenses against fraud,” </span></strong><span>said Governor Walz.</span><strong><span> “If you commit fraud in Minnesota, you will be caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”</span></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“I’m honored to have been asked by the Governor to assist with combating fraud. But know that I’m not here to serve the governor or any individual person or political party. I’m here to serve the people of Minnesota,” </span></strong><span>said Judge O’Malley. </span><strong><span>“Years ago, I served our state through an appointment under Governor Tim Pawlenty, and now I welcome the opportunity to serve under Governor Walz. No one has any tolerance for fraud. This issue must be addressed aggressively. Minnesotans must have trust in our public institutions.” </span></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>WayPoint, Inc. is a Minnesota-based professional service firm of former law enforcement and federal special agents, specializing in forensic accounting, financial investigations, due diligence, business risk mitigation, health care compliance and investigations, and tax litigation support. WayPoint professionals investigate, analyze, and provide solutions for complex financial and business issues.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>WayPoint will advise the development of: </span></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><span>Consistent investigative and reporting policies and procedures across state agencies;</span></li> <li><span>A fraud prevention program that can be implemented across state agencies;</span></li> <li><span>Formalized data sharing amongst state agencies in alignment with federal and state law to more quickly identify those committing fraud across multiple state programs; and</span></li> <li><span>Specialized skills and/or positions needed for agencies to review, audit, and investigate state program fraud.</span></li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>The appointment of Tim O’Malley follows <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/12/file_attachments/3492644/AntiFraud-Timeline.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">numerous actions taken by the state</a> over the last several years to detect and prevent fraud. Through executive action, bipartisan efforts at the state legislature, and collaboration with state agencies and outside experts, <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/12/file_attachments/3492458/Fraud%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor Walz has and continues to take action</a> to identify fraud and hold accountable those who illegally take advantage of state programs designed to help Minnesota’s most vulnerable populations.</span><span> <strong><span>“Fraud is not just a financial loss. It disrupts lives, harms families and undermines confidence in the programs Minnesotans rely on,” </span></strong><span>said BCA Superintendent Drew Evans. </span><strong><span>“Our Financial Crimes and Fraud Section is focused on working with local, state and federal partners on criminal investigations that hold offenders accountable and we’re working with the Office of Inspector General Coordinating Counsel to develop stronger barriers and stop fraud before it occurs.”</span></strong></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“Minnesota Department of Human Services has no tolerance for fraud, waste or abuse of government resources,”</span></strong><span> said Shireen Gandhi, Minnesota Department of Human Services Temporary Commissioner. </span><strong><span>“We are intently focused on solutions – strengthening program integrity, tightening oversight of services, and hardening our programs against attacks by criminals. Our job is to protect Minnesotans who need services. Their lives shouldn’t be a political football and we need to maximize every dollar that goes toward programs to help them.”</span></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>Tim O’Malley is currently the interim chief judge of the Court of Administrative Hearings and the former superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension under Governor Tim Pawlenty. In 2014, O’Malley was appointed director of Ministerial Standards and Safe Environment with the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, leading nationally recognized work in child protection and clergy accountability. O’Malley will begin his work as the state’s Director of Program Integrity next month.</span></p>7161782025-12-12T18:41:54Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-716181" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-11T22:00:39ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Jennifer K. Fischer. This seat will be chambered in Willmar in Kandiyohi County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/11/file_attachments/3491150/Fitzgerald,%20John%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">John Fitzgerald:</a></strong> John Fitzgerald is the first assistant county attorney at the Meeker County Attorney’s Office, where he supervises attorneys and support staff in the prosecution of criminal matters. In addition, he prosecutes a variety of misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, and felony-level offenses. Fitzgerald also represents Meeker County in civil commitment proceedings and guardianship matters. He was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Kristine R. DeMay in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. Fitzgerald’s community involvement includes serving as chair of the Meeker Area Food Shelf and as member of the board of directors of the Litchfield Lion’s Club. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/11/file_attachments/3491141/Pierce,%20Kristen%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kristen Pierce: </a></strong> Kristen Pierce is the first assistant county attorney in the Kandiyohi County Attorney’s Office, where she supervises attorneys and support staff, provides legal advice to county departments, and maintains a criminal, juvenile, and civil commitment caseload. She was previously an associate attorney at Anderson Larson, a law clerk for the Honorable Ann L. Carrott in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District, and a public defender in the Eighth Judicial District. Pierce’s community involvement includes serving on the board of directors of the West Central Singers and as a volunteer judge with the MSBA Mock Trial Program. She is also active in several local charitable and faith organizations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/11/file_attachments/3491149/Torvik,%20Heidi%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Heidi Torvik:</a></strong> Heidi Torvik is an attorney at Anderson Larson, where she represents plaintiffs and defendants in civil and criminal matters in state and federal court. She was previously an attorney at Lommen Abdo, P.A. and Nelson, Oyen, and Torvik, where she served as an assistant county attorney for the Chippewa County Attorney's Office and an assistant city attorney for the City of Montevideo. Torvik has taught products liability as an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota Law School and recently co-authored a chapter for the Minnesota Insurance Law Deskbook on Agent and Broker Liability. She serves as a district ethics investigator, is a flutist with the Montevideo Community Band, and regularly performs at community, legal, and judicial events as part of a chamber music group composed of attorneys and judges.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7161812026-01-12T21:06:35Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-715940" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-10T22:00:39ZGovernor Tim Walz today sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem urging her to review and respond to multiple arrests of United States citizens by federal agents during U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Minneapolis.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem urging her to review and respond to multiple arrests of United States citizens by federal agents during U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Minneapolis.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This series of incidents raises serious concerns about civil liberties and trust between Minnesota communities and federal authorities,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesotans have long valued civic engagement, and detaining citizens for lawfully exercising those rights or going about their daily lives sends a deeply disturbing message. I am urging Secretary Noem to respect the constitution and for her administration to ensure that federal operations are conducted lawfully and with respect for the rights of all individuals.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">According to reports, some citizens were asked to move back from the scene of ICE operations. When they declined, they were physically pushed, handcuffed, transported to federal facilities, and held in isolation for hours. In other instances, citizens walking through their neighborhoods were chased, tackled, handcuffed, and detained despite repeatedly stating that they are U.S. citizens and offering to show identification.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In his letter, Governor Walz called on Secretary Noem to immediately review these arrests, place any federal agents who acted unlawfully on administrative leave, clarify the legal standard under which citizen observers may document the overly aggressive enforcement tactics being deployed by ICE, ensure ICE agents in Minnesota receive guidance on respecting the civil rights of U.S. citizens and residents, and reassess the broader “surge” enforcement strategy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor encourages Minnesotans to continue exercising their rights safely and lawfully. Residents are urged to remain calm, avoid escalation, and when it is safe and lawful, record and document interactions with federal enforcement. Observing and recording from a safe distance supports transparency and helps hold ICE accountable.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The full text of the <u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/10/file_attachments/3490044/12.10.2025_DHSLetter_U.S.CitizensArrests.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s letter</a></u> is below.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The Honorable Kristi Noem <br /></em><em>Secretary of Homeland Security <br /></em><em>U.S. Department of Homeland Security <br /></em><em>3801 Nebraska Ave NW <br /></em><em>Washington, DC 20528</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Dear Secretary Noem,</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The forcefulness, lack of communication, and unlawful practices displayed by your agents will not be tolerated in Minnesota. I write today with serious concern regarding the multiple arrests of United States citizens</em> <em>during recent ICE operations in Minneapolis. </em><em>Reports indicate that some citizens were documenting federal activity, while others were going about their daily lives.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>This troubling pattern raises serious concerns, not only about due process and the rights of U.S. citizens, but also about trust between Minnesota communities and federal authorities. According to documented accounts, Sue was asked to move back from the scene; when she declined, she was physically pushed, handcuffed, transported to a federal facility, held in isolation for hours, and told she would be charged with “obstruction.” Mubashir was chased, tackled, handcuffed, and detained despite repeatedly stating his citizenship and offering to show identification.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Minnesota has long stood as a place where civic engagement and community oversight are valued. Residents who document law-enforcement activity, including immigration enforcement, play an essential role in transparency, accountably, and safeguarding the civil liberties of all in Minnesota. Detaining citizens for exercising these rights sends a deeply disturbing signal about how those very rights are being eroded.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Considering the serious constitutional and humanitarian implications, I urge you to take the following actions:</em></p> <ol xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><em>Immediately review the circumstances surrounding all recent arrests and whether agents possessed a judicial warrant authorizing detention, search, or seizure at the location in question. Any federal agents that acted unlawfully should immediately be placed on administrative leave.</em></li> <li><em>Clarify, publicly and directly, the legal standard under which citizen observers may exercise their rights to document and bear witness to the aggressive federal law-enforcement actions, particularly in public spaces.</em></li> <li><em>Ensure that ICE agents operating in Minnesota receive clear guidance and training on respecting the civil rights of U.S. citizens and residents, regardless of appearance or immigration status, before conducting raids, detentions, or arrests.</em></li> <li><em>Reassess the broader “surge” enforcement strategy.</em></li> </ol> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Our state’s safety and community trust depend not only on effective law enforcement, but on justice, fairness, and respect for civil liberties. We cannot allow public trust to be further damaged by detaining citizens under unclear or questionable circumstances.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Sincerely,</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Tim Walz <br /></em><em>Governor of Minnesota</em></p>7159402025-12-10T22:05:04Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-715785" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-10T19:49:53ZGovernor Tim Walz today highlighted improvements in student health and wellbeing, as demonstrated in the 2025 Minnesota Student Survey. 2025 Minnesota Student Survey demonstrates positive outcomes, reflects impacts of state investments1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today highlighted improvements in student health and wellbeing, as demonstrated in the 2025 Minnesota Student Survey. Survey results indicate the reversal of a decades long trend of declining student mental health, reflecting the impact of targeted state investments in children and families, including historic investments in education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When we invest in our schools and our students’ wellbeing, they’re more likely to succeed. It’s common sense,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By providing free school meals, funding teacher training, and expanding mental health resources, we’re tackling the problems that hold students back and creating a network of support that will help our students stay healthy, safe, and ready to learn.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 2025 survey demonstrated measurable improvements from 2022, with students reporting increased engagement, decreased truancy, and increased feelings of support. Students also noted improvements to physical and mental health, and positive experiences related to safety. Survey measures related to mental health demonstrated improvements for all students, with the percentage of 11th grade students considering suicide at its lowest in more than a decade.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Positive outcomes follow historic investments passed as part of the One Minnesota Budget in 2023, which allocated $2.3 billion for education. This included nation-leading literacy legislation, funding to ensure safe and nurturing learning environments, investments in the educator workforce, and greater access to opportunities in high school.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2024, Minnesota saw the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/683232" target="_blank" rel="noopener">highest graduation rate on record</a>, with over 84 percent of the 2024 graduating class earning their diploma. Earlier this year, Minnesota was ranked the <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/709850">second-best state in the nation for children</a></u>, the first in support system strength, third in family and working life, and among the top five for overall child well-being and life expectancy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Student Survey began in 1989 and is conducted every three years. More than 119,000 fifth, eighth, ninth, and 11th grade students completed the survey in 2025. More information on the survey can be found on the <u><a href="https://education.mn.gov/mde/dse/health/mss/">Minnesota Department of Health’s website</a></u>.</p>7157852025-12-10T15:12:11Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-715784" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-05T19:49:53ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine, Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson, Board of Nursing, Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Board on Judicial Standards, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, Direct Care and Treatment Advisory Committee, MN Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board, State Board of Civil Legal Aid, and The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health & Developmental Disabilities.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine, Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson, Board of Nursing, Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Board on Judicial Standards, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, Direct Care and Treatment Advisory Committee, MN Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board, State Board of Civil Legal Aid, and The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katrin Bachmeier – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Disability Advocacy Organization Representative  <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Johnson – Rosemount, MN <br /></strong>Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine <br /> Disability Advocacy Organization Representative <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine:</em>  <br /> The Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine conducts public meetings, gathers input, and will make recommendations on various aspects of the Waiver Reimagine program, such as waiver consolidation, budget methodologies, service criteria, and potential consequences of the program changes. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F391/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/TI_HAdGcvFrgy3HBZNG_hfRqjiVUDzASF30EC6_c1C0=428">Secretary of State's website</a></u>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ellen Truitt – Milaca, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of the Foster Youth Ompudsperson  <br /> Adult Formerly in the Foster Care System  <br /> Effective: December 10, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <em>About the Board of the Foster Youth Ompudsperson:</em>  <br /> The Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson makes recommendations to the foster youth ombudsperson and staff while continuously overseeing the foster youth ombudsperson’s work. The board shall evaluate the foster youth ombudsperson’s effectiveness through regular meetings with current and former youth in the foster care system and community advocates working closely with the foster care system. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F305/1/010101966e9f06e0-1a4e59a3-1214-4986-a1ca-f9e40bd00c80-000000/B6jPGbH1VOAtHSIH_vEVNs0Kf3bUELPHj4qL5vxOYNY=402">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Trisha Jensen – Byron, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Nursing  <br /> Licensed Practical Nurse #1  <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Nursing:</em>  <br /> The Board of Nursing's mission is to protect the public's health and safety through the regulation of nursing education, licensure and practice. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Nursing can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/101">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Ceynowa – Duluth, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Police Chief #2  <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training:</em>  <br /> The board licenses peace officers and part-time peace officers; establishes minimum qualifications and standards of conduct; and regulates professional peace officer education and continuing education for peace officers. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/29">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Beckman – Litchfield, MN</strong>  <br /> Board on Judicial Standards <br /> Trial Judge <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board on Judicial Standards:</em>  <br /> The Board investigates allegations of misconduct by Minnesota judges and other judicial officers and recommends judicial discipline to the Supreme Court, including censure, suspension, retirement, or removal of judges. The Board also educates the judiciary and the public on the role of the Board on Judicial Standards and on the Code of Judicial Conduct. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board on Judicial Standards can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/39">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ellen Anderson – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board  <br /> Governor Appointed Member #4  <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board:</em>  <br /> The board is responsible for architecture, urban design, and comprehensive land-use planning in the capitol area of St. Paul; exercises zoning and design review authority; and overseas redevelopment of the north Capitol area. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/42">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>James Carlson – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Direct Care and Treatment Advisory Committee <br /> Member Representing People With Lived Experience Being Served By State-Operated Treatment Programs Or Their Families #1  <br /> Effective: December 10, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jim Postier – Kasson, MN</strong>  <br /> Direct Care and Treatment Advisory Committee  <br /> Member Representing People With Lived Experience Being Served By State-Operated Treatment Programs Or Their Families #2 <br /> Effective: December 10, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Direct Care and Treatment Advisory Committee:</em>  <br /> State law requires the Direct Care and Treatment Executive Board to establish and advisory committee to provide members of the Legislature, counties, labor unions, the National Alliance on Mental Illness Minnesota, people being served by DCT programs and other stakeholders the opportunity to advise the Executive Board on DCT programs and operations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Direct Care and Treatment Advisory Committee can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/396">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heather Stillwell – Two Harbors, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> State Agency Representative - Dept of Health Rep #1  <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Garret Zayic – Chaska, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Parent Member #7  <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities carries out responsibilities outlined in P.L. 106-402 to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports/services to achieve increased independence, productivity, self-determination, integration, and inclusion in the community. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/109">Secretary of State's website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kirsten Libby – Scandia, MN</strong>  <br /> Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board  <br /> Public Member  <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board:</em>  <br /> The board administers compensation from the petroleum tank release cleanup fund for cleanup of leaks and spills from petroleum storage tanks. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/130">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Gordon – Edina, MN</strong>  <br /> State Board of Civil Legal Aid  <br /> Member Appointed by the Governor #1  <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Board of Civil Legal Aid:</em>  <br /> The State Board of Civil Legal Aid shall work to ensure access to high-quality civil legal services in every Minnesota county. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Board of Civil Legal Aid can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/370">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicole Touroutoutoudis – Prior Lake, MN</strong>  <br /> The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities  <br /> MRS Member C  <br /> Effective: January 6, 2026  <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities:</em>  <br /> Advises and assists the ombudsman in developing policies, plans and programs to benefit persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities, chemical dependence and emotional disturbance. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/128">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p>7157842025-12-10T15:12:04Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-715239" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-04T19:49:53ZGovernor Tim Walz released the following statement on the State of Minnesota’s November Budget and Economic Forecast issued today by Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB). 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz released the following statement on the State of Minnesota’s November Budget and Economic Forecast issued today by Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB):</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Despite the President’s tariffs and destabilization of health care costs, Minnesota’s annual budget forecast has improved in both the short and long term thanks to the responsible budgeting we’ve done in Minnesota.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today’s snapshot does show uncertainty. I don’t think that’s any surprise to Minnesotans who have seen impacts on their own family budgets: It’s no surprise to anyone who has looked at their health care premiums for next year. It’s no surprise to anyone who has gone out to buy anything from a new car to a cup of coffee and seen a new tariff reflected on their bill.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“But in Minnesota, we know how to balance a budget. It’s what we’ve done for the last seven years, and it’s what we’ll continue to do. We’re standing on a solid foundation, and we have the tools to continue managing a budget that makes Minnesota a great place to live.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/mmb/forecast/forecast/">More information is available through Minnesota Management and Budget</a>.</p>7152392025-12-04T17:35:37Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-715129" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-03T18:20:06ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Jessica Palmer-Denig as chief administrative law judge at the Court of Administrative Hearings (formerly known as the Office of Administrative Hearings). 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/12/03/file_attachments/3481063/Palmer-Denig,%20Jessica.jpg">Jessica Palmer-Denig</a> as chief administrative law judge at the Court of Administrative Hearings (formerly known as the Office of Administrative Hearings). Palmer-Denig will begin serving upon the completion of Tim O’Malley’s term as temporary chief judge, for a term expiring on June 30, 2031. She will replace O’Malley, who has been serving as temporary chief judge since July 1, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jessica Palmer-Denig is a proven leader who will guide the Court of Administrative Hearings with the highest standards of integrity, determination, and commitment to justice,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her deep familiarity with CAH makes her the ideal person to move this court into its next chapter. From workers’ compensation disputes to challenges of public utility rates, I’m confident CAH will remain a fair, effective, and trustworthy forum for justice for all Minnesotans under her leadership.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am so honored to be appointed as chief judge at the Court of Administrative Hearings, and I thank Governor Walz for this opportunity,”</strong> said Judge Jessica Palmer-Denig. <strong>“Our court serves a wide range of litigants and stakeholders across the entire state. Together, with our court’s leadership team and our dedicated judges and staff, I promise to ensure that we will continue to render justice to the people of Minnesota by providing the highest quality services in all the work that we do.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am excited that Jessica Palmer-Denig will be the new Chief Administrative Law Judge at the Court of Administrative Hearings,”</strong> said Department of Labor and Industry Commissioner Nicole Blissenbach. <strong>“CAH is an important partner of the department, especially as we collaborate to make the workers’ compensation system efficient and accessible for injured workers, employers, and insurers. I look forward to working closely with Judge Palmer-Denig.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Congratulations to Jessica Palmer-Denig,”</strong> said Chief Judge of the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals Patty Milun. <strong>“It is with great confidence that I welcome Chief Judge Palmer-Denig to this collaborative leadership role. I look forward to our continued success improving equal access to the workers’ compensation courts.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Palmer-Denig:</strong> Jessica Palmer-Denig is an assistant chief administrative law judge at the Court of Administrative Hearings. She previously worked as a trial attorney for the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, as an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, and as an associate at the law firm of Dorsey &amp; Whitney, LLP. Palmer-Denig also served as a judicial clerk for the Honorable Mary Muehlen Maring of the North Dakota Supreme Court and the Honorable Donovan W. Frank of the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. Palmer-Denig’s community involvement includes serving as the president of the Ramsey County Bar Foundation and on the boards of the Ramsey County Bar Association and Ramsey County Law Library. She also co-chairs the bar association’s Youth Civics Initiative through which she develops and promotes youth civics educational programming. She earned her B.A from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and her J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7151292025-12-03T18:30:12Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-714988" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-02T19:49:53ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Marty’s Deli to discuss Minnesota’s Paid Leave program, one month out from the start of the program.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Marty’s Deli to discuss Minnesota’s Paid Leave program, one month out from the start of the program. Beginning tomorrow, December 3, parents who welcomed a child in 2025 can apply for Paid Leave, an important step as the full program prepares to launch statewide on January 1, 2026. Photos from the event are available online <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C0147868a35194e41231408de31d69063%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639002994771064739%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=kHjh3HaYUZdCmo7ftqM4KKE%2Btick%2FTe8HGQ%2F6owrRe8%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Quality of life is something we take seriously in Minnesota,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “This has long been one of the best places to live, but too many parents and caregivers have faced an impossible choice between their job and their family. Paid Leave gives Minnesotans the security to welcome a child or care for a loved one without risking their income — a smart, effective policy that strengthens families, improves retention, and supports small businesses.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Paid Leave programs not only make time for care, but also improve retention, performance and morale on the job,” </strong>said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Minnesota employers have played a pivotal role in building this program and will be essential to its success. We are here to help if employers need resources, support, or answers as they bring this important new benefit to their workforce.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Paid Leave law, passed in 2023 and signed by Governor Walz, creates a statewide paid family and medical leave program starting January 1, 2026, providing eligible workers paid, job-protected time off for major life events, including bonding with a new child or caring for an ill family member. Parents who welcomed a child in 2025 can take up to 12 weeks of bonding leave in 2026, and early applications will help families and employers prepare. About 5,000 new parents are expected to apply in December.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Today’s visit underscored the program’s importance for small employers. Many small businesses have previously lacked the financial capacity to offer Paid Leave, leaving owners and employees to choose between income and caregiving. Under the law, small employers will pay reduced premium rates and may be eligible for grants to help cover staffing costs when an employee is out on leave.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When I moved back here five years ago, a big part of what drew me home to Minnesota was my family and the culture of care and community here,” </strong>said Martha Polacek, owner of Marty’s Deli.<strong> “As a small business owner, I couldn’t afford a benefit like this on my own. I am so grateful to be able to take Paid Leave in these irreplaceable first months with my newborn, and to be able to offer the same support to my team when they need it.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Those expecting a child in 2026, or planning to take leave for other reasons, can apply when Paid Leave fully launches in January. Up to 20,000 Minnesotans are expected to apply in December and January as the program begins.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last month, Paid Leave tested the system with hundreds of applicants. This early test allowed the program to assess and improve systems before expanding to a larger group, ensuring the best possible experience for individuals and employers when the program launches.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Learn more, explore resources, and apply at <a href="https://paidleave.mn.gov/">paidleave.mn.gov</a>.</p>7149882025-12-02T19:51:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-714342" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-25T20:17:56ZGovernor Tim Walz today welcomed Minnesota’s Thanksgiving turkey to the Capitol in an annual tradition celebrating Minnesota farmers. Minnesota leads the nation in turkey production, with over 600 turkey farms1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today welcomed Minnesota’s Thanksgiving turkey to the Capitol in an annual tradition celebrating Minnesota farmers. Photos from the event are available online <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C5e3b73dbe53d468d9ab008de2c447894%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638996869751904421%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=26UAHtwBtUSkcj8YiBIOTgqu8H9m2RjoK0X8jjSgbKE%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As the nation’s leading turkey producer, Minnesota farmers put food on the Thanksgiving table for millions of families across the country. Today we thank those farmers for everything they do to make those Thanksgiving traditions possible,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “As we celebrate, we also recognize that many families in Minnesota are facing hunger. We will keep working together to make sure every Minnesotan has access to the food they deserve—not just on Thanksgiving, but all year long.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor was joined by Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, Minnesota Turkey Growers Association President Jake Vlaminck, Minnesota Turkey Growers Association Executive Director Ashley Kohls, Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council President Butch Brey, Second Harvest Heartland CEO Sarah Moberg, and 4-H student Shelby Barber. The tradition highlights the strength of Minnesota’s agriculture industry and the people whose work helps feed families across the state and the nation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota remains the top turkey-producing state in the country, with more than 600 farms raising 32 million birds in 2025. The state produces 16% of all turkeys in the United States, and turkey production accounts for 61% of Minnesota’s total poultry output. The industry generates $1 billion in cash receipts each year and includes $78 million in turkey product exports annually.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year’s event also underscored, at a time when federal aid programs like SNAP are being targeted, the continued need to address food insecurity and rising food costs in Minnesota communities. In late October the Governor announced $4 million in new funding for 300 Minnesota food shelves.</p>7143422025-11-25T17:26:40Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-713975" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-20T20:17:56ZEarlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration, as well as the at-large members of the Commission on Judicial Selection, to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Court of Appeals.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Earlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration, as well as the at-large members of the Commission on Judicial Selection, to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Court of Appeals.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>The panel announced today that it is recommending four candidates for consideration to fill the upcoming vacancies on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Louise Dovre Bjorkman and the Honorable Randall J. Slieter. One vacancy is at-large, and the other seat is designated for Minnesota’s Seventh Congressional District.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/20/file_attachments/3468339/Beckman,%20Stephanie%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stephanie Beckman</a>: </span></strong><span>Stephanie Beckman is the chief judge of the Eighth Judicial District and is chambered in Meeker County. She previously was the Meeker County Attorney and an assistant county attorney in Stearns County. During her time on the bench, Beckman started a districtwide treatment court, assisted in starting a child protection specialty court, and initiated a districtwide housing court. She serves as a board member on the Board on Judicial Standards and the Minnesota Rules of Evidence Advisory Committee to the Minnesota Supreme Court. Beckman also serves as a member of the National Judicial Well-Being Collaborative and is a board member for the Litchfield Area Mentor Program and the Meeker County Law Library.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/20/file_attachments/3468341/Beane,%20Lisa%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lisa Beane</a>: </span></strong><span>Lisa Beane is a senior associate general counsel in the University of Minnesota's Office of the General Counsel. She previously was an associate in the Minneapolis office of Jones Day and at Robins Kaplan LLP. Beane also previously served as a law clerk to the Honorable Wilhelmina M. Wright at the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota and at the Minnesota Supreme Court. Her community involvement includes serving as a member of the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the Rules of Civil Appellate Procedure and on the board of directors of the Minnesota Lavender Bar Association.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/20/file_attachments/3468342/Kramer,%20Liz%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Liz Kramer</a>: </span></strong><span>Liz Kramer is the solicitor general for the State of Minnesota, where she defends the constitutionality of state laws and represents Minnesota in state and federal appellate courts. She was previously a partner at Stinson LLP, where she practiced complex commercial litigation, and a law clerk to the Honorable Helen M. Meyer on the Minnesota Supreme Court. Kramer’s community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee for the Rules on Civil Appellate Procedure and the boards of the Minnesota State Fair Foundation and Minnesota Supreme Court Historical Society. Kramer’s community involvement has also included serving on the Appellate Practice Section Council of the Minnesota State Bar Association and helping found the Appeals Self-Help Clinic for self-represented parties in appeals.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/20/file_attachments/3468343/Rasmusson,%20Anne%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anne Rasmusson</a>:</span></strong><span> Anne Rasmusson is the assistant chief judge of the Ninth Judicial District and is chambered in Polk County. Through her work, she established and served on the White Earth/Mahnomen DWI and Drug Courts, and the DWI Courts for Polk, Red Lake, and Norman counties. Rasmusson was previously a partner at Rust, Stock, &amp; Rasmusson, P.A. She is chair of the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the General Rules of Practice, chair of the Ninth Judicial District Case Flow Committee, and a member of the Children’s Justice Initiative Committee.  Rasmusson’s community involvement includes chairing the RiverView Healthcare Association Board of Directors and the Polk County Developmental Achievement Center.  </span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the </span><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span><span>Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</span></span></a></p>7139752025-11-20T22:20:11Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-713703" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-19T20:17:56ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending four candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending four candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancies occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable John P. Dehen and the Honorable Jenny Walker Jasper. These seats will be chambered in Anoka in Anoka County and Elk River in Sherburne County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F11%2F19%2Ffile_attachments%2F3466653%2FAdams,%2520Madelyn%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019a9dc25f45-065b2a87-3485-414b-83cb-9036b4de94ad-000000/d3Is9s8dih--AqhBWIYkcambvCrDLopgZZCan51Fr2g=432" target="_blank">Madelyn Adams</a>: </span></strong>Madelyn Adams is a senior attorney in the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, where she prosecutes complex violent felonies and cases involving sensitive victims. She also supervises attorneys handling juvenile delinquency matters, oversees restorative justice initiatives, and played a central role in establishing a restorative specialty court for youth. Adams previously served as an assistant county attorney in Washington County and as a public defender in the Second Judicial District. She began her career in adult criminal defense and appellate practice after serving as an honors clerk for Justice Bruce Zager on the Iowa Supreme Court. Adams remains active in her community through service on her local school board, volunteer work at naturalization ceremonies and children’s theater programs, and membership on state and local task forces dedicated to expanding fair and accessible opportunities for young people. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F11%2F19%2Ffile_attachments%2F3466641%2FBovitz,%2520Jennifer%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019a9dc25f45-065b2a87-3485-414b-83cb-9036b4de94ad-000000/krFnmfFDjW1snJWFyaoN2bW4pSpTCM_x5Kps-lV1gfU=432" target="_blank">Jennifer Bovitz</a>:</span></strong> Jennifer Bovitz is a shareholder and associate general counsel at Bassford Remele, where she defends professionals in complex civil litigation and regulatory matters. She previously served as an attorney at Burke and Thomas, a managing attorney at the Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility, and a prosecutor of adult felonies in Dakota, Chisago, and Washington counties. Bovitz’s community involvement includes serving as board president of the Friends in Need Food Shelf, a mentor at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, a member of the Washington County Community Corrections Advisory Board, and a coach for the Woodbury High School mock trial team. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F11%2F19%2Ffile_attachments%2F3466654%2FSosinski,%2520Nathan%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019a9dc25f45-065b2a87-3485-414b-83cb-9036b4de94ad-000000/3C1Wy16CeKeNnIU9I03JtQ-ZKdgjX05KzmTtWFIeH3Q=432" target="_blank">Nathan Sosinski</a>:</span></strong> Nathan Sosinski is the managing attorney at the Tenth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Washington County, where he represents clients in felony criminal cases. He was previously the managing attorney at the public defender’s office in Pine, Isanti, Chisago, and Kanabec counties and an assistant county attorney in Pine County. Sosinski’s community involvement includes serving as an instructor at the Minnesota Public Defender’s Office Trial School and as a member of the Washington County Community Corrections Advisory Board. He previously served as a member of the Criminal Sexual Conduct Statutory Reform Working Group, a board member for the Centennial Lakes Little League, a coach for middle school girls’ basketball and softball teams, and a judge for collegiate and high school mock trial.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F11%2F19%2Ffile_attachments%2F3466655%2FTahir,%2520Hassan%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019a9dc25f45-065b2a87-3485-414b-83cb-9036b4de94ad-000000/I6qYptOh19jR6tcNy1mPqPfra64wkpzA0vmNmtp7Udk=432" target="_blank">Hassan Tahir</a>:</span></strong> Hassan Tahir is a senior attorney in the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, where he specializes in the prosecution of complex violent felonies, including homicides, street-gang crimes, and armed robberies. He previously served as his office’s lead prosecutor assigned to the National Crime Gun Intelligence Center, a federal initiative targeting repeat armed violent offenders. Tahir also prosecuted cases involving domestic violence, sexual assault, and large-scale narcotics offenses. His community involvement includes volunteering at his child’s elementary school and with the Forest Lake Hockey Association. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019a9dc25f45-065b2a87-3485-414b-83cb-9036b4de94ad-000000/YlYr5rCjt9utZtEqi5-BtzB6oB8CNTuzU1gerX7bPJA=432">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>. </p>7137032025-11-19T20:19:16Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-713392" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-17T19:23:24ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued two writs of special election to fill vacancies in State House Districts 47A and 64A.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued two writs of special election to fill vacancies in State House Districts 47A and 64A.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Special elections to fill the vacancies will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. If necessary, special primary elections for nomination of candidates will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions may be filed with the Secretary of State or the county auditors of Ramsey and Washington Counties (for District 47A) or the county auditor of Ramsey County (for District 64A) from November 18, 2025 until 5:00 p.m. on November 25, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A copy of the writ of special election for District 47A can be found <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/17/file_attachments/3464089/Special%20Election%20Writ%20House%20District%2047A.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. A copy of the writ of special election for District 64A can be found <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/17/file_attachments/3464078/Special%20Election%20Writ%20House%20District%2064A.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. </p>7133922025-11-17T22:45:33Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-712859" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-13T19:23:24ZA merit selection panel announced today it is recommending three candidates for consideration to serve as the permanent chief administrative law judge upon the conclusion of Temporary Chief Judge Tim O’Malley’s term. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – A merit selection panel announced today it is recommending three candidates for consideration to serve as the permanent chief administrative law judge upon the conclusion of Temporary Chief Judge Tim O’Malley’s term. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The merit selection panel included leadership in the Governor’s office, Commissioner Tamar Gronvall, Chair Katie Sieben, Director Eric Taubel, Jay Hartman of Heacox Hartman, and Tom Mottaz of Mottaz &amp; Sisk Injury Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/13/file_attachments/3459816/Gustafson,%20Craig.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Craig Gustafson:</a></strong> Craig Gustafson is the legal counsel division director for the Minnesota Judicial Branch, where he and his team advise justices, judges, and court staff on a wide variety of legal issues. He previously was the chief counsel for the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Gustafson also served as general counsel, chief unemployment law judge, and director of appeals and legal affairs for the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). He began his legal career as an attorney for the Minnesota Legislature in the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. Gustafson’s past professional and community roles include serving as chair of the Transportation Research Board’s legal section, president of the National Association of Unemployment Insurance Appeals Professionals, and member of the West St. Paul Charter Commission. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/13/file_attachments/3460200/Marshall,%20Kirsten3.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kirsten Marshall:</a> </strong>Kirsten Marshall serves as a workers’ compensation judge for the Court of Administrative Hearings. She previously represented injured workers, employers, and insurers in workers’ compensation proceedings, and people who were injured in motor vehicle crashes and construction accidents in civil litigation. Marshall’s community involvement includes mentoring women who have drug and alcohol abuse disorders through Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge and providing community and home assistance to people who have ALS and blindness through the ALS Association and Vision Resources for the Blind.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/13/file_attachments/3459818/Palmer-Denig,%20Jessica.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jessica Palmer-Denig:</a> </strong>Jessica Palmer-Denig is an assistant chief administrative law judge at the Court of Administrative Hearings. She previously worked as a trial attorney for the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, as an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, and as an associate at the law firm of Dorsey &amp; Whitney, LLP. Palmer-Denig also served as a judicial clerk for the Honorable Mary Muehlen Maring of the North Dakota Supreme Court and the Honorable Donovan W. Frank of the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. Palmer-Denig’s community involvement includes serving as the president of the Ramsey County Bar Foundation and on the boards of the Ramsey County Bar Association and Ramsey County Law Library. She also co-chairs the bar association’s Youth Civics Initiative through which she develops and promotes youth civics educational programming.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7128592025-11-13T19:31:53Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-712776" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-11T21:05:42ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Veteran Affairs (MDVA) to coordinate the development of a statewide Veteran Food Pantry Network to provide food support for veterans, service members, and their families.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued an <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/11/file_attachments/3457249/Executive%20Order%2025-11.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">executive order</a> directing the Minnesota Department of Veteran Affairs (MDVA) to coordinate the development of a statewide Veteran Food Pantry Network to provide food support for veterans, service members, and their families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our veterans have sacrificed their health, safety, and personal freedoms in service to our country. Yet, here at home, many are left struggling to put food on the table,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “In Minnesota, we made a bipartisan commitment to provide our veterans with support and care, and we’re ensuring that every veteran and service member has access to affordable, healthy food – regardless of what happens at the federal level.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The United States Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that 13% of veterans who are enrolled in health care through the VA have reported food insecurity. Recent data from the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families report that thousands of Minnesota veterans depend on federal food programs like SNAP.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Order 25-11 calls on MDVA to coordinate a statewide Veteran Food Pantry Network to distribute food items to partner organizations, ensuring efficient access for Minnesota’s veterans, service members, and their families, and creating a path forward to managing food insecurity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MDVA delivers programs and services statewide and has already made significant progress in ending veteran homelessness. The agency is well positioned to coordinate efforts that improve reliable access to nutritious food.</p>7127762025-11-14T17:00:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-712378" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-08T21:05:42ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated the opening weekend of Minnesota’s firearms deer hunting season in Goodhue County. He was hosted by Dan and Mary Lundell on their private land near Cannon Falls, where he spent the morning enjoying the woods but did not harvest a deer. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[Cannon Falls, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated the opening weekend of Minnesota’s firearms deer hunting season in Goodhue County. He was hosted by Dan and Mary Lundell on their private land near Cannon Falls, where he spent the morning enjoying the woods but did not harvest a deer. The Governor then visited a chronic wasting disease (CWD) check station with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen and talked with hunters as they brought in their deer to be sampled for CWD.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Deer season is a special time in Minnesota, whether this is your first hunt or part of a family tradition passed down for generations,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota is known as a premier deer hunting destination, supporting communities across the state. I always enjoy time in the deer stand and the connection it brings to the outdoors and to one another. I wish all Minnesota deer hunters a safe, enjoyable, and successful season.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Deer hunting connects us to the outdoors and to our family and friends, supports Minnesota communities, and plays a vital role in managing our state’s deer populations,” </strong>said Minnesota DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“I’m grateful to the nearly 400,000 hunters who take part in the firearms deer season each year with tradition, safety, and conservation in mind.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hunting contributes more than $1.2 billion annually to Minnesota’s economy and supports jobs in tourism, outdoor recreation, and rural communities across the state. It is also one of the most effective tools the DNR uses to manage deer populations. Hunters play a key role in maintaining population goals and contributing to the overall health of Minnesota’s landscapes, ecosystems, and economy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information on deer hunting, including safety resources and learn-to-hunt information, is available on the <a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/hunting/deer/index.html">Minnesota DNR website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Photos and videos are available in the <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/mediaroom/news-releases/11-3-25-deer-hunting/">Minnesota DNR Media Room</a>.</p>7123782025-11-09T00:49:35Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-712357" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-07T21:06:18ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine, Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education, Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250, Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles, Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations, Minnesota Racing Commission, and the MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine, Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education, Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250, Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles, Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations, Minnesota Racing Commission, and the MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Saudade Sammuelson – MN</strong> <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Individual Currently Receiving Disability Waiver Services Who Are Under Age 65  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine:</em>  <br /> The Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine will conduct public meetings, gather input, and make recommendations on various aspects of the Waiver Reimagine program, such as waiver consolidation, budget methodologies, service criteria, and potential consequences of the program changes. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F391/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/TI_HAdGcvFrgy3HBZNG_hfRqjiVUDzASF30EC6_c1C0=428">Secretary of State's website</a>.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kimberly Baker – Lakeville, MN</strong>  <br /> Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Expertise in Special Education Program Administration  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education:</em>  <br /> The Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education advises and assists the legislature and governor in transforming special education services.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F390/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/ThntRUxGfXpIMbLtLkpriD6PFF-RLXodz2BWkjm8R50=428">Secretary of State's website</a>.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kirsten Wittmann – Waubun, MN <br /></strong>Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Member #1  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250: <br /></em>The Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250 coordinates Minnesota America 250 activities to ensure that all Minnesotans have opportunities to learn about our complex and inspiring past. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250 can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/354">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amanda Duerr – Mendota Heights, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles  <br /> Member #6  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dillon Fried – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member #11 <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles: <br /></em>The Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles studies and prepares for the opportunities and challenges associated with the widespread adoption of connected and automated vehicles and other transportation technologies. The Council reviews connected and automated vehicle developments and trends, explores partnership opportunities, proposes policies to safely test and deploy connected and automated vehicles, and consults with communities experiencing transportation barriers not represented on the Council<em>.</em> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/253">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kathy Cottew – Brainerd, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations  <br /> Business, Industry, and Labor - Health Occupations Representative  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeffrey Schneider – Moorhead, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations <br /> Business, Industry, and Labor - Technical/Industrial Representative  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Danette Seboe – Duluth, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations <br /> Middle School Administrator  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations promotes and supports career and technical student organizations as they work to provide student opportunities for leadership, personal development, community service, and career preparation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/287">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Goodman – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Racing Commission <br /> Member #6  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2031</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Whitney Place – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Racing Commission <br /> Member #7  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2031</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Vekich – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Racing Commission <br /> Member #8  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2031</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Racing Commission:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Racing Commission operates in the public interest to ensure the integrity of horse racing and card playing, oversees the proper distribution of funds back into the industry, and ensures the safety and welfare of the human and equine participants.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Racing Commission can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/114">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Garret Zayic – Chaska, MN</strong>  <br /> MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Parent Member #7  <br /> Effective: November 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the MN Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities carries out responsibilities outlined in P.L. 106-402 to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports and services to achieve increased independence, productivity, self-determination, integration, and inclusion in the community. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F109/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/4gEHCtWYNGvmOl11sLKDOO7sWxvai31aYm9Ahee2jnw=414">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p>7123572025-11-07T21:22:36Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-712355" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-07T21:05:42ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Ryan Bies as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Bies will replace the Honorable Vicki Vial Taylor and will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/07/file_attachments/3455034/Bies,%20Ryan.jpeg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ryan Bies</a> as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Bies will replace the Honorable Vicki Vial Taylor and will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Ryan Bies is an outstanding attorney whose entire legal career has been rooted in the courtrooms of the First Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With a broad practice background spanning family, criminal, and civil law, he brings the versatility and experience to hit the ground running on whatever case comes before him. He’ll be a great addition to an already dynamic Dakota County bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s First Judicial District consists of Carver, Dakota, Goodhue, Le Sueur, McLeod, Scott, and Sibley Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Ryan Bies is a shareholder at Dougherty, Molenda, Solfest, Hills &amp; Bauer P.A. in Apple Valley, where he serves both private and municipal clients. His practice consists of serving as a prosecutor for the city of Apple Valley, providing representation in civil matters to the cities of Apple Valley and Eagan, and representing private clients in the areas of estate planning and probate. Bies’s community involvement includes serving on the board of the iColin Classic charity and volunteering with the Lakeville Soccer Club. He previously served on the board of the Burnsville Breakfast Rotary. Bies earned his B.A from Luther College and his J.D. from the University of St. Thomas School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p>7123552025-11-07T21:22:38Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-712174" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-07T02:56:41ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Daniel A. Benson. The seat will be chambered in Long Prairie in Todd County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/06/file_attachments/3453073/Godzala,%20Luke.png">Luke Godzala:</a></u></strong> Luke Godzala is a senior attorney in the Civil Division of the Stearns County Attorney’s Office. He was previously an assistant city attorney in St. Cloud, a law clerk for the Honorable Leonard A. Weiler, and a member of the Stearns County Drug Court Team. Godzala’s community involvement includes serving on the board of directors of Oasis Central Minnesota and as a member director of the Stearns Benton Bar Association. He is also a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 46, a past president of the Stearns Benton Bar Association, and a board member of Magnifi Financial. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/06/file_attachments/3453090/Hovis,%20Heidi.jpg">Heidi Hovis:</a></u></strong> Heidi Hovis is an assistant public defender in the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender’s Office and an adjunct professor in the paralegal program at North Hennepin Community College. She is a member of Stearns County Treatment Court and also serves as a volunteer conciliation court referee in Wright County. Hovis previously worked as a staff attorney with Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid and as senior associate general counsel at the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency. Her community involvement includes serving on the board of Central Minnesota Habitat for Humanity and the Minnesota Women Lawyers Central Chapter, as well as serving on the advisory board of the Wirth Center for the Performing Arts. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/06/file_attachments/3453091/Vancura,%20Franz.jpg">Franz Vancura:</a></u></strong> Franz Vancura is a partner at Quinlivan &amp; Hughes, P.A., where he represents clients in real estate, business, probate, estate planning, and family law matters. He was previously a partner at Brown, Krueger, &amp; Vancura, P.A. and a law clerk to the Honorable John P. Smith and Jana M. Austad. Vancura’s past professional and community involvement includes serving on the boards of directors for Paws &amp; Claws Animal Rescue + Resort and Serving, Teaching, and Empowering People (STEP) in Browerville and Camphill Village. He is also a member of the Central Minnesota Estate Planning Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>. </p>7121742025-11-06T19:26:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-712106" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-06T20:24:20ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota on Friday, November 7, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Minnesota police officer Pete Zajac, who died on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota on Friday, November 7, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Minnesota police officer Pete Zajac, who died on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Officer Zajac dedicated more than 15 years to supporting and serving the Farmington community,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His compassion, steady presence, and genuine care for the well-being of those around him will be remembered. Minnesota mourns this tragic loss, and I extend my deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, and the City of Farmington.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Flags are also currently lowered in honor of former Vice President Dick Cheney and will remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of his interment. Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A copy of the Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/11.07.25%20Pete%20Zajac%20FAHS_tcm1055-712096.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p>7121062025-11-06T17:09:05Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-711964" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-05T20:24:20ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota immediately and until sunset on the day of interment in honor and remembrance of former Vice President Dick Cheney, who passed away on November 3, 2025. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota immediately and until sunset on the day of interment in honor and remembrance of former Vice President Dick Cheney, who passed away on November 3, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Former Vice President Cheney devoted decades to public service, holding a variety of roles throughout his career and redefining the role of Vice President,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “Gwen and I extend our deepest condolences to the Cheney family and all who are mourning his passing.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A copy of the Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/05/file_attachments/3452360/11.05.2025%20Dick%20Cheney%20FAHS.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here.</a></p>7119642025-11-06T17:09:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-711622" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-04T20:24:20ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Robin Hutcheson as Chair of the Metropolitan Council, effective December 1, 2025, for a term expiring on January 4, 2027. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> [ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/11/03/file_attachments/3446533/Robin%20Hutcheson.jpg">Robin Hutcheson</a> as Chair of the Metropolitan Council, effective December 1, 2025, for a term expiring on January 4, 2027. Hutcheson will fill the Chair seat vacated in September by Charlie Zelle and currently occupied by Interim Chair Deb Barber.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Robin Hutcheson is a proven leader who has dedicated her career to enhancing roadway safety, improving quality of life, and strengthening connections between people,”</strong> said Governor Walz. “<strong>From leading national transportation policy to improving infrastructure here in Minnesota, she has shown what it means to lead with collaboration, innovation, and heart. Her extensive experience will be invaluable as the Metropolitan Council continues its work to build a stronger, more connected, and more equitable region for all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Metropolitan Council plays a vital role in shaping the future of our region and I am deeply honored to be appointed by Governor Walz to serve as its Chair,”</strong> said Hutcheson. <strong>“I look forward to working alongside dedicated Council members, staff, local leaders, and residents to create opportunity for every community we serve.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"I am thrilled that Robin will be stepping in as Chair,”</strong> said former Metropolitan Council Chair Charlie Zelle. <strong>“Her experience at both local and national levels, combined with her thoughtful leadership style, will serve this region well. She’s an acute listener with vision and backbone, exactly what we need.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minneapolis has seen Robin Hutcheson turn big goals into real results — and I know she will be a fantastic Met Council Chair,”</strong> said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. <strong>“She’s someone local governments can count on to work collaboratively on the big issues: housing, transit, infrastructure, and ensuring that regional governance works for our neighbors.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Working with Robin in her role as a Senior Fellow at UMN's Center for Transportation Studies, I saw firsthand how effectively she applies her deep technical expertise to challenges facing Minnesota and the Metro area,”</strong> said Kyle Shelton, Director of the Center for Transportation Studies at the University of Minnesota. <strong>“I’ve also seen her navigate complex discussions where different perspectives and priorities come into conflict. She is a strong choice for Met Council’s next chair.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Robin Hutcheson</em>  <br /> Robin Hutcheson is a nationally respected leader in transportation, infrastructure, and mobility. Robin previously served in two senior leadership positions in the United States Department of Transportation, appointed by President Biden and reporting to the Secretary of Transportation. As the Senate-confirmed Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, she led a research and regulatory agency of over 1,200 people nationwide to improve roadway safety and support a stronger supply chain. As the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy, she was a key contributor to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law including core transportation assets, transit, and was the author of the first of its kind $5B Safe Streets for All grant program for local government. She previously served as Director of Public Works for the City of Minneapolis, the Director of Transportation for the City of Salt Lake City, and the president of the board of directors of the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO). Robin’s experience also includes a long history as a private sector consultant at the local, national, and international scale with a specific focus on transit. Robin leads with transparency and positivity and is a connector of people and ideas. She spends her free time skiing, swimming, and in nature.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Met Council</em>  <br /> The Met Council is a state-funded regional planning agency that serves the Twin Cities' seven-county metropolitan area. The council's mission is to work with local communities to guide growth and develop a comprehensive regional planning framework that focuses on transportation, wastewater, housing, parks, and aviation systems. </p>7116222025-11-04T15:41:44Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-711564" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-03T20:24:20ZGovernor Tim Walz and state Department of Public Safety officials today broke ground on a new regional law enforcement facility and forensic laboratory in Mankato.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[MANKATO, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and state Department of Public Safety officials today broke ground on a new regional law enforcement facility and forensic laboratory in Mankato. The facility will expand access to investigative, laboratory, and training services for law enforcement agencies throughout southern Minnesota. The facility will save local departments time and resources while improving response times in critical investigations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Funding this facility was a top priority last legislative session, and I’m proud of this investment to keep Minnesota one of the safest states in the nation,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“By giving law enforcement the tools and technology they need, we’re strengthening our communities’ public safety responses today and ensuring Minnesota remains a safe state for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From crime scene response to forensic analysis to technology-driven investigations, our Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension professionals are dedicated to public service, to criminal justice and to the communities and people of Minnesota,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson. <strong>“This new regional office is a direct reflection of their commitment to excellence and the trust the people of Minnesota place in them.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This new facility will enable us to strengthen our services to southern Minnesota, but the entire state will benefit,”</strong> said BCA Superintendent Drew Evans. <strong>“Adding a third BCA laboratory will reduce the caseload for all of our labs, allowing us to process evidence faster and help agencies solve crimes faster.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The new facility was funded through the 2025 infrastructure bill, signed by Governor Walz earlier this year. Once completed, it will house approximately 50 agents, forensic scientists, support staff, and a crime scene response team. The new regional office and laboratory is expected to be fully operational in early 2027.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Photos from the event can be viewed on <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fflic.kr%2Fps%2F3cVui3&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C593a35cc2af1404cb69c08de1b1abb00%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638977998770382028%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=ElJ8TvbCSVHG21YJX5hv0Kaxx%2FO91yRKQcfHq2LVbUQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">Flickr</a></u>. Additional materials, including aerial footage of the site, images, maps, and a project fact sheet can be downloaded from the Department of Public Safety’s <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmndeptpublicsafety.sharefile.com%2Ffolderinvite%2Faccept%2Fi8a53823617f46ea9&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C593a35cc2af1404cb69c08de1b1abb00%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638977998770412628%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=oVCTvtUZA5rqm6qVNFLH2%2BHsUXZvgzk5QRJJdTN48io%3D&amp;reserved=0">ShareFile link</a></u>.</p>7115642025-11-04T15:40:23Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-711097" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-30T19:24:20ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has been named one of the top states in the nation for jobs, according to a new report from WalletHub. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has been named one of the top states in the nation for jobs, according to a new report from <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwallethub.com%2Fedu%2Fbest-states-for-jobs%2F35641&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7Ceaa75c196b6f460d572e08de17bb86ee%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638974291342239466%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=zIswxsFSlsr2FVni7d7Zby1WwZDC7gV%2BAObvFPGEAyo%3D&amp;reserved=0">WalletHub</a></u>. Minnesota ranked third overall and placed top ten for median annual income, economic environment, and job market. The report also named Minnesota the fifth-best state for working parents.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>Amid national economic insecurity, Minnesota is among the best states in the nation for job seekers looking for good benefits, a diverse economy, and a decent wage,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re seeing the results of years of collaboration between</strong><strong> state government, businesses, and the hard-working Minnesotans who make up our economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s median household income of $86,000, adjusted for cost of living, is among the highest in the country. The report also ranked Minnesota in the top ten for private health insurance coverage and access to employer-based retirement plans. The state also maintains one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation, at 3.6%.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s position in the report adds to a list of recent national recognitions, highlighting the state's strong economy and high quality of life.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">View the full report: <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwallethub.com%2Fedu%2Fbest-states-for-jobs%2F35641&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7Ceaa75c196b6f460d572e08de17bb86ee%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638974291342266144%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=O1bs8mdfYh7rUehD0vX0ABzzYrbCnO6U3Sz%2BmGlXM9s%3D&amp;reserved=0">WalletHub’s 2025 Best States for Jobs</a></u></p>7110972025-10-30T14:41:26Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-711020" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-29T19:24:20ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Jennifer K. Fischer. The seat will be chambered in Willmar in Kandiyohi County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Jennifer K. Fischer. The seat will be chambered in Willmar in Kandiyohi County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on November 19 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in December.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Eighth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor ad Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019a315e668e-60ba4f1f-a001-4d2f-b37f-c6af46d9f0cf-000000/aDlXJYJv9v-CXfou6FhvREf0vPa244fAxkQao4Ej2sY=429">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7110202025-10-29T20:15:21Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-711001" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-29T19:00:40ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that he has ordered a third-party audit of billing for 14 high-risk Medicaid services. Payments for these programs will be paused for up to 90 days in order to detect suspicious billing activity and scrutinize the use of public funds. Governor orders pause on all payments for 14 DHS Medicaid services until audit is complete 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that he has ordered a third-party audit of billing for 14 high-risk Medicaid services. Payments for these programs will be paused for up to 90 days in order to detect suspicious billing activity and scrutinize the use of public funds. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Using funding passed during the 2025 legislative session, the Department of Human Services (DHS) has contracted with Optum, which will analyze Medicaid fee-for-service claims data and flag potential issues for DHS review. Optum’s analytics will identify irregularities such as missing documentation, unusually high billing patterns, or inconsistencies suggesting that a claim may not meet program requirements. The new layer of review will safeguard Medicaid dollars before payments go out.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“<strong>We cannot effectively deliver programs and services if they don’t have the backing of the public’s trust. In order to restore that trust we are pumping the brakes on 14 programs that were created to help the most disadvantaged among us, yet have become the target of criminal activity,</strong>” said Governor Walz. <strong>“If you attempt to defraud our public programs and steal taxpayer dollars out from under the people who need them most – you will be stopped, and you will be held accountable.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“<strong>We’re taking a systematic approach to finding and stopping fraud</strong>,” said temporary Human Services Commissioner Shireen Gandhi. “<strong>Adding outside review before payments go out and increasing safeguards for these high-risk services will preserve resources necessary to serve Minnesota’s children, people with disabilities and older adults.</strong>” </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Human Services Department designated the 14 Medicaid services as high-risk based on programmatic vulnerabilities, evidence of fraudulent activity, or data analytics that revealed potentially suspicious patterns, claim anomalies, or outliers. The state previously moved to terminate the Housing Stabilization Services program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Claims flagged by Optum will then be verified by the Minnesota Department of Human Services to confirm whether services were provided as billed. Claims suspected to be improper will be referred to the agency’s Office of Inspector General for review and possible investigation. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Outside review of payments may result in longer wait times before providers are paid, while their claims undergo review. However, the state will still meet federal rules requiring payment within 90 days.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Pre-payment review will initially impact state payments for <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F10%2F29%2Ffile_attachments%2F3440543%2F2025_10_27%2520MN%2520DHS%2520Program%2520Integrity%2520Letter%2520to%2520CMS%2520FINAL.pdf/1/0101019a3105c4a8-f3d00188-0e2a-4743-a8e2-9d415c3af5b6-000000/BRrOxM6mywygfEXQkz_NDQAcWXZPKODl-6nBAHi0jGA=429">14 services identified as high-risk for billing irregularities or fraud</a>, including: Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention services for autism, Integrated Community Supports, Nonemergency Medical Transportation, Peer Recovery Services, Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health Services, Adult Day Services, Personal Care Assistance/Community First Services and Supports, Recuperative Care, Individualized Home Supports, Adult Companion Services, Night Supervision, Assertive Community Treatment, Intensive Residential Treatment Services, and Housing Stabilization Services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">High-risk services are also subject to stricter oversight requirements, including mandated enhanced fingerprint background studies for owners of provider agencies, initial screening visits and unannounced site visits. </p>7110012025-10-29T17:43:56Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-710854" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-28T19:00:40Z Governor Tim Walz today announced that for the second year in a row, Minnesota saw a drop in overdose deaths and hospitalizations. Overdose deaths decreased 26%, from 2023 to 2024, while hospital-treated nonfatal overdoses decreased 19%. These decreases were seen in nearly every region of the state and across demographics. Following three years of significant state investments in addiction services, opioid overdoses declined by 32% statewide and across demographics 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that for the second year in a row, Minnesota saw a drop in <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F10%2F27%2Ffile_attachments%2F3436646%2FPicture1.png/1/0101019a2ae8cfbe-316c08be-c008-4392-ac21-f98a499c7bdc-000000/e8RdUDOIZrtYph2qVzwunLJJ4b4EklrluVpSyhh7sqw=428">overdose deaths and hospitalizations</a></u>. Overdose deaths decreased 26%, from 2023 to 2024, while hospital-treated nonfatal overdoses decreased 19%. These decreases were seen in nearly every region of the state and across demographics. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is incredible progress and a testament to the shared goals, dedication, and overdose prevention efforts happening across Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Together, we’re saving lives and showing what’s possible when we meet this crisis with compassion and action. This is measurable progress, and we’re going to keep working to save lives.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This decline in overdose deaths and hospitalizations shows what can happen when partners come together with a shared goal. This progress is thanks to the collaboration of communities, state and local governments, Tribal Nations, health care providers, and public health and safety,”</strong> said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. <strong>“Working together, we have expanded naloxone access and strengthened prevention and recovery supports. But we’re not done. We have to keep the momentum going to further prevent the tragic consequences of fentanyl and other drugs in our communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over the last three years the Governor and legislature have provided significant funding for substance use and overdose prevention, treatment, and recovery for those experiencing addiction. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Strength-based prevention strategies are working,”</strong> said Mariah Wabasha, director, Lower Sioux Human Services<strong>. “At the same time, we believe this momentum should be viewed as a step toward the larger goal of eliminating overdoses altogether. Even one life lost to overdose is too many, and the work must continue to ensure families and communities do not have to carry that loss.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“State funding empowered Open Cities Health Center to lead overdose prevention efforts at the intersection of housing, substance use, and public health,”</strong> said Katyka Ivanchuk, outreach overdose prevention coordinator, Open Cities Health Center. <strong>“This cross-sector, community-centered approach saves lives and strengthens neighborhood clinics in St. Paul.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The largest decrease in overdose deaths, 31%, occurred in Greater Minnesota counties, while metro counties experienced a 23% decrease.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2024, opioid-involved deaths in Minnesota decreased by 32%, including a 35% decline in synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl. All other opioid-related categories, including prescribed opioids, heroin, and methadone, continued to decline. Nonfatal overdoses also decreased across all other substance categories, with nearly 15 nonfatal overdoses treated in hospitals for every one overdose death. This downward trend reflects a national pattern and underscores the effectiveness of sustained prevention and overdose prevention strategies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Read the full report: <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.health.state.mn.us%2Fcommunities%2Foverdose%2Fdocs%2F2024prelimdatareport.pdf/1/0101019a2ae8cfbe-316c08be-c008-4392-ac21-f98a499c7bdc-000000/rBt3CucwGtP08Ij6FVXjcIcPbuhafmGRyIB686cEmNw=428">Statewide Trends in Drug Overdose: 2024 Data Update</a></u></p>7108542025-10-28T15:44:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-710848" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-27T19:00:40ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited The Open Door Pantry in Eagan to announce $4 million in new funding for Minnesota food shelves. Funding will provide relief as 440,000 Minnesotans face the loss of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Minesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) grocery benefits beginning November 1.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited The Open Door Pantry in Eagan to announce $4 million in new funding for Minnesota food shelves. Funding will provide relief as 440,000 Minnesotans face the loss of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Minesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) grocery benefits beginning November 1. Amid the federal government shutdown, the United States Department of Agriculture announced that it will not cover food assistance costs, despite the availability of contingency funds.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Food shelves provide a refuge for hundreds of thousands of Minnesotans. Yet the Trump Administration has chosen to cut off these critical benefits that keep families from going hungry,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“But if Washington won’t lead, Minnesota will. This funding will serve as a lifeline to help Minnesotans weather the storm.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SNAP and MFIP grocery benefits provide vital support for Minnesotans across all 87 Minnesota counties and Tribal Nations. Of the 440,000 Minnesotans accessing SNAP and MFIP benefits, 36% are children, and 18% are seniors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) expects 300 food shelves and Tribal Nations will receive emergency food support funds to provide coverage across Minnesota and reach families in need of food support. There were almost 9 million visits to food shelves in 2024 alone, which is up from 3.8 million visits in 2021.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This emergency support is necessary but cannot fill the gap left behind by the loss of SNAP and MFIP benefits,” </strong>said DCYF Commissioner Tikki Brown. <strong>“When food support disappears, the consequences for Minnesota are immediate and far-reaching. It impacts public health, the State and local economies, education, and workforce stability.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DCYF expects the majority of grant funds will be spent on food purchases. Allowable costs will follow the Minnesota Food Shelf Program statute which says grant funds will be used to purchase, transport, and coordinate the distribution of nutritious food to needy individuals and families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DCYF is fully operational and providing service to partners and clients before, during, and after the federal shutdown.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Visit <u><a href="https://dcyf.mn.gov/federal-shutdown">https://dcyf.mn.gov/federal-shutdown</a></u> for updates on the latest federal government shutdown impact to DCYF programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Photos from the event can be found at <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaggie.Wick%40state.mn.us%7C41a566e13ecb4b58c6d608de157e77c4%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638971830078913970%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=%2F6JhQJ%2Fe2u5FP8pAzWexPl7mBCZWsKwOoYV4E7WEg%2Bo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.flickr.com/photos/mngov/</a>.</p>7108482025-10-28T15:03:22Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-710706" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-24T20:36:46ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine, Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education, Board of Pharmacy, Board on Aging, Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Destination Medical Center Corporation, Governor’s Workforce Development Board, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council, Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council, and the State Correctional Facilities Security Audit Group.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine, Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education, Board of Pharmacy, Board on Aging, Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Destination Medical Center Corporation, Governor’s Workforce Development Board, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council, Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council, and the State Correctional Facilities Security Audit Group.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tricia Brisbine – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong>  <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Family Members of Individuals Who Are Receiving Disability Waiver Services  <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine:</em><em><br /></em>The Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine will conduct public meetings, gather input, and make recommendations on various aspects of the Waiver Reimagine program, such as waiver consolidation, budget methodologies, service criteria, and potential consequences of the program changes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F391/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/TI_HAdGcvFrgy3HBZNG_hfRqjiVUDzASF30EC6_c1C0=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Brown – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education  <br /> Member with Demonstrated Expertise in Compliance with Legal Federal Special Education Requirements and Special Education Finance <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education:</em><em><br /></em>The Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education advises and assists the legislature and governor in transforming special education services. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F390/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/ThntRUxGfXpIMbLtLkpriD6PFF-RLXodz2BWkjm8R50=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jana Rasmussen – Robbinsdale, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Board of Pharmacy <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Pharmacy:</em>  <br /> The board regulates the practice of pharmacy and the quality, labeling, and distribution of drugs. The board administers the Minnesota Prescription Monitoring Program the Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program, the Opiate Product Registration Fee Program. It contracts with a vendor for the operation of the Minnesota Medication Repository Program. It investigates jurisdictional complaints, takes disciplinary action when necessary, issues licenses and registrations, conducts inspections, and provides technical assistance to licenses/registrants, other state agencies, and elected public officials. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Pharmacy can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F30/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/HWFntOvSaM9twuJEejlqkEB12k2UcuQ680-9_FNaMjc=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Debbi Lindgren-Clendenen – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Board on Aging  <br /> Member #1  <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Board on Aging:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Board on Aging (MBA) works to ensure that older Minnesotans and their families are effectively served by state and local policies and programs, so they can age well and live well. The MBA is Minnesota's federally designated State Unit on Aging for multi-year planning. The MBA administers federal funding from the Centers from Medicare and Medicaid, the Administration for Community Living, the Older Americans Act, as well as state-funded aging programs.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Board on Aging can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F104/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/AC-HdF-TrskHo3Dk-7GX1P4shi3izfmt2sTcQeTSPOE=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Oby Ballinger – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans  <br /> Public Member  <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans:</em><em><br /></em>Created by legislation in 2023, the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans works for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for Minnesota's community of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender expansive, queer, intersex, asexual, or two-spirit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F317/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/n0E5Y-OE_D2E3jTZpCnKAyxVwuBIBNEzNme-RFuS_Ho=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kristin Beckmann – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Destination Medical Center Corporation <br /> Member #3 <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Destination Medical Center Corporation:</em>  <br /> The Destination Medical Center Corporation implements a master development plan to promote and provide for establishing Rochester as a world destination medical center. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Destination Medical Center Corporation can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F204/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/-e1i6ySeKieIGycO_wM5WLNKJsEIdqhgylZXc5cVERc=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Irene Fernando – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Local Elected Official (County) <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor's Workforce Development Board:</em><em><br /></em>The Governor’s Workforce Development Board assists the Governor in developing, implementing, and modifying the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Combined State Plan. It also reviews statewide policies and programs, provides recommendations on actions to improve the workforce development system and programs, and develops strategies to remove barriers to those programs, among other duties.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Workforce Development Board can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F182/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/LV0lUEpnESvnufV8NDQfuJ5161EaSnHf0OKnho8W58E=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ma Elena Gutierrez – Sauk Rapids, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs  <br /> Member (Dist 6)  <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs:</em><em><br /></em>The council works for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for its constituency by advising and informing the governor's office and state legislature in the legislative and policy making process. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F178/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/x30t2Fgbji2P3tSqkC76-cTHMsC6Svyl8TYwzKHyVF4=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeannine Conway – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council  <br /> Pharmacist  <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council:</em><em><br /></em>The purpose of the Council is to provide advice on policies, access, equity, research, diagnosis, treatment, and education related to rare diseases to the following entities: health providers, state agencies and entities such as DHS, the Drug Utilization Review Board, the Drug Formulary Committee, the Advisory Committee on Heritable and Congenital Disorders, and legislative bodies at the state and federal level . The Council's duties include providing resources, identifying and recommending best practices, identifying and addressing barriers faced by rare disease patients, and advising agencies of state government on policies related to rare diseases. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F304/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/E0p72Zs4ZsVpnUr_u2P-VhGU5NFnhsEGsT6DNh8lRMk=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anna Christensen – Savage, MN</strong>  <br /> Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council  <br /> Pharmacologist Member  <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council:</em>  <br /> The governor shall appoint an 18-member stakeholder advisory council to provide advice to the board on drug cost issues and to represent stakeholders' views. The governor shall appoint the members of the advisory council based on the members' knowledge and demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas: the pharmaceutical business; practice of medicine; patient perspectives; health care cost trends and drivers; clinical and health services research; and the health care marketplace. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F351/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/ZkFTYI_PnqfevMEnrwX1HYc5PyFWVdUtrEvZda-xf80=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mark Ludgatis – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> State Correctional Facilities Security Audit Group <br /> Infrastructure and Logistics Security Consultant  <br /> Effective: October 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Correctional Facilities Security Audit Group:</em> <br /> The group shall create security standards for state correctional, review inspection reports, and provide recommendations to the Commissioner of Corrections. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Correctional Facilities Security Audit Group can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F295/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/APavz6fVs3Y6ce23fZLNyWVuDyZ76uTeP6sG1sdNIDk=428">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/0101019a17cf697f-f32a20d2-245e-4ceb-87ff-53b62b48329b-000000/vlsV72RIYEaByOfmWMr-Dgs3Zz17E5Kd0-O5KMiGELI=428">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>7107062025-10-29T20:15:11Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-710705" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-24T15:42:05ZGovernor Tim Walz and state budget officials are warning that the federal government shutdown will cause hundreds of thousands of Minnesotans to lose access to nutrition assistance programs beginning November 1. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN]<span>– Governor Tim Walz and state budget officials are warning that the federal government shutdown will cause hundreds of thousands of Minnesotans to lose access to nutrition assistance programs beginning November 1.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“If Republicans in Congress don’t take action to stop this government shutdown soon, Minnesotans will be forced to ration their food,”</span></strong> <span>said Governor Walz. <strong><span>“These programs save lives. Every day congress fails to act, Minnesotans will suffer.”</span></strong></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) Commissioner Tikki Brown held a press call today to discuss the continued shutdown’s impacts on Minnesota.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span> “We know a loss of food support can risk Minnesotans’ ability to have enough food to feed their families,”</span></strong> <span>said Commissioner Brown. <strong><span>“When food support disappears, the consequences for Minnesota are immediate and far-reaching. It impacts public health, the state and local economies, education, and workforce stability.”</span></strong></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>On October 10, the United States Department of Agriculture issued holds on November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Nearly 440,000 Minnesotans accessing SNAP or the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP), including 180,000 children and 67,000 seniors, will lose their grocery benefits. MFIP cash benefits will continue to be issued as usual.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>SNAP is Minnesota’s most effective tool for addressing hunger and poverty, providing food for children, seniors, people with disabilities, and working families. SNAP benefits feed rural communities who experience food insecurity at higher rates than urban areas. Benefits also play a vital role in Minnesota’s economy; billions in SNAP benefits support local businesses, grocery stores, farmers markets, and food retailers. SNAP benefits are fully funded by the federal government and benefits will be completely halted until a federal budget is passed.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>Individuals and families currently receiving SNAP and MFIP Food should continue to use benefits as usual for now. Despite the ongoing shutdown, DCYF expects that SNAP recipients with unspent funds on their EBT cards will still be able to use these funds. They should keep their contact information up to date with their county or Tribal Nation to ensure updates will be received.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>For more information about the federal government shutdown and additional resources, visit <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdcyf.mn.gov%2Ffederal-shutdown/1/0101019a178c2560-558fa889-654a-4e49-812e-fdb532a6c6bc-000000/M_CfVROGflQeTGjkyV-h7YU_8sS9T6Qy6FC3hR57vuY=428" target="_blank"><span><span>Federal shutdown information | Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families.</span></span></a></span></p>7107052025-10-24T20:39:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-710676" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-23T15:42:05ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the redesignation of the Honorable Jennifer L. Frisch as chief judge of the Minnesota Court of Appeals. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the redesignation of the <u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/10/23/file_attachments/3432362/Frisch,%20Jennifer%20Headshot.jpg">Honorable Jennifer L. Frisch</a></u> as chief judge of the Minnesota Court of Appeals. In January 2025, Governor Walz designated her to fill the remainder of Chief Judge Susan Segal’s term, which expires on October 31, 2025. Chief Judge Frisch will now serve a three-year term expiring on October 31, 2028. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Chief Judge Frisch’s continued commitment to thoughtful deliberation, fairness, and the highest standard of judicial excellence is what makes this court so revered,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I have full confidence in her leadership and ability to guide the court with wisdom and integrity.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Jennifer L. Frisch:  </em>  <br /> Chief Judge Jennifer Frisch was appointed in 2020 as a judge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals and was designated chief judge in January 2025. She previously served as assistant chief judge in the Second Judicial District and as senior associate general counsel at the University of Minnesota. Frisch is an at-large member of the Minnesota Judicial Council and chair of the Council’s Court Operations Policy and Strategy Committee. She previously served on the Governor’s Council for Justice Reinvestment in Minnesota. Frisch’s community involvement includes serving on the Board of the Minnesota Supreme Court Historical Society, presiding as a moot court judge, and volunteering with Meals on Wheels. She earned her B.A. from Macalester College and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>. </p>7106762025-10-24T16:20:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-710390" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-22T15:42:05ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has again been certified platinum – the highest possible recognition – for evidence-based decision making.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has again been certified platinum – the highest possible recognition – for evidence-based decision making. The certification was awarded by <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fresults4america.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaggie.Wick%40state.mn.us%7C7644080ec1244730252908de117e923d%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638967432486408118%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=2ksFwc76bNygrd4qaRJoJuOVz9meC0DifS%2FwxVAc6zg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Results for America</a></u>, a non-profit dedicated to advancing the use of data to drive governmental policies, programs, and budgets.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota is one of only three states to be certified platinum in 2025 and is the only state to win the highest honor available all eight years since Results for America created a state standard.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota invests in what works. And for eight years in a row, we have ranked as a national leader in evidence-based decision making,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re using data to reduce child poverty, lower crime rates, and increase graduation rates. We can target our investments to the things that matter most — like school meals, paid leave, and tax cuts for the middle class — to improve outcomes and make Minnesota the best state to live and raise a family.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Results for America co-founder and CEO Michele Jolin said, <strong>“Every year we are seeing more and more states – red and blue alike – embrace the power of data and evidence to deliver meaningful, measurable results in their communities. Our annual certification process is a chance to celebrate and amplify the vital, impactful work that leading states like Minnesota are doing each day.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Management and Budget’s Results Management team works across state agencies to help leaders use data and evidence to make strategic, informed decisions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the state certification program, visit the Results for America website: <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fresults4america.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaggie.Wick%40state.mn.us%7C7644080ec1244730252908de117e923d%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638967432486433240%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=7AVfmw6%2Fpmbz2FOvjQDoOkZDQ0jCV80O5iDDlNbQnx8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://results4america.org</a></u>.</p>7103902025-10-22T15:43:43Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-710391" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-21T20:34:48ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Vicki Vial Taylor. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Vicki Vial Taylor. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/10/21/file_attachments/3429499/Bies,%20Ryan.jpeg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ryan Bies:</a> </strong>Ryan Bies is a shareholder at Dougherty, Molenda, Solfest, Hills &amp; Bauer P.A. in Apple Valley, where he serves both private and municipal clients. His practice consists of serving as a prosecutor for the City of Apple Valley, providing representation in civil matters to the cities of Apple Valley and Eagan, and representing private clients in the areas of estate planning and probate. Bies’s community involvement includes serving on the board of the iColin Classic charity and volunteering with the Lakeville Soccer Club and Burnsville Breakfast Rotary. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/10/21/file_attachments/3429536/Kannmacher,%20Baylea.JPG" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Baylea Kannmacher:</a> </strong>Baylea Kannmacher is a staff attorney with the Great North Innocence Project, where she works to free those who were wrongfully convicted in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. She is also an adjunct professor at the University of South Dakota Law School and Mitchell Hamline School of Law, where she leads clinics focused on wrongful convictions and experiential learning. Kannmacher was previously an assistant public defender in the Second Judicial District Public Defender’s Office and a law clerk to the Honorable Joseph A. Bueltel in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. Her community involvement includes serving as a member of the State Board of Public Defense’s Wellness in Public Defense committee and as a faculty member for their statewide trainings. Kannmacher also volunteers at her children’s school and is a member of the Dakota County League of Women Voters.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/10/21/file_attachments/3429500/Wanka,%20Nicholas.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nicholas Wanka:</a> </strong>Nicholas Wanka is the director of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit in the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General. He manages a team of prosecutors, investigators, and support staff who investigate and prosecute Medicaid provider fraud and the abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of vulnerable adults. He previously worked as an assistant attorney general, as an assistant county attorney in Aitkin County, and in private practice. His community involvement includes coaching youth flag football and hockey and volunteering at his children’s schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7103912025-10-29T20:15:08Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-710056" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-17T15:46:25ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Nathan LaCoursiere as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. LaCoursiere will replace the Honorable Eric L. Hylden and will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Nathan LaCoursiere as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. LaCoursiere will replace the Honorable Eric L. Hylden and will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Nathan LaCoursiere will be a remarkable judge,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“What makes him so talented is not only his legal acumen, but his deep sense of what is fair and just. These are skills that are not easily taught but born of character and experience. He will serve the Sixth Judicial District and the people of Duluth with care and respect for years to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District encompasses Carlton, Cook, Lake, and St. Louis counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Nathan LaCoursiere is a senior assistant county attorney in the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office, where he represents the county in a wide range of civil, labor, appellate, and real estate matters. He is also an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, where he teaches constitutional law. LaCoursiere was previously an assistant city attorney for the City of Duluth and a law clerk to the Honorable David R. Minge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. His past community and professional involvement includes volunteering for the Duluth Energy Plan Commission, the Minnesota Commission on Judicial Selection, and serving as a Judicare Legal Aid attorney, representing low-income clients in northwestern Wisconsin. He earned his B.A. from the University of Minnesota – Morris and his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010199f2f04911-5154cf57-d9b4-4104-9f6f-67089c012450-000000/ZsugEPAtNlCQoPBneEpA2c1FWlA6P1GO9EwsWmYM9f8=427" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>7100562025-10-17T20:39:26Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-709850" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-16T15:46:25ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota is ranked the second-best state in the nation for children, according to a new report from SmileHub. Minnesota ranks first in support system strength for children and families 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota is ranked the second-best state in the nation for children, according to a new report from <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fsmilehub.org%2Fblog%2Fbest-states-for-children%2F192&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C388d2db5f97b4433227308de0cd1fe22%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638962293201327429%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=OJu5doxvjFHgbmwdhMc1A3ccBc62c3FPCaNopVlYfKY%3D&amp;reserved=0">SmileHub</a></u>. Minnesota ranked first in support system strength, third in family and working life, and among the top five states for overall child well-being and life expectancy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and in Minnesota, we’re making that possible,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“From investing in early learning and affordable child care to creating nation-leading programs like the Child Tax Credit and Paid Family and Medical Leave, we’re helping families build stability and opportunity. This ranking reflects what Minnesotans know best: when we put children and families first, our entire state grows stronger.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The SmileHub report compared all 50 states across 27 key metrics, including health, education, family life, and community support. The results highlight Minnesota’s leadership in building strong support networks for children, maintaining one of the nation’s highest life expectancies, and fostering healthy families and communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This recognition follows several other recent national rankings that reflect Minnesota’s continued commitment to children, families, and communities, including being named a <u><a href="http://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/665713">Top State to Raise a Family</a></u> and the <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/700050">Third-Best State for Health Care</a></u>.</p>7098502025-10-16T16:50:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-709849" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-15T15:46:25ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited a grain and cattle farm in Faribault to highlight the impacts of the Trump Administration’s trade policy on Minnesota farmers. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited a grain and cattle farm in Faribault to highlight the impacts of the Trump Administration’s trade policy on Minnesota farmers. Tariffs have severely reduced the market for soybean farmers to sell their goods abroad, resulting in billions in lost sales and financial strain on rural communities. Photos from the event can be found <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mngov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“President Trump’s trade war has taken a wrecking ball to the farm economy, decimating family farms as crop prices crash, operating costs soar, and farmers are locked out of global markets,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This is a man-made crisis, caused single-handedly by President Trump. Minnesota will continue to stand up for those who feed and fuel the world.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Soybeans are Minnesota’s largest agricultural export with approximately two out of every three rows of soybeans sold abroad. During the 2025 harvest season, farmers have faced mounting challenges from federal trade policy and retaliatory tariffs, leading to the loss of key export markets, lower commodity prices, and financial strain.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">China, once the largest purchaser of U.S. soybeans has rescinded all purchase orders in 2025, instead expanding trade with South America. With this top world market closed off, many Minnesota farmers are forced to store crops indefinitely, sell at distressed prices, or absorb added costs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz declared September 29 – October 5, 2025, as <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/707437">Soybean Week</a></u> in Minnesota, highlighting the critical role of soybean farmers and the significant hurdles faced due to federal trade policies.</p>7098492025-11-03T21:05:00Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-709493" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-14T15:46:25ZGovernor Tim Walz announced today that Northfield will host the 2026 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener.1055<p class="paragraph" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="normaltextrun">[ST. PAUL, MN] – </span>Governor Tim Walz announced today that Northfield will host the 2026 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. <br /> <br /> <strong>“Ranked one of America’s best places to live, I am excited to put the spotlight on Northfield as the host of the 2026 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Northfield is home to exceptional public lands and an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, and I am thrilled to showcase this vibrant community as we carry on Minnesota’s time-honored pheasant hunting tradition.” <br /> <br /></strong>The Northfield Chamber of Commerce applied on behalf of the community to host the 2026 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. Northfield was then selected through a process that considered available hunting land, travel and tourism opportunities and community support.</p> <p class="xxxmsonormal" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honored that Northfield has been chosen to host the 2026 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,”</strong> said Jane Bartho, President and CEO of the Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism. <strong>“Our community has a strong tradition of celebrating conservation, outdoor recreation and the natural beauty that surrounds us. We look forward to showcasing our shared commitment to habitat stewardship and responsible hunting. We can’t wait to welcome visitors to our town and share all that makes this special.”</strong></p> <p class="xxxmsonormal" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 150-year-old town of Northfield is located along the banks of the Cannon River, about 45 miles south of the Twin Cities. The community is known for its historic downtown, scenic landscapes, and abundance of outdoor recreation. Northfield has a population of 20,000 and was recognized in 2024 by Money as one of the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmoney.com%2Fbest-places-to-live%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7Cb9de9a60d2ba4ed588ff08de0b24c27c%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638960449667634598%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=AQ2KKBBb4x2S1HnU%2FEkgqTL%2BRNdzS5q5Hk%2FgQaoQejY%3D&amp;reserved=0">50 best places to live</a> in the United States.</p> <p class="xxxmsonormal" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 2026 event, scheduled for Oct. 9-10, will be the 14th annual Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Explore Minnesota will assist local partners in planning the event.</p> <p class="xxxmsonormal" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Initiated by Gov. Mark Dayton in 2011, the event has been hosted by 10 different communities, including Montevideo (2011 and 2016), Marshall (2012 and 2017), Madelia (2013), Worthington (2014 and 2022), Mankato (2015), Luverne (2018), Austin (2019), Owatonna (2023), Sleepy Eye (2024) and Ortonville (2025).</p>7094932025-10-14T15:48:41Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-710387" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-11T14:52:01ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated the 13th annual Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener in Ortonville and Big Stone County. Governor Walz’s hunting party harvested two roosters this morning.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ORTONVILLE, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated the 13th annual Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener in Ortonville and Big Stone County. Governor Walz’s hunting party harvested two roosters this morning. The opener events demonstrated Ortonville’s scenic and vibrant community, conservation work, public lands, and community spirit for hundreds of invited guests. Photos from the event are available on <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mngov/albums/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Flickr.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thank you to the people of Ortonville and Big Stone County for this memorable celebration of community and our pheasant hunting traditions,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As a lifelong pheasant hunter, I applaud the vital conservation work being done by organizations in Big Stone County and across our state’s pheasant range. It is the incredible conservation work and the outpouring of support from community volunteers that makes this sport and this event possible.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The weekend festivities included tours of the L.G. Everist granite quarry, a pontoon ride on Big Stone Lake, a tour of the Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge, hands-on activities at a local elementary school, a tour of Big Stone Lake State Park, a celebration of a new addition to the Big Stone Wildlife Management Area, and a public event with food trucks and live music at the Ortonville Armory.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We had a fantastic time celebrating the pheasant opener, meeting members of the Ortonville community, and enjoying a fall day on public land with all the comradery, challenge and fun that are synonymous with pheasant hunting,”</strong> said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“Thank you to the Ortonville community and everyone who made this great event possible.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Ortonville is located along the western border of the state midway between the northern and southern Minnesota borders and about 190 miles west of the Twin Cities. The community is known for scenic landscapes and boasts exceptional fishing and hunting. Ortonville has a population of about 2,000 and is the Big Stone County seat.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Events like the Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener are about more than hunting — they shine a spotlight on Minnesota communities like Ortonville,”</strong> said Lauren Bennett McGinty, executive director of Explore Minnesota. <strong>“When hunters and their families travel here, they’re not just heading into the fields — they’re staying in local hotels, dining in restaurants, shopping on Main Street, and discovering what makes this region such a special destination. Tourism and outdoor recreation are vital to Minnesota’s economy, and Ortonville has shown visitors the very best of what Greater Minnesota has to offer.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">According to the DNR’s August roadside survey, Minnesota’s pheasant population has jumped an estimated 50% from last year, coming in 21% above the 10-year average.</p>7103872025-11-03T21:05:05Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-708902" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-08T20:34:48ZGovernor Tim Walz and First Lady Gwen Walz today received their COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations, underscoring that Minnesotans will continue to have the freedom to access life-saving vaccines, even as the Trump administration and Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. create confusion with conflicting federal guidance. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and First Lady Gwen Walz today received their COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations, underscoring that Minnesotans will continue to have the freedom to access life-saving vaccines, even as the Trump administration and Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. create confusion with conflicting federal guidance. Photos from the event are available on <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C97e1a6c88cf7422a396308de069c589f%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638955465736990005%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=lVRimp%2BxhiJTNp6mvp5xy4q%2F0Of%2B4RIfyH5YUPxhcTc%3D&amp;reserved=0">Flickr.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our message today is simple: Minnesotans will continue to have the freedom to receive their vaccines,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Home to the Mayo Clinic and some of the world’s foremost experts on health, in Minnesota we are guided by science and we believe in medical expertise. In Minnesota, your health decisions are between you and your doctor, not politicians in Washington."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Vaccines are one of our best tools for preventing severe illness and death from diseases like COVID-19 and flu,”</strong> said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. <strong>“We don’t know yet how bad the respiratory season might be, so taking action now before it picks up is important. Talk to your health care provider about any and all vaccines recommended for you and your family.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In September, Governor Walz signed an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to expand efforts to safeguard vaccine access. Under this order, Minnesota issued a standing protocol empowering pharmacists to provide COVID-19 vaccines to people 3 years and older, reducing barriers and ensuring broader availability.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">COVID-19 and flu vaccines are available at many locations across Minnesota, including health care providers, local clinics, and pharmacies. Minnesotans can visit <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/immunize/basics/vaxfinder.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Minnesota Department of Health Vaccine Access for Minnesotans</a> for information about vaccine locations and eligibility.</p>7089022025-10-09T01:07:38Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-708456" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-06T20:34:48ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated the opening of the Twin Ports Interchange project in Duluth. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[DULUTH, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated the opening of the Twin Ports Interchange project in Duluth. The $510 million reconstruction of I-35, I-535, and Highway 53 is one of Minnesota’s largest infrastructure projects, representing a major investment in the safety and economic vitality of Northeast Minnesota. Photos from the event are available on <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7Cc662cf26d95e4e9dce3f08de05124386%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638953773157691371%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=5KWrHSPfY%2BJgtubrb5scp9FJB9UkUUhVFpXyqcgTsds%3D&amp;reserved=0">Flickr.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This project is about more than new roads</strong><strong> and bridges. It supports the flow of commerce that keeps Minnesota moving and will make travel for Duluth residents and everyone who visits the Northland a little safer,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The Twin Ports Interchange is a vital link for families, businesses, and freight across the region</strong><strong>. Thanks to the long-term vision of state and community leaders, we are setting Minnesota up for decades of growth.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Twin Ports Interchange serves more than 80,000 vehicles daily, including over 5,000 heavy trucks. The project replaces the aging “can of worms,” eliminates blind merges and left exits, and improves freight mobility along one of Minnesota’s busiest commercial corridors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to the ribbon cutting, Governor Walz visited several Duluth businesses in the Lincoln Park and Downtown areas to highlight the economic growth that strong infrastructure helps sustain.</p>7084562025-10-06T20:36:45Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-708246" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-03T17:12:20ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, October 4, 2025, in honor and remembrance of wildland firefighter Isabella “Bella” Grace Oscarson, who died in the line of duty on September 26, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, October 4, 2025, in honor and remembrance of wildland firefighter Isabella “Bella” Grace Oscarson, who died in the line of duty on September 26, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Bella Oscarson dedicated her life to protecting people and nature as a wildland firefighter,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “Her courage, service, and compassion touched lives across Minnesota, Idaho, and beyond. Gwen and I extend our deepest condolences to her parents, her partner Matt, her siblings Anarosa, Jacob, and Sophia, as well as her family, colleagues, and friends.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Oscarson faithfully served with the Minnesota Conservation Corps, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and, most recently, with the Idaho Department of Lands. She bravely fought wildfires in Minnesota, Idaho, and on assignments across the country and Canada, earning the respect and admiration of all who served alongside her. Beyond her work, Bella loved spending time outdoors, cooking, crafting, gardening, reading, and dancing with her family and friends.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's proclamation can be found <u><a href="https://stage.wcm.mnit.mn.gov/governor/assets/10.04.25%20Isabellea%20Oscarson%20FAHS_tcm1055-708208.pdf">here</a></u>.</p>7082462025-10-03T17:40:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-708096" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-02T17:12:20ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the departure of his Chief of Staff of seven years, Chris Schmitter.After nearly seven years, Schmitter is longest serving Governor’s Office Chief of Staff in state history; Walz names long-time aide Patrick Tanis as chief of staff1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the departure of his Chief of Staff of seven years, Chris Schmitter. Schmitter will serve through the end of October and become a senior advisor to Governor Walz and his reelection campaign in a political capacity. The Governor named long-time aide Patrick Tanis to serve as Schmitter's successor.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When I first became governor, I set a goal of making Minnesota the best state for kids, and I tasked Chris with making that vision a reality,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “Nobody had a bigger hand in driving Minnesota's nation-leading Child Tax Credit than Chris. Today, because of his leadership and the hard work of folks across my administration, we have reduced child poverty, increased access to pre-k and early childhood education, and made sure every student is fed breakfast and lunch.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Schmitter, a lawyer and native of Rochester, Minnesota, helped Governor Walz manage the most difficult crises in the last seven years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and was critical to passing signature legislation, including the child tax credit and historic funding for education. After seven years as the Governor's top advisor, Schmitter leaves state service as the longest-serving chief of staff to a governor in state history. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Whether he was at the negotiating table with legislative leaders or in the cabinet room leading strategic planning, Chris ensured we stuck to our goal and put children and families at the center of all that we do,” </strong>Governor Walz continued. <strong>“Chris has been at my side for every major decision - every high, and every low - and I can confidently say that generations of Minnesotans will be better off today for his focus, tireless work, and clear sense of servant leadership.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"I have had the privilege over the last seven years to do something truly remarkable: To serve the State of Minnesota under circumstances that have been transformative and challenging, during times of generational change and moments of true bipartisan collaboration," </strong>said Schmitter. <strong>"It has been the honor of a lifetime, and I couldn’t be more grateful to the Governor, his cabinet, and the staff in the Governor’s office for showing up every single day prepared to improve people’s lives. Together, we have ensured that fewer kids are hungry, fewer are in poverty, and more are likely to grow up and succeed right here in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz named Patrick Tanis, current deputy chief of staff, as incoming chief of staff. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I'm proud to announce that Patrick Tanis will be taking over as my Chief of Staff," </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Patrick is one of the hardest working people I’ve ever met and has spent the last seven years helping to solve the toughest challenges in state government – from labor strikes, to legislative negotiations, to a global pandemic. Patrick is a problem solver and public servant through and through. He will make sure the Governor’s Office is firing on all cylinders and delivering for the people of Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"It's the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of Minnesota in this position, and I'm ready to get to work," </strong>said Patrick Tanis.<strong> "I look forward to helping Governor Walz build on the progress we've made in Minnesota and protect our state from the chaos and dysfunction in Washington. As Governor Walz always says, if Washington won't lead, Minnesota will. I'm excited to help Governor Walz make sure Minnesota continues to be a national leader and the best place in the country to raise a family."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tanis, a long-time aide to Governor Walz, started working for Walz when he first ran for Congress in 2005. Tanis has served as deputy chief of staff in the Governor’s Office since Walz first took office in 2019 and has managed external relations, advised on legislative affairs and budget negotiations, and helped the Walz Administration respond to unprecedented challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic. Tanis, a former elementary school teacher who holds a Master of Arts in teaching from Hamline University, was born and raised in Saint Peter, Minnesota. </p>7080962025-10-02T17:48:40Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-707812" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-30T17:12:20ZGovernor Tim Walz and DFL legislative leaders today released a detailed proposal for a special session focused on gun violence and school safety. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and DFL legislative leaders today released a <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/10/22/file_attachments/3431098/Joint%20DFL%20Special%20Session%20Offer.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="font-family: Verdana;">detailed proposal for a special session</a> focused on gun violence and school safety. The Governor and DFL leaders proposed specific action on guns as well as bipartisan proposals on school safety, additional mental health resources, and new funding for law enforcement.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This proposal meets the expectations that Minnesotans have for their elected leaders – that we respond to threats to public safety and take direct action on guns,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “We will not let this issue simply go away. Our offer addresses mental health, school safety, support for law enforcement, and most importantly, common sense gun laws.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In the wake of an unspeakable tragedy, DFL leaders have come to the table with a substantial list of proposals to make Minnesota a safer place,”</strong> said Senate DFL Leader Erin Murphy<strong>. “I’m disappointed Republicans refuse to address the issue of gun violence in any real way. Minnesotans want a comprehensive approach, which should include funding for school safety and mental health access, as well as taking action to limit the easy access to weapons of war on our streets. We are ready to make significant progress, but cannot do that without Republicans showing courage on this issue. Parents from Annunciation, other schools, and Minnesotans around the state are demanding that we do something, and so far only one side is listening to them.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“House DFLers are committed to meaningful action on gun violence, including getting weapons of war off our streets. We have made a good-faith offer to the Republicans that includes their policy priorities in an attempt to reach a bipartisan agreement, but the question remains: will they join us in this effort?”</strong> said Representative Zack Stephenson. <strong>“Minnesotans deserve to be safe from gun violence. They are demanding action, and they deserve to know where Republicans stand on addressing gun violence. We shouldn’t have to endure more mass shootings, more violence, and more grief. Now is the time for common-sense action to keep our communities safe.”</strong></p>7078122025-10-22T15:09:55Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-707437" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-29T17:12:20ZGovernor Tim Walz today declared September 29 – October 5, 2025, as Soybean Week in Minnesota, highlighting the critical role soybean farmers play in Minnesota’s economy and the growing challenges they face from federal trade policy.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today declared September 29 – October 5, 2025, as Soybean Week in Minnesota, highlighting the critical role soybean farmers play in Minnesota’s economy and the growing challenges they face from federal trade policy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Soybeans are Minnesota’s largest agricultural export and the heart of our agricultural economy – but our soybean farmers are confronting a crisis they haven’t seen since the 1980s,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“They’ve produced a bumper crop this year, just to find out they have nowhere to sell their harvest thanks to Trump’s trade policies. Minnesota’s got the best beans in the world – I encourage Minnesotans to stand with our farmers and continue to advocate for federal trade reform.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota soybean producers are facing significant hurdles, experiencing an increase in bankruptcies and reduced commodity prices due to President Trump’s trade policies. Tariffs have severely reduced the market for soybean farmers to sell their goods abroad.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Once the largest purchaser of U.S. soybeans at $13 billion annually, China has stopped purchasing American soybeans, instead expanding trade with South America and leaving U.S. producers with fewer and inconsistent export options. Many Minnesota farmers are forced to store crops longer, sell at distressed prices, or absorb added costs – leading to billions in lost sales and financial strain on rural communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz encourages Minnesotans during Soybean Week to acknowledge the critical work of soybean farmers and support policies that protect agricultural markets and ensure the long-term success of the state’s farming communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's proclamation can be found <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/9.29.25%20Soybean%20Week_tcm1055-707400.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a></u>.</p>7074372025-09-29T17:14:59Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-707301" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-26T12:57:17ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine, Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education, Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports, Board of School Administrators, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, Explore Minnesota for Business Council, Governor’s Workforce Development Board, and the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine, Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education, Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports, Board of School Administrators, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, Explore Minnesota for Business Council, Governor’s Workforce Development Board, and the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katrin Bachmeier – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Disability Advocacy Organization Representative  <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Ballinger – Onamia, MN</strong>  <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Provider of Disability Waiver Services for Persons Under the Age of 65  <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kristine Erickson – Brainerd, MN</strong>  <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Family Members of Individuals Who Are Receiving Disability Waiver Services  <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Linda Fairchild – Otsego, MN</strong>  <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Provider of Disability Waiver Services for Persons Under the Age of 65 <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katrina Jirik – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Individual Currently Receiving Disability Waiver Services Who Are Under Age 65  <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Johnson – Woodbury, MN</strong>  <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Individual Currently Receiving Disability Waiver Services Who Are Under Age 65  <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Johnson – Rosemount, MN</strong>  <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Disability Advocacy Organization Representative  <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Meredith McKinnon – Shoreview, MN</strong>  <br /> Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine  <br /> Individual Currently Receiving Disability Waiver Services Who Are Under Age 65  <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine: <br /></em>The Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine will conduct public meetings, gather input, and make recommendations on various aspects of the Waiver Reimagine program, such as waiver consolidation, budget methodologies, service criteria, and potential consequences of the program changes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Advisory Task Force on Waiver Reimagine can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/391" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Carlson – Rochester, MN</strong>  <br /> Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Demonstrated Expertise in Compliance with Legal Federal Special Education Requirements and Special Education Finance <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Krista Dillman – Kimball, MN <br /></strong>Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Demonstrated Public Leadership, Cultural Responsiveness, and Innovation in the Area of Special Education <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marcy Doud – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Expertise in Special Education Program Administration  <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laura Jean – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Demonstrated Public Leadership, Cultural Responsiveness, and Innovation in the Area of Special Education <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Justin Killian – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Demonstrated Public Leadership, Cultural Responsiveness, and Innovation in the Area of Special Education <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Melanie Kray – Waconia, MN <br /></strong>Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Expertise in Special Education Program Administration <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erin Lavery – Stillwater, MN <br /></strong>Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Expertise in Special Education Program Administration <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cory McIntyre – Anoka, MN <br /></strong>Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Expertise in Special Education Program Administration <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Delia Samuel – Fridley, MN <br /></strong>Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Parent/Family Advocate <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ramona Springis-Doss – Apple Valley, MN <br /></strong>Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Demonstrated Public Leadership, Cultural Responsiveness, and Innovation in the Area of Special Education  <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stacie Stanley – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education <br /> Member with Demonstrated Public Leadership, Cultural Responsiveness, and Innovation in the Area of Special Education <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: October 2, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education: <br /></em>The Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education advises and assists the legislature and governor in transforming special education services. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Blue Ribbon Commission on Special Education can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/390" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Camilla Peterson-DeVries – Litchfield, MN <br /></strong>Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports <br /> Registered Nurse - Nursing Home <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports: <br /></em>The board licenses administrators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, conducts studies of nursing home and assisted living administration; approves continuing education programs for administrators; and investigates complaints and allegations of rule violations. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/23" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Angel Smith – Brooklyn Park, MN <br /></strong>Board of School Administrators <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of School Administrators: <br /></em>The board shall license school administrators. The board shall adopt rules to license school administrators under Chapter 14. Other than the rules transferred to the board under section 122A.27, subdivision 4, the board may not adopt or amend rules under this section until the rules are approved by law. The rules shall include the licensing of persons who have successfully completed alternative preparation programs under section 122A.27 or other alternative competency-based preparation programs. The board may enter into agreements with the Board of Teaching regarding multiple license matters. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of School Administrators can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/34" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ellen Anderson – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board <br /> Governor Appointed Member #4 <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board: <br /></em>The board is responsible for architecture, urban design, and comprehensive land-use planning in the capitol area of St. Paul; exercises zoning and design review authority; and overseas redevelopment of the north Capitol area. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/42" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicole Crews – Blaine, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota for Business Council <br /> Representative in Marketing, Human Resources, or Executive Leadership from Minnesota-Based Companies with more than 100 Employees Representing Minnesota's Key Industries <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Explore Minnesota for Business Council: <br /></em>Explore Minnesota for Business is a division of Explore Minnesota. Its mission is to promote overall livability and workforce and economic opportunity in Minnesota. Explore Minnesota for Business works in conjunction with the department of employment and economic development to establish and meet statewide goals in these areas. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Explore Minnesota for Business Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/355" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matthew Lewis – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative #4 <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deb Broberg – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative #8 <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gail Cruikshank – Sauk Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative #21 <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Cummings – Roseville, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative #16 <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Barry Davies – Rosemount, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Labor Organization Representative #2 <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Troy Haugen – Fergus Falls, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative #10 <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Melissa McLean – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative #3 <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>DeLinda Washington – Bloomington, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative #22 - Vice-Chair <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor's Workforce Development Board: <br /></em>The Governor’s Workforce Development Board assists the Governor in developing, implementing, and modifying the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Combined State Plan. It also reviews statewide policies and programs, provides recommendations on actions to improve the workforce development system and programs, and develops strategies to remove barriers to those programs, among other duties.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/182" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Vanderveen-Nagel – Elko New Market, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Competency Attainment Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: October 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board: <br /></em>The board creates and administers a statewide, independent competency attainment system that certifies competency attainment programs and uses forensic navigators to promote prevention and diversion of people with mental illnesses and cognitive impairments from entering the legal system, support defendants with mental illness and cognitive impairments, support defendants in the competency process, and assist courts and partners in coordinating competency attainment services.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/310" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State's website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p>7073012025-09-26T21:23:02Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-707300" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-26T09:57:17ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Stefanie Menning as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. Menning will replace the Honorable Allison L. Krehbiel and will be chambered in St. Peter in Nicollet County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/09/26/file_attachments/3401258/Menning,%20Stefanie.JPG" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stefanie Menning</a> as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. Menning will replace the Honorable Allison L. Krehbiel and will be chambered in St. Peter in Nicollet County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It gives me great pride to appoint Stefanie Menning,”</strong> said Governor Walz<strong>. “She takes the bench with a deep appreciation for and connection to the Nicollet County community and is ready to serve with unwavering fairness, humility, and a steadfast commitment to justice for all.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Fifth Judicial District consists of 15 counties in southwest Minnesota: Blue Earth, Brown, Cottonwood, Faribault, Jackson, Lincoln, Lyon, Martin, Murray, Nicollet, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, Rock, and Watonwan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Stefanie Menning is an assistant county attorney in the Scott County Attorney’s Office, where she represents Human Services in child protection proceedings. She is a member of the First Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court and Scott County Treatment Court. Menning was previously an assistant county attorney in the Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office in the felony criminal division, an assistant Mankato city attorney, and an associate attorney at Brandt Law Office, P.A. Menning’s community involvement includes serving on the Staff Support Committee at First Lutheran Church of St. Peter, serving as an investigator for the 8th District Bar Association Ethics Committee, and volunteering as a basketball coach for the St. Peter Youth Basketball Association. She earned her B.A. from Gustavus Adolphus College and her J.D. from Hamline University School of Law. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7073002025-09-26T21:22:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-707299" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-26T07:57:17ZGovernor Tim Walz today directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, September 28, to honor Minnesota firefighters who have been killed or injured in the line of duty.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, September 28, to honor Minnesota firefighters who have been killed or injured in the line of duty. This order occurs annually in honor of Minnesota Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep Minnesotans safe,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“We lower our flags to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities and to recognize the families who carry their legacy forward.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Minnesota's fallen firefighters and their families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/09.28.25%20Fallen%20Firefighter%20Memorial%20Day_tcm1055-707239.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p>7072992025-09-26T21:22:52Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-707229" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-25T07:57:17ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable John P. Dehen and the Honorable Jenny Walker Jasper. These seats will be chambered in Anoka in Anoka County and Elk River in Sherburne County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable John P. Dehen and the Honorable Jenny Walker Jasper. These seats will be chambered in Anoka in Anoka County and Elk River in Sherburne County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <u><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a></u>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on October 16 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-November.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Tenth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <u><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a></u>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101998215ca99-01674fd9-cdcf-433a-982a-e1328390033e-000000/GxEQRLEKrC49pk3oKqG-dnib6GOua9Oal-rHNKb_bvg=424" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>. </p>7072292025-09-26T15:16:56Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-707063" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-24T07:57:17ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The <strong>new application deadline is 4:00 pm on October 6, 2025</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in late October.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Please see the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fappointments%2Fjudicialappointments%2Fjudicialnews.jsp%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F703779/1/010101997d2c2a5c-77e9dbe8-9a0a-4f2e-89b9-655d25d477a7-000000/qv0XS1OzHiiv_SA92pTZvljhJiGxcOryfj-F8N0tsOc=424" target="_blank">original vacancy announcement</a></u> issued on September 2, 2025: </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Vicki Vial Taylor. The seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <u><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a></u>. </em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101997d2c2a5c-77e9dbe8-9a0a-4f2e-89b9-655d25d477a7-000000/tZvkhGGIfPIyM2nP26Oy-a2zOkXVRXRxSV5fJzfB4TY=424" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</em></p>7070632025-09-24T21:04:46Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-706858" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-23T07:57:17ZGovernor Tim Walz today convened a roundtable discussion with state leaders and health care experts to address the rising cost of health insurance in Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today convened a roundtable discussion with state leaders and health care experts to address the rising cost of health insurance in Minnesota. The discussion focused on the impacts of President Trump’s signature legislation, the “Big Beautiful Bill,” recently passed by the Republican-led Congress, and how its provisions are expected to raise health care costs across the state starting on January 1, 2026.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is home to some of the best health care systems in the world – something that we’re proud of. But Republican leadership in Washington is putting the affordability and reliability of that care at risk,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “President Trump’s so-called ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ is driving up health insurance costs and threatening the stability of our health care system. We are going to keep fighting to protect affordability, preserve access, and make sure Minnesotans can receive the care they need without breaking the bank.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Panelists highlighted how Minnesotans are likely to face steep premium increases and reduced access to coverage, with rural communities and small businesses expected to feel a disproportionate impact. Without federal action, enhanced premium tax credits are set to expire, raising health care costs for middle-class Minnesotans by an average of $2,000 per year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These policy choices don’t just raise premiums—they put real Minnesotans, from the metro to greater Minnesota, at risk,” </strong>said MNsure CEO Libby Caulum.<strong> "That’s why it’s more important than ever to start at MNsure to find the best coverage option available."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These changes are real. For many Minnesotans, it could mean being forced to choose between paying for </strong><strong>health insurance or covering essentials like groceries, rent, and child care,” </strong>said Department of Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota has acted to protect families and stabilize the market by extending the Minnesota Premium Security Plan (MPSP), a reinsurance program that offsets high-cost claims and stabilizes premiums. Without this program, 2026 premiums would have risen nearly 25 percent higher than projected. State leaders emphasized, however, that state efforts alone cannot fully offset the effects of harmful federal policy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The roundtable included Governor Walz; Department of Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold; Assistant Commissioner of Health Sub-Cabinet Ana Ashby; MNSure CEO Libby Caulum; ISAIAH Co-Executive Director JaNae Bates; Cindy VanDerPol, owner of Pastures A Plenty Farm; and Legislators.</p>7068582025-09-23T18:22:44Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-706687" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-19T13:59:17Z The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Eric L. Hylden. The seat will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/09/19/file_attachments/3394410/Benfield,%20Matthew%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Matthew Benfield:</a></strong> Matthew Benfield is a managing attorney in the Sixth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office. He represents clients in a variety of criminal matters and oversees a dedicated team of attorneys, paralegals, investigators, and dispositional advisors. Benfield was previously an assistant public defender in the same office and a solo practitioner at the Benfield Law Office, where his practice focused primarily on family and criminal law. He is a member of the Sixth Judicial District Public Defender’s DNA and forensic evidence working group, and he serves on the district’s court security committee. Benfield’s community involvement includes coordinating various outreach events, including warrant resolution days. He previously coached youth sports and served on the board of the Volunteer Attorney Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/09/19/file_attachments/3394412/LaCoursiere,%20Nathan%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nathan LaCoursiere:</a> </strong>Nathan LaCoursiere is an assistant county attorney in the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office, where he represents the county in a wide range of civil, labor, appellate, and real estate matters. He is also an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, where he teaches constitutional law. LaCoursiere was previously an assistant city attorney for the City of Duluth and a law clerk to the Honorable David R. Minge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. His past community and professional involvement include volunteering for the Duluth Energy Plan Commission, the Minnesota Commission on Judicial Selection, and serving as a Judicare Legal Aid attorney, representing low-income clients in northwestern Wisconsin.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/09/19/file_attachments/3394390/Wilson,%20Angela%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Angela Wilson:</strong></a> Angela Wilson is a senior assistant county attorney for the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office. She was previously an assistant district attorney in Douglas County, Wisconsin; a senior assistant district attorney for the Eighteenth Judicial District of Kansas; a deputy attorney general for the Kansas Attorney General’s Office; and an assistant district attorney in Douglas County, Kansas. As an assistant district attorney in Douglas County, Wisconsin, Wilson helped develop a peer support program through the Statewide Prosecutor Education and Training Division of the Wisconsin Department of Justice. Her community involvement includes serving two terms on the Duluth Township Planning and Zoning Commission in St. Louis County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US"><span>Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</span></span></a><span lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US">.</span></p>7066872025-10-09T19:38:10Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-706281" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-18T13:59:17ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota schools served over 151 million free meals to students through the Minnesota Free School Meals Program in its second year, saving families an average of $1,000 per student per year. The total is over 460,000 more meals than the program’s first year.Program saves families an average of $1,000 per student per year1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota schools served over 151 million free meals to students through the Minnesota Free School Meals Program in its second year, saving families an average of $1,000 per student per year. The total is over 460,000 more meals than the program’s first year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a former teacher, I know just how important it is for kids to show up to school ready to learn,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Giving every child a meal at school allows those students to be healthy and prepared for the classroom, but it also helps families manage their budgets and morning routines. Students should be able to focus on the classroom, not on where their next meal will come from. ”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz signed the Minnesota Free School Meals Program into law in March 2023 to ensure no student goes hungry, lower costs for families, and eliminate stigma within school cafeterias. Since its launch in 2023, the program has provided students with more than 302 million healthy meals. The Minnesota Free School Meals Program provides breakfast and lunch at no cost to all students at schools that participate in the federal National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.</p>7062812025-09-18T14:06:21Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-707228" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-18T07:57:17ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Daniel A. Benson. This seat will be chambered in Long Prairie in Todd County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Daniel A. Benson. This seat will be chambered in Long Prairie in Todd County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job-related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm</strong> on October 9 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter. The commission expects to hold interviews in early November.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Seventh Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101995e2198d2-909b36e8-6211-4f54-a27a-5dd994cc8b9a-000000/ib94hH5ngtEg1RcIo2QtP0dlyZtRRIyyHnzg_GarWYI=423" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7072282025-09-26T15:17:00Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-706056" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-17T13:59:17ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued an executive order directing state agencies to intensify efforts to prevent, detect, and combat fraud across Minnesota government programs.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued an <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/EO%2025-10%20Combatting%20Fraud_tcm1055-706055.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">executive order</a> directing state agencies to intensify efforts to prevent, detect, and combat fraud across Minnesota government programs. The order leverages new data sharing laws passed in the 2025 legislative session and builds on significant steps already taken to safeguard public dollars and ensure resources are directed to Minnesotans who need them most.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We have no tolerance for fraud in the State of Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “Abuse of taxpayer dollars takes resources away from the people who need them most. If you commit fraud in Minnesota, you will be prosecuted and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. While we will continue to urge the legislature to take further action, this executive order gives our agencies additional tools to safeguard taxpayer dollars.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Walz Administration has advanced numerous proposals and initiatives to strengthen program integrity and address evolving criminal schemes:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Introduced and signed into law comprehensive anti-fraud legislation during the 2023–2025 legislative sessions, including expanded authority to stop fraudulent payments.</li> <li>Increased data-sharing across agencies.</li> <li>Created an Office of Inspector General at the Department of Education.</li> <li>Established new anti-kickback provisions.</li> <li>Established the Financial Crimes and Fraud Section at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension through <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/Executive%20Order%2025-01_tcm1055-663516.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Executive Order 25-01</a></u>, creating a centralized investigative unit led by law enforcement. In 2025, the legislature codified this unit in law and required mandatory reporting of suspected criminal activity to the BCA, as well as regular reporting from the BCA to the legislature.</li> <li>Assist the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and other law enforcement agencies to bring fraudsters to justice.</li> <li>Installed new leadership at the Department of Human Services (DHS), including Temporary Commissioner Shireen Gandhi and Inspector General James Clark, with an emphasis on fraud prevention and program integrity.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Order 25-10 leverages new data sharing laws passed as part of the Governor’s 2025 anti-fraud legislative package and directs DHS and other state agencies to expand their efforts with additional fraud prevention tools, including:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Strengthening oversight at DHS through proactive, data-driven reviews of Medicaid providers and claims, temporary licensing moratoria where risks are identified, and discontinuing programs highly vulnerable to fraud.</li> <li>Increasing transparency by publishing program integrity actions and outcomes.</li> <li>Improving provider accountability by disenrolling inactive Medicaid providers and requiring prepayment review for high-risk providers.</li> <li>Conducting an external review of DHS operations to recommend structural changes that prioritize fraud prevention, accountability, and efficient service delivery.</li> <li>Establishing a Statewide Inspector General Coordinating Council led by the BCA to unify agency inspectors general, enhance data sharing, coordinate investigations.</li> <li>Enhancing technology and analytics with MNIT support to modernize systems and strengthen fraud detection tools.</li> <li>Reinforcing interagency coordination by requiring agencies to share data for fraud detection and refer suspected cases to law enforcement and oversight partners.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Legislators in both the Minnesota House and Senate applauded the Governor’s actions to create the Statewide Inspector General Coordinating Council:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Governor’s immediate action to bring agencies together is the right short-term step,”</strong> said Senator Heather Gustafson <strong>“It also lays the foundation for a permanent, independent statewide Office of Inspector General to catch fraud early and protect public dollars.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans are a generous people, but they also expect public dollars to go to help those who need it.”</strong> said Representative Matt Norris <strong>“The OIG Coordinating Council is an important step toward that goal by coordinating efforts to fight fraud across state agencies.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Order 25-10 takes effect fifteen days after publication in the State Register and filing with the Secretary of State.</p>7060562025-09-17T14:11:16Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-705877" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-15T22:34:11Z Today, Governor Tim Walz announced two vacancies on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Louise Dovre Bjorkman and Randall J. Slieter. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz announced two vacancies on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Louise Dovre Bjorkman and Randall J. Slieter. One vacancy is at-large, and the other seat is designated for Minnesota’s Seventh Congressional District. Governor Walz has asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration, the chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection, and the at-large members of the commission to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The panel is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. The Governor is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on October 13 and should be addressed to Governor Tim Walz</strong>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For those interested in learning more about the selection process for these vacancies, the Governor’s Office will be hosting a webinar in conjunction with Chief Judge Jennifer Frisch and members of the Court of Appeals on<strong> Monday, September 22, at noon</strong>. Those interested in attending can register at the link <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fevents.gcc.teams.microsoft.com%2Fevent%2F0f33319f-e341-47c6-90da-e4aacd3b1f82%40eb14b046-24c4-4519-8f26-b89c2159828c&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7Cea4e03de909b4b11fc5808ddf4705e90%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638935485642248162%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=CygOR5BGJpby45H0lik3I%2FjR8gpzIKq8dMLhddE7IQQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For inquiries concerning the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. </p>7058772025-09-16T13:23:45Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-705803" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-15T19:34:11ZGovernor Tim Walz announced today that Moody’s Investors Service, S&P Global Ratings, and Fitch Group have once again affirmed Minnesota’s AAA credit rating, the agencies’ highest possible mark.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz announced today that Moody’s Investors Service, S&amp;P Global Ratings, and Fitch Group have once again affirmed Minnesota’s AAA credit rating, the agencies’ highest possible mark. This is the fourth consecutive year all three rating agencies have provided a AAA bond rating for Minnesota, underscoring strong confidence in the state’s fiscal management, stable economic outlook, and responsible budgeting practices.</span> <span> </span></p> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“While actions at the federal level are creating red flags for the U.S. economy, America’s top rating agencies have once again signaled their support for the responsible financial decisions we are making here in Minnesota,”</span></strong> <span>said Governor Walz.</span> <strong><span>“These ratings are a testament to the strength of Minnesota’s economy and our commitment to responsible financial stewardship. By balancing budgets, protecting reserves, and investing in the future, we’ve maintained one of the strongest financial positions in the nation.”</span></strong><span> </span><span> </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>The AAA rating is the most rigorous and prestigious among the major credit agencies. Minnesota is one of only 16 states nationwide that currently hold this rating, underscoring its status among the most well-managed states in the country.</span> <span> </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><strong><span>“Governor Walz and state leaders continue to focus on investments that make Minnesota a place where people want to live, work and raise a family,”</span></strong> <span>said Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Erin Campbell.</span> <strong><span>“In order to protect those investments, we had to make hard budgetary choices this year and were able to reach consensus on those choices with the most closely divided legislature in the country -- which is a major accomplishment. I am very grateful to the Governor and legislative leaders for doing the hard work together so we could continue to invest in long-term priorities while also reflecting short-term budgetary realities.”</span></strong><span> </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>In affirming Minnesota’s AAA rating, Moody’s Investors Service stated,</span> <strong><span>“The AAA issuer rating reflects the state's high fund balances, modest long-term leverage and high degree of financial flexibility.”</span></strong><span> </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>In affirming its AAA rating, Fitch Ratings said Minnesota’s bond ratings</span> <strong><span>“reflect the state’s steadily growing and broad-based economy, highly educated workforce, expanding population and a revenue structure well designed to capture economic growth. The ratings also reflect a low long-term liability burden and historically strong control over revenue and spending that, in conjunction with a sophisticated approach to reserve funding, leaves Minnesota well positioned to manage through economic cycles while maintaining a high level of financial flexibility.”</span></strong><span> </span></p> </div> <div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p><span>S&amp;P Global Ratings said in affirming its AAA rating,</span> <strong><span>“The ‘AAA’ GO rating reflects our view of the state’s robust financial management framework, its actions to manage the outyear structural budgetary gap and maintain strong reserves, its favorable economic profile and good medium-term performance prospects relative to those of state peers, and its conservatively managed debt and liability profile with well-funded pensions and limited fixed cost exposure.”</span></strong><span> </span></p> </div>7058032025-09-15T19:36:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-706690" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-12T07:57:17ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the 2030 US Census Redistricting Program, Board of School Administrators, Board of the Perpich Center for the Arts Education, Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Electricity as Vehicle Fuel Working Group, Great Lakes Protection Fund, and the Young Women’s Initiative. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[SAINT PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the 2030 US Census Redistricting Program, Board of School Administrators, Board of the Perpich Center for the Arts Education, Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Electricity as Vehicle Fuel Working Group, Great Lakes Protection Fund, and the Young Women’s Initiative.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Susan Brower – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> 2030 US Census Redistricting Program <br /> Minnesota Nonpartisan Redistricting Liaison <br /> Effective: September 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2035 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michelle Yurich – Isanti, MN</strong>  <br /> 2030 US Census Redistricting Program  <br /> Minnesota Nonpartisan Redistricting Liaison  <br /> Effective: September 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2035 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the 2030 US Census Redistricting Program:</em>  <br /> The 2030 Census Redistricting Data Program allows states to define voting districts and suggest census block boundaries for the upcoming census. It is responsible for delivering the redistricting data to the states by April 1, 2031. Each state designates a non-partisan liaison to communicate with the Census Bureau throughout the program, ensuring ongoing dialogue and ample time for planning and participation. The program also collects changes to state legislative and congressional district boundaries during redistricting.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the 2030 US Census Redistricting Program can be found on the<u><a title="Original URL: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census/about/rdo/program-management.html. Click or tap if you trust this link." href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.census.gov%2Fprograms-surveys%2Fdecennial-census%2Fabout%2Frdo%2Fprogram-management.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaggie.Wick%40state.mn.us%7Cad2820ab68af4993de6508ddf235be9e%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638933034823002295%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=jdsE3%2B%2BSbjLJoNHQnwYcLFGIU5R%2FfuZ5Kasc0BY76xw%3D&amp;reserved=0"> US </a><a title="Original URL: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census/about/rdo/program-management.html. Click or tap if you trust this link." href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.census.gov%2Fprograms-surveys%2Fdecennial-census%2Fabout%2Frdo%2Fprogram-management.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaggie.Wick%40state.mn.us%7Cad2820ab68af4993de6508ddf235be9e%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638933034823017542%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=TDxw0Fu1hQld%2B8B6VAGq5dEZ%2BvwbttyORBfNR6CBF00%3D&amp;reserved=0">Census Bureau Website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Norma Romero-Rodriguez – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of School Administrators  <br /> Classroom Teacher Rep  <br /> Effective: September 17, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of School Administrators:</em>  <br /> The Board of School Administrator's purpose is to establish and maintain high standards for a quality administrator licensing system for Minnesota public schools and to ensure that the highest quality administrators serve the needs of Minnesota citizens. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of School Administrators can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/34">Secretary of State's website</a></u>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Hastings – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education  <br /> Member #3  <br /> Effective: September 17, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education:</em>  <br /> The Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education cares for, manages, and controls the Perpich Center for Arts Education. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/36">Secretary of State's website</a></u>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Reneka Evans – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans  <br /> Public Member  <br /> Effective: September 17, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans:</em>  <br /> The Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans works for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for Minnesota's community of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender expansive, queer, intersex, asexual, or two-spirit.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/317">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u>  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Justin Emmerich – Apple Valley, MN</strong>  <br /> Electricity as Vehicle Fuel Working Group  <br /> Member Appointed By The Governor  <br /> Effective: September 17, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joe Hoppe – Chaska, MN</strong>  <br /> Electricity as Vehicle Fuel Working Group  <br /> Member Representing An Electricity Provider for Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Customers Located Outside the Seven-County Metropolitan Area  <br /> Effective: September 17, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tony Kwilas – Woodbury, MN</strong>  <br /> Electricity as Vehicle Fuel Working Group  <br /> Member Representing Convenience Stores or Fueling Stations  <br /> Effective: September 17, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Emily Murray – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Electricity as Vehicle Fuel Working Group  <br /> Member Appointed by the Governor  <br /> Effective: September 17, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aurora Vautrin – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Electricity as Vehicle Fuel Working Group  <br /> Members Appointed by an Association with Interest in Residential Electric Charging, Including One Member Who Lives in Multifamily Housing  <br /> Effective: September 17, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Electricity as Vehicle Fuel Working Group:</em>  <br /> The Electricity as Vehicle Fuel Working Group was created to evaluate, promote, and provide recommendations to facilitate the development and integration of electricity used as vehicle fuel within the state's transportation, energy, commercial, industrial, and residential sectors. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Electricity as Vehicle Fuel Working Group can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/389">Secretary of State's website</a></u>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laura Bishop – Eden Prairie, MN</strong>  <br /> Great Lakes Protection Fund  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: September 12, 2025 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Great Lakes Protection Fund:</em>  <br /> The Great Lakes Protection Fund is a private, not-for-profit organization established in 1989 with a $97 million pledge from the Great Lakes states aimed at enhancing the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem. It operates as a permanent endowment, using its funds to finance projects that restore and maintain the integrity of the Great Lakes basin. The member governors of the Great Lakes states elect a board of directors to oversee the fund's investments and support project initiatives. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Great Lakes Protection Fund can be found <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fglpf.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaggie.Wick%40state.mn.us%7Cad2820ab68af4993de6508ddf235be9e%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638933034823031952%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=u3p%2FvL6tANtuCrZB2KGSj8hLnAXuVqRfGE3jDIcepsM%3D&amp;reserved=0">Great Lakes Protection Fund Website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lia Alvarez – Monticello, MN </strong>  <br /> Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Young Women's Initiative:</em>   <br /> The Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota Cabinet is a partnership between the Governor’s Office, the Women’s Foundation, and the YWCA Saint Paul. The Cabinet includes young women and gender-expansive youth aged 16-24 to promote equitable systems that benefit all, grounded in the belief that when young Black, Indigenous, women of color, and people with disabilities in Minnesota thrive, families and communities thrive.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p>7066902025-09-22T17:22:36Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-705295" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-10T16:37:23ZThe Governor’s Office today announced they are accepting applications for the chief administrative law judge position at the Court of Administrative Hearings. 1055<p style="text-align: left;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 14px;font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Governor’s Office today announced they are accepting applications for the chief administrative law judge position at the Court of Administrative Hearings. </p> <p style="text-align: left;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 14px;font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Court of Administrative Hearings (formerly known as the Office of Administrative Hearings) is an administrative court that holds fair and impartial hearings in contested cases involving challenges to government action or workers’ compensation disputes. The court also exercises general supervision over state agency rulemaking. The chief administrative law judge must be learned in the law and is appointed by the Governor for a term of six years, with advice and consent of the Senate. The chief judge is responsible for appointing other administrative law judges and compensation judges as necessary to fulfill the duties of the court.</p> <p style="text-align: left;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 14px;font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" style="color: rgb(29, 87, 130);">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.<strong> Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on October 8 and should be addressed to Governor Walz. </strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 14px;font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</p>7052952025-09-11T16:41:04Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-705291" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-10T16:35:50ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Michael Grover as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. Grover will replace the Honorable Donna K. Dixon and will be chambered in Roseau in Roseau County.1055<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 1.4; font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px 0px 8px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="normaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">[ST. PAUL, MN] – </span><span class="xnormaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/09/10/file_attachments/3384523/Grover,%20Michael.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(29, 87, 130);">Michael Grover</a> as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. Grover will replace the Honorable Donna K. Dixon and will be chambered in Roseau in Roseau County.  </span><span class="xeop" style="line-height: 1.4;"> </span></p> <p class="xparagraph" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 1.4; font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px 0px 8px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="xnormaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;"><strong>“Roseau County and the Ninth Judicial District will be well served by Michael Grover, a familiar face to both the community and the justice system he has helped advance for more than two decades,”</strong></span><span class="xnormaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;"> said Governor Walz<strong>. “His confidence and commitment to treatment courts and justice innovation not only yield improved outcomes for litigants but also foster greater public trust in the justice system.”</strong></span><span class="xeop" style="line-height: 1.4;"> </span></p> <p class="xparagraph" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 1.4; font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px 0px 8px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="xnormaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District encompasses Aitkin, Beltrami, Cass, Clearwater, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Kittson, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau Counties.</span><span class="xeop" style="line-height: 1.4;"> </span></p> <p class="xparagraph" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 1.4; font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px 0px 8px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="xnormaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">Michael Grover is an assistant county attorney in the Roseau County Attorney’s Office, where he works primarily in adult criminal prosecution and with the Roseau County treatment courts and domestic violence court. He was previously an associate attorney at Anderson Law Offices, P.A., where he practiced in the areas of municipal law, family law, criminal defense, estate planning, and civil litigation. Grover’s community involvement includes serving on Roseau County’s Community Justice Coordinating Committee, Team EPIC (Encouraging Positive Impact for Change), and the Warroad Port Authority. He earned his B.S. from Bemidji State University and his J.D. from the University of North Dakota School of Law. </span><span class="xeop" style="line-height: 1.4;"> </span></p> <p class="xparagraph" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 1.4; font-family: calibri, candara, segoe, optima, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px 0px 8px;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="xnormaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the </span><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(29, 87, 130);"><span class="xnormaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</span></a><span class="xnormaltextrun" style="line-height: 1.4;">.</span></p>7052912025-09-11T16:40:58Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-705354" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-10T15:13:14ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States flags and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Wednesday, September 11, through sunset on Sunday, September 14, as a mark of respect for the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and the victims of the Annunciation Catholic School shooting.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota on Thursday, September 11, 2025, in honor of the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“On September 11, thousands of innocent lives were lost in an unthinkable tragedy that profoundly changed our nation,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“On this day of remembrance, we mourn the lives lost, honor the heroism of our first responders, and reflect on the resilience of the American people.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Flags are also currently lowered in honor of the lives lost at Annunciation Catholic School and will remain at half-staff through Sunday, September 14, 2025. Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://stage.wcm.mnit.mn.gov/governor/assets/09.11.25%20Patriot%20Day_tcm1055-705164.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. He has also proclaimed September 11, 2025 as Patriot Day.</p>7053542025-09-11T19:51:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-705140" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-10T07:57:17ZGovernor Tim Walz today convened his cabinet at Pine Bend Elementary School in Inver Grove Heights to spotlight his goal to make Minnesota the best state for children and families. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today convened his cabinet at Pine Bend Elementary School in Inver Grove Heights to spotlight his goal to make Minnesota the best state for children and families. The Governor was joined by the state children’s cabinet, state agencies, and education leaders and partners to highlight Minnesota’s investments in pre-kindergarten, literacy, and universal school meals. Photos from the event are available <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7C7b8e03db669d4ec4f74808ddf093d603%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638931239919921998%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9qEMp4zBfzNPrd4GqHQh%2FWc8srWwkZBPbxaAGZqdLj8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">online</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Allowing all children the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive is not the responsibility of a single state agency, department, or policy – it should be the guiding principle of all the work that we do,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “From expanding voluntary pre-K, to providing nutritious meals, to ensuring every child can read at or above grade level, we are focused on ensuring our children can succeed. These policies and improvements in our schools reflect our commitment to our children, their families, and the future of our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Children’s Cabinet brings together commissioners and leaders from across state government to coordinate and strengthen services for Minnesota children and families. Today’s meeting focused on connecting with educators and students and learning about school-based pre-K, expanded literacy efforts, and universal meals.</p>7051402025-09-11T19:55:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-704573" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-09T17:57:17Z Governor Tim Walz today sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem urging her to restore the Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention grant, which was abruptly cancelled in July. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem urging her to restore the Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention grant, which was abruptly cancelled in July. The letter follows earlier appeals from Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson and Minnesota’s congressional delegation, including Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Representatives Angie Craig, Betty McCollum, Ilhan Omar, and Kelly Morrison.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As Minnesota grieves the lives lost and upended by the violence that struck Annunciation Church on </strong><strong>August 27</strong><strong>, we must commit to taking every possible step to prevent and catch violent individuals before they are able to carry out such destruction,” </strong>said Governor Walz.<strong> “The solutions will be comprehensive and must include serious action on gun violence. But the termination of this funding cut in half the very team that would have investigated this violent individual and has already disrupted Minnesota’s prevention work. I strongly urge Secretary Noem to reconsider the decision to cancel this funding.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The $700,000 Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention grant supported critical anti-terrorism and violence prevention efforts in Minnesota. It funded positions at the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) within the Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management team. The loss of funding forced a reallocation of resources from other projects and the cancellation of a planned training for local law enforcement that would have strengthened counterterrorism and targeted violence prevention.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In July, Minnesota Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmccollum.house.gov%2Fsites%2Fevo-subsites%2Fmccollum.house.gov%2Ffiles%2Fevo-media-document%2Ftvtp-grant-terminated.pdf&amp;data=05%7C02%7CMaren.Stewart%40state.mn.us%7Ccea3b9f685e4429b478a08ddefb11ad6%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638930266402238133%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=rwMKkn4DlD6y1eFJDic%2BEoz1Ml75KvprblUMaQgdvvM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wrote to Minnesota’s congressional delegation</a></u> warning of the implications of losing the funding used to examine individuals who engage in concerning behaviors and are on the potential pathway to violence.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor is continuing to meet with legislative leaders to discuss a potential special session on public safety and gun violence prevention.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The full text of the <u><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/09/09/file_attachments/3382607/09.09.25%20Governor%20Walz%20Urges%20Secretary%20Noem%20to%20Restore%20Public%20Safety%20Funding.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Governor’s letter</a></u> is below.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The Honorable Kristi Noem <br /></em> <em>Secretary of Homeland Security <br /></em> <em>U.S. Department of Homeland Security <br /></em> <em>3801 Nebraska Ave NW <br /></em> <em>Washington, DC 20528 </em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Dear Secretary Noem, </em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>I am writing to express my deep concern over the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to terminate Minnesota’s Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention (TVTP) grant without warning. Minnesota’s congressional delegation has already raised this issue with you, underscoring the importance of this program to the safety of our state. </em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The $700,000 TVTP grant supported critical violence prevention work at the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. It funded half of the positions on the Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management team, which is designed to examine individuals who engage in concerning behaviors that are on the potential pathway to violence. It also funded statewide training for local law enforcement. The loss of these funds has already forced those efforts to be canceled, leaving Minnesota less prepared to prevent acts of targeted violence and terrorism. </em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Tragedies like the murder of Mark and Melissa Hortman and the shooting at Annunciation School highlight the devastating cost of failing to act. You have had multiple opportunities to take action and ensure resources are in place to prevent incidents like these. The loss of the TVTP grant only increases the risk of more harm. To protect our communities and prevent future violence, I urge you to reevaluate this decision and recognize the indispensable role this program plays in public safety. </em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Sincerely, <br /></em> <em>Tim Walz <br /></em> <em>Governor of Minnesota </em></p>7045732025-09-09T15:55:03Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-704332" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-08T17:57:17ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to expand its efforts to safeguard vaccine access in Minnesota in response to federal actions restricting vaccine availability at the federal level.Walz issues executive order directing health department to continue protecting vaccine access1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued an <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F09%2F08%2Ffile_attachments%2F3381381%2FExecutive%2520Order%252025-09.pdf/1/010101992a17dd5d-ea4d3d4f-298f-49b6-be41-c9a034179a4a-000000/TKEk309Fiq5K38QdMbNf5oQtSu104ZmOxJcze4ehbyk=421" target="_blank">executive order</a> directing the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to expand its efforts to safeguard vaccine access in Minnesota in response to federal actions restricting vaccine availability at the federal level. The executive order also directs the state epidemiologist to issue a standing order for the COVID-19 vaccine, which would provide greater flexibility for health care providers and pharmacists to provide the vaccine. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine,”</span></strong> <span>said Governor Walz. <strong><span>“While the Trump Administration attempts to limit Americans’ access to preventative care, Minnesota will be guided by science and medical expertise, prioritizing the health and safety of our people.”</span></strong></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“Minnesota is in a stronger position than most states to handle the loss of federal vaccine support, thanks to years of work by MDH and our partners,<span>”</span></span></strong><span>said Minnesota Health Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham.</span><strong><span>“<span>Still, the scale of these cuts will likely lead to changes that affect Minnesotans. We don’t yet know what those changes will be, but MDH will keep a close eye on the situation, work to protect vaccine access, and stay closely connected with our public health partners.”</span></span></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>The executive order follows moves by United States Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to change recommendations to limit vaccine access; upend years of vaccine research; and throw the Centers for Disease Control leadership into chaos. </span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>The order directs state agencies to work collaboratively across the state enterprise, with independent boards, and with insurers, health care providers, and patients to support access to, and accurate information about, all available vaccines. Unlike many other states, pharmacists in Minnesota can administer influenza and COVID-19 vaccines according to the FDA license to patients three and up without a separate prescription. This process does not rely on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendations. COVID-19 vaccines are becoming available for people at clinics and pharmacies and there should be increasing availability over the next several weeks.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>The order also directs MDH to take steps to continue protecting vaccine access by issuing a standing order or protocol for the COVID-19 vaccine, and monitoring whether similar measures are needed for other routine vaccines. The standing order would expand access to the COVID vaccine despite federal limitations. MDH will also work with partner agencies to identify and remove barriers to access, while providing clear guidance to providers, insurers, and the public on vaccine safety, effectiveness, and availability. </span></p>7043322025-09-08T16:24:24Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-704184" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-05T17:57:17ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the authorization of emergency assistance for areas of Minnesota following storms and flooding that caused significant destruction earlier this summer.1055<p class="demoTitle" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> [ST. PAUL, MN] - Governor Tim Walz today announced the authorization of emergency assistance for areas of Minnesota following storms and flooding that caused significant destruction earlier this summer.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Communities across the state are still recovering from severe storms that brought destructive winds and rain in June,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“As </strong><strong>Minnesotans </strong><strong>work tirelessly to rebuild, </strong><strong>we are</strong><strong> committed to providing the resources and partnership necessary to aid in critical recovery efforts.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Heavy rainfall on June 13 caused flooding in Big Stone, Freeborn, and Kandiyohi Counties, causing significant damage to public property. Funding and public assistance will aid in rebuilding public infrastructure following the storms. The total assistance will be determined once all documentation and recovery work has been completed.</p>7041842025-09-05T21:59:53Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-703946" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-03T19:01:34ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Jacob Fischmann and Carrie Doom as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Mora in Kanabec County and Cambridge in Isanti County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F09%2F03%2Ffile_attachments%2F3376959%2FFischmann,%2520Jacob%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019910c65a77-41cf40ea-a336-47d5-8bf1-f18a308a592d-000000/ZCOj7oCsPxuMCCzRwnDLzXUZG4PZM1670gIsni7jMQQ=421" target="_blank">Jacob Fischmann</a> and <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F09%2F03%2Ffile_attachments%2F3376960%2FDoom,%2520Carrie%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019910c65a77-41cf40ea-a336-47d5-8bf1-f18a308a592d-000000/lLhGaL1w2_M8ULfn3ep4bdJ43yhflxDGLDNy3Dojmrs=421" target="_blank">Carrie Doom</a> as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Mora in Kanabec County and Cambridge in Isanti County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jacob Fischmann will be replacing the Honorable Krista K. Martin for the seat chambered in Kanabec County </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jacob Fischmann will bring deep legal expertise to Kanabec County,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “He is not only an exceptional trial advocate and attorney, but he also appreciates that behind every case lies a story that deserves to be heard.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Carrie Doom will be replacing the Honorable Amy R. Brosnahan for the seat chambered in Isanti County </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Throughout her legal career, Carrie Doom has consistently met individuals where they are and guided them through challenging times,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “Isanti County is gaining a highly qualified attorney whose legal expertise is complemented by her deep dedication to understanding and serving the community she calls home.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District encompasses Anoka, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Pine, Sherburne, Washington, and Wright counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Jacob Fischmann:</em>  <br /> Jacob Fischmann is a senior assistant attorney in the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, where he supervises a team of attorneys prosecuting felony level narcotics and property crime cases. He also served in the Complex Prosecution Unit and the Adult Prosecution Division in the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office. Fischmann was previously an assistant county attorney with the Chisago County Attorney’s Office and an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office in the Public Safety Division and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. His community involvement includes teaching criminal procedure at St. Thomas School of Law and coaching girls’ hockey in Woodbury. He earned his B.A. from St. Olaf College and his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Carrie Doom:</em><em><br /></em>Carrie Doom works at Sapientia Law Group, where she primarily practices family law. She also represents parents in child protection cases in Isanti, Pine, and Kanabec counties, as well as in Mille Lacs Band Tribal Court. Doom is an active member of the Isanti County Children’s Justice Initiative and serves as the attorney-coach for the Cambridge-Isanti Mock Trial Team. Her community involvement includes serving on the board of the Cambridge Curling Club. Doom previously served on the Anoka Ramsey Community College Foundation Board and the Cambridge Medical Center Foundation Board. She earned her B.A. from Augustana College and her J.D. from Hamline University School of Law. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019910c65a77-41cf40ea-a336-47d5-8bf1-f18a308a592d-000000/iCZEr5EsD1FPWrorJitaHWVgYJY8k-SjsvjiNPFDZy0=421">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7039462025-09-03T19:03:53Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-703779" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-02T18:00:03ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Vicki Vial Taylor. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Vicki Vial Taylor. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job-related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on September 23 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter.</strong> The commission expects to hold interviews in early October.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the First Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101990afaa79d-cec8d872-567a-45c7-a46f-2ee1ba152104-000000/C8-KibTqB3MSCAaWrlxsxXqb0VFVbO_Zc6aWtGNAvTA=420" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7037792025-09-02T18:00:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-704236" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-29T20:01:04ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Water and Soil Resources, Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, and the Young Women's Initiative. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[SAINT PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Water and Soil Resources, Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, and the Young Women's Initiative. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kevin Wilson – Cokato, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Water and Soil Resources  <br /> Elected City Official - Non-Metro  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Water and Soil Resources:</em>  <br /> The Board of Water and Soil Resources works to improve and protect Minnesota’s water and soil resources by working in partnership with local organizations and private landowners. The agency is responsible for accomplishing various land and water protection, habitat restoration, and clean water programs and projects in collaboration with local governments statewide. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Board of Water and Soil Resources can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F38/1/01010198f74796eb-e05ceea8-f0e9-4507-a1d6-a6205a8fddc0-000000/X5h-b-oq2bLxv8MsG0uF_OatO34-qAtDEzwjbtYXW6s=420" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s Website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mark Hudson – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review  <br /> Physician who is a Child Abuse Specialist Pediatrician  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Tittle – Plymouth, MN</strong>  <br /> Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review  <br /> Current Child Protection Supervisor or Director for a Tribal Child Welfare Agency  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review:</em>  <br /> The Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review helps identify systemic changes to improve child safety and well-being and recommends modifications in statute, rule, policy, and procedure. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F364/1/01010198f74796eb-e05ceea8-f0e9-4507-a1d6-a6205a8fddc0-000000/K7ZfnYV68BcNwGhRC2qkLOmFMa8WJFYeKYtwqsJH37c=420" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Liana Lingofelt – Plymouth, MN</strong>  <br /> Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board <br /> Teacher (Seven-county metropolitan area)  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nathan Wood – Barrett, MN</strong>  <br /> Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board  <br /> Principal (Alternates between Elementary/Secondary)  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board:</em>  <br /> The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board is responsible for licensing teachers and related service providers in Minnesota, setting and maintaining teacher licensure standards, enforcing the Teacher Code of Ethics, approving teacher preparation programs, and administering various grants, including the Teacher Mentorship Grant and the CUGMEC Grant. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information on the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F234/1/01010198f74796eb-e05ceea8-f0e9-4507-a1d6-a6205a8fddc0-000000/ay3-kFHB_XYRBl69-l5hMDGsDpGma9reca8H1tgewcM=420" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Samia Abdulle – New Brighton, MN</strong>  <br /> Young Women's Initiative  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nawal Abdurahman – Lakeville, MN</strong>  <br /> Young Women's Initiative  <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heritage Aluko – Minneapolis, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marwah Asif – Saint Cloud, MN</strong> <br /> Young Women's Initiative  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Keira Azefor – Shakopee, MN</strong>  <br /> Young Women's Initiative  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ja'Sirah Barber – Brooklyn City, MN</strong>  <br /> Young Women's Initiative  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Yolanda Cisneros – Granite Falls, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Celeste Conteh – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong>  <br /> Young Women's Initiative  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aisling Cox – Fergus Falls, MN</strong>  <br /> Young Women's Initiative  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ariah Crosby – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Young Women's Initiative  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Najma Darwish – White Bear Lake, MN</strong>  <br /> Young Women's Initiative  <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Miranda Del Toro – Richfield, MN</strong>  <br /> Young Women's Initiative  <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alaisha Garcia Lopez – Faribault, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lucianna Gutierrez – Minneapolis, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pang Nhia Khang – Ramsey, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Esther Lee – Edina, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Genesis Maravilla Fernandez – Bloomington, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aria Naik – Minneapolis, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Josibeth Elena Aguilera </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Azah Nde – Saint Michael, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sheridyn Runs After – Marshall, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hana Sowelam – Plymouth, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sreeja Thirukkovalur – Plymouth, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gao Sheng Yang – Isanti, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 3, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2026 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Young Women's Initiative:</em><em><br /></em>The Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota Cabinet is a partnership between the Governor’s Office, the Women’s Foundation, and the YWCA Saint Paul. The Cabinet includes young women and gender-expansive youth aged 16-24 to promote equitable systems that benefit all, grounded in the belief that when young Black, Indigenous, women of color, and people with disabilities in Minnesota thrive, families and communities thrive. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/01010198f74796eb-e05ceea8-f0e9-4507-a1d6-a6205a8fddc0-000000/hN-xp9R6fgQI8kVpU9ZgPWItM3dBzW08QR_Qx5jVEck=420" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p>7042362025-09-05T20:26:58Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-705150" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-29T17:13:14ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota on Sunday, August 31, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Le Sueur Police Department Officer Karl Haugen, who died on Monday, August 18, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota on Sunday, August 31, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Le Sueur Police Department Officer Karl Haugen, who died on Monday, August 18, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Officer Karl Haugen dedicated more than 16 years to serving communities across Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His service, leadership, and commitment are deeply appreciated by his colleagues and the many communities he served. I extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Morgan, their children Griffin, Aurora, and Teddy, and to all who knew and loved him.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Throughout his career, Officer Haugen worked in several roles serving Minnesotans, including at the St. Peter Regional Treatment Center, the Minnesota Correctional Facility–Faribault, the Henderson Police Department, and, most recently, the Le Sueur Police Department, where he served as an officer for the past 13 years. In addition to his service, Officer Haugen was a devoted husband and father who loved the outdoors, from hunting, fishing, and camping with family to riding his motorcycle and playing cornhole with his eldest son. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags. This proclamation is for the day of Officer Haugen’s interment, and is concurrent with the flags at half-staff directive in honor of the lives lost to gun violence at Annunciation Catholic School. Additional guidance on when flags will be raised will be provided at a later date.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/08.31.2025%20Karl%20O.%20Haugen%20FAHS%20Proc%20signed_tcm1055-703579.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p>7051502025-09-10T19:28:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-703529" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-28T20:01:04ZGovernor Tim Walz today ordered the deployment of state law enforcement personnel to support public safety efforts around schools and places of worship in Minneapolis. This deployment follows a request from the City of Minneapolis for additional resources following the tragic mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School and Church on August 27, 2025. The Minnesota State Patrol and Department of Natural Resources began partnering with the City of Minneapolis Thursday morning.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today ordered the deployment of state law enforcement personnel to support public safety efforts around schools and places of worship in Minneapolis. This deployment follows a request from the City of Minneapolis for additional resources following the tragic mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School and Church on August 27, 2025. The Minnesota State Patrol and Department of Natural Resources began partnering with the City of Minneapolis Thursday morning.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Students deserve to start the school year full of hope, excitement, maybe a little apprehension about what the year may bring,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “No child in America should go to school apprehensive of danger, of losing a classmate, of gunshots during prayer. We will work in close partnership with the City of Minneapolis to give residents every reassurance that their families and their children are safe. I am grateful to the State Patrol and the Department of Natural Resources for their willingness to help.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our presence is about more than patrols — it’s about letting the people of Minneapolis know they are not alone. Together with our law enforcement partners in Minneapolis, we’re committed to protecting our neighborhoods and supporting the community,”</strong> said State Patrol Col. Christina Bogojevic.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“<strong>The loss Minneapolis is experiencing right now is felt across our entire state. No one should feel unsafe in their own neighborhood, at school or in their place of worship. By coming together, local and state law enforcement are sending a clear message: The people of Minneapolis are not alone. We are here to protect the places where you live, learn, and gather,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor authorized the deployment of 20 state personnel, including 14 Minnesota State Patrol troopers and six Department of Natural Resources enforcement officers. The responders will be organized into two-person squads, with two squads assigned per precinct across five precincts in Minneapolis, with a particular focus on schools and places of worship. The troopers and enforcement officers will coordinate with the Minneapolis Police Department to assist with patrol coverage and visibility. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Department of Natural Resources stands in support of the city and people of Minneapolis in the midst of this horrific tragedy, and our conservation officers are committed to working with our fellow law enforcement partners,”</strong> said DNR Enforcement Division Director Col. Rodmen Smith.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition, the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is providing significant assistance to the Minneapolis Police Department with its investigation of the church shooting, and the BCA’s Violent Crime Enforcement Unit continues to work other violent crime investigations in the city.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our agents and crime scene personnel have been working round the clock since Wednesday morning to help provide answers about what happened,”</strong> said BCA Superintendent Drew Evans. <strong>“We will continue to support Minneapolis Police Department with this and other violent crime investigations.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State of Minnesota will continue coordinating with local government, law enforcement, and communities to ensure the safety of Minnesotans and provide additional assistance as needed.</p>7035292025-08-28T21:56:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-703385" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-27T17:13:14ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota immediately, in honor of the lives lost to gun violence at Annunciation Catholic School.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota immediately, in honor of the lives lost to gun violence at Annunciation Catholic School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is heartbroken by the senseless shooting that took place this morning,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “I’m praying for our kids and teachers whose first week of school was marred by this horrific act of violence. To the officers and first responders, the clergy and teachers providing comfort, and the hospital staff saving lives – thank you. We will get through this together.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags. Additional guidance on when flags will be raised will be provided at a later date.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F27%2Ffile_attachments%2F3369047%2F08.27.2025%2520Annunciation%2520Catholic%2520School%2520FAHS%2520signed.pdf/1/01010198ecedc2e4-3f407290-a4d7-4111-aba9-5ff2c30a1b21-000000/6wlttQTwFlJ7-77lDUkfW3GrmRvi2r7gCau1eJsmuzY=420" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>7033852025-08-27T19:25:18Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-703373" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-26T17:13:14ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Allison L. Krehbiel. This seat will be chambered in St. Peter in Nicollet County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Allison L. Krehbiel. This seat will be chambered in St. Peter in Nicollet County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F26%2Ffile_attachments%2F3367300%2FDevos,%2520Susan.JPG/1/01010198e772d05b-79ad7b69-adf2-4fcd-a181-ac5c0e99213d-000000/V3RrhiS6AQhLNNquTU3ixPQ7QAxF6URnW4fcjTWlafc=419" target="_blank">Susan DeVos:</a> </strong>Susan DeVos is an assistant county attorney in the Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office, where she represents the county in numerous areas including child protection, civil commitment, and appeals. She is a member of the Blue Earth County Family Dependency Treatment Court, Blue Earth County Child Protection Team, and Children’s Justice Initiative. DeVos was previously an associate attorney at Meagher &amp; Geer and a law clerk to the Honorable R.A. (Jim) Randall on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Her community involvement includes volunteering backstage for Mankato Ballet Company productions and as a judge for the McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F26%2Ffile_attachments%2F3367280%2FEngels,%2520John.jpg/1/01010198e772d05b-79ad7b69-adf2-4fcd-a181-ac5c0e99213d-000000/1QKk5O-WNstPbc_DM3wq1UmSJNWgC4qGyfhYEKioNX0=419" target="_blank">John Engels:</a></strong> John Engels is a solo practitioner at Engels Law Office, PLLC, where he practices in the areas of probate, real estate, estate planning, corporate and business law, civil litigation, and criminal defense. He also serves as the city attorney for eight cities. Engels previously served as an assistant county attorney in the Lincoln County Attorney’s Office. He also served more than 35 years in the Minnesota Army National Guard and the United States Army Reserve, retiring as a colonel and judge advocate. Engels’ community involvement includes serving as chair of the Lincoln County Enterprise Development Corporation, as a trustee of the Hendricks Community Hospital Association, and as a financial officer for Minnesota American Legion Post 199. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F26%2Ffile_attachments%2F3367283%2FMenning,%2520Stefanie.JPG/1/01010198e772d05b-79ad7b69-adf2-4fcd-a181-ac5c0e99213d-000000/8gE_Q1nC2z-b-4qPhLq7reJhbDd0pl6sZ4Guta_WoxA=419" target="_blank">Stefanie Menning:</a></strong> Stefanie Menning is an assistant county attorney in the Scott County Attorney’s Office, where she represents Human Services in child protection proceedings. She is a member of the First Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court and Scott County Treatment Court. Menning was previously an assistant county attorney in the Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office in the felony criminal division, an assistant city attorney in the Mankato City Attorney’s Office, and an associate attorney at Brandt Law Office, P.A. Menning’s community involvement includes serving on the Staff Support Committee at First Lutheran Church of St. Peter, serving as an investigator for the 8th District Bar Association Ethics Committee, and volunteering as a basketball coach for the St. Peter Youth Basketball Association. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010198e772d05b-79ad7b69-adf2-4fcd-a181-ac5c0e99213d-000000/ne1o3f6VxYRC4c62WC_3cXbGEIOquJPVGB2yCPkpe9Q=419" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7033732025-08-27T17:17:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-703372" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-26T17:10:22ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the 78th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener will take place in Stillwater, Minnesota on the St. Croix River on May 8-9, 2026. Each year, the Governor’s Office works with Explore Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and a Minnesota community to plan the event honoring the state’s rich tourism and fishing opportunities.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that the 78th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener will take place in Stillwater, Minnesota on the St. Croix River on May 8-9, 2026. Each year, the Governor’s Office works with Explore Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and a Minnesota community to plan the event honoring the state’s rich tourism and fishing opportunities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Stillwater is a beautiful and historic town, and I am excited to bring the Governor’s Fishing Opener to the banks of the St. Croix River,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This event provides an opportunity to celebrate what makes Minnesota special and bring Minnesotans together to experience our exceptional fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This will be the first time that Stillwater has hosted the Governor’s Fishing Opener. The city sits along the banks of the St. Croix River, a nationally designated Wild and Scenic River that shapes the region’s identity and has inspired generations of Minnesotans and visitors alike. While the river has long served as a source of recreation and natural beauty, the 2026 Governor’s Fishing Opener will be a unique opportunity to elevate fishing as a celebrated part of the community’s outdoor recreation culture.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Governor’s Fishing Opener celebrates the incredible fishing opportunities in Minnesota as well as the unique communities and outdoor experiences that make our state a top travel destination,”</strong> said Lauren Bennett McGinty, executive director of Explore Minnesota. <strong>“Stillwater offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant downtown charm, and rich history, all set against the stunning backdrop of the St. Croix River. We’re thrilled to work with local partners to showcase the area’s tourism appeal and kick off the summer season in a place that truly embodies the spirit of Minnesota hospitality and recreation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The St. Croix River offers quality fishing for a variety of species, including walleye, muskellunge, lake sturgeon, flathead and channel catfish, white bass, and smallmouth bass. The Minnesota DNR operates four public water access points along the Lower St. Croix River: the St. Croix Boomsite in Stillwater, accesses within Interstate and William O’Brien state parks, and a new access that opened in April in Oak Park Heights directly north of the St. Croix Crossing Bridge between Minnesota and Wisconsin.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is known for diverse, quality fishing opportunities, and the fishing opener is a great time to shine a spotlight on some of those opportunities,”</strong> said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“We’re really looking forward to getting outdoors in the Stillwater area to celebrate the 2026 fishing opener because the St. Croix River offers fantastic fishing for Minnesota’s beloved walleye and also for many other fish like big lake sturgeon and flathead catfish.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry, and serves as a kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Discover Stillwater is incredibly excited to welcome the 2026 Governor’s Fishing Opener to Stillwater,”</strong> said Kelly Nygaard, president/CEO of Discover Stillwater. <strong>“This event is a celebration of Minnesota’s fishing tradition, and an opportunity to introduce visitors to the charm and history that make Stillwater such a special place. We’re proud to partner with Explore Minnesota, the DNR and the state of Minnesota to highlight recreation on the St. Croix River. It’s an honor to host, and we can’t wait to showcase our river town.”</strong></p>7033722025-08-27T17:14:03Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-703370" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-25T23:53:50ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The new application deadline is 4:00 pm on September 8, 2025. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-September.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The <strong>new application deadline is 4:00 pm on September 8, 2025</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-September.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010198e207d502-8f10ec36-7e07-4155-bf22-793cc849e96f-000000/FWGcs0rG2F9mFLIOOlb7upEb5WHCIgy_BrsPh15giEo=419" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7033702025-08-27T17:14:00Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-702936" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-22T23:53:50ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice, Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Advisory Group, Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council, Minnesota Ballpark Authority, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, and the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice, Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Advisory Group, Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council, Minnesota Ballpark Authority, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, and the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Susan Estes – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice  <br /> Public Member #1  <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karen Holtmeier – Wayzata, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice  <br /> Licensed Nutritionist <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice:</em><em><br /></em>The board licenses dietitians and nutritionists, investigates violations, conducts hearings and adopts rules. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F22/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/zE1OAB0DSlH9_40vXdeE7D7GAUGhBWYFxo_dtPZTjWY=419">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Denise Specht – Shoreview, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System <br /> At-Large Member #4  <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2031</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System:</em>  <br /> As defined in <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fstatutes%2Fcite%2F136F.06/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/b2zWWnsy_phAe1RlvH7nwrUQzHQB58RcPOzM8liMJNE=419">Minnesota State Statute 136F.06</a>, the board shall possess all powers necessary to govern the state colleges and universities and all related property. Those powers shall include, but are not limited to, those enumerated in this section. The board shall prescribe conditions of admission, set tuition and fees, approve programs of study and requirements for completion of programs, approve the awarding of appropriate certificates, diplomas, and degrees, enter into contracts and other agreements, and adopt suitable policies for the institutions it governs. To the extent practicable in protecting statewide interests, the board shall provide autonomy to the campuses while holding them accountable for their decisions. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F37/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/x0TByw-OiVWa1ne-fdWL6pnM6kO9cwG_lqgZCPZga3c=419">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Reyna Monson – Waseca, MN</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Advisory Group  <br /> Member #1 - Representing The Private Business Community And Have Expertise In Integrated Information Systems  <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Advisory Group:</em> <em><br /></em>The advisory council shall assist the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information Policy Group in its duties. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Advisory Group can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F226/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/frcSe0Ellqjx5p1BuFLx0kDy-zWezBBRzxKjW9dK88c=419">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alyson Rodway – Waseca, MN</strong>  <br /> Council on LGBTQIA2S+  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans:</em>  <br /> Created by legislation in 2023, the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans works for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for Minnesota's community of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender expansive, queer, intersex, asexual, or two-spirit. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F317/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/da4litAPPSr_TRIuy3GhvS2y4Pm_dMzTWRA2QekzaXY=419">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lataya Allseits – Shoreview, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday  <br /> Member #5  <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sherron Taylor – St. Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday  <br /> Member #9  <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday:</em>  <br /> The Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday helps plan celebrations to bring the community together, reflect and build on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., celebrate the Black experience, and strengthen connections. Additional information about the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F66/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/tDqzbrTU4rcaCmXXRMcnyj3sMgo963Xz1ifgHrLn4u8=419">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lauren Ireland – Eden Prairie, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council  <br /> Public Member #3  <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council:</em>  <br /> Members, who are users of assistive technology (AT) or a family member or guardian of an AT user, provide consumer-responsive, consumer-driven advice to the state for the planning of, implementation of, and evaluation of activities carried out under the federal Assistive Technology Act grant. In addition to attending meetings, members have opportunities to provide feedback on projects and participate on committees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F85/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/BA2Kuy9_70BgR7sx3F_5WCofRKAXT3u7UGIHPZvavlo=419">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Charlene Briner – Lilydale, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Ballpark Authority  <br /> Non-Hennepin County Resident  <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Ballpark Authority:</em>  <br /> The authority is a public body created by the Legislature to oversee the design, construction, and operation of Target Field. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Ballpark Authority can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F52/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/GUaRu9sQj6uXvpvh46Y6Iaj9KBFYJhG76w6sibyDpDs=419">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ana Rivera – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs  <br /> At-Large Member #3  <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs:</em>  <br /> The council must work for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for its constituency by advising and informing the governor's office and state legislature in the legislative and policy making process.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F178/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/caipsXpMvkR3EewNwnblMvUOv5gYfnhRCXOjrVwIWPs=419">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laura Bishop – Eden Prairie, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority  <br /> Member #2  <br /> Effective: August 27, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority was established by the Legislature in 2012 to design, construct, and operate a state of the art venue for professional, college, and youth football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and hockey games; concerts, trade shows, corporate events, and a broad range of other civic, community, athletic, educational, cultural, and commercial activities. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F172/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/C46WtBzufxROK_mWJjZ2T0I_-fE6Z283f5IXESrWKl8=419">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/01010198d3400c7b-7c47c904-8ffc-4bab-ab50-0e6126d1b1a2-000000/nlYwOG1m1BKE38Ax_f0jHBmSrJNS4WdN79EWC-xB6s0=419">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>7029362025-08-22T23:56:06Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-702653" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-20T16:33:32Z Governor Tim Walz today visited the Iron Range to celebrate the new Nashwauk-Keewatin PreK-12 school and tour the site of what will be Minnesota’s first new taconite mine in nearly 50 years. Governor Walz attended a ribbon cutting for a new PreK-12 school, toured site of first new taconite mine in Minnesota in 50 years1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[NASHWAUK, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited the Iron Range to celebrate the new Nashwauk-Keewatin PreK-12 school and tour the site of what will be Minnesota’s first new taconite mine in nearly 50 years. He was joined throughout the day by union leaders, international partners, and local community members.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This project shows what’s possible when labor, industry, and communities come together to build for the future,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota has a proud history as a leader in mining, with steelworkers that are second to none. We are excited to see this progress in Nashwauk.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At Mesabi Metallics, Governor Walz toured the concentrator building, where the first line of equipment has been installed. The project represents one of the largest private investments in Minnesota history and is expected to create hundreds of union jobs on the Iron Range once fully operational.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The new Nashwauk-Keewatin PreK-12 school replaces aging buildings and brings all grade levels together under one roof. The project was funded through a combination of local, county, and state resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This school is more than a building, it’s a commitment to our kids and the future of this community,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“For years, families here have called for a modernized space for students to learn and grow. Today, we celebrate their hard work and the bright future ahead for every student who walks through these doors.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Photos from the visits will be available on the Governor’s <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F/1/01010198c952599d-71f7a4e0-fe9e-4895-8037-80236a523d0e-000000/P_pZI0if11prcKDWFnABIqRFnMnRPX-01MRvjeJgvP8=419">Flickr</a>. </strong></p>7026532025-08-20T22:13:09Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-702654" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-20T15:33:32ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Thursday, August 21, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Victoria Fire Department firefighter Laura Zumbusch-Wood, who died in the line of duty on July 27, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Thursday, August 21, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Victoria Fire Department firefighter Laura Zumbusch-Wood, who died in the line of duty on July 27, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Firefighter Laura Zumbusch-Wood dedicated her life to caring for others, as a community leader, mother, and volunteer firefighter for the City of Victoria,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her service, strength, and spirit touched the lives of many. I extend my deepest condolences to her husband, Paul, her son Zachary, her family, her fellow firefighters, and everyone who knew and loved her.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Firefighter Zumbusch-Wood faithfully served the Victoria community for 16 years as a volunteer firefighter, dedicating her life to protecting others with courage, compassion, and commitment. In addition to her fire service, she contributed to her community through her work in landscaping and design, playing a pivotal role in helping plan the City of Victoria’s new fire station.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags. The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fassets%2F08.20.2025%2520Laura%2520Zumbusch-Wood%2520FAHS._tcm1055-702239.pdf/1/01010198c8aeed25-078bc7e9-319b-4611-8d22-2fdd72c61e05-000000/wxzLjMesEGCjIGJKFMqXreabWX_acg58KOI8_WeMZUQ=419" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>7026542025-08-20T22:13:13Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-702022" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-14T16:33:32ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the authorization of emergency assistance for areas of Northwest and West Central Minnesota following severe storms that caused significant destruction earlier this summer.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] - Governor Tim Walz today announced the authorization of emergency assistance for areas of Northwest and West Central Minnesota following severe storms that caused significant destruction earlier this summer.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“<strong>Minnesota is committed to supporting communities in Northwest and West Central Minnesota as they recover from June’s storms, which brought hurricane force winds, severe flooding, and widespread damage,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“When I visited Bemidji in June with the state emergency management team, we witnessed neighbors helping neighbors, demonstrating a resilience that reflects the very best of Minnesota. We will continue to stand with them for the long recovery ahead. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the emergency responders whose tireless work and partnership have been critical to the recovery effort.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On June 21, severe storms across Northwest and West Central Minnesota damaged infrastructure, caused power outages, and downed hundreds of thousands of trees. Governor Walz visited Beltrami County in June to survey the flood damage. Photos from that visit are linked <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps:%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl=https%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.flickr.com%25252Fgp%25252Fmngov%25252FV64570H3rY%2526data=05%25257C02%25257CEmmet.Rice%252540state.mn.us%25257C731b0258b9e84d082a7d08dddb4dfeb7%25257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%25257C0%25257C0%25257C638907850236676947%25257CUnknown%25257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%25253D%25253D%25257C0%25257C%25257C%25257C%2526sdata=4n8jV0bAJ6uvtUHy%25252FfI6Tm%25252Bvp7IJ1K6xVsQYZV%25252Fid8I%25253D%2526reserved=0%2F1%2F01010198a961d2f5-18c9bdea-1896-4b9e-8505-a8777122a607-000000%2FSzt80UQVvfqr9tnn7FFuEKhHVYSWf6ZERn1DpBdHmig=418/1/01010198a9f71ffd-f5d3451b-8335-4eb6-a00c-4363c489d289-000000/o_s1e2BXRKE8xZUyd-97xFoURJdISK1w1qQZI98pxMQ=418">here</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Funding and public assistance will aid Beltrami, Cass, Clearwater, Hubbard, Mahnomen, Norman, and Todd counties, and the White Earth Band of Chippewa in rebuilding public infrastructure damaged by the storms. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Following the storms in June, Governor Walz declared a <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps:%252F%252Fmn.gov%252Fgovernor%252Fnewsroom%252Fpress-releases%252F%2523%252Fdetail%252FappId%252F1%252Fid%252F694962%2F1%2F01010198a961d2f5-18c9bdea-1896-4b9e-8505-a8777122a607-000000%2F0_6hCMll9CeSM_lWtzOtlyKDgFOuWqxS9hcvHkP8KCQ=418/1/01010198a9f71ffd-f5d3451b-8335-4eb6-a00c-4363c489d289-000000/MoO0EhlMzKQ7NS_yIGqUm0TNBcz05zNzg2NLmczZxX4=418">peacetime emergency</a></u> directing state agencies to provide emergency assistance.</p>7020222025-08-15T16:35:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-701819" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-13T19:43:11ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced $12 million for workforce development for Minnesotans. The State Drive for 5 program provides competitive grants to provide workforce training and job placement in five high growth industries: caring professions, education, manufacturing, technology and the trades.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced $12 million for workforce development for Minnesotans. The State Drive for 5 program provides competitive grants to provide workforce training and job placement in five high growth industries: caring professions, education, manufacturing, technology and the trades.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota depends on a skilled, trained, and educated workforce,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re equipping Minnesotans with the support they need to step into high-demand industries, helping employers fill critical positions, supporting families and communities, and keeping our state competitive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Drive for 5 strategically targets occupational categories that are projected to be high-growth in the years ahead and that provide jobs with family-sustaining wages for workers,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“We’re building on the program’s initial successes to benefit even more Minnesotans who need training and assistance to join the labor force in high-demand fields and to support Minnesota's economy by preparing people for in-demand careers and meeting employers’ needs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are excited about this initiative and encourage training program providers, industry associations, chambers of commerce and other business organizations to apply for this next round of Drive for 5 grant funding,”</strong> said DEED Deputy Commissioner for Workforce Development Marc Majors. <strong>“The Drive for 5 initiative has been pivotal in transitioning Minnesotans into family-sustaining-wage careers that help lead to generational wealth.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED launched Drive for 5 in 2023 to expand access to workforce training in occupational groups where there is high demand for employees and a pathway to careers with family-sustaining wages. Drive for 5 is a unique approach to two of Minnesota’s most challenging problems: employment disparities faced by Minnesotans and a labor force shortage in key fields.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Drive for 5 grant round announced today is comprised of two programs:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Industry Sector Training for partners that provide workforce development services, work-based learning opportunities, and job placement and retention. These programs prioritize transitioning participants from credentialed training to paid work-based learning opportunities, with the ultimate goal of securing employment or achieving career advancement within a related company or industry.</li> <li>Job Placement Services for partners that ensure Drive for 5 – Industry Sector Training program graduates are connected with employers that are currently hiring or anticipate near future employment opportunities in the program’s five targeted sectors.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED awarded nearly $20 million in Drive for 5 grants during the previous biennium. So far, initial grantees have enrolled approximately 800 Minnesotans in training programs. <br /> <br /> An <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdeed%2Fabout%2Fcontracts%2Fopen-rfp.jsp/1/01010198a4f4998d-870e3c80-0e75-42f1-ba0e-9214c573bb28-000000/73V902WnjLziK57KiZEhhdVYuSDAqEfsdnljLT3BKsk=418">informational webinar</a> for this grant round will take place on August 22.</p>7018192025-08-13T19:44:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-701817" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-13T17:36:15Z Governor Tim Walz today announced that Eric Taubel will serve as executive director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Taubel has been in the role in an interim capacity since January after serving as the office’s first general counsel.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Eric Taubel will serve as executive director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Taubel has been in the role in an interim capacity since January after serving as the office’s first general counsel.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Eric Taubel’s stewardship of the Office of Cannabis Management over the past eight months has ensured that the priorities that drove cannabis legalization in Minnesota are reflected in Minnesota’s emerging market,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Under his experienced leadership, I am confident that OCM and the Minnesota cannabis industry will continue to prioritize public health and safety, consumer confidence, and market integrity.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to be appointed by Governor Walz as the executive director of the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management,”</strong> said Eric Taubel. <strong>“Serving the people of Minnesota has been a privilege. I look forward to continuing to work with the dedicated and talented public servants at OCM as we launch Minnesota’s cannabis market.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Eric Taubel</em><em><br /></em>Eric Taubel is currently the interim director for the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management, where he previously served as the office’s general counsel. Taubel arrived at OCM with experience in legal work at two other state agencies and in private practice. He was the first general counsel for the Minnesota Department of Education, where he was responsible for building the agency’s Office of General Counsel from the ground up. He also has experience as an attorney in the Office of the General Counsel at the Minnesota Department of Commerce, and worked at a law firm in Minneapolis, with a practice focusing on consumer protection. Eric earned a B.A from the University of Georgia, an M.A. from the University of Virginia, and a J.D. from the University of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Office of Cannabis Management</em><em><br /></em>Established in August 2023, Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management is responsible for developing operational and regulatory systems to launch and oversee Minnesota’s regulated cannabis and intoxicating hemp markets. OCM’s mission is to foster an equitable cannabis industry that prioritizes public health and safety, consumer confidence, and market integrity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">OCM manages the state’s medical cannabis program, which has been in place since 2014 and currently serves more than 56,000 patients statewide. The office’s Division of Social Equity is responsible for engaging with community and administering grants to communities that have experienced a disproportionate, negative impact from cannabis prohibition and cannabis use.</p>7018172025-08-13T19:35:36Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-701702" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-12T17:36:15ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced appointments to the University of Minnesota Board of Regents. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced appointments to the University of Minnesota Board of Regents.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The University of Minnesota Board of Regents is gaining four accomplished, knowledgeable, and dedicated leaders,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “They will bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives, united by a deep commitment to the University’s mission. Their leadership will be critical as the Board addresses current challenges and shapes the University’s future.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F12%2Ffile_attachments%2F3353785%2FBergstrom,%2520Joel.jpg/1/010101989f4e7181-127c8f89-9954-4624-8074-126f3ca46c74-000000/rjcHBnw1u7hVSidUkTUKmZt9Z7sxP5_Q_YJLF2HyFh0=417" target="_blank">Joel Bergstrom</a> – Member at Large</em> <br /> Joel is a principal at Orion Search Group, where he leads executive searches for clients across the nonprofit, public, and private sectors. His work focuses on higher education, social services, housing, and the arts. Bergstrom previously served as vice president at CohenTaylor Executive Search Services and held development leadership roles at Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery and the Minnesota Medical Foundation. He began his career as an attorney in New York and Minnesota before transitioning to nonprofit leadership. Bergstrom is a volunteer with the Western Golf Association / Evans Scholars Foundation, where he served as National Alumni Chair and board member. He earned his J.D. from New York University School of Law and his B.A. in history from the University of Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F12%2Ffile_attachments%2F3353793%2FHeins,%2520Samuel.jpg/1/010101989f4e7181-127c8f89-9954-4624-8074-126f3ca46c74-000000/xGrqnHkWeuaUaeLh-gCYF8NFzi-1nXg9OIdBJJpqYd8=417" target="_blank">Samuel Heins</a> – Member at Large</em> <br /> Samuel is a retired U.S. Ambassador to Norway under President Obama and a longtime human rights advocate and attorney. Previously, he served as a senior partner at Heins Mills &amp; Olson, where he led securities fraud and antitrust litigation. Heins founded The Advocates for Human Rights and co-founded the Center for Victims of Torture, both internationally active NGOs. He has served on election monitoring teams in Pakistan and Ukraine, and he has held board roles with the ACLU of Minnesota, Ploughshares Fund, PEN America, and Planned Parenthood North Central States. He earned his B.A. and J.D. from the University of Minnesota and is a recipient of the University of Minnesota’s Alumni Outstanding Achievement Award. He also received the Minnesota Governor’s Award for International Human Rights Activities and the Don and Arvonne Fraser Human Rights Award. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F12%2Ffile_attachments%2F3353794%2FLuger,%2520Ellen.jpg/1/010101989f4e7181-127c8f89-9954-4624-8074-126f3ca46c74-000000/geNkOKk5e4IexWQKSXHoOewNXuyT1IiceCsL0tn0OHU=417" target="_blank">Ellen Luger</a> – Congressional District 5</em> <br /> Ellen most recently served as Minister Counselor for Agriculture at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations food agencies in Rome, where she was later appointed Acting Deputy Chief of Mission. In this role, she represented U.S. agriculture in global efforts to improve food security, including supporting CODEX and collaborating with the Rockefeller Foundation on expanding school meal programs. Prior to her government service, Luger held senior philanthropic leadership roles at The Minneapolis Foundation and General Mills. She also held extensive nonprofit board service, including Twin Cities Public Television, the Global Foodbanking Network, and Wellesley College. Luger earned her J.D. from Georgetown University and her B.A. from Wellesley College. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F12%2Ffile_attachments%2F3353795%2FMohamed,%2520Kowsar.jpg/1/010101989f4e7181-127c8f89-9954-4624-8074-126f3ca46c74-000000/R6pYQwsxrR1E16GcYIvnrxgkIf8FGye_1IGEkH-Lqg0=417" target="_blank">Kowsar Mohamed</a>– Student at Large</em>  <br /> Kowsar is the Enterprise Director of Inclusion for the State of Minnesota's Office of Inclusion and a doctoral student in Natural Resources Science and Management at the University of Minnesota. Mohamed previously served as Director of Strategic Partnerships at the Center for Economic Inclusion and as a senior project manager with the City of Saint Paul’s Department of Planning and Economic Development. She has taught urban studies as an adjunct instructor at the University of Minnesota and served on the Regent Candidate Advisory Council from 2020 to 2024. She currently sits on the City of Minneapolis' Climate Legacy Roundtable, the Full Stack Saint Paul Steering Committee, and Xcel Energy’s Environmental Justice Accountability Board. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Regents:</em>  <br /> Established in 1851 at the founding of the University of Minnesota, the Board of Regents is the University's governing board. Regents articulate a vision for the University and work to ensure that the University of Minnesota fulfills its mission of education, research, and outreach for the benefit of the people of Minnesota, the nation, and the world. </p>7017022025-08-12T17:38:08Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-701666" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-11T15:20:30ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Donna K. Dixon. This seat will be chambered in Roseau in Roseau County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Donna K. Dixon. This seat will be chambered in Roseau in Roseau County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F11%2Ffile_attachments%2F3352706%2FGrover,%2520Michael%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/010101989a4d37d8-3f4209ac-f9c3-4756-a904-5c50d0fcaac8-000000/i3DTCLvILPvFxSTMZkfO-cnZ3ZZRnC5biA3NKk_mJJA=417" target="_blank">Michael Grover</a>:</strong> Michael Grover is an assistant county attorney in the Roseau County Attorney’s Office, where he works primarily in adult criminal prosecution and with the Roseau County treatment courts and domestic violence court. He was previously an associate attorney at Anderson Law Offices, P.A., where he practiced in the areas of municipal law, family law, criminal defense, estate planning, and civil litigation. Grover’s community involvement includes serving on Roseau County’s Community Justice Coordinating Committee, Team EPIC (Encouraging Positive Impact for Change), and the Warroad Port Authority. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F11%2Ffile_attachments%2F3352707%2FNolting,%2520Katie%2520-%2520Headshot.pdf/1/010101989a4d37d8-3f4209ac-f9c3-4756-a904-5c50d0fcaac8-000000/8uEWuvrbPFM_Nnf5CrvR4kjdtLLVQCWfCukDe-b-8MQ=417" target="_blank">Katie Nolting</a>:</strong> Katie Nolting is the Bemidji city attorney, handling both criminal and civil matters on behalf of the city. She previously served as an assistant city attorney for the Bemidji City Attorney's Office and an assistant county attorney for the Beltrami County Attorney’s Office. Nolting is the president of the Beltrami County Bar Association, a member of the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information and BCA Advisory Group, and a team member of both the Beltrami County’s Domestic Violence and DWI courts. Her community involvement includes serving as an attorney coach for the Bemidji High School mock trial team, a merit badge counselor for Scouting America, and a volunteer for Beltrami County’s Heroes and Helpers program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F08%2F11%2Ffile_attachments%2F3352708%2FSchafer-LaCoursiere%2520Max%2520-%2520Headshot%2520%2528002%2529.jpg/1/010101989a4d37d8-3f4209ac-f9c3-4756-a904-5c50d0fcaac8-000000/FAByR89rWPcikqvW3_ubJblWnhb-GuaLIUMjZ6LW3uc=417" target="_blank">Max Schafer-LaCoursiere</a>:</strong> Max Schafer-LaCoursiere is an assistant public defender in the Ninth District Public Defender’s Office in Thief River Falls, where he represents clients throughout Northwestern Minnesota. He previously served as an assistant county attorney in the Pennington County Attorney’s Office and as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Tamara L. Yon in the Ninth Judicial District. Schafer-LaCoursiere is president of the Oxbow Foundation, a non-profit organization that manages 70-acres of donated forest and wetland and a community garden in Huot. He is also a volunteer for the Association of the French of the North and serves on the University of Minnesota Extension Committee in Red Lake County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101989a4d37d8-3f4209ac-f9c3-4756-a904-5c50d0fcaac8-000000/362Cp2XQKmJ8n19orXLmWYIqMx61nDikkEuEGK7DoT4=417">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>7016662025-08-12T15:23:23Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-700568" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-01T20:50:00ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee, Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council, and the Task Force on Mandatory Minimum Sentences.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee, Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council, and the Task Force on Mandatory Minimum Sentences. <br /> <br /> <strong>Eunice Adjei – Saint Cloud, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #1 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Patrice Bailey – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #2 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Stephanie Burrage – Robbinsdale, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #3 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Carl Crawford – Proctor, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #4 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Richard Howell Jr. – Blaine, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #7 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Henry Rucker – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #14 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday:</em> <br /> The Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday helps plan celebrations to bring the community together, reflect and build on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., celebrate the Black experience, and strengthen connections.  <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/66" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Ashlee Ricci – Chisago City, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Official from Chisago County <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee:</em> <br /> The Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee oversees water supply planning and implementation for metropolitan area communities. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/282" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Aaron Arvig – Lonsdale, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council <br /> Public Member #1 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>KiloMarie Granda – Morris, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council <br /> Pubic Member #2 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Max Liebl – Burnsville, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council <br /> Public Member #5 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Amber Madoll – Mahtowa, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council <br /> Public Member #6 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Tom Reed – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council <br /> Public Member #4 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Maureen Schneider – Willmar, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council <br /> Program Representative <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>David Shaw – Apple Valley, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council <br /> Center for Independent Living Representative <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Alma Silver – West Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council <br /> Public Member #7 <br /> Effective: August 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council:</em> <br /> Members, who are users of assistive technology (AT) or a family member or guardian of an AT user, provide consumer-responsive, consumer-driven advice to the state for the planning, implementation, and evaluation of activities carried out under the federal Assistive Technology Act grant. In addition to attending meetings, members have opportunities to provide feedback on projects and participate on committees.  <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council can be found on the<a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/85" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Robert Stewart – Woodbury, MN</strong> <br /> Task Force on Mandatory Minimum Sentences <br /> Person who Served a Mandatory Minimum Sentence or is Related to Someone Who Did <br /> Effective: August 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: August 16, 2026 <br /> <br /> <strong>Mark Osler – Edina, MN</strong> <br /> Task Force on Mandatory Minimum Sentences <br /> Expert on Other States' Mandatory Minimum Sentencing Laws and Practices <br /> Effective: August 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: August 16, 2026 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Task Force on Mandatory Minimum Sentences:</em> <br /> The Task Force on Mandatory Minimum Sentences is established to collect and analyze data on mandatory minimum sentences, identify the benefits and unintended consequences, review statutes and court decisions, receive input from those impacted by mandatory minimum sentences, and make recommendations to the legislature. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Task Force on Mandatory Minimum Sentences can be found on the<a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/386" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</p>7005682025-08-01T20:51:12Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-700454" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-31T18:34:03ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Eric L. Hylden. The seat will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Eric L. Hylden. The seat will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on August 21 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-September.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Sixth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010198621cd5e8-5bbe5f5b-b085-452a-b7bc-a881aa82200f-000000/jK16rNwf20cly0diuPk0_49FDZwkLX3m8wqadKDM56Y=416">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>7004542025-08-01T18:19:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-700121" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-30T18:34:03ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited a hospital in Maplewood to discuss the anticipated impacts that President Trump’s Medicaid cuts will have on health care for Minnesotans, particularly in Greater Minnesota. Wednesday marks the 60th anniversary of the signing of Medicaid and Medicare into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited a hospital in Maplewood to discuss the anticipated impacts that President Trump’s Medicaid cuts will have on health care for Minnesotans, particularly in Greater Minnesota. Wednesday marks the 60^th anniversary of the signing of Medicaid and Medicare into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. Governor Walz proclaimed July 30, 2025 as <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fassets%2F7.30.25%2520Medicaid%2520and%2520Medicare%2520Day_tcm1055-700094.pdf/1/010101985c9b6d0f-bfa6bf36-fd97-4643-8a1c-07130dd18999-000000/uaEKrgBrekwILm-6H6WvMX04oSxEqYHDuoXc6a13tt0=416">Medicaid and Medicare Day</a> in the State of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State budget officials estimate that over 140,000 Minnesotans will lose health insurance, and health care funding reductions are expected to cost the state over $1 billion in the first four years of the bill’s enactment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“For 60 years, Medicaid has helped Minnesotans live longer, healthier lives - it’s a lifeline for hospitals and clinics across our state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“President Trump is putting that lifeline at risk. Minnesota will do what we’ve always done: protect access to care, support our providers, and fight for the dignity and health of every Minnesotan - no matter their ZIP code or income. But President Trump and Republicans in Congress have made that work much more difficult.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The federal reconciliation bill includes sweeping changes to Medicaid that could:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Result in the loss of health care coverage for 140,000 Minnesotans</li> <li>Cut an estimated $1.1 billion in funding for Minnesota’s health care system</li> <li>Increase out-of-pocket costs for enrollees while straining hospitals and county government with higher administrative burdens</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A full summary of the bill's greater impact on Minnesotans can be found <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps:%252F%252Fcontent.govdelivery.com%252Fattachments%252FMNGOV%252F2025%252F07%252F30%252Ffile_attachments%252F3338441%252FImpact%252520of%252520Federal%252520Reconciliation%252520Legislation%252520on%252520Minnesota%252520v3.pdf%2F1%2F010101985bf24f10-a4c38201-5ba4-421b-a496-d5e73120a8fb-000000%2FmeHMNuNFJ4ZvCSJ28-H6gI248s-qk-n2RyN8RcbqFbs=416/1/010101985c9b6d0f-bfa6bf36-fd97-4643-8a1c-07130dd18999-000000/1lHPCqHyl28aXXfAYw9JB3T0GaoZkbbD2u7t0DSqcpY=416">here</a></u>.</p>7001212025-07-30T18:35:47Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-700050" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-30T14:26:30ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota is ranked the third-best state in the nation for health care. WalletHub ranks states based on 44 indicators including cost, access, and health outcomes. This marks the third consecutive year Minnesota has ranked among the top three states.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] - Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota is ranked the third-best state in the nation for health care. WalletHub ranks states based on 44 indicators including cost, access, and health outcomes. This marks the third consecutive year Minnesota has ranked among the top three states.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“<strong>Minnesotans deserve access to the best care in the country. That means that doctors’ visits, prescription drugs, and emergency care shouldn’t break the bank, and families should have access to the very best doctors</strong>,” said Governor Walz. “<strong>We’ve worked to lower the cost of prescription drugs, stabilize health insurance costs, and lift the burden of medical debt. Alongside our world-renowned health care institutions, we will continue working to keep Minnesota at the top of this list, while making health care more affordable and accessible.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">U.S. News and World Report today announced that 12 Minnesota hospitals have been <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.startribune.com%252F12-minnesota-hospitals-among-nations-best-as-ranked-by-us-news-and-world-report%252F601445017%26data=05%257C02%257CEmmet.Rice%2540state.mn.us%257C95bf88c001bc4f8ee47408ddcf717363%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638894808349584845%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=Zp%252BT2lc5GRr%252F2zBZHX3GNLsEtJvdSOG7fWfYhfysevg%253D%26reserved=0/1/010101985bb4b5d6-6bcd6b30-fc4d-46d7-b409-c35e434ad430-000000/jfpSeN5wMuwUGk_JO7UB8bCTUqD_d3ACPcvWgocTp4o=416">ranked among the nation’s best</a></u>. The WalletHub report noted Minnesota offers the most convenient care clinics per capita and has the eighth-lowest average monthly insurance premiums. Minnesota also ranks among the top states for life expectancy, has the eighth-best public hospital system, and maintains one of the lowest maternal mortality rates in the country. On average, Minnesotans wait just 16 minutes to be seen in an emergency room.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Earlier this year, Governor Walz signed a bipartisan state budget that increased reimbursement rates for hospital visits and mental health care. Governor Walz has worked to <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%3Fid=1055-630041/1/010101985bb4b5d6-6bcd6b30-fc4d-46d7-b409-c35e434ad430-000000/ARK5JKnmpa4c2DpYQdG2Htm0tRMqywLqto-TVslAltY=416">improve transparency</a></u> in prescription drug costs, <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%3Fid=1055-525142/1/010101985bb4b5d6-6bcd6b30-fc4d-46d7-b409-c35e434ad430-000000/evW5JZcfsukB9f_ZoNiqny_b797S1k9NLOC1op8gOxs=416">make insulin more affordable</a></u> for Minnesotans, and ease the burden of <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%3Fid=1055-627879/1/010101985bb4b5d6-6bcd6b30-fc4d-46d7-b409-c35e434ad430-000000/h_gYFGqSoQwEwtNvUvWFtA796VEPtn76UsnHr_SciOU=416">medical debt</a></u>.</p>7000502025-07-30T14:28:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-700051" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-29T20:31:25ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued two writs of special election to fill the vacancies in the State Senate formerly held by Senator Bruce Anderson and Senator Nicole Mitchell.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued two writs of special election to fill the vacancies in the State Senate formerly held by Senator Bruce Anderson and Senator Nicole Mitchell.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Special elections to fill the vacancies in Districts 29 and 47 will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. If necessary, special primary elections for nomination of candidates will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions may be filed with the Secretary of State or the county auditors of Hennepin, Meeker, or Wright Counties (for District 29) or the county auditors of Ramsey and Washington Counties (for District 47) from Wednesday, July 30, 2025, until 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A copy of the writ of special election for District 29 can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F07%2F29%2Ffile_attachments%2F3337306%2F2025%252007%252029%2520Special%2520Election%2520Writ%2520Senate%2520District%252029.pdf/1/01010198578bff7f-1b8edefd-cce5-4c32-9ac6-fce20c684829-000000/QW6Nh-MWtb0rPUogIHNcF4rnowolH0JFHDSSPt3H908=416" target="_blank">here</a>. A copy of the writ of special election for District 47 can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F07%2F29%2Ffile_attachments%2F3337308%2F2025%252007%252029%2520Special%2520Election%2520Writ%2520Senate%2520District%252047.pdf/1/01010198578bff7f-1b8edefd-cce5-4c32-9ac6-fce20c684829-000000/45qRSb0viif0VDjH8lxRZsyj83uAcIWl11Q9D5H7EYc=416" target="_blank">here</a>. </p>7000512025-07-30T14:30:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-699945" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-29T19:31:25ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued an executive order activating cyber protection assets from the Minnesota National Guard in response to a cyberattack on the city of Saint Paul.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued an <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F07%2F29%2Ffile_attachments%2F3337257%2FExecutive%2520Order%252025-08.pdf/1/01010198571293e9-d4c2c1c9-c9c4-4aa4-bb2f-88bc998b7c67-000000/u25VNtqRczLpr4_7d04H3b1s8CPHFhde34hyggMAxmA=415" target="_blank">executive order</a> activating cyber protection assets from the Minnesota National Guard in response to a cyberattack on the city of Saint Paul.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are committed to working alongside the City of Saint Paul to restore cybersecurity as quickly as possible,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “The Minnesota National Guard’s cyber forces will collaborate with city, state, and federal officials to resolve the situation and mitigate lasting impacts. Above all, we are committed to protecting the safety and security of the people of Saint Paul.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The magnitude and complexity of the cybersecurity incident have exceeded the city’s response capacity. At the city’s request, Governor Walz has authorized the deployment of cyber protection support from the Minnesota National Guard to ensure continuity of vital services and the safety and security of Saint Paul residents.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The executive order activating this support takes effect immediately.</p>6999452025-07-30T14:27:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-699916" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-28T19:31:25ZGovernor Tim Walz today held a ceremonial bill signing for the Agriculture Finance and Policy Omnibus bill. The bill strengthens Minnesota’s agricultural economy, boosts support for family farmers, and invests in local food systems. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today held a ceremonial bill signing for the Agriculture Finance and Policy Omnibus bill. The bill strengthens Minnesota’s agricultural economy, boosts support for family farmers, and invests in local food systems. To celebrate the signing, Governor Walz visited Apple Jack Orchards owned by Mary and Ray Mithun, and was joined by legislators and members of Minnesota’s agriculture industry. Photos from the event are available <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720327897181%2F/1/0101019852dbd287-77b0d21e-f083-4014-a577-d031e7b4abf6-000000/GMvOX5XnJa2mzEq4wk-U1kJk07KdUpr_5IYcJLYeV0A=415">online</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota farmers are indispensable – they drive our economy and feed families around the world. In a difficult budget year, I am proud that we put partisan politics aside to deliver this bill,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “This legislation ensures that our farmers continue to have the resources they need to thrive. From funding for emergency preparedness response to livestock protection and expansions in broadband development, this bill is a critical step forward in building a resilient future for Minnesota agriculture.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The legislation provides critical investments to support farmers and modernizes Minnesota’s agriculture systems across the state. Key provisions include:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$1.5 million increase in funding for agriculture emergencies such as Avian Influenza</li> <li>Funding for Greater Minnesota mental health outreach and farm safety initiatives</li> <li>Investments in local food systems including a Local Food Purchasing Assistance program</li> <li>Funding for the First District Dairy Association and dairy wastewater infrastructure</li> <li>Investments in Farm Down Payment Assistance and competitive grants for agricultural organizations</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Operating adjustments for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the Minnesota Board of Animal Health</p>6999162025-08-01T18:19:28Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-699707" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-25T19:31:25ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Krista K. Martin and the Honorable Amy R. Brosnahan. These seats will be chambered in Mora in Kanabec County and Cambridge in Isanti County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Krista K. Martin and the Honorable Amy R. Brosnahan. These seats will be chambered in Mora in Kanabec County and Cambridge in Isanti County. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F07%2F25%2Ffile_attachments%2F3334717%2FBovitz,%2520Jennifer%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010198430ff32b-2a64f253-010c-40c3-9005-7e71dd78f38b-000000/gWb3H_i2RMkOctb32-nXCX46x7btwpZqxdLAEmvNHfc=415" target="_blank">Jennifer Bovitz:</a> </strong>Jennifer Bovitz is a shareholder and associate general counsel at Bassford Remele, where she defends professionals in complex civil litigation and regulatory matters. She previously served as an attorney at Burke and Thomas, a managing attorney at the Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility, and a prosecutor of adult felonies in Dakota, Chisago, and Washington counties. Bovitz’s community involvement includes serving as board president of the Friends in Need Food Shelf, a mentor at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, and a member of the Washington County Community Corrections Advisory Board. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F07%2F25%2Ffile_attachments%2F3334719%2FDoom,%2520Carrie%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010198430ff32b-2a64f253-010c-40c3-9005-7e71dd78f38b-000000/HlTYIzpNtTygaEfdh3litfQL9jFEM_pQvOP1uWZ4jWE=415" target="_blank">Carrie Doom:</a> </strong>Carrie Doom works at Sapientia Law Group, where she primarily practices family law. She also represents parents in child protection cases in Isanti, Pine, and Kanabec counties, as well as in Mille Lacs Band Tribal Court. Doom is an active member of the Isanti County Children’s Justice Initiative and serves as the attorney-coach for the Cambridge-Isanti Mock Trial Team. Her community involvement includes serving on the board of the Cambridge Curling Club. Doom previously served on the Anoka Ramsey Community College Foundation Board and the Cambridge Medical Center Foundation Board. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F07%2F25%2Ffile_attachments%2F3334720%2FFischmann,%2520Jacob%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010198430ff32b-2a64f253-010c-40c3-9005-7e71dd78f38b-000000/SNMOwRxEbLaSIctxMUI13-259j-50SyGHaQZ8EAV_7Y=415" target="_blank">Jacob Fischmann:</a> </strong>Jacob Fischmann is a senior assistant attorney in the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office - Adult Prosecution Division, where he supervises a team of attorneys prosecuting felony level violent crimes.  He also served in the Complex Prosecution Unit and the Community Prosecution Division in the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office. Fischmann was previously an assistant county attorney with the Chisago County Attorney’s Office and an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office in the Public Safety Division and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. His community involvement includes teaching criminal procedure at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, serving on the board of directors of the Woodbury Area Hockey Club, and coaching girls’ hockey in Woodbury. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F07%2F25%2Ffile_attachments%2F3334721%2FSosinski,%2520Nathan%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010198430ff32b-2a64f253-010c-40c3-9005-7e71dd78f38b-000000/o9BPLUVQplgjtg0Zlv2T_XyYmXWI3dRHhsplktPLKUY=415" target="_blank">Nathan Sosinski:</a> </strong>Nathan Sosinski is the managing attorney at the Tenth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Washington County, where he represents clients in felony criminal cases. He was previously the managing attorney at the public defender’s office in Pine, Isanti, Chisago, and Kanabec counties and an assistant county attorney in Pine County. Sosinski’s community involvement includes serving as an instructor at the Minnesota Public Defender’s Office Trial School and as a member of the Washington County Community Corrections Advisory Board. He previously served as a member of the Criminal Sexual Conduct Statutory Reform Working Group, a board member for the Centennial Lakes Little League, a coach for middle school girls’ basketball and softball teams, and a judge for collegiate and high school mock trial.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F07%2F25%2Ffile_attachments%2F3334705%2FSt%2520George,%2520Stacy%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010198430ff32b-2a64f253-010c-40c3-9005-7e71dd78f38b-000000/oPaiUx6ebW4ABIEZ8pC72zyIeyrJoOCnKRD5qnv5TJI=415" target="_blank">Stacy St George:</a> </strong>Stacy St George is the assistant chief of the Criminal Division at the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she has worked extensively in criminal prosecution with a focus on violent crimes. Through her role, she assisted in the development of the first Rule 20.01 court in the First Judicial District. St George previously served as the assistant head of the Criminal Division in the Anoka County Attorney’s Office and as an assistant county attorney in Isanti County. Her community involvement includes serving on the Forest Lake Athletic Association and the Forest Lake Boys Tennis Boosters. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010198430ff32b-2a64f253-010c-40c3-9005-7e71dd78f38b-000000/WeuRGPSm4GUwilWvdMs3WI0ty0k8LMol2b0fxRvAjnk=415" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>. </p>6997072025-07-25T19:33:35Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-699374" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-23T20:47:13ZGovernor Tim Walz is extending an invitation to Canadians to visit Minnesota, reaffirming the state’s long-standing relationship with Canada. Despite Canadian travel to the U.S. facing headwinds in recent months, Minnesota continues to be a top destination for Canadian tourists.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz is extending an invitation to Canadians to visit Minnesota, reaffirming the state’s long-standing relationship with Canada. Despite Canadian travel to the U.S. facing headwinds in recent months, Minnesota continues to be a top destination for Canadian tourists.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“More than half of Minnesota’s international visitors come from Canada,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We value that connection and the many ways our cultures overlap — from hockey to fishing, and from buffalo plaid to a bold winter spirit. We want our Canadian neighbors know they’re not just welcome here — they’re encouraged to visit and continue our long friendship.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Explore Minnesota, the state’s promotion agency, is continuing its marketing outreach in Canada with ongoing advertising in Winnipeg and Thunder Bay, including broadcast and digital placements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Whether you’re looking for a relaxing lakeside getaway, a weekend of tax-free shopping, world-class hockey, or a vibrant cultural experience close to home — Minnesota offers it all,”</strong> said Lauren Bennett McGinty, Executive Director of Explore Minnesota. <strong>“It’s close, it’s comfortable, and it’s full of the kind of experiences that feel both new and familiar. If you’re a Canadian traveler looking for something special this summer — Minnesota is ready for you!”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With access to world-class outdoor recreation, festivals, and events, Minnesota is a premier tourism destination. A list of 2025 events can be found <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.exploreminnesota.com%2Fthings-to-do%2Ffestivals-events%23!grid~~~Date~1~~/1/0101019838726211-39f9a865-2b66-45fe-944d-d7453b7c892e-000000/DjdWLUe3NYjbbeRZsp9g8joCPOSr3LyjA3JhVXaIRus=415">here</a></u>.</p>6993742025-07-24T14:34:56Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-699301" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-22T15:12:17ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the retirement of Charlie Zelle, Chair of the Metropolitan Council. Zelle will depart from his position on September 10, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the retirement of Charlie Zelle, Chair of the Metropolitan Council. Zelle will depart from his position on September 10, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Chair Zelle’s years of public service have made a lasting impact on not only the Met Council but public transportation and infrastructure across Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His service has positioned the council and our state for continued success and innovation. I wish Chair Zelle all the best in his retirement, and I thank him for years of tireless work and public service.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Chair Zelle’s outstanding service as chair of the Met Council will benefit the state for years to come. His compassionate approach and genuine care fostered growth and innovation, forged partnerships, and made a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” </strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I thank Chair Zelle for his visionary leadership and wish him a wonderful retirement.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since his appointment as chair of the Metropolitan Council in 2020, Zelle has been the driving force behind achievements that have strengthened and expanded the council’s reach. Key among his accomplishments include approval of Imagine 2050, the Metropolitan Council’s deployment guide; funding and scheduling for the Green Line expansion; securing the largest investment in transit infrastructure through legislative action; and securing funding for regional park investments.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Charlie Zelle <br /></em>Charlie Zelle was appointed chair of the Metropolitan Council in January 2020. Prior to his appointment, he served as chairman of Jefferson Lines and held the position of president and CEO for more than 20 years. In 2012, he was appointed commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Transportation. In that capacity, he oversaw a multimodal state transportation agency with an annual budget of more than $4 billion.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Zelle has been recognized for his work in transportation policy as a recipient of the George Rucker Award by the Community Transportation Association in 2009 and the Ray L. Lappegaard Distinguished Service Award by Center of Transportation Studies in 2012. Born and raised in Saint Paul, Zelle received a B.A. from Bates College and an MBA from the Yale School of Management.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Plans for Interim leadership for the Metropolitan Council will be determined over the coming months. The Council is committed to maintaining operational continuity and will provide updates as decisions are finalized.</p>6993012025-07-23T15:14:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-699333" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-21T15:12:17ZGovernor Tim Walz and Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger today announced the reopening of the Stone Arch Bridge to pedestrians and bicyclists, nearly three months ahead of schedule. The bridge was partially closed in 2024 for preservation and rehabilitation work.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger today announced the reopening of the Stone Arch Bridge to pedestrians and bicyclists, nearly three months ahead of schedule. The bridge was partially closed in 2024 for preservation and rehabilitation work. Photos of the event can be accessed on <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720327685760%2F/1/010101982ea9f9db-747d7935-e24f-4d2c-885e-c454d9a33909-000000/qk1AKKyXjsDYUaGqZuW0i7ZSgiagbh1uLgjhh6ECRwk=414">flickr</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today we celebrate the hard work and collaboration of so many who finished this project months ahead of schedule,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “The Stone Arch Bridge isn’t just one of the most visited park destinations in Minnesota – it connects people, businesses, and neighborhoods. I personally can’t wait for my first run across it. Welcome back to the Stone Arch!”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We want to sincerely thank the community for its support and patience as we worked to restore this important recreational site and connection between downtown Minneapolis and the Northeast Minneapolis communities,”</strong> said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. <strong>“When we began this project in spring 2024, we anticipated it would take two years to complete due to the bridge’s condition. Reopening this historic Mississippi River crossing months ahead of schedule is a major accomplishment—with real impacts for those who walk or bike to work, local businesses that depend on foot traffic, and everyone who enjoys our riverfront spaces. This restoration extends the life of the bridge for decades, preserving its beauty, craftsmanship, and purpose for future generations.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Stone Arch Bridge, spanning the Mississippi River on the edge of downtown Minneapolis, has been partially closed since April 2024 to allow construction crews to repair and replace stone and mortar, and make other repairs as needed. Stone repair and mortar replacement will slow deterioration and improve the condition of the bridge.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The public is invited to attend a free, family-friendly event on Saturday, August 9, to celebrate the reconnection of communities on both sides of the bridge. This event hosted by MnDOT and community partners will include food trucks, live entertainment, interactive activities for all ages, and a demonstration of construction materials and historic facts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Find more information on the Stone Arch Bridge project webpage: <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dot.state.mn.us%2Fmetro%2Fprojects%2Fstonearchbridge%2Findex.html/1/010101982ea9f9db-747d7935-e24f-4d2c-885e-c454d9a33909-000000/oZy8kBmNUR2pnpgUM-bIy-wdbAgnxmYOXQcRNTv60HQ=414">mndot.gov/metro/projects/stonearchbridge</a></u>.</p>6993332025-07-24T14:37:57Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-698902" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-18T20:46:48ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced appointments to the Board of Electricity; Board of Nursing; Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training; Center for Rural Policy and Development; Explore Minnesota Tourism Council; Minnesota Board of Social Work; Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities; Minnesota State High School League; the Minnesota Zoological Board; and the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Electricity; Board of Nursing; Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training; Center for Rural Policy and Development; Explore Minnesota Tourism Council; Minnesota Board of Social Work; Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities; Minnesota State High School League; the Minnesota Zoological Board; and the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training. <br /> <br /> <strong>Jeff Peper – Oak Grove, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Electricity <br /> Master Electrician - Contractor <br /> Effective: July 23, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2025 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Electricity:</em> <br /> The Board of Electricity establishes rules, revises the National Electrical Code, provides final interpretations of the code upon submission, and adopts regulations for electrical businesses, individual licenses, and continuing education. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Electricity can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F210/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/9AJohH2ug7x3u1pxIvtnwiYD30-_hghxXvOjFvrLN3g=414" target="_blank">Secretary of State's website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Trisha Jensen – Byron, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Nursing <br /> Licensed Practical Nurse <br /> Effective: July 23, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Nursing:</em> <br /> The Board of Nursing works to protect the public’s health and safety through the regulation of nursing education, licensure, and practice. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Nursing can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F101/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/fMqFkpJ7Nz2b7XjJTxqIoR24f5Hz38Ga6gMc7CldIyY=414" target="_blank">Secretary of State's website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Michael Ceynowa – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Police Chief #2 <br /> Effective: July 23, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training:</em> <br /> The Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training licenses peace officers and part-time peace officers; establishes minimum qualifications and standards of conduct; and regulates professional peace officer education and continuing education for peace officers. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F29/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/9nmf_kAQrZNLpaZR9u1gLXuiW7gOwSlotd1DZ6HqDE8=414" target="_blank">Secretary of State's website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Christina Bowstring</strong> <br /> Center for Rural Policy and Development <br /> Rural Resident Under 5,000 Population <br /> Effective: July 23, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2031 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Center for Rural Policy and Development:</em> <br /> The Center for Rural Policy and Development identifies social and economic issues in rural Minnesota and, through alliances and partnerships, provides research and information on current issues and practical solutions for problems.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Center for Rural Policy and Development can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F43/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/K1pWvc0POYK41QasLwYR3y9j2ENoHozDasj99W22OT4=414" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Beth Fischer – Willmar, MN</strong> <br /> Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Statewide Association Representative <br /> Effective: July 23, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Joshua Peterson – Bemidji, MN</strong> <br /> Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Northwest Tourism Regional <br /> Effective: July 23, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council:</em> <br /> The Explore Minnesota Tourism Council promotes activities that support, maintain, and expand the state's domestic and international travel market to generating increased visitor expenditures, tax revenue, and employment. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F60/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/zANTWcVEb9IXd39y-NQ8yK0QoYmv5TUuWdjyF9vLkMw=414" target="_blank">Secretary of State's website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Courtney Schroeder – North Branch, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Licensed Graduate Social Worker - or - Licensed Independent Social Worker <br /> Effective: July 23, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Minnesota Board of Social Work:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Board of Social Work performs duties necessary to promote and protect public health, safety, and welfare through the licensure and regulation of persons who practice social work in this state. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Minnesota Board of Social Work can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F102/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/Ry5DE8lQFnxTCq2ql_wO0spJ--2pFstgKjG96TqvmfE=414" target="_blank">Secretary of State's website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Heather Stillwell – Two Harbors, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities <br /> State Agency Representative - Dept of Health Rep #1 <br /> Effective: July 23, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities carries out responsibilities outlined in P.L. 106-402 to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports/services to achieve increased independence, productivity, self-determination, integration, and inclusion in the community. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F109/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/4gEHCtWYNGvmOl11sLKDOO7sWxvai31aYm9Ahee2jnw=414" target="_blank">Secretary of State's website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Obie Kipper – Bloomington, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota State High School League <br /> Parent Member #2 <br /> Effective: August 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2029 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Minnesota State High School League:</em> <br /> The Minnesota State High School League supervises and regulates interscholastic athletics, and musical, dramatic, and other contests between students at Minnesota high schools. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Minnesota State High School League can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F118/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/3MVtp-Sr4lp7mfb5AmNHA-IAGcUnpqKg8GXVWljWxP8=414" target="_blank">Secretary of State's website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Kathleen Micheletti – Eagan, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Zoological Board <br /> Member - Gov Appt #7 <br /> Effective: July 23, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Minnesota Zoological Board:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Zoological Board is responsible for the supervision and control of the Minnesota Zoological Garden. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Minnesota Zoological Board can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F121/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/B2Ll_U24RRd3XVNhUaNHujHOYdpRtKDxFat9jcZZIDw=414" target="_blank">Secretary of State's Website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Jeanette Boerner – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training <br /> Chair <br /> Effective: July 23, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <em>About the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training:</em> <br /> The State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training directs the Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training which serves parents and children in the child legal welfare system. The board works with the head appellate counsel to govern the office and provide fiscal oversight. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F352/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/Exmmx4M6tbjxRATFtkTf-3QYizv_4_SZykA3SX6VwBE=414" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FPosition/1/010101981f456b80-eb28d1e6-64f0-4528-b1ef-256a6c96ebd4-000000/38O-sjvwyU76sYE9M-NR9OoSvLb760XX9CgA0x1LYvM=414" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p>6989022025-07-18T20:57:58Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-698481" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-16T15:03:44ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District.1055<p class="xxparagraph" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="xxnormaltextrun">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Allison L. Krehbiel. This seat will be chambered in St. Peter in Nicollet County.</span><span class="xxeop"> </span></p> <p class="xxparagraph" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="xxnormaltextrun">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</span><span class="xxeop"> </span></p> <p class="xxparagraph" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="xxnormaltextrun">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at </span><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="xxnormaltextrun">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</span></a><span class="xxnormaltextrun">. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on August 6 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in late August. </span><span class="xxeop"> </span></p> <p class="xxparagraph" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="xxnormaltextrun">The judges of the Fifth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at </span><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="xxnormaltextrun">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</span></a><span class="xxnormaltextrun">.</span><span class="xxeop"> </span></p> <p class="xxparagraph" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span class="xxnormaltextrun">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the </span><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="xxnormaltextrun">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</span></a><span class="xxnormaltextrun">.</span><span class="xxeop"> </span></p>6984812025-07-17T15:06:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-697260" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-15T14:05:04ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $33 million for 225 new and developing small businesses.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced $33 million for 225 new and developing small businesses. The Governor was joined by small business owners representing manufacturing, health care, hospitality, and clean technology who have been able to start or expand their businesses thanks to partnership with the state through the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Growing up in a small town, I saw how small businesses can make main streets come alive,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “Small businesses are job creators that fuel innovation and strengthen our communities. Making Minnesota the best state to live means it’s a place where entrepreneurs can put their ideas into action to support a diverse and thriving economy. With this funding, we’ll partner with hundreds of new small businesses to ensure they have the funding they need to get started.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This funding is part of the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdeed%2Fbusiness%2Ffinancing-business%2Fdeed-programs%2Fssbci%2F/1/010101980ef8fa0b-794d1b4a-46df-4d35-8746-e2952b543eb1-000000/jrWpD7PFCRcfqIFh4iKdF4VBDCK1Dc8wh2a5R2Ixt40=413">State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)</a></u>. This is the second of three rounds of funding totaling $97 million.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To date, DEED has deployed $29.5 million of SSBCI funding to help 160 small businesses in 44 cities open, innovate, and expand. The new funding is expected to reach 225 new and developing businesses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“DEED is pleased to work with the Department of the Treasury once again to support small businesses in our communities,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“99.7% of businesses in Minnesota are small businesses. They manufacture essential goods and make new breakthroughs in tech. They line our main streets and anchor our neighborhoods. Small business drives Minnesota’s economy in every corner of our state and with this initiative, we are continuing to invest in the small businesses that call Minnesota home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The $33.3 million will fund six existing SSBCI programs: </p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Automation Loan Participation Program.</strong> Low-interest loans of up to $500,000 available to manufacturing, distribution, technology, and warehousing businesses. </li> <li><strong>Growth Loan Fund.</strong> Low-interest loans of up to $400,000 available to early-stage businesses that are engaged in technological innovation in Minnesota that seek to raise equity investments. </li> <li><strong>Minnesota Loan Guarantee Program.</strong> Guarantees up to $800,000 on loans enrolled by approved lenders. </li> <li><strong>Small Business Loan Participation Program.</strong> DEED purchases $10,000 to $250,000 participations in loans made by approved non-depository Community Development Financial Institutions and nonprofit lenders. </li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED is partnering with the University of Minnesota on two venture capital funds: </p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Direct Investment Venture Capital.</strong> Venture capital investments for seed-stage and early-stage startups. </li> <li><strong>Multi-Fund Venture Capital.</strong> Fund-level venture capital investments targeting advanced manufacturing, agtech/foodtech, climate tech, life sciences, software, and technology startups.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the State to support Minnesota's economy and innovative thinkers,”</strong> said Gregg Goldman, University of Minnesota executive vice president for finance and operations. <strong>“It’s an honor to demonstrate the University of Minnesota's breadth of knowledge in early-stage businesses and technology to serve Minnesotans, and we look forward to seeing local businesses grow with this second phase of investments.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Hoyo is a small business built on sharing traditional, authentic Somali cuisine,"</strong> said Ghita Worcester, CEO of <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.hoyosambusa.com%252F%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C4b004775cf2349ed4c2c08ddc3b84b64%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638881918483105857%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=l2KFBUCwuTVoGrfVXNPGaZKu%252FNvL9AWRKXE52sW1GNA%253D%26reserved=0/1/010101980ef8fa0b-794d1b4a-46df-4d35-8746-e2952b543eb1-000000/wmwHTS9bfQu1BdgFr2x_JJ01maTJQyTspu0KW_EZ5_g=413">Hoyo Sambusa</a></u>. <strong>"Participating in the Automation Loan Participation Program allowed our small team to expand production and focus on sharing a piece of our culture with the Twin Cities while creating jobs that provide for families in our community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Interested businesses can learn more about these programs, and find out how to connect with a lending partner, on <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdeed%2Fbusiness%2Ffinancing-business%2Fdeed-programs%2Fssbci%2F/2/010101980ef8fa0b-794d1b4a-46df-4d35-8746-e2952b543eb1-000000/9DuoUlLs8VYS-JZtOHhljW0xIeyV0JgyC83ZhPKEwFA=413">DEED’s SSBCI page.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Small Business Credit Initiative</em> <br /> SSBCI was part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 and included $10 billion for state, territory and tribal business finance programs. This is the second SSBCI initiative – Minnesota received and distributed $15 million through the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information about SSBCI, visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fhome.treasury.gov%252Fpolicy-issues%252Fsmall-business-programs%252Fstate-small-business-credit-initiative-ssbci%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C4b004775cf2349ed4c2c08ddc3b84b64%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638881918483142573%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=BXbShNYawPqG5P8hSkMwLSKGYzF812YV0wuF0ExFC1E%253D%26reserved=0/1/010101980ef8fa0b-794d1b4a-46df-4d35-8746-e2952b543eb1-000000/OjTWUqSYMOQiUmRt9QiljUkiARicu6A46_RBfqt2CIQ=413">Treasury’s SSBCI page</a></u>.</p>6972602025-07-15T17:36:04Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-697047" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-12T14:05:04ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced a Minnesota Task Force 1 (MN TF1) K-9 unit is traveling to assist in search and recovery efforts following deadly flooding in central Texas. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced a Minnesota Task Force 1 (MN TF1) K-9 unit is traveling to assist in search and recovery efforts following deadly flooding in central Texas. MN TF1 is one of the state’s two urban search and rescue teams which can assist with structural collapse, heavy rescue, wide-area search, trench rescue, confined space rescue, rope rescue and advanced medical care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In the wake of unprecedented flooding, communities in Texas are dealing with heartbreaking loss and destruction,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As search and recovery missions continue, I’m incredibly grateful to our Minnesota Task Force 1 K-9 Unit for stepping up and traveling to assist our neighbors in this time of tragedy. We know their heroic work will make a difference.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MN TF1 is equipped for 24-hour operations and can work in any disaster area, including those with little or no infrastructure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At least 120 people are confirmed dead and more than 170 are missing after heavy rainfall caused the Guadalupe River to rise more than 26 feet in less than an hour on Friday, July 4.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About EMAC</em> <strong><br /></strong> EMAC is a mutual aid agreement between all 50 states. A requesting state asks for resources (people, equipment, etc.) based on their needs. Agencies in other states with those resources are able to respond to a request, but there is no obligation to participate. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management division coordinates the state’s EMAC requests.</p>6970472025-07-12T14:13:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-696993" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-11T18:31:37ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill the vacancy left by the death of Speaker Melissa Hortman. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill the vacancy left by the death of Speaker Melissa Hortman.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A special election to fill the vacancy in House District 34B in Anoka and Hennepin Counties will be held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. If necessary, a special primary election for nomination of candidates will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions may be filed with the Secretary of State or the county auditors of Anoka and Hennepin Counties from Tuesday, July 15, 2025, until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A copy of the writ of special election can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F07%2F11%2Ffile_attachments%2F3321574%2FSpecial%2520Election%2520Writ%2520House%2520District%252034B.pdf/1/01010197fa65a206-131d547c-fb59-4bba-8fd0-aa58234ad3c0-000000/bpsNQZ4EC2zihF_R_Tb9I52mAYO1gkwlFQJ0yQt_Cac=413" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>6969932025-07-11T18:32:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-696431" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-08T16:52:02ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 25-07, amending Executive Order 25-06, to authorize the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs to activate the State Soldiers Assistance Program Disaster Relief Program. This financial assistance will help veterans and their families recover from the recent severe storms impacting Beltrami County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/assets/Executive%20Order%2025-07_tcm1055-696425.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Executive Order 25-07</a>, amending Executive Order 25-06, to authorize the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) to activate the State Soldiers Assistance Program (SSAP) Disaster Relief Program. This financial assistance will help veterans and their families recover from the recent severe storms impacting Beltrami County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Beltrami County has faced incredible hardship in the wake of these storms, and we continue to stand alongside Minnesotans impacted — including our veterans and their families,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This order ensures veterans have access to the support they’ve earned as recovery continues across the region.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Order 25-07 authorizes MDVA to provide direct financial relief to veterans and their families facing unexpected hardships due to natural disasters. Assistance may include help with housing, utilities, and other essential needs, as determined by MDVA.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The order follows Governor Walz’s June 27, 2025, <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/694962">declaration of a peacetime emergency</a></u> in response to the severe weather event in Beltrami County. The Executive Council extended the emergency on June 30, 2025. Damage assessments are ongoing, and additional counties and types of assistance may be added as needed.</p>6964312025-07-08T16:53:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-696314" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-03T21:51:01ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced he will lead a trade mission to Switzerland and Germany in November of 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced he will lead a trade mission to Switzerland and Germany in November of 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The delegation will travel to major business centers Zürich, Düsseldorf, and Berlin. The mission will focus on growing the state’s exports of goods and services, showcasing Minnesota as a top destination for business investment, developing new partnership opportunities, and strengthening existing trade and diplomatic ties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Amid global disruptions caused by trade wars, Minnesota is doing all we can to strengthen the trade and investment relationships that create and protect jobs at home,"</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>"As some of the largest and most innovative economies in the world, Germany and Switzerland both offer excellent opportunities for Minnesota businesses to expand their exports. I look forward to strengthening our relationships in technology, agriculture, and education."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz will lead a delegation of representatives from businesses and organizations within Minnesota’s medical technology, cleantech, food and agriculture, and higher education sectors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Given the current political climate surrounding international trade, now is a great time to showcase Minnesota as a trustworthy business partner,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Switzerland and Germany are two large export destinations for Minnesota goods, and I look forward to promoting our state as a good investment and place to do business.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Germany and Switzerland value high quality agricultural products and we see great opportunity for Minnesota’s farmers in these markets,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. <strong>“We look forward to highlighting our thriving food and ag sectors, fostering relationships with the Germans and Swiss, and expanding markets throughout the European Union.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">While in Düsseldorf, the delegation will attend MEDICA, a medical technology and health care trade fair. The MTO MEDICA booth showcases Minnesota and Minnesota-based companies to thousands of businesses and innovators from 165 nations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2024, Germany was Minnesota’s eighth largest export market for goods, valued at $649 million. Germany is the third largest economy in the world after the United States and China, and the largest economy in Europe. The volume of trade, number of consumers, and Germany’s geographic location at the center of the European Union make it a cornerstone around which many U.S. firms seek to build their European and worldwide expansion strategies. The German market continues to be attractive in numerous U.S. export sectors, including medtech, cleantech, agriculture, and higher education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Switzerland is Minnesota’s 22nd largest export destination with exports valued at $232 million in 2024. The Swiss market is sophisticated, highly automated, quality-conscious, and competitive with a world-class infrastructure and a business-friendly legal and regulatory environment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Switzerland serves as an excellent test market for a range of goods and services and is strategically placed as a gateway to European markets. Switzerland is one of the world’s top countries for research and development, with further potential for partnerships in areas like biotech, medtech, nanotech, cleantech, and renewable energy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Trade Office at the Department of Employment and Economic Development is organizing the trade mission. <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdeed%2Fbusiness%2Fexporting%2Fabout%2Fmission.jsp/1/01010197d1e0b62f-92ba8e17-6129-40f3-a835-ef332f9105c9-000000/5NL8ZIBra7v0meiFguyD8236AFSLNFXmMrenQEVgiwo=412" target="_blank">Applications to join</a></u> the business delegation must be submitted by <strong>Friday, August 15, 2025</strong> .</p>6963142025-07-07T15:44:10Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-694975" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-01T21:51:01ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the authorization of emergency assistance for areas of St. Louis County that suffered damage caused by wildfires in May.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the authorization of emergency assistance for areas of St. Louis County that suffered damage caused by wildfires in May.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The fires that spread across Northern Minnesota earlier this year caused severe damage and major loss,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful for Minnesota’s emergency management team as they work closely with St. Louis County to assess the damage and help communities recover.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Areas of St. Louis County are receiving emergency assistance for significant damage caused by wildfires between May 11 and May 24, 2025. Funding and public assistance will aid in rebuilding public infrastructure damaged by the fires. The total assistance will be determined once all damage assessments are complete.</p>6949752025-07-02T21:53:54Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-696103" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-30T21:29:50ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced appointments to the Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review, Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee, Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board, Minnesota State Arts Board, Minnesota Zoological Board, and Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities.1055<p align="left" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review, Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee, Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board, Minnesota State Arts Board, Minnesota Zoological Board, and Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities. <br /> <br /> <strong>Nicholas Grundhauser – Cottage Grove, MN</strong> <br /> Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review <br /> Member Representing Law Enforcement <br /> Effective: July 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Butch Huston – St. Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review <br /> Physician who is a Medical Examiner <br /> Effective: July 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Lee Martie – Anoka, MN</strong> <br /> Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review <br /> County Attorney who Works on Child Protection Cases <br /> Effective: July 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Lisa Salo – Esko, MN</strong> <br /> Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review <br /> Current Child Protection Supervisor for Local Welfare Agency <br /> Effective: July 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Amanda Schonhardt – Glenwood, MN</strong> <br /> Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review <br /> Current Child Protection Supervisor for Local Welfare Agency <br /> Effective: July 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Christine Tack – Glencoe, MN</strong> <br /> Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review <br /> County or Tribal Public Health Worker <br /> Effective: July 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review:</em> <br /> The Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review looks at critical incidents attributed to child maltreatment. The purpose of the panel is to identify systemic changes to improve child safety and well-being and recommend statutory, rule, policy, and procedure changes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/364" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Elijah Daniel – Eagan, MN</strong> <br /> Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee <br /> Youth Member #6 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <strong>Jason Everson – Tracy, MN</strong> <br /> Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee <br /> Member #11 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Dora Facundo – West St. Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee <br /> Youth Member #4 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <strong>Julian Nyene – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee <br /> Youth Member #5 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee:</em> <br /> The Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee is the supervisory board for the federal Juvenile Justice Program with respect to preparation and administration of the state plan and award of grants.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> <strong>Steve Bot – St. Michael, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Official from Wright County <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <strong>Marcus Culver – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Non-Local Government Unit in Metropolitan Area Representative #2 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <strong>Gary Gray – Clear Lake, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Official from Sherburne County <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <strong>David Strub – Hugo, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Non-Local Government Unit in Metropolitan Area Representative #1 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee:</em> <br /> The Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee oversees water supply planning and implementation for metropolitan area communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/282" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Nicole Deters – Chanhassen, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board <br /> Member #12 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Avi Olitzky – St. Louis Park, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board <br /> Member #10 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Dipesh Patel – Plymouth, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board <br /> Member #11 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board is established to award grants to nonprofit corporations to fund loans to businesses owned by minority or low-income persons, women, veterans, and people with disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/94" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Mary Ann Aufderheide – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota State Arts Board <br /> Member-Congressional District 5 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Richard Cohen – St. Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota State Arts Board <br /> Member-Congressional District 4 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Minnesota State Arts Board:</em> <br /> The Minnesota State Arts Board encourages the creation, performance, and appreciation of the arts in the state. It is dedicated to making the arts available to all Minnesotans. The development of the arts is fostered through a series of grants, programs, and services which are administered by a professional staff.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota State Arts Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/117" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Jose Gabriel Acosta-Reyes – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Zoological Board <br /> Member #2 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Beth Forsythe – Edina, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Zoological Board <br /> Member #13 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Emily Nachtigal – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Zoological Board <br /> Member #4 <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Minnesota Zoological Board:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Zoological Board is responsible for supervision and control of the Minnesota Zoological Garden.</p> <p align="left" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Zoological Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/121" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Robert James Haight – Faribault, MN</strong> <br /> Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities <br /> Medical Review Subcommittee (MRS Member D) <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <strong>Hanna Miller – Perham, MN</strong> <br /> Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities <br /> Health Care Provider Member <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <strong>Paul Younge – St. Anthony Village, MN</strong> <br /> Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities <br /> Consumer Representative C <br /> Effective: July 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities:</em> <br /> The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities advises and assists the ombudsperson in developing policies, plans, and programs to benefit persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities, chemical dependence, and emotional disturbance. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/128" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Position" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p>6961032025-07-02T21:41:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-694962" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-27T20:51:09ZGovernor Tim Walz today declared a peacetime emergency and directed state agencies to provide additional assistance to support recovery efforts following severe storms that caused widespread damage to property and critical infrastructure in Beltrami County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/06/27/file_attachments/3306590/Executive%20Order%2025-06.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">declared a peacetime emergency</a> and directed state agencies to provide additional assistance to support recovery efforts following severe storms that caused widespread damage to property and critical infrastructure in Beltrami County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota will deploy every available resource to aid communities throughout Beltrami County as they recover from storms that brought hurricane-force winds, devastated infrastructure, and left thousands without power,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful for the tireless work and rapid response from emergency management officials, first responders, and community members. Together we will rebuild and heal.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The emergency order allows for continued support to emergency responders and affected communities. The Department of Public Safety’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management will continue coordinating on-site support for local government, and relevant state agencies will provide additional necessary assistance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last week, Governor Walz visited the Bemidji area to survey storm damage and meet with emergency management officials. Photos from the visit can be found <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mngov/albums/72177720327077146/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> .</p>6949622025-06-27T20:53:39Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-694955" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-27T20:10:09ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board, Council on Disability, Metropolitan Airports Commission, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training, and the Statewide Independent Living Council.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board, Council on Disability, Metropolitan Airports Commission, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training, and the Statewide Independent Living Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>King Banaian – St. Cloud, MN</strong> <br /> Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board <br /> Member (Former Republican Legislator) <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board:</em> <br /> The Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board administers programs for campaign finance disclosure for state elections, economic interest disclosure for state public officials and local officials in metropolitan governmental units, lobbyist registration and disclosure, and public subsidy of state candidates and political party committees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F41/1/01010197b3000356-0291bd68-4068-4d03-8266-55b00eb9782a-000000/6Ko8sBDWnORs_Ri-_p-GM6viz1TlXLI2LU6DbNwJaQM=411" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Addyson Moore – Red Wing, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Disability <br /> Chair <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Megan Bistodeau – Brainerd, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Disability <br /> Member #2 <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tad Dolphay – Eagan, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Disability <br /> Member #14 <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>KiloMarie Granda – Morris, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Disability <br /> Member #7 <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Addyson Moore – Red Wing, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Disability <br /> Member #11 <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mark Stafford – St. Cloud, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Disability <br /> Member #15 <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on Disability:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Council on Disability provides leadership to empower and strengthen the rights of Minnesotans with disabilities, collaborates with the public and private sectors as a policy and technical resource advisor, and advises on matters that pertain to persons with disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on Disability can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F54/1/01010197b3000356-0291bd68-4068-4d03-8266-55b00eb9782a-000000/f5xhtKw6XtI8jl4SJ1yhqmYU59s-aQsw3aefUNpbwxg=411" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pamela Deal – Anoka, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Airports Commission <br /> District E Representative <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rich Ginsberg – St. Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Airports Commission <br /> District G Representative <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>James Lawrence – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Airports Commission <br /> District C Representative <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Andrea Mokros – St. Louis Park, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Airports Commission <br /> District D Representative <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Barrett Ziemer – Hibbing, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Airports Commission <br /> Intermediate Airport Systems Representative <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Metropolitan Airports Commission:</em> <br /> The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) owns and operates Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and six reliever airports throughout the Twin Cities area. The MAC promotes air transportation locally, nationally, and internationally by developing the Twin Cities as an aviation center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Metropolitan Airports Commission can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F79/1/01010197b3000356-0291bd68-4068-4d03-8266-55b00eb9782a-000000/8LHEH3OX3Uv-_aRNcEOyZtEaoWp1GMY6uFlqXzFx0KI=411" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sydney Ellison – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Youth Member <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, also known as ServeMinnesota, provides grant funding, training, and technical assistance to nonprofits, government agencies, and schools that run AmeriCorps programs. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F105/1/01010197b3000356-0291bd68-4068-4d03-8266-55b00eb9782a-000000/8UTfuv4wMgXDvPIqiEZA1GzAnwAGB7FKax-XenINw-o=411" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>DeClara Tripp – Maplewood, MN</strong> <br /> State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training:</em> <br /> The State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training directs the Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training which serves parents and children in the child legal welfare system. The board works with the head appellate counsel to govern the office and provide fiscal oversight.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F352/1/01010197b3000356-0291bd68-4068-4d03-8266-55b00eb9782a-000000/kXqaxeAVqRenZkEtAjKNtF-CD_DlSWccRWkn9luv4yk=411" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Meghan Hanson – Monticello, MN</strong> <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Department of Employment and Economic Development, Ex-Officio Non-Voting Member – Member #20 <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>April Smith – Albert Lea, MN</strong> <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member #10 <br /> Effective: July 2, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Statewide Independent Living Council:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council (MNSILC) works collaboratively with the Centers for Independent Living to create, monitor, review, and evaluate the State Plan for Independent Living. MNSILC coordinates activities with other entities in the state that provide services similar or complementary to independent living services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Statewide Independent Living Council can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F152/1/01010197b3000356-0291bd68-4068-4d03-8266-55b00eb9782a-000000/mH-r2UTIIFWZHcHHZk9lzLs1v15zwtAQ77yhCm39SFY=411" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the Minnesota <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FPosition/1/01010197b3000356-0291bd68-4068-4d03-8266-55b00eb9782a-000000/S2Q9dUiXZD4gka-nT94hWXTVGCtaHgFf1WsO9urI7Cc=411" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p>6949552025-06-27T20:11:23Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-694697" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-25T19:36:35ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Jenny Starr, who serves as the chief administrative law judge at the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), will conclude her six-year term of service on June 30, 2025. The Governor has appointed Tim O’Malley as temporary chief judge, who will serve until a permanent chief judge is appointed.Governor Walz announces the appointment of Tim O’Malley as the Temporary Chief Administrative Law Judge at the Office of Administrative Hearings1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Jenny Starr, who serves as the chief administrative law judge at the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), will conclude her six-year term of service on June 30, 2025. The Governor has appointed <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F06%2F25%2Ffile_attachments%2F3303165%2FO%2527Malley%2520Headshot.JPG/1/01010197a84055a0-f01c41fe-a7a0-463b-a914-6f5b78192da5-000000/gWTypUlUkx-PlZI-XImxtoZc8hGL2sqmcgRgbNjVp34=411" target="_blank">Tim O’Malley</a> as temporary chief judge, who will serve until a permanent chief judge is appointed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thank you to Chief Judge Starr for her service to the State of Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “Your commitment has made a lasting impact on our community, and we are truly grateful for your service. We wish you continued success in all your future endeavors.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It has been an honor to serve as chief judge at the Office of Administrative Hearings,”</strong> said Judge Starr. <strong>“I’m proud of what has been accomplished under my tenure, and how we have consistently brought our values of respect, neutrality, trust, understanding, and helpfulness to every part of our work.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Tim O’Malley brings a deep familiarity and distinguished legal career to this position,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“He consistently leads with humility, wisdom, and a deep sense of responsibility, which is why I am confident he will do an exceptional job leading OAH during this period of transition.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored that Governor Walz has asked me to serve and am thrilled to return to OAH on an interim basis until a new chief is appointed</strong>,” said Tim O’Malley. <strong>“Together with the judges, attorneys, and staff, we will continue to fulfill OAH’s mission by providing fair, timely, and impartial services to ensure the wellbeing of all Minnesotans.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Tim O’Malley:</em>   <br /> Tim O’Malley brings a distinguished career in law, law enforcement, and public service to the bench. Appointed director of ministerial standards and safe environment for the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis in 2014, he led nationally recognized reforms in child protection and clergy accountability. In 2023, he transitioned to a part-time position serving as an advisor to the archbishop. Before this role, O’Malley served as deputy chief judge at the Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings and as superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. His wide-ranging legal experience includes private practice and significant law enforcement roles at the city, state, and federal levels, for which he has been recognized for his integrity, adaptability, and commitment to justice. O’Malley received his B.A. from St. Mary’s College, a J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School, and a Masters of Management and Administration from Metropolitan State University.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Office of Administrative Hearings</em>: <br /> The Office of Administrative Hearings is an administrative court that holds fair and impartial hearings in contested cases involving challenges to government action or workers’ compensation disputes. The office also exercises general supervision over state agency rulemaking. The chief judge is responsible for appointing other administrative law judges and compensation judges as necessary to fulfill the duties of the office.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010197a84055a0-f01c41fe-a7a0-463b-a914-6f5b78192da5-000000/3uJ7W_LvFp9Es_30PwgjyJeTAJwbtBS8MAuG7-ODvtg=411">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6946972025-06-25T19:44:02Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-694584" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-24T23:51:46ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education, Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans, Metropolitan Council, and the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education, Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans, Metropolitan Council, and the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind. <br /> <br /> <strong>Cassandra Bautista – Eagan, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Public Member #2 <br /> Effective: June 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Tad Farrell – Floodwood, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Elected City Official <br /> Effective: June 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Nigel Perrote – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Public Member #4 <br /> Effective: June 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <strong>Shelly Schaefer – Apple Valley, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> College Administrator <br /> Effective: June 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training:</em> <br /> The Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training licenses peace officers, establishes minimum qualifications and standards of conduct, and regulates professional peace officer education and continuing education. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F29/1/01010197a3ffd943-9cb40c5d-4008-4f5f-bc47-6ee9db651c3f-000000/VU_4_-wy8F3wCL4GSiTinv8qcrcDemffZoNtYaUIRns=411">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Samsoche Sampson – Grand Rapids, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member #8 <br /> Effective: June 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education:</em> <br /> The Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education has the powers necessary for the care, management, and control of the Perpich Center for Arts Education. The board is composed of 16 members, including the commissioner of education or a designee. The remaining 15 members are appointed by the Governor, including at least one member from each congressional district. A member may not serve more than two consecutive terms. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F36/1/01010197a3ffd943-9cb40c5d-4008-4f5f-bc47-6ee9db651c3f-000000/INfegYtbZol7jTCyrDwhzRHFgJlTWuW4FgUIuphxVlA=411">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Shayna Karuman – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans <br /> Member #5 <br /> Effective: June 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <strong>Eh Tah Khu – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans <br /> Member #3 <br /> Effective: June 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <strong>Poh Lin Khoo – Woodbury, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans <br /> Chinese Ancestry Group Representative <br /> Effective: June 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <strong>Karn Tintani – Richfield, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans <br /> Member #1 <br /> Effective: June 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans:</em> <br /> The Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans work for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for its constituency. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F176/1/01010197a3ffd943-9cb40c5d-4008-4f5f-bc47-6ee9db651c3f-000000/BCQdA6GyZT6rL6_xKS0RbaC3CobX1Tc1E7Il4dKfcds=411">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Mark Jenkins – Maplewood, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Council <br /> District 12 Representative <br /> Effective: July 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <strong>Victor Obisakin – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Metropolitan Council <br /> District 15 Representative <br /> Effective: July 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> <br /> <em>About the Metropolitan Council:</em> <br /> The Metropolitan Council is a state-funded regional planning agency that serves the Twin Cities' seven-county metropolitan area. The council's mission is to work with local communities to guide growth and develop a comprehensive regional planning framework that focuses on transportation, wastewater, housing, parks, and aviation systems. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Metropolitan Council can be found on the Secretary of State’s website. <br /> <br /> <strong>Steven Sawczyn – Richfield, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind <br /> Rep Advocacy Org #1 <br /> Effective: June 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> <br /> <em>About the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind:</em> <br /> The State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind advises the commissioner of Employment and Economic Development about programs of State Services for the Blind and performs other functions as provided in state and federal statute. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Statewide Rehabilitation Council for the Blind can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F151/1/01010197a3ffd943-9cb40c5d-4008-4f5f-bc47-6ee9db651c3f-000000/cBC7wpecBIGdf7AAHqzsxeesEIqA9qpl39cKPpzg75w=411">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p>6945842025-06-25T19:52:30Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-694552" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-24T19:51:46ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Meriel Lester as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. Lester will be replacing the Honorable Leonard A. Weiler and will be chambered in Little Falls in Morrison County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F06%2F24%2Ffile_attachments%2F3302029%2FLester,%2520Meriel%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010197a3049110-2090732a-e4ed-4ba7-bc8a-8568ed4133f1-000000/m6oODYu6JjJl8u9ttyOP0bhvQIB2K3t0vFMB0LTERtg=410" target="_blank">Meriel Lester</a> as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. Lester will be replacing the Honorable Leonard A. Weiler and will be chambered in Little Falls in Morrison County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to appoint Meriel Lester,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her ability to see the complexity of the human experience makes me confident that she will use her role to provide fair and impartial justice to the people of Morrison County.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District encompasses Becker County, Benton County, Clay County, Douglas County, Mille Lacs County, Morrison County, Otter Tail County, Stearns County, Todd County, and Wadena County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Meriel Lester is an assistant chief in the Criminal Division of the Stearns County Attorney’s Office, where she has worked extensively in criminal prosecution with a focus on intimate partner violence and other personal crimes. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Stearns County Attorney’s Office. Lester assisted in the development of the Stearns County Domestic Violence Court and currently serves as the designated prosecutor for the Central Minnesota Human Trafficking Task Force. Her community involvement includes serving as a youth hockey team manager and as vice president of both the Sartell Sauk Rapids Lacrosse Association and Sartell Sapphire Gymnastics. She received her B.A. from St. Cloud State University and her J.D. from the University of St. Thomas School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010197a3049110-2090732a-e4ed-4ba7-bc8a-8568ed4133f1-000000/s3rnBWurC_HEFviJCcljD6Cv5jogs_rxUp4HsQ1rSDY=410" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6945522025-06-25T13:48:12Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-694507" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-24T19:50:01ZGovernor Tim Walz announced that Melissa and Mark Hortman will lie in State on Friday, June 27, 2025. They will be joined by their Golden Retriever Gilbert. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] –<span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span>Governor Tim Walz today announced that Melissa and Mark Hortman will lie in State on Friday, June 27, 2025. They will be joined by their Golden Retriever Gilbert. Hortman will be the first woman and one of fewer than 20 Minnesotans to lie in state in the Capitol. The Capitol rotunda will be available for the public to pay their respects from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A private funeral will take place on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 10:30 AM. Space will be limited. A LiveU feed and photos will be available, and a livestream will be available on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.youtube.com%252F%2540MNDPS%26data=05%257C02%257CEmmet.Rice%2540state.mn.us%257C7b94323f90ea4ec022f708ddb2b85843%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638863227004918420%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=3WKUEbO1QKGw%252FIPkhTahhcgSXkZnluSzunG2hS84olc%253D%26reserved=0/1/01010197a1623681-fb857903-a69e-4fbd-90d7-58c53701f01b-000000/b8JBWUfdA-8eLX5IMsLcRA04Dos7g1pnQzf-_Qn0JOA=410">YouTube channel</a></u>. Please reach out to <u><a href="mailto:claire.lancaster@state.mn.us" target="_blank">claire.lancaster@state.mn.us</a></u> to receive additional details as they are available.</p>6945072025-06-24T19:50:36Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-694156" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-19T04:30:57ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Donna K. Dixon. This seat will be chambered in Roseau in Roseau County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">[ST. PAUL, MN] – </span>The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on July 14 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter.</strong> The commission expects to hold interviews in early August. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Ninth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fappointments%2Fjudicialappointments%2Fjudicialnews.jsp/1/0101019784c5f58e-3d37e2c2-b375-44a3-9f7b-8cf0f5fe7230-000000/E5-bOf6qCSQsSd77MoI_Zwede_pfxKETopDxjmVxt7Q=410">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6941562025-06-27T15:30:07Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-693662" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-16T04:30:57ZGovernor Tim Walz today released the following statement on the apprehension of Vance Boelter following the assassination of Melissa and Mark Hortman and the attempted assassination of John and Yvette Hoffman.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released the following statement on the apprehension of Vance Boelter following the assassination of Melissa and Mark Hortman and the attempted assassination of John and Yvette Hoffman.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“After a two-day manhunt in which hundreds of law enforcement officials left their families to run into danger and deliver justice for Melissa and Mark Hortman, Vance Boelter has been apprehended.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Boelter’s unthinkable actions ended the life of someone who shaped the core of who we are as a state. Someone who was beloved by colleagues on both sides of the aisle. Someone who sacrificed everything for public service.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a country we cannot become numb to this violence. We are a deeply divided nation. That has become even more clear over the last two days. The way we move forward and solve the problems facing our nation is not through hate. It is not through violence. It is through humility, and grace, and civility.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“To Melissa and Mark’s family: I cannot fathom your pain, your grief. Let us take solace in their memory, in Melissa’s legacy of selfless, pragmatic, gentle public service. The state of Minnesota grieves with you.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“To John and Yvette: we’re excited to see you at the Capitol, and the bravery you and your daughter Hope showed saved countless lives and will not be forgotten.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“To our law enforcement officers: thank you for your courage, your service, and your professionalism. You have saved lives.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As we heal, we will not let fear win. We must now move forward in Melissa’s honor with understanding, service, and above all, a sense of one other’s humanity.”</strong></p>6936622025-06-20T15:20:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-693643" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-14T21:37:49ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed into law the remaining bills that make up the state’s two-year state budget. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed into law the remaining bills that make up the state’s two-year state budget. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=sf3%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/59u2VsSDAkB3LAeFCS_gWNS3DR_68Prhk22dV5JFSAI=409" target="_blank">Chapter 1, Senate File 3</a>: The Environment and Natural Resources Appropriations Omnibus Bill funds the Department of Natural Resources, the Pollution Control Agency, the Board of Water and Soil Resources, the Minnesota Zoo, and other entities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=hf1%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/BVdSAdmAOhSmi_LIRujhHvvxyUBbOYs7NAMhh72cLNk=409" target="_blank">Chapter 2, House File 1</a>: Modifies MinnesotaCare for Undocumented Adults.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=hf2%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/we6Q4Q4fOAbLJRnzCgW3UzlUSL7VqpZ9XwfmlM3SFQE=409" target="_blank">Chapter 3, House File 2</a>: The Omnibus Health and Human Services Bill, which also includes provisions covering Children, Youth, and Families, contains support for Emergency Medical Services, food security, and several programs designed to increase reimbursements for mental health providers and hospital care. The bill also includes policy and budget provisions covering fraud prevention, telehealth, security at child care centers, newborn screenings, child welfare IT system, homelessness prevention, and opioid education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=hf4%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/215uWIHlEFMIBbNpdGvA5sB7jXRyuty4BoRHOZHikjs=409" target="_blank">Chapter 4, House File 4</a>: The Commerce and Consumer Protection Policy and Appropriations Bill funds the Department of Commerce and Office of Cannabis Management and includes an extension and modification of the state’s reinsurance program. The bill also makes several changes to the state’s laws governing insurance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=sf1%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/pHsHw0WceusJYLRcH2BdJf04KWmeZO-d1P_P324-j9U=409" target="_blank">Chapter 5, Senate File 1</a>: The Higher Education Policy and Appropriations Omnibus Bill invests in Minnesota’s higher education system by funding initiatives such as the State Grant Program, Fostering Independence Grants, and Postsecondary Child Care Grants—among other efforts that promote affordability, access, and student success. The bill also includes policy reforms that strengthen student protections.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=sf17%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/FZOaWv6x1FJIN09grUndtW30-8n6glBpzMPDjAf6le8=409" target="_blank">Chapter 6, Senate File 17</a>: The Jobs, Labor, and Economic Development Policy and Appropriations Omnibus Bill invests in Minnesota’s workforce and economic future by funding teacher apprenticeships, public service career pathways, and expanded support for youth and individuals with disabilities—among other programs aimed at strengthening the state’s workforce. The bill also includes policy reforms that enhance labor standards, modernize workplace protections, and support economic growth across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=sf2%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/WEZ7Du9snerKsRiV5WI2mZQGPNHysqZllUmriTUgCIc=409" target="_blank">Chapter 7, Senate File 2</a>: The Omnibus Energy, Utilities, Environment, and Climate Policy and appropriations bill includes funding for the Public Utilities Commission and the Commerce Department’s Division of Energy Resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=hf14%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/mG4cf-odVjnPMD7cJo5ilY3zFwA7l8pnh35_n_C-jKw=409" target="_blank">Chapter 8, House File 14</a>: The Transportation Finance and Policy Omnibus Bill establishes funding for the Department of Transportation, Metropolitan Council, and transportation activities of the Department of Public Safety. The legislation provides funding for a central State Patrol Headquarters, state road construction, and suicide prevention measures for the Washington Avenue Bridge. It also establishes the Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic Memorial Bridge in Minneapolis as well as the Elmstrand, Finseth, Ruge Heroes Bridge in Burnsville.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=hf3%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/4GfByFo5yCGTzzJOnoMJYULe3kFvtWXTLNPQxXEhFik=409" target="_blank">Chapter 9, House File 3</a>: The Human Services Appropriations Bill curbs spending growth in Medical Assistance disability waivers and nursing homes . The bill also invests in building capacity for forensic mental health beds to reduce the need for jails and hospitals to hold patients, as well as increased funding for anti-fraud efforts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=hf5%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/VQ_RmwX6k1-Nsiy6ZaEpLHbrC2WjXYJqI3R3VjtMYDE=409" target="_blank">Chapter 10, House File 5</a>: The Education Policy and Appropriations Omnibus Bill protects the investments made in the 2023 and 2024 legislative sessions and funds education programs. The bill also makes targeted reductions that address long-term budget challenges.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=sf9%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/7t5D63uiJ4dgDlyJosDnSEM5bRub2OTm2Hcyza1k32Q=409" target="_blank">Chapter 11, Senate File 9</a>: Legislative Corrections Bill.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=hf16%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/LCHSUpgBDBVSlsrw70qYciipqru2z4s4n2gds7m3HW0=409" target="_blank">Chapter 12, House File 16</a>: The Data Center Regulatory Bill creates environmental and energy requirements for data centers and modifies sales and use tax exemptions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=hf9%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/FSBPY4Kje1UyaAGKW0GwAFGhspD_BB_Fq9y5KvWikYQ=409" target="_blank">Chapter 13, House File 9</a><strong>:</strong> The Tax Finance and Policy Bill makes changes to the rate and distribution of the cannabis gross receipts tax, eliminates a tax exemption for electricity use by data centers, and makes the Research &amp; Development Tax Credit partially refundable.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=hf17%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/C3R1wWDaThPI40WJuB0Kmpu5-_Db69gdxLDVca6DGa4=409" target="_blank">Chapter 14, House File 17</a>: The Capital Investment Cash Bill includes $10.5 million in investments in public safety, public housing, economic development, and various other projects.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=hf18%26ssn=1%26y=2025/1/01010197703edb28-34699417-e555-487c-94e5-465a91472055-000000/DXDhmqfSTrgcJ9yIAt6CGTOBjrD_MtF9RFnhcoNPhxA=409" target="_blank">Chapter 15, House File 18</a>: The $700 million bonding bill includes $215 million for state asset preservation, $211 million for swater programs, $80 million for roads and bridges, and $29 million for housing. It also includes $67 million for the new BCA Regional Office and Laboratory in Mankato, $55 million for a new DCT Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center, and $7.4 million for programming and support space at DOC Lino Lakes.</p>6936432025-06-14T21:39:09Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-693641" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-14T20:04:51ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota immediately, in honor and remembrance of House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota immediately, in honor and remembrance of House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today Minnesota lost a great leader. A formidable public servant and a fixture of the state Capitol, Melissa Hortman woke up every day determined to make our state a better place,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She served the people of Minnesota with grace, compassion, and tirelessness. Minnesota’s thoughts are with her loved ones.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F06%2F14%2Ffile_attachments%2F3293524%2F06.14.25%2520Melissa%2520Hortman%2520FAHS.pdf/1/01010197700a0285-cfb545e3-e07b-4132-95f4-f5ae5aecabec-000000/MsjqdTF-pLvuRjhUIWdgFQbVGeUCHCAUxg4sc5NbuO4=409" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>6936412025-06-14T20:06:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-693638" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-14T16:48:49ZGovernor Tim Walz today released the following statement following violence targeted at democratic lawmakers and the assassination of House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released the following statement following violence targeted at democratic lawmakers and the assassination of House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today Minnesota lost a great leader, and I lost a friend. A formidable public servant and a fixture of the state Capitol, Melissa Hortman woke up every day determined to make our state a better place. She served the people of Minnesota with grace, compassion, and tirelessness. Minnesota’s thoughts are with her loved ones, and my prayers are with Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, who were shot and wounded and are being treated.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are not a country that settles our differences at gunpoint. We have demonstrated again and again in our state that it is possible to peacefully disagree, that our state is strengthened by civil public debate. We must stand united against all forms of violence – and I call on everyone to join me in that commitment.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“To the responding officers, thank you for your bravery and your swift action. A state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension investigation is underway, and we will spare no resource in bringing those responsible to justice. We will not let fear win.”</strong></p>6936382025-06-14T16:52:23Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-693634" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-13T21:36:43ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education, Board of Water and Soil Resources, Center for Rural Policy and Development, Home Care Orientation Trust, and the State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education, Board of Water and Soil Resources, Center for Rural Policy and Development, Home Care Orientation Trust, and the State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense. <br /> <br /> <strong>Emma Orfield-Johnson – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member #10 <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Yolonde Adams-Lee <br /> <br /> <strong>Nikki McComb – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member #15 <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Julie Workman <br /> <br /> <strong>Deborah Moen – Cokato, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member #12 <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Molly Chase <br /> <br /> <strong>Becky Melville – Apple Valley, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member #2 <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Linda Brobeck <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education:</em> <br /> The Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education cares for, manages, and controls the Perpich Center for Arts Education. <br /> <br /> Additional information can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F36/1/010101976b0e50fb-7b4105dc-cb07-4845-b146-039a38c85f96-000000/R6-9XC9RP-MEKzWMtF0lm5RP53OnL16qWaEL7pvMM84=409" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Mark Zabel – Victoria, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Water and Soil Resources <br /> Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor #3 <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Water and Soil Resources:</em> <br /> The Board of Water and Soil Resources oversees and coordinates the water and soil resources management activities of local units of government through approval of local plans, administration of state grants, cost-sharing contracts, performance evaluation, and administrative appeals and hearings. The board’s mission is to improve and protect Minnesota’s water and soil resources by working in partnership with local organizations and private landowners.  <br /> <br /> Additional information can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F38/1/010101976b0e50fb-7b4105dc-cb07-4845-b146-039a38c85f96-000000/5Ojlvw_N4s4Ouu89UzDj6pOpo_cxiA_Zv0FxratyqKY=409" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Maryse Birr – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Center for Rural Policy and Development <br /> Private Foundation Rep #2 <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Anna Boroff <br /> <br /> <strong>Martha Castanon – Moorhead, MN</strong> <br /> Center for Rural Policy and Development <br /> Private Foundation Rep #3 <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2031 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Hahn Chang – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Center for Rural Policy and Development <br /> Business Rep #2 – Retail or Service <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2031 <br /> Replacing: Jennifer Cady <br /> <br /> <strong>Briana Mumme – Franklin, MN</strong> <br /> Center for Rural Policy and Development <br /> Regional Initiative Organization <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2031 <br /> Replacing: Christina Bowstring <br /> <br /> <strong>Bradford Pieper – Brainerd, MN</strong> <br /> Center for Rural Policy and Development <br /> Business Rep #3 – Rural Manufacturing <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2031 <br /> Replacing: Dave Ladd <br /> <br /> <strong>Tim Velde – Granite Falls, MN</strong> <br /> Center for Rural Policy and Development <br /> Farmers Union Rep <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2032 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the Center for Rural Policy and Development:</em> <br /> The Center for Rural Policy and Development identifies social and economic issues in rural Minnesota and, through alliances and partnerships, provides research and information on current issues and practical solutions for problems. <br /> <br /> Additional information can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F43/1/010101976b0e50fb-7b4105dc-cb07-4845-b146-039a38c85f96-000000/pn6XmkDoggLlrkU1b3w-VasRies8ljs3msCmqeF2Zpw=409" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Alexandra Bartolic – Little Canada, MN</strong> <br /> Home Care Orientation Trust <br /> Trustee #1 – State Appointed <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Charles Johnson – Bloomington, MN</strong> <br /> Home Care Orientation Trust <br /> Trustee #2 – State Appointed <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Alexandra Kotze – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Home Care Orientation Trust <br /> Trustee #3 – State Appointed <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the Home Care Orientation Trust:</em> <br /> The Home Care Orientation Trust is a fund that provides training to individual providers of direct support services. <br /> <br /> Additional information can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F383/1/010101976b0e50fb-7b4105dc-cb07-4845-b146-039a38c85f96-000000/2kQvisn_k6L3o8Ic67gfAk7moUvTz2f6fVAB3m5AI_o=409" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Prince Corbett – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense <br /> Public Member #1 <br /> Effective: June 18, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Board of Public Defense approves and recommends a budget to the Legislature, and establishes procedures for distribution of state funding for the board, the Office of State Public Defender, the judicial district public defenders, and the public defense corporations. The board also appoints the State Public Defender and all Chief Public Defenders of Judicial Districts. <br /> <br /> Additional information can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F148/1/010101976b0e50fb-7b4105dc-cb07-4845-b146-039a38c85f96-000000/hV6Acur_f90UU8m91o8ZbStsm0Vjh0tMhzAqc6PprHg=409" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p>6936342025-06-13T21:38:20Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-693632" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-11T17:32:45ZThe Governor's Office today announced four vacancies for the University of Minnesota Board of Regents. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's Office today announced four vacancies for the University of Minnesota Board of Regents. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The University of Minnesota Board of Regents is the university's governing board and was established in 1851. Regents articulate a vision for the university and work to ensure the University of Minnesota fulfills its mission of education, research, and outreach for the benefit of the people of Minnesota, the nation, and the world. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Interested and eligible applicants must submit application materials via the Secretary of State’s <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F385/1/0101019760bb13f2-02622184-cb7c-4279-950a-4f121f2c3c34-000000/nkVQUOagiZRUOSmVTRd2tyYoEzcchI2clLP1X_Q0--s=409" target="_blank">website</a></u> by July 2.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For questions, applicants may contact <u><a href="mailto:Gov.Appointments@state.mn.us">Gov.Appointments@state.mn.us</a></u> for further information about the application process or to request reasonable accommodations.</p>6936322025-06-13T21:34:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-693080" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-10T17:32:45ZGovernor Tim Walz today released the following statement responding to the 2025 legislative session.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released the following statement responding to the 2025 legislative session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Against the backdrop of partisan disfunction in Washington, Minnesota is proving that we can still come together and get things done for the people we serve,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With the most closely divided legislature in the country, we passed the largest reduction in state spending in state history and protected the things that make Minnesota the best state in the country to raise a child: universal school meals, paid family and medical leave, tax cuts for seniors, and investments in child care and infrastructure. I applaud the legislators who worked late into the night to get this done and I look forward to signing this budget into law.”</strong></p>6930802025-06-10T17:33:58Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-692793" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-06T20:39:54ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, Board of Water and Soil Resources, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, Minnesota Board of Social Work, and the Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, Board of Water and Soil Resources, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, Minnesota Board of Social Work, and the Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board. <br /> <br /> <strong>Rennato Alarcon – Maple Grove, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System <br /> Student - State University <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Idman Ibrahim <br /> <br /> <strong>William Tully – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System <br /> Student - Technical College <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Emily Viergutz <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System:</em> <br /> The Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System governs state colleges and universities, including setting tuition and fees, approving programs of study, approving awarding certificates and diplomas, and adopting policies. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F37/1/0101019746e5a643-5b8d69f7-65d4-4b17-a6ae-b37e7a19dc31-000000/UpsAhFlVEFbiEOgwUrZmrw9lUmygaudHjU6Aeucgk_0=408" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Todd Holman – Saint Cloud, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Water and Soil Resources <br /> Citizen Member #3 <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Ron Staples – Morris, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Water and Soil Resources <br /> County Commissioner #2 <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Water and Soil Resources:</em> <br /> The Board of Water and Soil Resources oversees and coordinates the water and soil resources management activities of local units of government through approval of local plans, administration of state grants, cost-sharing contracts, performance evaluation, and administrative appeals and hearings. The board’s mission is to improve and protect Minnesota’s water and soil resources by working in partnership with local organizations and private landowners.  <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Water and Soil Resources can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F38/1/0101019746e5a643-5b8d69f7-65d4-4b17-a6ae-b37e7a19dc31-000000/6GPtBGzA409QvM-jUs7o_ofZ_9FsPBuxARXLLwlaTvA=408" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Michael Bjornberg – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board <br /> Governor Appointed Member #2 <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Alicia Belton <br /> <br /> <em>About the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board:</em> <br /> The Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board is responsible for architecture, urban design, and comprehensive land-use planning in the capitol area of Saint Paul. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F42/1/0101019746e5a643-5b8d69f7-65d4-4b17-a6ae-b37e7a19dc31-000000/v6QXJhXDCOGcynW7VnadVI0u7tTAnTdQ_PACOi1kf80=408" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Jolene Engelking – Minnetonka, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Licensed Graduate Social Worker or Licensed Independent Social Worker or Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker #1 <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Deborah Meyer – Cohasset, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Public Member #5 <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Christopher Anderson <br /> <br /> <strong>Emilie Maxie – Stewartville, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Public Member #4 <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Dieu Do <br /> <br /> <strong>Kate Goodman – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Licensed Social Worker or Licensed Graduate Social Worker or Licensed Independent Social Worker or Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Heidi Holmes <br /> <br /> <em>About the Minnesota Board of Social Work:</em> <br /> The Board of Social Work promotes and protects public health, safety, and welfare through the licensure and regulation of persons who practice social work in this state. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Minnesota Board of Social Work can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F102/1/0101019746e5a643-5b8d69f7-65d4-4b17-a6ae-b37e7a19dc31-000000/fXPcuPMsqFWTSBXpn1rR7thByjmJsWG9Xz4L7rkIMW4=408" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Yusra Arab – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board <br /> Representing the interests of Minnesotans eligible for public health coverage <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Jessica Kennedy <br /> <br /> <strong>Daniel Trajano – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board <br /> Health Administration and Finance Representative <br /> Effective: June 11, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board of Directors (MNsure Board) is responsible for operating MNsure. This includes establishing MNsure’s budget; establishing bylaws, policies, and procedures; governing MNsure’s operations; creating certification requirements that must be met by insurance providers; establishing policies and procedures to gather public comment; establishing the policies and procedures for the operation of a navigator program, in-person assistance program, call center, and customer service provision for MNsure. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F200/1/0101019746e5a643-5b8d69f7-65d4-4b17-a6ae-b37e7a19dc31-000000/FUNSVEvjhUQnD4byUpV2UHFd6BFuvuzt8I_Kw_aUJDw=408" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the Minnesota <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FPosition/1/0101019746e5a643-5b8d69f7-65d4-4b17-a6ae-b37e7a19dc31-000000/GEKhoWFtsdXO7pSNW0w4N-DnXC0pCUtHAxE_QhBU414=408" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p>6927932025-06-06T20:52:02Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-692763" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-06T18:22:45ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Daniel Hawley as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. Hawley will replace the Honorable Erik J. Askegaard and will be chambered in Aitkin in Aitkin County.1055<p align="left" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">[ST. PAUL, MN] – </span>Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/06/06/file_attachments/3284758/Hawley,%20Daniel%20-%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daniel Hawley</a> as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. Hawley will replace the Honorable Erik J. Askegaard and will be chambered in Aitkin in Aitkin County.</p> <p align="left" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Daniel Hawley is going to be a remarkable jurist,”</strong> said Governor Walz<strong>. “His distinguished career, marked by a breadth of experience across diverse areas of the law, will undoubtedly bring depth, balance, and fairness to the people of Aitkin County."</strong></p> <p align="left" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District encompasses Aitkin, Beltrami, Cass, Clearwater, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Kittson, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau Counties.</p> <p align="left" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Daniel Hawley is a partner at Gammello-Pearson PLLC, where he practices in the areas of family law, criminal defense, civil litigation, real estate, corporate and business law, estate planning, and municipal law. In this role, he serves as defense counsel for the Crow Wing County DWI Court program. Hawley was previously an associate at Gammello-Pearson PLLC and a law clerk for the Honorable David J. Ten Eyck in the Ninth Judicial District. Hawley’s community involvement includes serving as vice president of the Aitkin/Crow Wing Bar Association and the 15th District Bar Association, president of the Crow Wing County Law Library Board of Trustees, and chair of the board of directors of Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity. He earned his B.A. from Grinnell College and his J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6927632025-06-09T16:44:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-692749" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-06T17:49:00ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Saturday, June 7, 2025, to sunset on Monday, June 9, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Amboy Fire Department firefighter Andrew Karels. Firefighter Karels, who served as the Amboy Fire Department's medical officer, died on June 2, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">[ST. PAUL, MN] – </span>Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Saturday, June 7, 2025, to sunset on Monday, June 9, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Amboy Fire Department firefighter Andrew Karels. Firefighter Karels, who served as the Amboy Fire Department's medical officer, died on June 2, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Firefighter Andrew Karels was a steadfast leader for the Amboy Fire Department,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “His commitment to delivering exceptional care in emergency situations – always with compassion and professionalism – touched countless peoples’ lives during their most challenging moments. We mourn this sudden and tragic loss, and I extend my deepest condolences to Firefighter Karels’ family, colleagues, and all who knew and loved him.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Confidential help and crisis support is available over the phone or online anytime for any firefighter and/or their family<strong>.</strong> If you or someone you know is in need of support, immediate and confidential help is available 24/7 through the MnFIRE Assistance Program(MAP) by calling 1-888-784-6634. Phone lines are answered 24/7 and provide confidential support, guidance and mental health resources. Any member of a firefighter’s household, including children living away from home, can access the MAP.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fassets%2F06.06.25%2520Andrew%2520Karels%2520FAHS_tcm1055-692740.pdf/1/01010197465c7643-42cd9c3c-490d-49f4-8a8e-04ae6656f76d-000000/yddFzCwa6nzCD0dZS3mVJoOQzhfRjZigvFegVgCun14=408" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>6927492025-06-09T16:43:54Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-692731" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-06T17:03:00ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced a new $2.4 million initiative to develop and implement agriculture-focused workforce training programs.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> [ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced a new $2.4 million initiative to develop and implement agriculture-focused workforce training programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>Farmers drive our economy, contribute to a nation-leading industry, and most importantly, provide the food and raw materials that the rest of the world depend on,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“We should be supporting, training, and encouraging the next generation of farmers. Training programs like this one are an effective way to help people overcome barriers to gaining the skills and knowledge they’ll need to enter one of the growing career areas in agriculture.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“DEED is proud to help establish career pipelines for people looking for family-sustaining wages in agricultural work,” </strong>said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek.<strong> “Minnesota’s agricultural producers are facing historic uncertainty as they navigate federal changes to tariffs policies. Programs like this one help provide stable opportunities that can lead to full-time employment for workers and long-term growth for Minnesota’s economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The new Growing Careers Program will award grants up to $500,000 for partners to develop training programs that will help more Minnesotans enter agriculture careers, especially dislocated workers, including those with low-income or who need assistance with basic skill development. It aims to increase the number of new and emerging farmers and farm businesses, creating a pipeline of well-trained workers to meet the needs of employers and increase the number of new entrants into agricultural sector pathways.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This program supports DEED’s longstanding goal to connect more people to family-sustainable careers,”</strong> said DEED Deputy Commissioner of Workforce Development Marc Majors. <strong>“It adds to our efforts to provide high-quality skills training for Minnesotans to pursue family-sustaining wages in all sectors and develop workforces for sectors that are projected for high growth in the coming years.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Agricultural workers are the backbone of our economy; they produce the food, fuel, and fiber we rely on every day,”</strong> said Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. <strong>“This training program will help Minnesota continue to be an agriculture powerhouse by supporting a new generation of workers on and near the farm.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Agriculture-related careers are increasingly in demand in Minnesota, including the new legal cannabis sector. According to DEED’s <u><a href="https://mn.gov/deed/data/data-tools/oid/">Minnesota Occupations in Demand tool</a></u>, demand for many farming-related careers is projected to grow at an above-average rate over the next 10 years, including:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians, up 14%</li> <li>Industrial Truck and Tractor Drivers, up 5.8%</li> <li>Supervisors of Farming, Fishing and Forestry Workers, up 4.5% </li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Growing Careers Program will fund efforts that focus on agricultural worker on-the-job training, career navigation and worker support services, and paid work experience. The new program is funded by a grant from the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information on the Growing Careers Request for Proposal and the upcoming webinar can be found on <u><a href="https://mn.gov/deed/about/contracts/open-rfp.jsp">DEED’s website</a></u>.</p>6927312025-06-06T17:18:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-692728" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-06T16:50:50ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that he has called a special session after reaching a budget agreement with Republican and Democratic legislative caucus leaders. The special session will begin on Monday, June 9, at 10:00am. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that he has called a <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F06%2F06%2Ffile_attachments%2F3284506%2F2025%2520Special%2520Session%2520Proclamation.pdf/1/01010197461faf14-3c94a386-509f-4213-9d9b-1e7be3d45e65-000000/qo47Hrvp7yUoYpRqtXhYiBmt7eo-fJtY5H9YKfWrN8g=408" target="_blank">special session</a> after reaching a <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F06%2F06%2Ffile_attachments%2F3284507%2FSpecial%2520Session%2520Leader%2520Agreement_Signed_6.6.25.pdf/1/01010197461faf14-3c94a386-509f-4213-9d9b-1e7be3d45e65-000000/5zzOvNvylKooiUVtcjgsMgxKTzYs7vjC8cDSqpYum2I=408" target="_blank">budget agreement</a> with Republican and Democratic legislative caucus leaders. The special session will begin on Monday, June 9, at 10:00am.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This bipartisan budget agreement makes thoughtful reductions in state spending while keeping us on track to make Minnesota the best state in the country to raise a child,”</strong> said Governor Walz <strong>. “It is the result of hundreds of hours of good-faith, bipartisan debate on the best ways to improve the health, safety, and wellbeing of Minnesotans. While all sides had to make concessions in order to reach a compromise, I’m grateful to our legislative partners for their collaboration and dedication to moving Minnesota forward.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With this budget, legislators and the Governor are showing Minnesotans that we can work through complex, difficult issues, find common ground and act in the best interests of the state. That means protecting generational gains made for workers, schools, healthcare, care givers, kids, seniors, and parents, and taking important action in addressing our future budget challenges. We are passing a stable budget before we reach the brink of a damaging government shutdown that would have punished people living in every county of our state,"</strong> said Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy. <strong>"These negotiations demanded the work of many members and staff, from all four caucuses and the Governor’s office, who contributed hundreds of hours over the past several weeks to reach agreement. I need to thank the members of my caucus for their expertise, rigor, creativity, and fierce advocacy for the principles they bring to this work, everyday. At a time when Donald Trump and Republicans in Washington are actively embracing chaos, cruelty, and greed, Minnesota stands in contrast as a place where we can find compromise without sacrificing the investments and policies that will make this a great state to live for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"As promised, Senate Republicans fought and continue to fight for our communities, families, businesses, and schools. After drawn out negotiations we are able to announce a plan for an orderly conclusion to the session and provide certainty for Minnesotans,”</strong> said Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson. <strong>“While Senate Republicans are not party to the overall budget agreement, we are glad to have found agreements to preserve jobs and invest in core infrastructure in our communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Despite the 23-day delay to the start of session, Minnesotans expect legislators to get their work done,”</strong> said House Speaker Lisa Demuth. <strong>“I look forward to finishing the state budget with the largest cut to state spending in history, important reforms to Earned Sick and Safe Time and Paid Family Leave, and other important wins for Minnesotans across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In times of divided government, people expect their elected leaders to work together to enact a state budget, and that’s the work that we will complete in this special session,”</strong> said Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman. <strong>“By its nature, a compromise is a second choice result for the parties that negotiated it, and this budget would look very different if it were produced entirely by Democrats or Republicans. While there is a lot to appreciate in the bills, there are also tough and responsible measures taken to prepare for the future. The budget compromise we reached addresses a projected deficiency in state revenues in fiscal years 2028 and 2029. This is a budget that funds Minnesota’s state government and the services Minnesotans expect and rely on for the next two years. Passing it Monday will complete this session’s work for the people of Minnesota.”</strong></p>6927282025-06-06T16:54:42Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-690689" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-05T21:10:58ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Leonard A. Weiler. The seat will be chambered in Little Falls in Morrison County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/06/05/file_attachments/3283664/Godzala,%20Luke%20Headshot.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Luke Godzala</a>:</strong> Luke Godzala is a senior attorney in the Civil Division of the Stearns County Attorney’s Office. He was previously an assistant city attorney in the St. Cloud City Attorney's Office, a law clerk for the Honorable Leonard A. Weiler, and a member of the Stearns County Drug Court Team. His community involvement includes serving on the board of directors of Magnifi Financial and Oasis Central Minnesota and as a member director of the Stearns Benton Bar Association. Godzala is also a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 46 and a past president of the Stearns Benton Bar Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/06/05/file_attachments/3283665/Lester,%20Meriel%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Meriel Lester</a>:</strong> Meriel Lester is an assistant chief in the Criminal Division of the Stearns County Attorney’s Office, where she has worked extensively in criminal prosecution with a focus on intimate partner violence and other personal crimes. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Stearns County Attorney’s Office. Lester assisted in the development of the Stearns County Domestic Violence Court and currently serves as the designated prosecutor for the Central Minnesota Human Trafficking Task Force. Her community involvement includes serving as a youth hockey team manager and as vice president of both the Sartell Sauk Rapids Lacrosse Association and Sartell Sapphire Gymnastics.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2025/06/05/file_attachments/3283646/Welle%20Laura%20Headshot.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Laura Welle</a>:</strong> Laura Welle is an assistant county attorney in the Morrison County Attorney's Office, where she primarily handles felony prosecution and child protection matters. She previously served as an assistant county attorney in the Crow Wing and Becker county attorney's offices. Welle’s community involvement includes serving as site director of the BIO Girls Program in Little Falls, volunteering with the Little Falls Dandee Lions Club, and serving as vice chair of the Morrison County Employee Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6906892025-06-05T21:14:53Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-690047" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-31T00:55:21ZGovernor Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Chief Justice Natalie Hudson today announced appointments to the Commission on Uniform State Laws.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Chief Justice Natalie Hudson announced the reappointment of Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and Kimberly Lowe, and the appointment of Minnesota Court of Appeals Judge Peter Reyes, Jr. to the Commission on Uniform State Laws. The three appointees will serve terms beginning on June 1, 2025, and expiring on May 31, 2027.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">About the Appointees:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman <br /></em> Melissa Hortman is the speaker emerita and DFL caucus leader in the Minnesota House of Representatives and has represented a part of the northwest suburbs of Minneapolis since 2005. As a legislator, she has focused on energy, transportation, the environment, and civil law. Representative Hortman chaired the House Energy Committee from 2013-14 and chief authored legislation that created Minnesota’s solar energy standard. She holds a B.A. from Boston University, an M.P.A. from Harvard University, and a J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Kimberly Lowe <br /></em> Kimberly Lowe is a founder of Avisen Legal, a Twin Cities business law firm. Avisen serves clients with their business and transactional legal needs nationally and internationally, in energy, manufacturing, agriculture and technology. Lowe serves clients in the nonprofit and for-profit sector. She has served in leadership roles in the Hennepin County Bar Association, Minnesota State Bar Association and American Bar Association. Lowe has served as a Uniform Law Commissioner since 2016 and sits on numerous ULC drafting, study, and leadership committees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Peter Reyes, Jr. <br /></em> Peter Reyes was appointed by Governor Mark Dayton to serve as a judge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals in 2014. He previously worked as a partner at Barnes &amp; Thornburg, as a senior Intellectual Property lawyer at Cargill, Inc., and an associate at Robins Kaplan. Reyes serves on the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Rules of Criminal Procedure and is co-chair of the Court of Appeals’ Equal Justice Committee. His community involvement includes serving as president of the board for the Minnesota Historical Society, serving on numerous bar association boards, and as a frequent speaker on legal topics.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Commission on Uniform State Laws <br /></em> The Commission on Uniform State Laws studies and provides recommendations and drafting services for uniform acts around the country. The commission consists of the Revisor of Statutes and three members appointed by the Governor, Chief Justice, and Attorney General. Commission members represent Minnesota at the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws and other similar conventions.</p>6900472025-05-31T01:02:46Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-689590" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-29T20:04:39ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Krista K. Martin and the Honorable Amy R. Brosnahan. These seats will be chambered in Mora in Kanabec County and Cambridge in Isanti County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <u><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a></u> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on June 20 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in late July.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Tenth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <u><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u style="font-family: Verdana;"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101971d8e566f-5abe40ae-05b7-4673-ac56-3d68fc0b595a-000000/dPAbkyDrwy5ejmJ5txQdDiaLL3FGY5t6Y3moUvLe8FM=407">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6895902025-05-29T20:09:02Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-686562" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-23T21:07:35ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports, Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson, Board on Judicial Standards, Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage, Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission, Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council, Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau Governing Committee, Minnesota Rural Finance Authority, Minnesota State Retirement System, and the State Capitol Preservation Commission. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports, Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson, Board on Judicial Standards, Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage, Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission, Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council, Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau Governing Committee, Minnesota Rural Finance Authority, Minnesota State Retirement System, and the State Capitol Preservation Commission.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Janet Perreault – Savage, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports <br /> Registered Nurse - Assisted Living Facility <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Natalie Morland </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports:</em>  <br /> The Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports licenses administrators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, conducts studies of nursing home and assisted living administration, approves continuing education programs for administrators, and investigates complaints and allegations of rule violations.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/1/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/7AkHmbbGQs_j0MbtFQe81mRIyW4dvkxMJUz4MdbDe14=406">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marqueishia Jackson – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Youth Who are Currently in the Foster Care System or Who Were Recently in the Foster Care System <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> New Seat </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sasha Jakovich – Saint Paul, MN</strong> Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Youth Who are Currently in the Foster Care System or Who Were Recently in the Foster Care System <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Izavella Wagner </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson:</em>  <br /> The Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson makes recommendations to the foster youth ombudsperson and staff while overseeing the foster youth ombudsperson’s work. The board evaluates the foster youth ombudsperson’s effectiveness through regular meetings with current and former youth in the foster care system and community advocates working closely with the foster care system.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/2/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/-9LD6RIE-RagGJzhkYTTywBkciiomkylGg5naiYypLE=406">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Beckman – Litchfield, MN</strong>  <br /> Board on Judicial Standards <br /> Trial Judge <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Charlene Hatcher </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeanne Cochran – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Board on Judicial Standards <br /> Court of Appeals Judge <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Louise Bjorkman </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Sakaguchi – Edina, MN</strong>  <br /> Board on Judicial Standards <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board on Judicial Standards:</em>  <br /> The Board on Judicial Standards investigates allegations of misconduct by Minnesota judges and other judicial officers and recommends judicial discipline to the Supreme Court, including censure, suspension, retirement, or removal of judges. The board also educates the judiciary and the public on the role of the Board on Judicial Standards and on the Code of Judicial Conduct.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board on Judicial Standards can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/3/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/2CSYH1aQ4k2WUrbrc9DoUkcZ2_9aSITNmjyg1kP4mCg=406">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Yolonde Adams-Lee – Burnsville, MN</strong>  <br /> Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hannah Dereje – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage <br /> Member #4 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Abdirahman Dahir </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jerad Green – Fridley, MN</strong>  <br /> Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage <br /> Member #6 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Andre Dukes </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council for Minnesotans on African Heritage:</em>  <br /> The Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage advises the Governor and the legislature on issues confronting the constituency of the Council, legislative changes needed to improve the economic and social condition of the constituency of the council, implications, and effect of proposed administrative and legislative changes on the constituency of the Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council for Minnesotans on African Heritage can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/4/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/XvxyKa62mkA384R1uB5RR8Sti99oXyL3Amj_cG81yLA=406">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tom Dicklich – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission <br /> Member #8 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Dougherty – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission <br /> Member #3 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: David Collier </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission supports amateur sports associations in the state and promotes amateur sporting events. The commission’s work includes governing the National Sports Center, creating amateur sporting events, and fostering partnerships between public, private, state, and local organizations. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/5/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/cjIWCbocuLfnwi5UN9Qsu5l3TNv7DUiv7C_4rxRWSWU=406">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Hansen – Plymouth, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council <br /> Governor Appointee #2 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Christopher Ovrebo </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeffrey Lindeman – Shafer, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council <br /> Governor Appointee #1 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Steve Olson </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council provides statewide leadership to promote and expand agricultural education in Minnesota.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/6/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/UZ4Bc4HpTmNxqbx8NnQo1GJZaSkf24anKa3F5ztZDlc=406">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chad Bjugan – Chaska, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau Governing Committee <br /> Public Member #1 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Evenson – Maple Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau Governing Committee <br /> Public Member #2 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau Governing Committee:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau Governing Committee governs the operations of the Minnesota Auto Assigned Claims Plan in providing no-fault basic economic loss benefits to eligible recipients.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/7/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/hnE_g_nD_FVGqteBrw6vZ8gFOIox65jXmr7Oua7auY0=406">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eric Sannerud – Milaca, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Rural Finance Authority <br /> Public Member #4 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carol Anderson – Foley, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Rural Finance Authority <br /> Public Member #6 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Rural Finance Authority:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Rural Finance Authority develops the state's agricultural resources by extending credit on farm real estate security and depreciable agricultural property.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Rural Finance Authority can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/8/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/DDDPBf2bTAkKoYqvd5JXFqgIesVUEMitNIHosY4EW2s=406">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Roelofs – White Bear Lake, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota State Retirement System <br /> Public Member #2 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota State Retirement System:</em>  <br /> The board establishes rules and regulations for the administration of the Minnesota State Retirement System, Minnesota Deferred Compensation Plan, and the Health Care Savings Plan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota State Retirement System can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/9/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/0y-K_52gnQuEWrnPCAG8xxuYNd4rrgE9eDRpdP5yqbM=406">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daniel Miesle – Grand Rapids, MN</strong>  <br /> State Capitol Preservation Commission <br /> Public Member #4 <br /> Effective: May 28, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Frank White </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Capitol Preservation Commission:</em>  <br /> The State Capitol Preservation Commission coordinates the restoration, protection, risk management, and preservation of the Capitol building. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Capitol Preservation Commission can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/10/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/XMuNLrXCubZO1n51Tg1urY96Z4eWf-qpnc4dnKJRAlM=406">Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/01010196fef86cf0-af2f14fd-4335-43ee-9a37-1afd799b74b7-000000/2auFaTltehO3ghi0tjurEMJgQmvGRNvFNcoF8-5TZeE=406">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a> </p>6865622025-05-23T21:12:12Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-686545" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-23T19:07:09ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed multiple budget and policy bills passed in the 2025 session, including a bill that will boost pensions for Minnesota teachers, police officers, and firefighters.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed multiple budget and policy bills passed in the 2025 session, including a bill that will boost pensions for Minnesota teachers, police officers, and firefighters.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is a state that values the hard work and contributions of public servants like our teachers, police officers, and firefighters. The bipartisan work that went into this bill will ensure these middle-class families are treated in retirement with the dignity and respect that they’ve earned,”</strong> said Governor Walz. “<strong>This bill is fulfilling our commitment to ensure those who have committed their life to public service can retire with economic security.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=SF2884%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196fe835f90-f89e20ab-93c7-49de-ab07-8528a6afd9fd-000000/_pFz9yC7B5isnZVwbLq64sJvVkTEznKQJbJbY01Vhiw=406" target="_blank">Chapter 37, Senate File 2884</a></u> adjusts retirement benefits for teachers, firefighters, police officers, state patrol officers, and public employees. The teacher retirement reform lowers the age of retirement from 62 to 60 and lowers the reduction percentage from 6% to 5% for teachers with 30 years of service, providing full pension benefits without penalties. The bill also adjusts the three-year cost-of-living adjustment delay and provides a one-time three percent cost-of-living increase in 2026 and one percent annually thereafter for PERA police and firefighter members. A 1.25% annual cost of living increase will be applied for state patrol retirees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor also signed the following bills:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=HF2446%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196fe835f90-f89e20ab-93c7-49de-ab07-8528a6afd9fd-000000/QaM5idv8pv3Q80ZOz7J72peWIn0ObJFSCabKyLffUn4=406" target="_blank">Chapter 34, House File 2446:</a></u> The Agriculture and Broadband Development Policy and Finance Bill appropriates $115 million to the Department of Agriculture, $13.5 million to the Board of Animal Health, $8.7 million to the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute and $2 million to the Office of Broadband Development to increase high-speed internet access across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill also allocates $1.5 million to the agricultural emergency account to test for and monitor avian flu. Additional policy provisions include: modifications to laws regulating home-based milk marketers; promotion of biofertilizer innovation and efficiency; support for local food purchasing assistance programs; modifications to food processing regulations; provision of mental health outreach and support to farmers, ranchers, farm workers, and employees; and modification to eligibility rules for manufacturing home-processed pet treats. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=SF2370%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196fe835f90-f89e20ab-93c7-49de-ab07-8528a6afd9fd-000000/ge-QHssPusGpkHXqHHwELS1YreIUZoLitOpxnDAIs1o=406" target="_blank">Chapter 31, Senate File 2370:</a></u> The Omnibus Cannabis Policy Bill makes numerous changes to the state’s cannabis laws. The bill allows for the regulation and licensing of low-potency hemp products; allows cannabis product testing by labs working towards accreditation to ensure sufficient testing capacity; makes changes to business licensing requirements; refines cannabis record expungement practices; allows continuity of services for existing medical cannabis users; adds the Office of Cannabis Management to the Tribal consultation statute; and makes changes to cannabis administration practices at state and local levels. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=Senate%26f=SF2298%26ssn=0%26y=2025%26view=chrono/1/01010196fe835f90-f89e20ab-93c7-49de-ab07-8528a6afd9fd-000000/al58aOd2udqUuSEIP_71bgq0O1BQei2rp1lFJJd4Hdc=406" target="_blank">Chapter 32 Senate File 2298:</a></u> The Omnibus Housing and Homelessness Prevention Policy and Appropriations Bill establishes a budget for the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, and provides one-time appropriations for agency programs including $8.35 million for Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program and $2 million each for Economic Development and Housing Challenge Program; Affordable Workforce Homeownership Program; Homeownership Assistance Program; Greater Minnesota Housing Infrastructure Grants; and Midwest Minnesota Community Development Corporation for Community-Based First Generation Down Payment Assistance. The bill also includes numerous technical policy provisions to improve program implementation and delivery. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Ftext.php%3Fnumber=HF2432%26type=bill%26version=4%26session=ls94%26session_year=2025%26session_number=0/1/01010196fe835f90-f89e20ab-93c7-49de-ab07-8528a6afd9fd-000000/u7VJreATNPP9FT36XgcKmiNvxD7dfZ0zTBOTtxAKI18=406" target="_blank">Chapter 35, House File 2432:</a></u> The Judiciary and Public Safety Finance and Policy Omnibus bill allocates $107 million in new spending for public safety and the courts, including funding to the Department of Public Safety, Department of Corrections, Department of Human Rights, the Judicial Branch, and other public safety and judicial entities. This bill outlines the phased closure of Stillwater Prison in addition to providing funding for crime victim services and the Philando Castile Memorial Training Fund. The bill also establishes the Financial Crimes and Fraud Section at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, a key pillar of the Governor’s anti-fraud package.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=SF1959%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196fe835f90-f89e20ab-93c7-49de-ab07-8528a6afd9fd-000000/JWIv3SJ6Bx5I-lX3AYMAJCi-JNJysoC0rDmPNgQqJ-Y=406" target="_blank">Chapter 30, Senate File 1959:</a></u> The Omnibus Veterans Policy and Appropriations Bill provides a $50.5 million increase to veterans and military affairs funding, including funding to support operations at the state veterans homes; $8 million to maintain enlistment and retention bonuses and operating adjustments for Veterans Affairs and Military Affairs departments; $300,000 for suicide prevention; and $300,000 to expand home-delivered meals to veterans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=HF2563%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196fe835f90-f89e20ab-93c7-49de-ab07-8528a6afd9fd-000000/WaLlwwp6B7DGCBsCzYBFmuZwNdFFBSd53QS9C5nFeu0=406" target="_blank">Chapter 36, House File 2563:</a></u> The Legacy Finance Bill appropriates dedicated revenue to four funds that protect Minnesota’s environment and preserve the state’s arts and cultural heritage. The package allocates $163 million to the Outdoor Heritage Fund; $304 million to the Clean Water Fund; $130 million to the Parks and Trails Fund; and $180 million to the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund for the next biennium.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=House%26f=HF2115%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196fe835f90-f89e20ab-93c7-49de-ab07-8528a6afd9fd-000000/yTG-uzlxnaulDEJV5UXsxQR7ePDHWkbNcp4POAMr3-Q=406">Chapter 38, House File 2115</a></u>: The human services policy bill includes several policy changes and establishes the right to a designated support person for nursing home residents, prohibits county boards from charging for emergency services provided to clients experiencing emotional crisis or mental illness, and expands the Health Care Bill of Rights.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=Senate%26f=SF3045%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196fe835f90-f89e20ab-93c7-49de-ab07-8528a6afd9fd-000000/b8rtuFBy0TvJGzPCVfEJqfZHd8iYOrSXdskYT4f3ahs=406">Chapter 39, Senate File 3045:</a></u> The omnibus State and Local Government and Elections policy and appropriations bill includes $13.92 million for the House, $4.62 million for the Senate, $3.96 million for the Legislative Coordinating Commission, and operating adjustments for multiple state agencies and offices, board and commissions, and councils. It also includes $200,00 for cybersecurity, voter registration, and election system security, leveraging $1 million in federal funds. The bill also includes policy provisions to fight fraud such as grantee debarment, payment withholding, and data sharing.</p>6865452025-05-23T19:08:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-686201" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-23T17:37:35ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until noon on Monday, May 26, 2025, in honor of those who have died while serving in the United States military.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until noon on Monday, May 26, 2025, in honor of those who have died while serving in the United States military. <br /> <br /> <strong>“On Memorial Day we honor the brave service members who have given their lives for our great nation,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The sacrifice of those who defend our freedom and democracy cannot be repaid; as we work toward peace, let us never forget those who have served on our behalf.”</strong> <br /> <br /> Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6862012025-05-23T17:38:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-685610" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-21T17:43:25ZCongressional Republicans’ “One Big Beautiful Bill” would result in Minnesota losing $500 million annually from Medicaid, over $100 million in enhanced tax credits for MNsure enrollees, and $244 million annually in food support. Tens of thousands of Minnesotans’ access to health care and nutrition would be compromised because of this bill. US House Republican bill cuts hundreds of millions of dollars from Minnesota, will impact health care and food support for tens of thousands of Minnesotans 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Congressional Republicans’ “One Big Beautiful Bill” would result in Minnesota losing $500 million annually from Medicaid, over $100 million in enhanced tax credits for MNsure enrollees, and $244 million annually in food support. Tens of thousands of Minnesotans’ access to health care and nutrition would be compromised because of this bill.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Republicans in Congress are taking away Americans’ ability to go to the doctor and put food on the table in order to give a tax cuts to billionaires,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Make no mistake: The state will not be able to compensate for the hundreds of millions in federal funding we are going to lose if these cuts are enacted. The victims of this legislation will be families, children, veterans, rural Americans, and pregnant moms. I expect Minnesota’s congressional republicans to reject this bill.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Earlier this spring Governor Walz and state officials conducted a series of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F682792/1/01010196f506ff01-e0537c90-6ea5-4bc1-9878-639c8dfa5372-000000/hWwWWbJ9DKiJAyMspUnjW9_ShiUyq0wQGEASRlJB7nQ=406" target="_blank">statewide roundtables</a> highlighting proposed federal health care cuts. From late March through late April, the state convened seven roundtable discussions connecting with people across Minnesota to discuss significant damage to Medicaid and health care funding if Congress moves forward with proposed cuts. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The bill is inefficient, ineffective and fundamentally unfair,”</strong> said John Connolly, state Medicaid director. <strong>“In addition to funding cuts, it presents an obstacle course of red tape, hurdles and traps, which drive up administrative costs and force states, counties and Tribes to push qualified Minnesotans off health care coverage. Tens of thousands of Minnesotans will lose their medical insurance entirely, leading to skipped preventive care, worse health outcomes and higher costs.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We know that food insecurity isn’t just about hunger. It's directly tied to chronic illness, developmental delays in children, and rising health care costs,”</strong> said DCYF Commissioner Tikki Brown. <strong>“When SNAP is cut, people get sick, kids fall behind in school and our health and education systems pay the price. Layer Medicaid cuts on top of that, and it doesn’t just deepen the crisis — it pushes families to the brink of financial collapse.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Donald Trump and the Republicans in Congress are taking away health care and food assistance from millions of Minnesota children and families to give massive tax cuts to the wealthiest Americans. This is morally bankrupt,"</strong> said Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy.<strong> "Their actions are imperiling not just the state’s budget, but those of counties, communities, and individual households across Minnesota. Our state’s Republican members of Congress are accountable to Minnesota families first and foremost; not to Donald Trump. I expect them to fight for our state and our people, rejecting these disastrous cuts while they still can.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The plan in motion from Donald Trump and his Republican allies in Congress to slash Medicaid and SNAP would be devastating for Minnesota families, and it would also lead to a massive strain on our state budget,”</strong> said Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman. <strong>“As Democrats, we are going to keep standing up to fight cuts that will lead to fewer people getting the care they need and more people going hungry.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill will also have devastating consequences for tens of thousands of Minnesotans who buy health insurance on the individual market and don’t have any other access to affordable coverage. The sprawling package includes multiple provisions that will restrict access to health insurance, increase costs, and impose new administrative burdens on families and individuals who use state-based marketplaces like MNsure. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This legislation will make health coverage for Minnesota’s working families much more expensive and much harder to access and maintain,”</strong> said Libby Caulum, CEO of MNsure. <strong>“If passed, it would turn back the clock on the progress we’ve made, leaving more Minnesotans uninsured and increasing the burden of uncompensated care on our health care system.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More details on the impact federal cuts to Medicaid can be found at the Department of Human Services <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdhs%2Fmedicaid-matters%2Fby-the-numbers%2F/1/01010196f506ff01-e0537c90-6ea5-4bc1-9878-639c8dfa5372-000000/9qThoFTrjT0MxHT-cwqDQQ_B5G5dr5lPtLJAVVD0b4A=406" target="_blank">Medicaid Matters website</a>. </p>6856102025-05-21T23:11:06Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-685436" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-21T17:43:25ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Carrie Ryan Gallia, Andrew Tweeten, and Matthew Wilcox as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F05%2F21%2Ffile_attachments%2F3268339%2FRyan%2520Gallia,%2520Carrie%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196f3cba66c-8f8c220b-46aa-4436-9572-36f6201422fe-000000/0qD7I1SYX1150XjLqwZKyrKGeCGU2s5f0JL0tPoLMH8=406" target="_blank">Carrie Ryan Gallia</a>, <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F05%2F21%2Ffile_attachments%2F3268340%2FTweeten,%2520Andy%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196f3cba66c-8f8c220b-46aa-4436-9572-36f6201422fe-000000/LWrZeFVKEB-0XeI5JtA98hQXj_lZgQAzoewsH8uBgzE=406" target="_blank">Andrew Tweeten</a>, and <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F05%2F21%2Ffile_attachments%2F3268300%2FWilcox,%2520Matt%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196f3cba66c-8f8c220b-46aa-4436-9572-36f6201422fe-000000/KpBURrixVaQOBz3J5tWuSTDhI5s-iYIGU8wq-Omfc18=406" target="_blank">Matthew Wilcox</a> as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Carrie Ryan Gallia will replace the Honorable Charlene W. Hatcher.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Carrie Ryan Gallia will be a great addition to the Hennepin County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “She is guided not just by the letter of the law but by a deep commitment to fairness, integrity, and justice for all.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Andrew Tweeten will replace the Honorable Amy E. Dawson.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my privilege to appoint Andrew Tweeten to the Fourth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His professional and lived experience will provide him with the empathy and understanding to be a fair, just, and equitable jurist.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Matthew Wilcox will replace the Honorable Jay M. Quam.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to appoint Matt Wilcox, a veteran and dedicated public servant,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Hennepin County is home to the largest veteran population in Minnesota, and his deep understanding of their needs and challenges will make him a valuable asset to this court and community.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District encompasses Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Carrie Ryan Gallia</em>  <br /> Carrie Ryan Gallia is a senior associate general counsel in the Office of the General Counsel at the University of Minnesota, where she handles litigation and advises on student affairs, freedom of expression, civil rights, and other issues. She previously was an attorney at Lindquist &amp; Vennum and Fish &amp; Richardson, as well as a law clerk to the Honorable Carlos Bea on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Ryan Gallia’s community involvement includes teaching judicial writing at the University of Minnesota Law School, serving as a board member for Xperitas, and volunteering at Jefferson High School in Bloomington. She earned her A.B. from Princeton University, her M.F.A. from Columbia University School of the Arts, and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Andrew Tweeten</em>  <br /> Andrew Tweeten is an assistant U.S. attorney in the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, where he investigates and litigates civil fraud cases on behalf of the United States and defends federal agencies and officials against a wide variety of civil claims. He was previously an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office and a law clerk for the Honorable Donald Molloy on the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana and the Honorable Sidney Thomas on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Tweeten’s community involvement includes serving as a volunteer conciliation court referee in the Fourth Judicial District, volunteering with the Minnesota Urban Debate League, and singing and volunteering with One Voice Mixed Chorus. He is also a member of the Minnesota Lavender Bar Association. Tweeten earned his B.A from Macalester College and his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Matthew Wilcox</em>   <br /> Matthew Wilcox is deputy general counsel for the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, where he manages a team of legal professionals and oversees the agency’s contracting and litigation portfolios. He also serves as an assistant staff judge advocate (Major) at the United States Air Force Warfare Center. Wilcox was previously an assistant city attorney for the City of Minneapolis and an assistant appellate defender in the Office of the Appellate Defender in Montana. His community involvement includes mentoring law students as part of the University of St. Thomas School of Law Mentor Externship Program and serving as a mock trial judge for the MSBA’s high school mock trial program. Wilcox is also a member of the American Legion and an Army veteran who deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Spartan Shield. He earned his B.A. from Montana State University and his J.D. and LL.M. from the University of St. Thomas School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010196f3cba66c-8f8c220b-46aa-4436-9572-36f6201422fe-000000/Kd33n-g4x-aSy2yyEjRXAydnL7nvep1KvCNft_vmr_g=406">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6854362025-05-21T17:44:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-685313" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-20T22:16:46ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed the first Tribal-state compact authorized under Minnesota’s 2023 cannabis law. The agreement outlines how the State of Minnesota and White Earth Nation will promote a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship to regulate cannabis and promote public health and safety. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed the first Tribal-state compact authorized under Minnesota’s 2023 cannabis law. The agreement outlines how the State of Minnesota and White Earth Nation will promote a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship to regulate cannabis and promote public health and safety. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In establishing Minnesota’s cannabis law, the state Legislature called on the Governor to negotiate intergovernmental agreements—cannabis compacts—with Tribal Nations sharing territory with Minnesota to enhance public health and safety, ensure a lawful and well-regulated cannabis market, encourage economic development, and provide financial benefits to both the state and Tribal Nations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information about the compacting process—including copies of signed, executed cannabis compacts—can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Focm%2Ftribal-nation%2Findex.jsp/1/01010196efafb4de-fa05b4a5-73ff-4d1f-84b3-1885ad4530c8-000000/u6gXJinZZwda_1DLNJEVLGLRMP5TE5-lnVTA-G8kBog=405" target="_blank">Office of Cannabis Management's Tribal Compacts website</a>. </p>6853132025-05-20T22:17:46Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-685281" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-20T20:26:27ZAs wildfires continue to burn across the state, Governor Tim Walz today declared a peacetime emergency and directed state agencies to provide the assistance necessary to help respond to and recover from the wildfires that have caused significant destruction to property and critical infrastructure. Yesterday, St. Louis County officials declared a state of local emergency, requesting public disaster assistance.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – As wildfires continue to burn across the state, Governor Tim Walz today declared a <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F05%2F20%2Ffile_attachments%2F3267420%2FExecutive%2520Order%252025-05.pdf/1/01010196ef5114e1-95ee37a5-c20d-4da5-bdbc-5b6c54aa73bc-000000/Ef8wyz2ydhRQw28Bkf7KbtpUdXeO7cgG9ieqYctCM88=405" target="_blank">peacetime emergency</a> and directed state agencies to provide the assistance necessary to help respond to and recover from the wildfires that have caused significant destruction to property and critical infrastructure. Yesterday, St. Louis County officials declared a state of local emergency, requesting public disaster assistance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We will continue to deploy every possible resource to respond to the wildfires that are burning across Northern Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful for the tireless work and coordinated response from emergency management officials, first responders, wildland firefighters, and law enforcement to keep Minnesotans safe. We will continue working alongside these frontline responders as they protect life and property.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This order will further support wildland firefighters and emergency responders, and it comes as the Jenkins Creek, Camp House, and Munger Shaw wildfires remain active. As fire departments, law enforcement, and state and federal wildland firefighting agencies work together to respond to these fires, additional resources will be needed to address the ongoing threats from these wildfires.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Under the peacetime emergency, the Department of Public Safety’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management will continue to support the coordination of on-site support and assistance to affected local governments and determine the need for additional emergency assistance. While parts of Minnesota are experiencing rain and lower temperatures, Northern Minnesota remains windy and dry. With the current conditions, it will take above-normal precipitation spread over the next month to significantly alleviate very dry conditions in the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last week, Governor Walz <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F683657/1/01010196ef5114e1-95ee37a5-c20d-4da5-bdbc-5b6c54aa73bc-000000/bxVW0aXqtlkhQ7sWxy3oDdhzlAvBaalGvS-jR9lmW7w=405">authorized the Minnesota National Guard</a></u> to provide emergency assistance to help respond to active wildfires in northern Minnesota. The National Guard is working alongside the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Interagency Fire Center, and other state and local agencies to provide personnel, assistance, and resources to support wildfire suppression efforts. The Governor <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F684649/1/01010196ef5114e1-95ee37a5-c20d-4da5-bdbc-5b6c54aa73bc-000000/S4mxBD-OYBwpURODT2zhbrvm6NzFajl5L_bPnW3dlrc=405">surveyed fire damage</a></u> and met with emergency management officials last week in the Two Harbors area.</p>6852812025-05-20T20:27:54Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-684755" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-19T22:08:24ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed four bipartisan bills into law.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed four bipartisan bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Flaws%2F2025%2F0%2FSession%2BLaw%2FChapter%2F23%2F/1/01010196ea286a7b-3068529c-c5ce-4ff4-bae4-eeb6e4bf685b-000000/4TNjlfOgMG2ukaNr9n3ZbJCFD9YCAl02vTypjGbnTUs=405">Chapter 23, Senate File 908</a> modifies provisions related to requirements governing the certification of underground telecommunications installers. The bill removes the requirement that at least two safety-qualified installers be present during directional drilling and delays the effective date for the statewide certification requirement to January 1, 2026, addressing workforce training concerns.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Ff=SF2200%26y=2025%26ssn=0%26b=senate/1/01010196ea286a7b-3068529c-c5ce-4ff4-bae4-eeb6e4bf685b-000000/ij0cDoPd2E4L4Hja6ND3YaWNNm0XyPI8vddF5dyDR9E=405">Chapter 24, Senate File 2200</a> creates a privilege for communications that take place within restorative justice programs. The privileges exist to encourage people to share honest information with other parties without fear that the information could be used against them. The bill includes limited exceptions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=House%26f=HF1090%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196ea286a7b-3068529c-c5ce-4ff4-bae4-eeb6e4bf685b-000000/b3QSWouk6778ZgK9ULJ2wfgT9bOsYXqZxwgB_EXC7eE=405">Chapter 25, House File 1090</a> renames the library construction grant program at the Minnesota Department of Education in honor of former state legislator Mary Murphy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=SF3446%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196ea286a7b-3068529c-c5ce-4ff4-bae4-eeb6e4bf685b-000000/NEjb4hQRKMAnoZwnd4Xw-SD--xtU8hbVs-Y6ZfzZe1M=405">Chapter 26, Senate File 3446</a> appropriates funding for the settlement of certain claims against the state.</p>6847552025-05-19T22:09:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-684649" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-16T21:21:12ZGovernor Tim Walz and United States Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith today traveled to the Two Harbors area in Northeastern Minnesota to survey damage caused by wildfires. The Camp House fire, Jenkins Creek fire, and Munger Shaw fire have impacted an estimated area of over 32,000 acres. Local, state, and federal firefighters, alongside emergency management officials and volunteers are working to contain the fires as gusting winds increase fire activity.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and United States Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith today traveled to the Two Harbors area in Northeastern Minnesota to survey damage caused by wildfires. The Camp House fire, Jenkins Creek fire, and Munger Shaw fire have impacted an estimated area of over 32,000 acres. Local, state, and federal firefighters, alongside emergency management officials and volunteers are working to contain the fires as gusting winds increase fire activity. Photos from the Governor’s visit are available <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720326172103/1/01010196daf68409-c2124a67-7310-425e-bd5c-f7279e0a3b2a-000000/2BVnKfIcDyHyj3AP9px_kl2BK-jRkIUBdvZIjnrn9-w=405" target="_blank">online</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The fires across Northern Minnesota have forced families to evacuate and caused severe damage. My thoughts are with those who have had to leave everything behind, and I extend my deepest gratitude to the wildland firefighters, first responders, volunteers, and emergency management officials who are working around the clock to contain these fires,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The state is ready and committed to do everything in our power to respond to and suppress these fires and others across the state, and help impacted communities rebuild.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Monday, <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F683657/1/01010196daf68409-c2124a67-7310-425e-bd5c-f7279e0a3b2a-000000/T6__rx2RcF5ESni8Kh108m45FHbnUcrO3DQnxbGYIuI=405" target="_blank">Governor Walz authorized the Minnesota National Guard</a> to provide emergency assistance to help respond to wildfires. The National Guard is working alongside the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Interagency Fire Center, and other state and local agencies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">While crews are responding to active wildfires across the state, the three largest are in Northern Minnesota. The Camp House Fire is estimated at 14,979 acres (0% containment), the Jenkins Creek Fire is estimated at 15,571 acres (0% containment), and the Munger Shaw Fire is estimated at 1,630 acres (25% containment). Ground and air suppression efforts continue with more than 300 personnel dispatched to the Camp House and Jenkins Creek fires and 65 personnel to the Munger Shaw fire. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management are coordinating public safety efforts, including evacuations and road closures.</p>6846492025-05-16T21:22:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-684120" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-15T18:53:12ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=House%26f=HF3022%26y=2025%26ssn=0/1/01010196d5452bec-53576d37-2891-4d59-8c8f-959028038fc2-000000/AoMoN4ZKswGFlO5FqUUeMoM6jIjJkwEA6t4DewSDZCQ=405">Chapter 20, House File 3022</a> makes technical changes to state statutes and corrects erroneous and obsolete statutory references.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=House%26f=HF2551%26y=2025%26ssn=0/1/01010196d5452bec-53576d37-2891-4d59-8c8f-959028038fc2-000000/5cvVWwSpdq1n2PrKzaagSAuTUVP7SPMPBxVqazyTogI=405">Chapter 21, House File 2551</a> makes technical changes to state statutes that allows the completion of recodification for the new Department of Children, Youth, and Families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=House%26f=HF286%26y=2025%26ssn=0/1/01010196d5452bec-53576d37-2891-4d59-8c8f-959028038fc2-000000/7yEb3ulrYrXMEbkBEuSIZmCpxfRhrvNXFP23r3jXFJ0=405">Chapter 22, House File 286</a> authorizes cities and counties to conduct national background checks for applications for a license to operate an adult entertainment establishment or to provide massage services. Currently, the law authorizes background checks that only include records within the state.</p>6841202025-05-15T18:55:04Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-683997" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-15T14:51:31ZGovernor Tim Walz and Republican and Democratic legislative leaders reached an agreement today on state budget targets.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Republican and Democratic legislative leaders reached an agreement today on <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F05%2F15%2Ffile_attachments%2F3262133%2FFinal%2520Global%2520Target%2520Agreement_5.14.25.Signed.pdf/1/01010196d46341e2-7364907f-5526-4a2c-8b77-96804ba842fa-000000/Eme8OW0Xi2jBsrkXlN2du6MtBJPpmdFKCcvxnxvVDNs=405" target="_blank">state budget targets</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Amid partisanship and division in Washington,</strong> <strong>Republicans and Democrats are proving that here in Minnesota we can still work together to get things done,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This agreement will ensure Minnesota continues to be the best place in the country to raise a child, while responsibly addressing long-term structural budget challenges. While we disagree on many things, every person in the negotiating room has the best interest of our state in mind. I want to thank House Speaker Lisa Demuth and Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, as well as Senate Leaders Erin Murphy and Mark Johnson, for bringing their passion and ideas to the room and working in good faith to improve the lives of the people we serve.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The hard work and compromise that went into reaching a budget deal represents the best of us as Minnesotans. Our budget framework invests in shared goals like education, health care and family budgets, and prioritizes children, workers and vulnerable communities. We will balance the state budget for the next two years. And now we begin addressing the future budget challenges created by Washington, D.C.,”</strong> said Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy. <strong>“This wasn’t easy, and that’s a good thing. Legislative leaders and Governor Walz have worked through our differences and met our obligation to get to this point. I'm proud of that. Now we can move forward with our work to finalize our budget in the best interests of Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“While we began this session by navigating a tie in the House and the most closely divided legislature in state history, we’ve been able to come to an agreement that improves the lives of Minnesotans and addresses the budget issues in coming years,”</strong> said Speaker Demuth. <strong>“We still have work to do, and I look forward to finishing this session strong. With this agreement, we’re making life more affordable for Minnesotans, strengthening our state, and making Minnesota a great place to live and work.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans expect us to balance the budget and keep our state moving forward, and we are on track,”</strong> said Speaker Emerita Hortman. <strong>“While this agreement doesn’t include everything we would have liked, we worked together to find a compromise. As DFLers, we do not take these changes lightly. But this is a budget that funds Minnesota’s state government for the next two years. It continues to fund our priorities and the services that Minnesotans expect and rely on every day. We are a closely divided state. This budget is a reminder that even in times of deep division, it’s still possible to come together and do the work. I’m grateful to the Governor and my fellow legislative leaders, and I look forward to completing this state budget.”</strong></p>6839972025-05-15T14:52:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-683657" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-12T22:12:59ZGovernor Tim Walz today authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance to help fight the Camp House wildfire in northern Minnesota. Executive Order 25-04 directs the National Guard to assist the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center with fire suppression efforts and assets.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance to help fight the Camp House wildfire in northern Minnesota. <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F05%2F12%2Ffile_attachments%2F3258967%2FExecutive%2520Order%252025-04.pdf/1/01010196c68c35dc-8792e4a1-ef19-4e4c-aee9-1150531bbdc1-000000/rZX-CHbu7-lCZkefZ845pkHuL4J7LFU1ZZPf2NtDFvA=404" target="_blank">Executive Order 25-04</a> directs the National Guard to assist the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center with fire suppression efforts and assets.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Wildfires in northern Minnesota have forced families to evacuate and caused severe damage to and loss of property. My thoughts are with those Minnesotans who are being impacted by this dangerous and unpredictable fire,"</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>"I’m grateful to the men and women of the Minnesota National Guard for stepping up to this mission, and to all the state and local agencies working tirelessly to contain the fire and protect Minnesotans."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Incident Command System is managing multiple fires in northern Minnesota. Currently the two largest fires are the Camp House Fire just north of Brimson, MN and the Jenkins Creek Fire located 45 miles east of Hibbing, MN. Since the Camp House fire was reported on Sunday, May 11 the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Superior National Forest, USDA Forest Service and mutual aid from area fire departments and other states have been actively responding by ground and air. The Jenkins Creek Fire was reported today and at last report was more than 1,000 acres in size.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota National Guard will provide personnel, assistance, and resources to support wildfire suppression efforts alongside the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center, and local agencies.</p>6836572025-05-12T22:14:20Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-683632" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-12T19:42:42ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Erik J. Askegaard. This seat will be chambered in Aitkin in Aitkin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Erik J. Askegaard. This seat will be chambered in Aitkin in Aitkin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F05%2F13%2Ffile_attachments%2F3259546%2FHawley,%2520Daniel%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196ca4df1fa-31183f8a-e24d-4373-841b-f7192af3bf11-000000/OHM0gkgN_HkvebRLvwO8vuriDr-X7dY2p6qMtUwF1Zs=404" target="_blank">Daniel Hawley</a></u></strong><strong>:</strong> Daniel Hawley is a partner at Gammello-Pearson PLLC, where he practices family law, criminal defense, civil litigation, real estate, corporate and business law, estate planning, and municipal law. In this role, he serves as defense counsel for the Crow Wing County DWI Court program. He was previously an associate at Gammello-Pearson PLLC and a law clerk for the Honorable David J. Ten Eyck in the Ninth Judicial District. Hawley’s community involvement includes serving as vice president of the Aitkin/Crow Wing Bar Association and the 15th Bar Association, president of the Crow Wing County Law Library Board of Trustees, and chair of the board of directors of Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F05%2F13%2Ffile_attachments%2F3259548%2FHills,%2520Cindi%2520-%2520Headshot.pdf/1/01010196ca4df1fa-31183f8a-e24d-4373-841b-f7192af3bf11-000000/ISI7GrwC7nSL8x-8hUxaAraZvSK0RxTlMl6dWEGnTTY=404" target="_blank">Cindi Hills</a></u></strong><strong>:</strong> Cindi Hills is an assistant director of Labor Relations at the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system office. She previously worked as an assistant county attorney in Crow Wing County and an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District in Aitkin County. Hills judges moot court competitions, volunteers in local schools, and serves on the school board for Aitkin Public Schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F05%2F13%2Ffile_attachments%2F3259550%2FOlsen,%2520Jordan%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196ca4df1fa-31183f8a-e24d-4373-841b-f7192af3bf11-000000/pasO81SjnsK04NlfU2ymiLa74XbZyaN9BAVJqFNsAWE=404" target="_blank">Jordan Olsen</a></u></strong><strong>:</strong> Jordan Olsen is a managing attorney in the Itasca County and Koochiching County public defender’s offices in the Ninth Judicial District. He was previously an assistant public defender in various counties across the Ninth Judicial District and a law clerk for the Honorable Anne M. Rasmusson in the Ninth Judicial District. Olsen is a member of the Public Defender DNA/Forensics team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010196ca4df1fa-31183f8a-e24d-4373-841b-f7192af3bf11-000000/3C0vSz0TADP7CsXQsRtJQjR7sMYtrHX1kvqZcVS_JUI=404">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6836322025-05-13T15:42:52Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-683571" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-10T20:31:50ZThis weekend, Governor Tim Walz celebrated the 77th Governor’s Fishing Opener by reeling in three Northern Pike alongside legislative leaders of both parties on Cross Lake. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[CROSSLAKE, MN] – This weekend, Governor Tim Walz celebrated the 77th Governor’s Fishing Opener by reeling in three Northern Pike alongside legislative leaders of both parties on Cross Lake. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Friday, Governor Walz participated in interviews with local and statewide press, participated in walleye fry stocking on Big Trout Lake, and joined a group of students at the Crosslake Recreation Area to present a Fishing Education Day proclamation, do some fishing, and highlight youth education efforts on conservation, fishing, and water safety. The Governor also visited the National Loon Center and Bayview Lodge, met with a group of area mayors, and attended a community celebration.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Saturday, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan joined the opening day launch ceremony before fishing on Cross Lake with legislative leaders. Afterwards, they joined other anglers for a shore lunch. Photos from the weekend’s events can be found on <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.flickr.com%252Fphotos%252Fmngov%252Falbums%252F72177720325990802%252F%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C62912e63610d4adc6db008dd8fff0fb3%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638825047821405007%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=yUROL%252BSTB6CM%252BPgJ8UjNIz1%252BAGUSqTIV70Bj7IP5Gcg%253D%26reserved=0/1/01010196bbe3c9bc-53afa1f5-af81-4c9f-bcf3-7d83062f8555-000000/K_xnR7RdYxIP7lT4ks8Ev-Y66NMRRIMsFfLOtoFe9K4=404">Flickr</a></u> or you can visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Ffiles.dnr.state.mn.us%2Fmediaroom%2Fnews-releases%2F5-5-25-fishing-opener-resources%2F/1/01010196bbe3c9bc-53afa1f5-af81-4c9f-bcf3-7d83062f8555-000000/VzOodeFAbqddxmYdi2RPbeUaGceqzp4jP2uoLxSrHtk=404">Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) media room for photos, soundbites and video.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"There’s no better way to kick off summer than by heading out on the water to participate in Minnesota’s number one outdoor activity – fishing,"</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>"The walleye fishing opener marks my favorite time of year, and this year I’m especially excited to highlight Crosslake – a vibrant, charming community with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Thank you to the city of Crosslake, Explore Minnesota and the Minnesota DNR for putting on a great event and preserving the 77-year-old fishing opener tradition. Best of luck to everyone heading out on the water this season!”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota offers thousands of miles of fishable rivers and streams, thousands of fishable lakes, more than a hundred species of fish, and a vibrant fishing community, making it one of the best places on earth to cast a line,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan<strong>. “Every year I look forward to participating in the fishing opener – a Mother’s Day weekend tradition that serves as a reminder that outdoor spaces and experiences are for everyone. Thank you to the Crosslake community, and the local businesses, educators, and local leaders who made this weekend possible.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“What a thrill to see so many people come together in Crosslake to experience the best of what the opener is about: fishing, conservation, time with family and friends, and supporting outdoor recreation,”</span></strong> said Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong><span>“As we saw this weekend, whether you’ve been fishing for decades or you’re just getting started, the opportunities and mentors abound. This season, as you’re planning an outing from shore, kayak or boat, I encourage you to invite someone to go fishing with you and share an unforgettable experience.”</span></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota's $4.4 billion fishing industry, and in recent years, it has served as an iconic kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season. Travel and tourism have traditionally generated approximately $16 billion in leisure and hospitality gross sales in Minnesota annually.</p>6835712025-05-10T20:34:23Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-683552" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-09T21:04:53ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Council on Disability, Energy Transition Advisory Committee, Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Midwest Higher Education Compact Commission; Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Rural Health Advisory Committee, and the Statewide Independent Living Council. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Council on Disability, Energy Transition Advisory Committee, Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Midwest Higher Education Compact Commission; Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Rural Health Advisory Committee, and the Statewide Independent Living Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Leah Cameron – Janesville, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Disability <br /> Member #3 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Nicholas Volkmuth</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Driever – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Council on Disability <br /> Member #6 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Nimo Ahmed</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on Disability:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Council on Disability provides leadership to empower and strengthen the rights of Minnesotans with disabilities. It collaborates with the public and private sectors as a policy and technical resource advisor and advises various state agencies and the Governor on matters pertaining to persons with disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on Disability can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F54/1/01010196b6d90839-b78f6a09-3aed-4663-b637-fdc95a125fe8-000000/LNTb6cJnL-CyjH83YJ3xLOLDslD5r3G1J15_27stiQw=404">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicauris Heredia Rosario – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Energy Transition Advisory Committee <br /> Governor's Designee <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Beth Binczik</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Energy Transition Advisory Committee:</em> <br /> The Energy Transition Advisory Committee develops a statewide energy transition plan and advises the Governor and the legislature on transition issues, economic initiatives, and transition policy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Energy Transition Advisory Committee can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F290/1/01010196b6d90839-b78f6a09-3aed-4663-b637-fdc95a125fe8-000000/yU0Owbog24KRZjIhoUaaaxvBSn0fYAeDr42u5PXkpTE=404">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Corey Boyd – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #12 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Carlondrea Hines</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Janeen Dednam-Wright – Lakeville, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #10 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Paul Slack</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Delphanie Daniels – Burnsville, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #11 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jerad Green – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #6 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Morris – Woodbury, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #8 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dominique Murray – Woodbury, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #13 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: JoAnne Pastel</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Henry Rucker – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member #14 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Marcus Pope</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday:</em> <br /> The Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday helps plan celebrations to bring the community together, reflect and build on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., celebrate the Black experience, and strengthen connections. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F66/1/01010196b6d90839-b78f6a09-3aed-4663-b637-fdc95a125fe8-000000/jzwZj-R_3Gk8PfKRHHDKkmxFSOrvYs-FrNc2tRWXFfc=404">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Melanie Benjamin – Onamia, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Housing Finance Agency <br /> Public Member #2 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency</em> <br /> The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency issues financing dedicated to housing low and moderate-income Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F71/1/01010196b6d90839-b78f6a09-3aed-4663-b637-fdc95a125fe8-000000/6ndM2G61l4rL1Smy5FqJLuYGq3wQs2TpdJbDW1nZS2E=404">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Olson – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Midwest Higher Education Compact Commission <br /> At-Large Member - Higher Education <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Raj Singh – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Midwest Higher Education Compact Commission <br /> At-Large Member <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Rachel Croson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Midwest Higher Education Compact Commission:</em> <br /> The Midwestern Higher Education Compact Commission brings together midwestern states to develop and support best practices, collaborative efforts, and cost-sharing opportunities. Through these efforts, it works to ensure strong, equitable postsecondary educational opportunities and outcomes for all.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Midwest Higher Education Compact Commission can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/1/01010196b6d90839-b78f6a09-3aed-4663-b637-fdc95a125fe8-000000/yrIZUL6OmREDLq_SlJnnow1wAKutdIt7INH0NrJy-kY=404">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brekke Johnsrud – Hibbing, MN</strong> <br /> Rural Health Advisory Committee <br /> Dentist <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Seth Huiras</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Rural Health Advisory Committee:</em> <br /> The Rural Health Advisory Committee advises the commissioner of health and other state agencies on rural health issues.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Rural Health Advisory Committee can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F138/1/01010196b6d90839-b78f6a09-3aed-4663-b637-fdc95a125fe8-000000/B_eOGyuz5UiHu8rigUiXiS8Yk8NVWNSb_YTQS6XTJyc=404">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rand Stenhjem – Apple Valley, MN</strong> <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member #2 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: John Rheinberger</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Valentini – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member #8 <br /> Effective: May 14, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Mohamed Mourssi-Alfash</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Statewide Independent Living Council:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council (MNSILC) works collaboratively with the Centers for Independent Living to create, monitor, review, and evaluate the State Plan for Independent Living. MNSILC coordinates activities with other entities in the state that provide services similar or complementary to independent living services. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Statewide Independent Living Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F152/1/01010196b6d90839-b78f6a09-3aed-4663-b637-fdc95a125fe8-000000/rcpYexE923-Gn1TQ0v6ZHI5JAPOjjxaHNLbXq8DpedA=404">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <u style="font-family: Verdana;"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/01010196b6d90839-b78f6a09-3aed-4663-b637-fdc95a125fe8-000000/4qtTLcpnlU5uDNxW3o552ceg-ZjJGmcs1CO0X15HguI=404">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p>6835522025-05-09T21:06:52Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-683321" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-08T15:40:12ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law giving service dogs in training the same protections and support as active service dogs. The Governor signed the bill alongside bill authors Senator Bonnie Westlin and Representative Cedrick Frazier, advocates, and service dogs Mato and Flint. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law giving service dogs in training the same protections and support as active service dogs. The Governor signed the bill alongside bill authors Senator Bonnie Westlin and Representative Cedrick Frazier, advocates, and service dogs Mato and Flint. Photos from the signing are linked <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720325989889%2F/1/01010196b089d3a5-97a5c164-065b-45e9-afce-ba842625fecb-000000/akeQ5wDgo133xcoRzAqHvjvutCX_9AFgd31tp1mhbvs=404">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Service dogs are vital to the many Minnesotans who depend on their services,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This bill ensures service dogs in training can live with their trainers, who dedicate hundreds of hours working with these animals to ensure they can do their jobs reliably once they’re matched with a client and placed in their forever home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=HF688%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196b089d3a5-97a5c164-065b-45e9-afce-ba842625fecb-000000/__d5u0BwqIpdg1ezilqipyFfOmOQwflvNrH-nG9ukMw=404">Chapter 16 House File 688</a> modifies service dog provisions in housing accommodations, ensuring service dogs in training are exempt from HOA and apartment rules that don’t allow dogs. Currently, only active service dogs are covered under the law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor signed two additional bills today:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Ftext.php%3Fnumber=SF2847%26session=ls94%26version=latest%26session_number=0%26session_year=2025/1/01010196b089d3a5-97a5c164-065b-45e9-afce-ba842625fecb-000000/QX2Qk_obCxtfwDoI6cjPtag6POP9-aN0698SWf1zcUs=404">Chapter 18 Senate File 2847</a> amends the statutory forms used to garnish the wages and bank accounts of a person who has a court ordered judgement against them. These forms now conform with the changes to garnishment laws that passed last year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Ftext.php%3Fnumber=SF3196%26version=0%26session=ls94%26session_year=2025%26session_number=0/1/01010196b089d3a5-97a5c164-065b-45e9-afce-ba842625fecb-000000/psoMUcKHn6Jcq8-0qCVk8sfW_7BWvR2Ue-jVUVgURbQ=404">Chapter 19 Senate File 3196</a> allocates $9 million to the Department of Corrections to address a fiscal year 2025 budget deficiency. It also allows the Department of Corrections to reallocate $10 million from unspent fiscal year 2024-25 appropriations.</p>6833212025-05-08T15:41:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-683305" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-08T14:18:05ZMinnesota Governor Tim Walz today announced that state business development programs have helped create or retain a record 4,750 jobs in Minnesota this fiscal year.Business development funding this year will help create or retain 4,750 jobs and leverage over $1 billion in private investment1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz today announced that state business development programs have helped create or retain a record 4,750 jobs in Minnesota this fiscal year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since July 1, 2024, the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) Job Creation Fund and Minnesota Investment Fund have supported 23 business expansions that will collectively create or retain nearly 4,750 jobs – the most since the programs’ inception in 2004. The two programs have provided $35 million in funding, leveraging nearly $1.2 billion in outside business investment this fiscal year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota has shown the country that we’re not just one of the best states to start a business – we’re proving to be one of the best states to grow one too,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re proud to support the growth and expansion of strong businesses that are tackling some of our world’s greatest challenges, while creating thousands of good-paying jobs for Minnesota families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Setting a new record for DEED-assisted business expansions says a lot about Minnesota's healthy business environment,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Minnesota is a global leader in advanced manufacturing, health care, innovative discovery and so much more, and we’re excited to work with more businesses helping us stay on that cutting edge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdeed%2Fbusiness%2Ffinancing-business%2Fdeed-programs%2Fmn-jcf%2F/1/01010196b0252dbb-52a60cf2-1436-4120-acbc-9963bfbfabff-000000/o2W7NqvK3ngdxPYmjnzcObsItKSNpJBvVncTNonIl8w=404">Job Creation Fund</a> (JCF) provides financing to new and expanding businesses that meet certain job creation and capital investment targets. The <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdeed%2Fbusiness%2Ffinancing-business%2Fdeed-programs%2Fmif%2F/1/01010196b0252dbb-52a60cf2-1436-4120-acbc-9963bfbfabff-000000/Jbllmaz5iZsgHwUso4RgC8hm4RqCk9QOFForfX3-x6c=404">Minnesota Investment Fund</a> (MIF) provides loans for capital equipment to help businesses add new workers and retain high-quality jobs, with a focus on industrial, manufacturing, and technology-related industries.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">These programs – along with the Minnesota Forward Fund, which provides funding to support large-scale business expansions – form the core of DEED’s business financing operations. Last fiscal year, the three programs leveraged nearly $1.5 billion in outside investment for business expansions around Minnesota, creating or retaining 3,500 new jobs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Today, DEED is announcing $3.7 million in JCF or MIF funding for three business expansion projects, which are expected to create 337 jobs and leverage around $56 million in outside investment. The following projects received funding:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>ALTER TECHNOLOGY US, Plymouth – JCF $175,000, MIF $100,000</em> <br /> ALTER TECHNOLOGY US provides back-end related semiconductor services as well as radiation engineering and test services with a focus on high reliability products that serve the aerospace, medical equipment, non-classified defense, and industrial markets. ALTER TECHNOLOGY US will invest initially $4.5 million to set up a semiconductor testing facility in Plymouth. The project is expected to create 15 jobs within the first three years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Beckman Coulter Inc., Chaska – JCF $1,740,000, MIF $1,250,000</em> <br /> A global leader in advanced diagnostics, Beckman Coulter Diagnostics solutions are used in complex clinical testing, and are found in hospitals, reference laboratories, and physician office settings around the globe. Every hour around the world, more than one million patient samples are tested on Beckman Coulter Diagnostics systems benefiting 1.2 billion patients and over three million clinicians each year. The company will invest an estimated $50 million in expanding their clinical diagnostics manufacturing at their current Chaska location. The total project is expected to create 300 jobs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Cytotheryx, Inc., Rochester – JCF $140,000, MIF $325,000</em> <br /> Cytotheryx, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing cell-based therapies for acute, chronic, and rare forms of liver disease, enabled by their proprietary bio-incubator that propagates functional cells of the liver. With a total cost of nearly $1.4 million, the proposed project will renovate an existing 18,000-square-foot facility in Rochester. The project is expected to create 22 jobs in the first three years.</p>6833052025-05-08T14:21:00Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-683232" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-07T20:03:53ZGovernor Tim Walz today released the following statement celebrating Minnesota’s highest high school graduation rate on record. Over 84 percent of the 2024 graduating class earned their diploma. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released the following statement celebrating Minnesota’s highest high school graduation rate on record. Over 84 percent of the 2024 graduating class earned their diploma. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s highest graduation rates on record are a testament to the historic investments we made to provide free school meals, support teacher training, expand mental health resources, and promote technical training opportunities for Minnesota high schoolers,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The state is proud to celebrate the graduating class of 2024 and remains committed to supporting Minnesota students, setting them up for success beyond the classroom.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The record graduation rate follows investments passed as part of the One Minnesota Budget in 2023. Among a variety of key efforts, this includes nation-leading literacy legislation, policies and funding to ensure safe and nurturing learning environments, investments in the educator workforce, and greater access to opportunities in high school.</p>6832322025-05-07T20:06:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-683121" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-06T20:39:52ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=house%26f=HF1014%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196a74d1379-7bc9566c-96a4-4454-bf41-45964f618ed2-000000/SxHM1ZNXwhAN_6CrbG1w9PDIs5mb24faakBv5B0yDec=403">Chapter 14 House File 1014</a></u> allows the board of directors of the Minnesota Insurance Guarantee Association to request financial information from an insured person to establish net worth under certain circumstances.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Ff=SF571%26y=2025%26ssn=0%26b=senate/1/01010196a74d1379-7bc9566c-96a4-4454-bf41-45964f618ed2-000000/HLwBT6coE0BbCWYMrqXg3h1un3YiIIqvKxtf3O0eoGo=403">Chapter 15 Senate File 571</a></u> makes changes to the Minnesota Trust Code to clarify intent and streamline procedures.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Ff=HF1163%26b=house%26y=2025%26ssn=0/1/01010196a74d1379-7bc9566c-96a4-4454-bf41-45964f618ed2-000000/v435vJ5rDkHk5Xi44hifD1BqkqLFoNkMZCG-m6qj52w=403">Chapter 17 House File 1163</a></u> clarifies the types of care that are eligible for reimbursement under the hometown heroes assistance program. The bill specifies that expenses related to peer-to-peer counseling are reimbursable under the program. The bill also clarifies that each firefighter is eligible for two hours of training in understanding and mitigating the risk of job-related critical illnesses and emotional trauma.</p>6831212025-05-06T20:40:54Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-682809" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-02T22:03:58ZGovernor Tim Walz today proclaimed May 3 through May 4 as Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend in honor of firefighters who have been killed in the line of duty. The Governor has directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, May 4, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today proclaimed May 3 through May 4 as Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend in honor of firefighters who have been killed in the line of duty. The Governor has directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, May 4, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota depends on the courageous firefighters who respond to dangerous, complex situations, risking their lives to protect our families, neighbors, and communities,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“On Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend we lower our flags in honor of our fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Their bravery, strength, and compassion will never be forgotten.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Among those honored at this year’s National Fallen Firefighters Memorial is Burnsville firefighter/paramedic Adam Finseth who was killed in the line-of-duty alongside officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge on February 18, 2024.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Minnesota fallen firefighters and their families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fassets%2F05.03.25%2520Fallen%2520Firefighters%2520Memorial%2520Weekend_tcm1055-682805.pdf/1/0101019692db1f36-65af7935-f964-4d24-98a7-b6c4a8cfc5fa-000000/0Swr01T3O39RZg4wTPur-d7DKY22gqjsDnbxeSEQnIE=403" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>6828092025-05-02T22:05:03Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-682792" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-02T20:00:24ZGovernor Tim Walz and state officials wrapped a series of statewide roundtables highlighting proposed federal health care cuts. From late March through late April, the state convened seven roundtable discussions connecting with people across Minnesota to discuss significant damage to Medicaid and health care funding if Congress moves forward with proposed cuts.Proposed cuts could cost Minnesota $1.6 billion a year and jeopardize health coverage for 1.3 million Minnesotans1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and state officials wrapped a series of statewide roundtables highlighting proposed federal health care cuts. From late March through late April, the state convened seven roundtable discussions connecting with people across Minnesota to discuss significant damage to Medicaid and health care funding if Congress moves forward with proposed cuts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Congress is currently considering up to $880 billion in cuts nationwide to health care programing that benefits 1.3 million state residents. State estimates show that Minnesota could lose as much as $1.6 billion annually in federal support for health care programs that serve a wide swath of Minnesotans, including children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities. Key congressional committees will be working on specific proposals over the next two weeks that will determine the concrete impacts to Minnesotans and all Americans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We need to make sure Congress does not ignore the impact of these cuts on real people,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“This is not a partisan issue. This is about keeping a promise to our kids, our seniors, our workforce, and our citizens – that we will care for you when you need us most.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Roundtables were held in St. Paul, Duluth, St. Cloud, Rochester, Mankato, Bloomington, and Moorhead. They featured local enrollees, providers and leaders from Minnesota Management and Budget, the Department of Human Services, the Department of Commerce, and MNsure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“There’s no way to sugarcoat the consequences of these potential cuts – they are dire,”</strong> said John Connolly, state Medicaid director. <strong>“Many Minnesotans would lose their health coverage entirely, jeopardizing their access to vital medical care. Lack of comprehensive coverage leads to skipped preventive care, resulting in worse health outcomes and higher costs. Losing health insurance would force more of our friends, family and neighbors into damaging medical debt and impossible choices between health care and basic necessities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At the roundtables, Medicaid enrollees and health care providers shared their stories and talked about what service cuts and limited coverage would mean for them. Many of their stories can be found on the state’s new <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdhs%2Fmedicaid-matters%2Ffaces-of-medicaid%2F/1/01010196928ef319-3dd6751c-76f6-45bf-8bbd-5ee4ad84da8d-000000/zWTkaofcHFKygVZGqPnzR7AJMQ2K5ZG4cKkqQnOAVEQ=403">Faces of Medicaid</a></u> webpage.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In Mankato, a former Medicaid enrollee talked about the importance of Medicaid – known as Medical Assistance in Minnesota – to her adult children.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Without the help that they received from Medical Assistance, I would have been forced to quit my job. I would need to be at home to care for [my children],”</strong> said Christine M. <strong>“Medical Assistance not only saved their lives, but it has moved them closer to the possibility of employment. It's also allowed me to continue working and providing insurance that reduces that burden on Medical Assistance.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In Duluth, a physician shared his observations about the impact of Medicaid on children and pregnant people.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We know that pregnant women that receive routine prenatal care have better outcomes. Kids that receive regular health care have better outcomes,”</strong> said Dr. Michael Kassing. <strong>“Roughly 20% of all the women who deliver here receive a Medicaid benefit. Fifty percent — half — of all kids in Northern Minnesota benefit from this program. Caring for pregnant women and for kids really is not a controversial topic.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In Rochester, a parent of children who receive services spoke about the significance of Medicaid to everyone.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“If you're thinking the cuts into this program wouldn't affect you, it affects everybody,”</strong> said Ginny S. <strong>“Like from a child's standpoint, you've got overworked teachers trying to control classrooms with no help. You've got the elderly with nowhere to go because the nursing homes closed. Now you've got more burden on families – how are they going to care for their loved ones.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In Bloomington, a doctoral student who fell ill while uninsured talked about the stability of getting Medicaid.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I found myself very sick, very poor, and no insurance. My body was being destroyed,”</strong> said Linda F. Then a friend helped her apply for Medicaid. She continued: <strong>“I can focus on my wellness. I don’t worry about how I'm going to pay for care or what treatment I have to skip because I have to eat instead or because I need to pay for something else. I can just focus on being well and contributing to society in other ways.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The statewide roundtables also covered another threat to Minnesotans’ health care coverage. The looming expiration of enhanced premium tax credits and other changes to the individual market and MinnesotaCare will result in higher health costs for state residents, causing many to lose coverage.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Visit Minnesota’s <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdhs%2Fmedicaid-matters%2F/1/01010196928ef319-3dd6751c-76f6-45bf-8bbd-5ee4ad84da8d-000000/sq7BgxbZBRgc5qYnGPBgifekmqaGjP3XDeJX-zBpbU0=403">Medicaid Matters</a></u> webpage for more information about the impact of Minnesota’s Medicaid program and numbers specific to your region and county.</p>6827922025-05-02T20:01:38Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-682483" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-01T16:08:23ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed the Brady Aune and Joseph Anderson Safety Act bill into law, establishing safety requirements for aquatic plant management companies whose employees use scuba gear. The bill was proposed following the deaths of Aune and Anderson who drowned while performing lake weed removal using scuba equipment without proper training.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed the Brady Aune and Joseph Anderson Safety Act bill into law, establishing safety requirements for aquatic plant management companies whose employees use scuba gear. The bill was proposed following the deaths of Aune and Anderson who drowned while performing lake weed removal using scuba equipment without proper training.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Brady and Joseph were two remarkable young men whose tragic, preventable deaths are a stark reminder that workplace safety cannot be an afterthought,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With this bipartisan legislation, we’re preventing future tragedies and making Minnesota a safer place to work. I applaud the strength, courage, and dedication of the families who have tirelessly advocated to ensure every Minnesotan who goes to work returns home safely.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Ff=HF1355%26b=house%26y=2025%26ssn=0/1/010101968d8d5475-7e67f9e8-dd8c-466c-911e-fc6df2b9edf8-000000/FHiHI4RoJJp4E5Pwm15GSGe6AX_LyAPzbZns2uk59NE=403">House File 1355</a></u> includes additional occupational safety and health requirements for persons conducting scuba diving at a place of employment. It requires that any diver be scuba certified, mandates specific equipment for all dives, requires an employer to provide certain equipment upon the request of an employee, necessitates the presence of a standby diver, and requires first aid and CPR training.</p>6824832025-05-02T16:17:47Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-682404" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-30T21:31:50ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed seven bills into law.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed seven bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Ff=HF1058%26b=house%26y=2025%26ssn=0/1/01010196886cd5d3-2e99a7c4-6beb-4c02-99b7-572e306ba84e-000000/lXcOqJMEoqsHoaaQ5ZPb11lGYIY2F1jAKzYTD07DR2U=403">Chapter 6, House File 1058</a></u> amends the jurisdiction of the North Koochiching sanitary sewer board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=House%26f=HF0124%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196886cd5d3-2e99a7c4-6beb-4c02-99b7-572e306ba84e-000000/jtS6xTxVXdzZqv2pi5sLivh5COZ7JYQXb2BpsoMD594=403">Chapter 7, House File 124</a></u> permits certain public safety officers, state agencies, and political subdivisions to receive gifts that honor or commemorate a public safety officer related to a line of duty death. It authorizes certain local governments to expend money for a funeral or memorial and for travel and participation costs for national memorial events for fallen public safety officers. The bill requires such entities to report any gifts to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety and the legislature.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Ff=HF1792%26b=house%26y=2025%26ssn=0/1/01010196886cd5d3-2e99a7c4-6beb-4c02-99b7-572e306ba84e-000000/vDk9nZxGhEMnfsgbHUx7OQcGgiIg1ArnxCC4c-JKU8I=403">Chapter 9, House File 1792</a></u> updates terms, definitions, and notices for contracts for deed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fview=chrono%26f=HF2184%26y=2025%26ssn=0%26b=house/1/01010196886cd5d3-2e99a7c4-6beb-4c02-99b7-572e306ba84e-000000/5SAxPmXzsrO5v0a-ZnUOaG48QSVLOlNNKNZzQ_d1N90=403">Chapter 10, House File 2184</a></u> exempts the Office of Ombudsperson for American Indian Families from paying court fee requirements in certain cases, such as ones related to human services matters, children and child custody matters, marriage dissolution, and guardianship of a minor or incapacitated person.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fview=chrono%26f=HF747%26y=2025%26ssn=0%26b=house/1/01010196886cd5d3-2e99a7c4-6beb-4c02-99b7-572e306ba84e-000000/6a9VcuijEPedeul6Te9Q4EYkl0iI3A0Ec_-39pSvTdk=403">Chapter 11, House File 747</a></u> makes several changes to Chapter 302A, the Minnesota Business Corporation Act. The bill addresses procedures in the event of an emergency, sets limitations on a board’s authority to manage a corporation, and defines several new terms.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.house.leg.state.mn.us%2Fbills%2FInfo%2FHF129%2F94%2F2025%2F0/1/01010196886cd5d3-2e99a7c4-6beb-4c02-99b7-572e306ba84e-000000/Rmx6jlRb_ZprLQmQJozURZ24kgbdTO2-P1DIfOLJV50=403">Chapter 12, House File 129</a></u> requires the state’s Director of Child Sex Trafficking Prevention to submit a biennial report to the legislature and the commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Health evaluating the Safe Harbor program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Ftext.php%3Fnumber=HF1346%26version=0%26session=ls94%26session_year=2025%26session_number=0/1/01010196886cd5d3-2e99a7c4-6beb-4c02-99b7-572e306ba84e-000000/sjX7ZjhADQjZAoRsWqePYo7UYOdd_r_iJaLL2aaSqy8=403">Chapter 13, House File 1346</a></u> enforces training requirements for mandated reporters to better identify signs of child abuse. The bill requires that at least half of mandated reporter training is focused on the identification of suspected maltreatment of minors. The bill also enforces that the training includes input from professionals with specialized knowledge related to maltreatment, including medical professionals, attorneys, mental health professionals, and social workers.</p>6824042025-04-30T21:33:43Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-682402" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-30T21:29:41ZThe term for the chief administrative law judge at the Office of Administrative Hearings expires on June 30, 2025. The Governor’s Office today announced they are accepting applications for those interested in the position.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The term for the chief administrative law judge at the Office of Administrative Hearings expires on June 30, 2025. The Governor’s Office today announced they are accepting applications for those interested in the position.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Administrative Hearings is an administrative court that holds fair and impartial hearings in contested cases involving challenges to government action or workers’ compensation disputes. The office also exercises general supervision over state agency rulemaking. The chief administrative law judge must be learned in the law and is appointed by the Governor for a term of six years, with advice and consent of the Senate. The chief judge is responsible for appointing other administrative law judges and compensation judges as necessary to fulfill the duties of the office.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on May 21 and should be addressed to Governor Walz</strong>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101968852075d-45167e99-4b4e-4d8f-8869-7977e61f7917-000000/_cIqGX-bUwvCPXqlf8GupiDp5lYR4qUuysKiBGDmcPc=403" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6824022025-04-30T21:33:37Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-681819" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-25T20:57:42ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson; Board of School Administrators; Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council; Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners; and the State Board of Physical Therapy. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson; Board of School Administrators; Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council; Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners; and the State Board of Physical Therapy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jasmine Clark – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Adult Formerly in the Foster Care System <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Velecia Vivian Dudley – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Adult Formerly in the Foster Care System <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Ziigwan Frazer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Charie Gill-Baptist – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Nonprofit Professional Who Works at Nonprofits Serving Foster Youth <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Ariana Guerra</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mallory Stoll – Prior Lake, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Attorney Who Works in the Juvenile Court System or Family Court <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Graciela Bloch</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson:</em> <br /> The Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson makes recommendations to the foster youth ombudsperson and staff while continuously overseeing the foster youth ombudsperson’s work. The board shall evaluate the foster youth ombudsperson’s effectiveness through regular meetings with current and former youth in the foster care system and community advocates working closely with the foster care system.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F305/1/010101966e9f06e0-1a4e59a3-1214-4986-a1ca-f9e40bd00c80-000000/B6jPGbH1VOAtHSIH_vEVNs0Kf3bUELPHj4qL5vxOYNY=402">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brennan Kent – Benson, MN</strong> <br /> Board of School Administrators <br /> Higher Ed Faculty Member in an Educational Administration Program <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Tracy Reimer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Melisa Rivera – Shoreview, MN</strong> <br /> Board of School Administrators <br /> Elementary School Principal Rep <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Nancy Antoine</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of School Administrators:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Board of School Administrators licenses school administrators in order to establish and maintain high standards for a quality administrator licensing system for Minnesota public schools, and ensures that the highest quality administrators serve the needs of people in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of School Administrators can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F34/1/010101966e9f06e0-1a4e59a3-1214-4986-a1ca-f9e40bd00c80-000000/i94qL3B7y-NSkdzIZ6fXz3yLOhxAA6igLP2FNE_YCEo=402">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Hartwell – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council <br /> Public Member #4 <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matt Kucharski – Maple Grove, MN</strong> <br /> Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council <br /> Public Member #2 <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Jamie Swenson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council:</em> <br /> The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council was established by the legislature with the responsibility of providing annual funding recommendations to the legislature from the Outdoor Heritage Fund.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F145/1/010101966e9f06e0-1a4e59a3-1214-4986-a1ca-f9e40bd00c80-000000/0WMJgF0jwIHjglJPqDeFYrGP0v1e2An0KY8TBSbd-TU=402">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Daschner – Faribault, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners <br /> Chiropractor Member #5 <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners verifies credentials; examines, licenses, and regulates chiropractors; reviews complaints; approves continuing education programs; audits licensee's continuing education; and registers professional corporations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F100/1/010101966e9f06e0-1a4e59a3-1214-4986-a1ca-f9e40bd00c80-000000/xolENh9rftKf-F73AdhkryFta7SXTWWhU8lFs-4hO-A=402">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tanya Terman – Rochester, MN</strong> <br /> State Board of Physical Therapy <br /> Physical Therapist #2 <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Neel Shah – Rochester, MN</strong> <br /> State Board of Physical Therapy <br /> Registered Doctor of Medicine <br /> Effective: April 30, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Board of Physical Therapy:</em> <br /> The State Board of Physical Therapy evaluates applicants for licensure, renews annual licenses for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, and enforces the Physical Therapy Practice Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Board of Physical Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F143/1/010101966e9f06e0-1a4e59a3-1214-4986-a1ca-f9e40bd00c80-000000/Ymz2QjyTCK8rgqeRdIf2QoyVCzBEhR-D5grVRS39Yxk=402">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/010101966e9f06e0-1a4e59a3-1214-4986-a1ca-f9e40bd00c80-000000/kxxdi_ctE2zL5CJ8YENaYl7ViM2BPGh7Q-KlNH4MmRI=402">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6818192025-04-25T20:58:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-681704" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-24T21:58:39ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law that amends the medical exception to Minnesota’s vehicle window tint restriction.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law that amends the medical exception to Minnesota’s vehicle window tint restriction.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Currently, individuals with medical conditions requiring tinted vehicle windows are required to have a medical prescription from a doctor renewed every two years to qualify for an exemption to the window tinting requirements. However, there are some medical conditions that require additional tinting that are inherently permanent.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=SF1075%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010196696529c8-09dfa825-aeb5-44ff-b8a5-46015ba488bf-000000/uExTD6A70o18_DZMOGks7rZVUKlT5wZxubfB4QDrm6Y=402">Senate File 1075</a></u> allows a doctor to designate the condition as permanent, issue a prescription without an expiration date, and relieve the need to obtain new documentation in the future.</p>6817042025-04-24T21:59:55Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-681549" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-24T00:44:01ZBelow is a copy of Governor Tim Walz’s State of the State Address as prepared.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Below is a copy of Governor Tim Walz’s State of the State Address as prepared. Language is subject to change.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over the last six years, Minnesotans have been writing a story about what it means to govern like good neighbors – with decency and common sense, but also with courage and ambition and, above all, an abiding commitment to making life better for the people we all serve.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I like to think we’ve proven the value of a strong Democratic Party – but also the importance of a Republican Party willing to come to the table and contribute their ideas in good faith.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">No matter what’s happening in Washington, Republicans and Democrats have a record of working together here in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The result? We can all be proud to live, and serve, in America’s best place to raise a child.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And I’m not the only one who thinks so. The rest of the nation has taken notice of what we’ve done here in Minnesota, and how we’ve done it.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The truth is, no matter where you go in this beautiful country, people tend to want the same basic things out of an American life.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And when I say “basic things,” I mean things like meaningful work. Safe neighborhoods. Good schools. Affordable health care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But I also mean something more, something a little harder to define or quantify.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">People want <em>security</em>– they want to feel like their life is built on a solid foundation that won’t fall away if something goes wrong.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">People want <em>opportunity</em>– they want to feel like they can get ahead instead of having to settle for getting by, and give their kids chances <em>they </em>never had.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And, maybe most of all, people want <em>freedom </em>to live their own lives the way they want to live them, even if it’s not the way their neighbors would want to live theirs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Security</strong>. <strong>Opportunity</strong>. <strong>Freedom</strong> . I hear it everywhere I go. And every time I do, I find myself feeling proud of Minnesota. The truth is, all of America wants what we have.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">You talk about security:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>We’ve given parents peace of mind through a child tax credit that’s expected to cut child poverty in our state by a third and a free meals program that’s making sure every kid can go to school with something in their stomach.</li> <li>We’ve passed the nation’s most aggressive expansion of labor rights, because a job isn’t just a job, it’s the means to a secure life, and it should come with benefits like earned safe and sick time and the right to bargain for better wages.</li> <li>We’ve invested lots of time and hundreds of millions of dollars in fighting crime – and, by the way, violent crime in our state is dropping.</li> <li>We’ve worked together to eliminate Social Security taxes on the vast majority of Minnesota’s seniors so that nobody’s parents have to choose between prescriptions and groceries.</li> <li>And in just a few months, we’ll have one of the nation’s most generous family and medical leave policies, because no one should worry about losing their income while taking care of a loved one.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">You talk about opportunity:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>We’ve passed unprecedented funding for public education – and worked on a bipartisan basis to make sure our kids are actually getting the benefit of that funding through our literacy programs.</li> <li>We’ve invested hundreds of millions in bringing competitive, high-paying jobs to our state and growing our economy with an eye towards the green energy and innovation jobs of the future.</li> <li>And we’re not just one of the nation’s best states in which to <em>start </em>a business – we’re proving to be one of America’s most popular states in which to <em>grow </em>a business. Just look at Philips, or Solventum, or Sofidel, or the Mayo Clinic – investing billions to create thousands of new jobs right here in Minnesota.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And you talk about freedom: Here in Minnesota, that freedom – freedom from hunger and poverty, freedom to worship or not, freedom to be who you are – is everybody’s birthright, no matter how much money you make or where your family came from or what you think about the issues of the day.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>That’s </em>what makes Minnesota great. <em>That’s </em>why we’re the best place in America for kids.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And <em>that’s </em>why I love serving in this job.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tonight, with the state of our state as strong as it’s ever been, we gather to write the next chapter in our great Minnesota story. But I can’t help but point out that we also gather at a moment of great uncertainty for our nation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And let’s be honest: This uncertainty – this <em>chaos</em>– is no accident.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The President of the United States has chosen – <em>chosen!</em>– to destroy our federal government’s ability to help people. He hired the richest man in the world to take a chainsaw to basic services Minnesotans rely on to build better lives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">His plan will leave nobody working to prevent the next pandemic, nobody picking up the phone at Social Security, nobody making sure kids with special needs are able to get an education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Just a few months ago, Minnesotans who got ripped off by a bank or a credit card company or a health care company could go to their federal government for help. But now that government has switched sides. Under this administration, the federal government exists to help those corporations screw you over.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Next up on the chopping block: Medicaid. And let’s be clear about what that means. Forty percent of our children – and more than a million Minnesotans overall – rely on Medicaid for their health care. This administration wants to take that health care away. Meanwhile, rural hospitals would be forced to close.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Everyone’s costs would skyrocket. And our budget would be torn to pieces.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Meanwhile, the President of the United States has chosen – <em>chosen!</em> – to tear up the values that once made America the shining light of the world.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Now, in the land of the free and the home of the brave, we have university students being swept up and shoved into unmarked vans, and fathers being tossed into Salvadorean gulags without a hint of due process.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Let’s be real clear about something: If you say you love freedom, but you don’t believe in freedom for everybody, then the thing you love isn’t freedom – it’s privilege.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Maybe worst of all, the President of the United States has chosen – <em>chosen!</em> – to throw our economy into turmoil. Global markets are teetering on the brink of collapse. Businesses are already laying off employees by the hundreds and thousands. Working people are already paying more for basic goods. And if you haven’t checked your 401(k) lately, well, don’t look now.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Let’s be clear: None of this <em>had </em>to happen. When the President took office three months ago, there was no reason for him to throw a wrench into the works.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But if you listen to anything that comes out of the President’s mouth, one thing is clear: He’s just plain confused about how the world works.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’re talking about a guy who slapped a ten percent tariff on an island populated entirely by <em>penguins</em>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Does anybody here think that makes sense?</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This isn’t servant leadership. It’s not any kind of leadership at all. It’s small. It’s weak. It’s petty. It takes the awesome power of the federal government and turns it into a crude weapon, wielded by a man who wants to be a king.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And as Governor, I’m going to continue to do everything in my power to protect Minnesotans from getting hurt, and provide them shelter from the storm.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But it’s not enough to complain about the damage this administration is causing. And it’s not even enough to try to clean up as much of the mess as we can.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We need to prove to the people of Minnesota – to the American people – that there’s a better way to govern. Because the truth is, this current administration in Washington is not forever. These small, petty men will disappear into the dustbin of history. And when they do, we’ll have both an opportunity and an obligation to rebuild our government so it actually works for working people.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If we’re going to seize that opportunity, we have to be ready to show that we can be trusted with that obligation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If we want to earn back the trust of the American people, we have to be honest about the fact that the government hasn’t always deserved that trust in the first place.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And if we want the chance to govern <em>righteously</em>– if we want the chance to govern <em>ambitiously</em>– then we have to do a better job of proving that we can govern <em>responsibly</em>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Which brings me to this year’s budget.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Two years ago, we made historic investments in our people and our future. And let me be very clear: We’re not walking away from the commitments we’ve made to our schools and our health care, to green energy and public safety, to feeding our kids and taking care of our seniors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Just the opposite. This year’s budget <em>protects </em>those ambitious investments by embracing a spirit of responsibility – and addressing some long-term budget challenges so that future leaders don’t have to make impossible choices.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Let me explain.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Years ago, long before many of us were here in St. Paul, members of both parties made a series of choices about human services spending that put us on a path of unsustainable cost growth. In just a few years, the biggest of these human services programs will eat up one in every eight of our dollars.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We could ignore the problem, for now. The wave might not crash this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But while the problem may not be our fault, the solution should be our responsibility. So I’m proposing that, this year, we come together, DFLers and Republicans, and address the issues we inherited.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For the economists in the crowd, my budget will be balanced for years to come, and it will cut our structural imbalance by half.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For everyone else, it’s really this simple: Right now, we’re the most generous state in the nation when it comes to these programs and services – and we should be proud of that.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">After my budget is passed, we will <em>still </em>be the most generous state in the nation when it comes to these programs and services – and because of the efficiencies I’ve proposed, we’ll be able to <em>continue</em> being the most generous state in the nation for years to come.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Bottom line: If we don’t govern responsibly, someone else will get a chance to govern irresponsibly. And I refuse to let that happen.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Another way we’re protecting our investments is by doing more to prevent, investigate, and punish fraud.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">It’s easy for my friends across the aisle to demagogue government spending.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The truth, as long as there have been programs aimed at helping people, there have been people looking to steal from those who need them most.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve made strides in catching those bad actors and stopping their schemes. We’ve sent a lot of crooks to prison. But there’s more we can do.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota should have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to misuse of taxpayer dollars. And earlier this year, I took action to make that policy a reality.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I issued an executive order to strengthen our state’s capacity to investigate fraud by establishing a centralized Fraud and Financial Crimes unit at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. I have a proposal before this chamber to use artificial intelligence to sniff out bad actors before they can get their hands on our money. And a proposal to increase criminal penalties for theft of public funds by 20 percent.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Bottom line: I believe that when criminals try to steal public funding, you don’t cut the funding, you stop the criminals. And that’s exactly what we’re doing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’re also working to improve efficiency and customer service across state agencies, because it’s not enough to spend taxpayer money <em>responsibly</em> – we should be spending it <em>effectively</em>. And we’ve already made strides – I just got my tabs renewed for five bucks at Cub, and you can, too.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">People deserve more bang for their buck, and that’s exactly what this budget will deliver.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Of course, the state’s budget isn’t the only one undergoing a little extra scrutiny right now. Families are sitting down around the kitchen table and struggling to figure out how they’re going to afford the President’s tariff tax. And I can’t stop the pointless policies coming from Washington that are making everything more expensive – but we can do something to help make those difficult conversations just a little easier.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year, I’m proposing an unprecedented tax cut for working people – a reduction in the statewide sales tax. We’ve never before done this in our state’s history, but there’s never been a better time to try it than right now.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And make no mistake: Unlike the President’s tax cuts for the rich, this one is fully paid for. We’re doing it by closing loopholes the wealthy use to avoid paying taxes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Finally, we’re going to ask the big health insurance corporations to finally start paying their fair share, with a reasonable increase in the surcharge we already ask HMOs to pay. Even as the administration in Washington pushes for nearly a trillion dollars in cuts to Medicaid, which would shift costs to states like Minnesota, we’re making sure that burden falls on insurance companies, not working families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ll have time to go line by line together and hammer out a final proposal that allows us to move forward as One Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This budget wasn’t written to please everyone. It was written to bring everyone to the table. And when we get there, no doubt we’ll have some disagreements. My progressive friends might wish we were cutting a little less. My conservative friends might wish we were cutting a little more. Gwen and the kids might wish I’d take the damn pay raise instead of turning it down again like I have every year as Governor.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But that’s how government is supposed to work. It’s not supposed to be one old man sitting in the Oval Office sending out middle-of-the-night tweets that shock markets into freefall. It’s not supposed to be a bunch of 20-year-olds showing up unannounced at federal agencies and firing everyone. It’s not supposed to be chaos and destruction.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">It’s supposed to be people of differing opinions coming together to negotiate in good faith. Our legislature is narrowly divided, but I believe we can unify around these ideas of security, opportunity, and freedom. I believe we can continue to make Minnesota the best place in America to live, work, and raise a family.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Most of all, I believe we can show our people – and everyone around the nation who’s watching – that we can still work together to improve lives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Let’s show the world what servant leadership really looks like.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thank you. God bless you, and God bless the great state of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Let’s get to work.</p>6815492025-04-24T00:47:21Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-681545" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-23T21:16:32ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Victoria Elsmore as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. Elsmore will replace the late Honorable Patrick C. Diamond and will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F23%2Ffile_attachments%2F3238809%2FElsmore,%2520Victoria%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019663d04e53-62a87801-014d-49ac-9425-6829c8c3dd83-000000/HpLn1BtOIApDEGRWTciAU-KChQpq3mtbwO-i71VDt2E=402" target="_blank">Victoria Elsmore</a> as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. Elsmore will replace the late Honorable Patrick C. Diamond and will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Victoria Elsmore will be a familiar face and a welcome addition to an already dynamic bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She is filling the seat of the late Judge Patrick Diamond, someone who left a lasting legacy on this court and community. Victoria will work every day to instill confidence in our justice system through humility and appreciation for all those who come before it.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Second Judicial District encompasses Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Victoria Elsmore is a district court referee in the family division of the Second Judicial District, presiding over dissolution, custody, support, domestic abuse, and harassment matters. She was previously a partner at Collins, Buckley, Sauntry &amp; Haugh, PLLP, where she practiced family law. Elsmore’s community involvement includes serving as a trustee on the Board of Trustees for Mitchell Hamline School of Law, an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, and the immediate past president of the Ramsey County Bar Association. She earned her B.S. from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019663d04e53-62a87801-014d-49ac-9425-6829c8c3dd83-000000/rSGjsH_AYyKH1eqpTTF89R9XwCOnqkwLw1UC7LqCeR4=402" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6815452025-04-23T21:17:53Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-680094" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-22T01:40:36ZIn accordance with an order signed today by President Donald Trump, Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota until sunset on the day of interment, to honor the life and legacy of Pope Francis.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – In accordance with an order signed today by President Donald Trump, Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota until sunset on the day of interment, to honor the life and legacy of Pope Francis.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Pope Francis led by example, centering his life and papacy on being a voice for the less fortunate. He inspired us all to better embody the teachings of Christ: love, compassion, and justice,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>"Gwen and I are joining Catholics and Christians around the world in mourning his loss.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F21%2Ffile_attachments%2F3236814%2F04.21.25%2520FAHS%2520Pope%2520Francis.pdf/1/010101965a595e99-8c663a22-7215-471b-9658-33e3173cde64-000000/6PxA2jsfoEUoajevA4qF399pBgjX-Fze2TGhlI0iS3E=401" target="_blank">here</a> .</p>6800942025-04-22T01:41:45Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-679918" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-18T17:25:26ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Kelly Staples as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Staples will replace the Honorable David L. Knutson and will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F18%2Ffile_attachments%2F3234812%2FStaples,%2520Kelly%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019649d98dba-9f14dae7-2537-4c5c-bb40-5a75b5a1ec8d-000000/_FA9rnWJ9i9h_B1-AU-ZeGq80sR0ZrX22y78_Qq64rQ=401" target="_blank">Kelly Staples</a> as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Staples will replace the Honorable David L. Knutson and will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my privilege to appoint Kelly Staples to the Dakota County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her wealth of family law experience, coupled with her ability to help clients navigate their most challenging moments, gives me the confidence that she will be a great judge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s First Judicial District consists of Carver, Dakota, Goodhue, Le Sueur, McLeod, Scott, and Sibley Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Kelly Staples is a court-appointed counsel in paternity, child support, and civil commitment matters and a volunteer conciliation court referee in Dakota County. She also maintains a private family law practice focusing on child custody and domestic abuse cases. Staples’s community involvement includes serving on the board of directors for Legal Assistance of Dakota County, judging high school mock trial, volunteering at legal self-help clinics through 360 Communities, and supporting her children’s many activities. She earned her B.A. from the University of Minnesota and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019649d98dba-9f14dae7-2537-4c5c-bb40-5a75b5a1ec8d-000000/flDBjjNXw_LsrI8xFF43_ParYxQGXyEdlHU1W6o1E4Q=401" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6799182025-04-18T17:26:59Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-679786" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-17T20:52:05ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Two of the vacancies occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Amy E. Dawson and the Honorable Jay M. Quam, and the other vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Charlene W. Hatcher. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Two of the vacancies occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Amy E. Dawson and the Honorable Jay M. Quam, and the other vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Charlene W. Hatcher. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F17%2Ffile_attachments%2F3234002%2FCahill%2520Sean%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196457c47a9-c3d7460e-42db-4a77-8bd1-2b06a6ee9ea6-000000/ybzw-0iEx7WggOkFr3WZ18I7b_XAky88_B7LXTObZ6k=401" target="_blank">Sean Cahill</a>:</strong> Sean Cahill is a senior assistant county attorney in the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office. His practice areas have included adult felony prosecution, appellate practice, juvenile delinquency prosecution, child protection representation, and postconviction litigation. Cahill previously served as an assistant public defender in Hennepin County. His community involvement includes serving as a member of the Minnesota Rules of Evidence Advisory Committee, an adjunct law professor for the University of St. Thomas School of Law and Mitchell Hamline School of Law, and the vice chair of the City of Minneapolis Zoning Board of Adjustment. He also volunteers with the American Mock Trial Association, the McGee Moot Court Competition, and his children’s schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F17%2Ffile_attachments%2F3233984%2FNelson,%2520Nate%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196457c47a9-c3d7460e-42db-4a77-8bd1-2b06a6ee9ea6-000000/x4RHqgUigoaiHRXvOrDn9K2SU6zwtl1tRek3jL-IDc4=401" target="_blank">Nathan Nelson</a>:</strong> Nathan Nelson is an assistant U.S. attorney working in both the Criminal and Appellate Divisions of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, where he handles a variety of felony criminal matters. He was previously a litigation associate at Bowman &amp; Brooke, L.L.P. and Clark, Thomas, &amp; Winters, P.C., where he litigated complex civil cases. Nelson also served as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Janis Jack on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, the Honorable Maryanne Barry on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, and the Honorable Alan Page, the Honorable Christopher Dietzen, and the Honorable Wilhemina Wright of the Minnesota Supreme Court.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F17%2Ffile_attachments%2F3234000%2FNguyen,%2520Ngoc%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196457c47a9-c3d7460e-42db-4a77-8bd1-2b06a6ee9ea6-000000/k2qb5rj79C7N8654NLx4i4CZ19W-kx3tp7omll3mFok=401" target="_blank">Ngoc Nguyen</a>:</strong> Ngoc Nguyen is a district court referee in the housing division of the Fourth Judicial District, presiding over housing, harassment, and criminal expungement matters. She previously served as a human services judge at the Department of Human Services and an assistant appellate public defender in the Office of the Minnesota Appellate Public Defender. Nguyen’s community involvement includes serving as a volunteer tutor with Reading Partners Minnesota and an advisory member of the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association. She previously served as a guardian ad litem for Ramsey County, a panelist for the Hennepin County Police Conduct Review Panel, and board member for Tubman Family Alliance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F17%2Ffile_attachments%2F3234001%2FRyan%2520Gallia,%2520Carrie%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196457c47a9-c3d7460e-42db-4a77-8bd1-2b06a6ee9ea6-000000/tX8i9WtBYq14p_7jNsG9HjAXbk4mTEG2ahKloLXIe0c=401" target="_blank">Carrie Ryan Gallia</a>: </strong>Carrie Ryan Gallia is a senior associate general counsel in the Office of the General Counsel at the University of Minnesota, where she handles litigation and advises on student affairs, freedom of expression, civil rights, and other issues. She previously was an attorney at Lindquist &amp; Vennum and Fish &amp; Richardson, as well as a law clerk to the Honorable Carlos Bea on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Ryan Gallia’s community involvement includes teaching judicial writing at the University of Minnesota Law School, serving as a board member for Xperitas, and volunteering at Jefferson High School in Bloomington.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F17%2Ffile_attachments%2F3233982%2FTweeten,%2520Andy%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196457c47a9-c3d7460e-42db-4a77-8bd1-2b06a6ee9ea6-000000/4HDkH7pQYV4raOniAX0wpEW3DBAbWx4KYWoAn3UiO_4=401" target="_blank">Andrew Tweeten</a>:</strong> Andrew Tweeten is an assistant U.S. attorney in the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, where he investigates and litigates civil fraud cases on behalf of the United States and defends federal agencies and officials against a wide variety of civil claims. He was previously an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office and a law clerk for the Honorable Donald Molloy on the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana and the Honorable Sidney Thomas on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Tweeten’s community involvement includes serving as a volunteer conciliation court referee in the Fourth Judicial District, volunteering with the Minnesota Urban Debate League, and singing and volunteering with One Voice Mixed Chorus. He is also a member of the Minnesota Lavender Bar Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F17%2Ffile_attachments%2F3233983%2FWilcox,%2520Matt%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010196457c47a9-c3d7460e-42db-4a77-8bd1-2b06a6ee9ea6-000000/hiHsu9TvvUq3ap_JEr6EW_0tJalASzQX1el8CjwHQas=401" target="_blank">Matthew Wilcox</a>: </strong>Matthew Wilcox is deputy general counsel for the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, where he manages a team of legal professionals and oversees the agency’s contracting and litigation portfolios. He also serves as an assistant staff judge advocate (Major) at the United States Air Force Warfare Center. Wilcox was previously an assistant city attorney for the City of Minneapolis and an assistant appellate defender in the Office of the Appellate Defender in Montana. His community involvement includes mentoring law students as part of the University of St. Thomas School of Law Mentor Externship Program and serving as a mock trial judge for the MSBA’s high school mock trial program. Wilcox is also a member of the American Legion and an Army veteran who deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Spartan Shield.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010196457c47a9-c3d7460e-42db-4a77-8bd1-2b06a6ee9ea6-000000/vm8ZB-Swq9_PMCCDrcqRngAfUC0u5uHRMWcH7_AQhXI=401">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6797862025-04-17T20:57:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-679680" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-16T23:34:47ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Dilworth’s new fire station, funded by the infrastructure bill the Governor signed into law in 2023. Governor Walz discussed the need to pass a bonding bill this session to support infrastructure projects that will create jobs and improve safety across the state. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Dilworth’s new fire station, funded by the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F579789/1/01010196405fdc67-159eb783-78ca-418a-8536-7795bf222ba3-000000/SfvTnuD6in229QGOXcXM4EV5sAZRaArChSNOvEUinN0=401">infrastructure bill</a></u> the Governor signed into law in 2023. Governor Walz discussed the need to pass a bonding bill this session to support infrastructure projects that will create jobs and improve safety across the state. Photos from the event can be accessed <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.flickr.com%252Fphotos%252Fmngov%252Falbums%252F72177720325151913%252F%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C99a4e219ce3c4a19945608dd7d265232%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638804325725747030%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=TiREZWoWUpbj1%252FtGf%252BG%252BSi12OQJadpIRUClJEQ13z3M%253D%26reserved=0/1/01010196405fdc67-159eb783-78ca-418a-8536-7795bf222ba3-000000/SStQEGhEV9BUVly0i9CAbE9veYvb0jyAEvLI356bKic=401">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Dilworth fire station is a critical public safety project that demonstrates the power and importance of funding infrastructure projects. Four years ago, I visited Dilworth to see for myself how the old fire station was putting safety for both our firefighters and the many communities served by them at risk. In 2023 we got the money to make it happen, and today we celebrate a brand new station,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am grateful to city leadership for their advocacy and look forward to continued work to pass another bonding bill this session and deliver necessary funding for projects like this one.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2023, Governor Walz signed a cash capital projects bill that included $4.38 million for Dilworth to tear down the old fire station. Built in 1980, the old station had limited space and firefighters had to bring their materials, which often had contaminants on them, home with them. The new station will serve the cities of Dilworth and Georgetown as well as the townships of Morken, Moorhead, Kragnes, and Oakport.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s 2025 revised bonding proposal includes $807 million for projects that protect Minnesota’s drinking water, keep communities safe, and support housing development. Investments include funding for a new State Patrol headquarters and $10 million for Rapidan Dam recovery efforts.</p>6796802025-04-16T23:36:06Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-679046" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-15T21:38:04ZGovernor Tim Walz and U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison today joined state officials, doctors, and advocates to discuss the impact of proposed federal cuts to vital health care programs. It was the sixth in a series of statewide roundtables being held to discuss the potential federal cuts.Proposed cuts could cost Minnesota $1.6 billion annually, jeopardizing health coverage for 1.3 million Minnesotans1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison today joined state officials, doctors, and advocates to discuss the impact of proposed federal cuts to vital health care programs. It was the sixth in a series of statewide roundtables being held to discuss the potential federal cuts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Changes proposed in the U.S. Congress to Medicaid and health care funding could result in $880 billion in cuts to health care programing benefiting 1.3 million Minnesotans. State estimates show that Minnesota could lose as much as $1.6 billion annually in federal support for health care programs serving a wide swath of Minnesotans, including children, those who are pregnant, seniors, and people with disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Billionaires in Washington are going after our health care, putting lives in danger by threatening major cuts to the programs that over a million Minnesotans rely on,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Medicaid pays for life-saving medication, cancer treatment, child well-checks, and supportive care. Cuts to this funding would put hundreds of thousands of Minnesotans’ lives at risk, disproportionately impacting kids, seniors, people with disabilities, and those living in rural areas. Minnesotans deserve better and I will continue to fight every day to prevent these cuts.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Many Minnesotans could lose their coverage and access to lifesaving health care and preventive medicine if Medicaid is cut. Without comprehensive health care coverage, people are likely to skip early and preventive care, leading to worse outcomes and more expensive treatments later on. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The proposed $880 billion target is not just an abstract figure. It represents a direct threat to the health and well-being of countless Minnesotans and the stability of our health care system,”</strong> said John Connolly, state Medicaid director. <strong>“This significant number underscores the potential harm facing our state, and the truly challenging choices that will have to be made if these cuts are enacted.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Significant service cuts could be required for the people who remain on Medicaid. These reductions would severely limit coverage, forcing vulnerable populations – particularly older adults and people with disabilities – to make difficult choices about their care, including long-term care options. Older adults and people with disabilities make up approximately 15% of Medicaid enrollees and account for roughly 60% of total spending, highlighting the disproportionate impact of these cuts on those who rely on long-term care. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Medicaid is a foundational component of Minnesota’s health care system, injecting billions of dollars into communities across the state and helping hospitals remain operational.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Medicaid isn’t just a health insurance program — it’s the foundation for healthy families and thriving communities,”</strong> said Dr. Kim DeRoche, a primary care physician with M Health Fairview. <strong>“At our clinics, one in five visits is covered by Medicaid — and behind every visit is a story: a working adult managing a chronic condition; a newborn in need of a healthy start; a senior navigating complex care. Medicaid helps Minnesotans of all ages stay healthy, stay employed, and stay connected. When it’s threatened, the consequences are immediate — and the human cost is far too high.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Find more information about the impact of Minnesota’s Medicaid program at <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinks-1.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps:%252F%252Fmn.gov%252Fdhs%252Fmedicaid-matters%252F%2F1%2F01000195bee9a97e-e6287e56-17b4-4f78-9fd6-b52049ed06e8-000000%2FHWOG3fycXPAL1sAN2S4jOyhfyjPmQJonMWc-c6_81Lg=397/1/010101963b415ccd-f779fce6-49cd-4b9e-8283-9d0e1e0f02e1-000000/qMNlspYgpYMa08TO-AsMiB8g99weTYVSdUppt2o-IMU=400" target="_blank">mn.gov/dhs/medicaid-matters</a></u>.</p>6790462025-04-15T21:38:40Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-678853" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-14T20:07:55ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Leonard A. Weiler. This seat will be chambered in Little Falls in Morrison County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Leonard A. Weiler. This seat will be chambered in Little Falls in Morrison County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <u><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a></u>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on May 5, and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in early June.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Seventh Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <u><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Go<u>vernor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</u>.</a></p>6788532025-04-14T20:11:01Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-678684" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-11T20:00:35ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Firefighter Training and Education; Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment; Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources; Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board; and the State Board of Civil Legal Aid. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Firefighter Training and Education; Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment; Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources; Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board; and the State Board of Civil Legal Aid.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mike Warner – Red Wing, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> MN State Fire Chiefs Association Representative <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Rebecca White</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Elleraas – Garrison, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> Volunteer Firefighter POC/PT #1 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Natascha Hennen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jim Fisher – Zim, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> Minnesota Towns Representative #1 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jason Low – Burnsville, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: John Peura</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Firefighter Training and Education:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Board of Firefighter Training and Education reviews fire training needs and makes recommendations on training to Minnesota fire service organizations, establishes standards for educational programs for the fire service, and establishes qualifications for fire service training instructors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Firefighter Training and Education can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F24/1/01010196266d79d6-9057085b-880f-448a-b2f4-b6005773c277-000000/aSC_6Km-u9sqFDFzJeFszLb74E88eRJQf7AlGJfruGY=400">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Catherine Chavers – Brookston, MN</strong> <br /> Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment <br /> Member with Experience #3 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Kathryn Kallas</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Dinsmore – Fergus Falls, MN</strong> <br /> Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment <br /> Member with Experience #2 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Chelsea Rivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment:</em> <br /> The Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment provides management and control over the State of Minnesota Direct Care and Treatment (DCT) agency. DCT is a highly specialized behavioral health care system that serves people with mental illness, substance abuse disorders, sex offenders, and developmental and intellectual disabilities. DCT's services include care and treatment for specialized inpatient programs at secure treatment facilities, community preparation services, regional treatment centers, enterprise services, consultative services, aftercare services, community-based services and programs, transition services, and nursing home services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F362/1/01010196266d79d6-9057085b-880f-448a-b2f4-b6005773c277-000000/OxQ5VFOcT95LNoWGmwXqBRvS1c8HKMvER2c3PYR34pY=400">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rita Albrecht – Bemidji, MN</strong> <br /> Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources <br /> Public Member #1 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Monica Hedstrom – Mahnomen, MN</strong> <br /> Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources <br /> Public Member #2 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Nancy Gibson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michelle Beeman – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources <br /> Public Member #3 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Jeremy Peichel</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources:</em> <br /> The Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources reviews environmental and natural resource issues, develops a strategic spending plan for the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, reviews proposals and recommends projects for funding, and evaluates project outcomes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F76/1/01010196266d79d6-9057085b-880f-448a-b2f4-b6005773c277-000000/JqsbKZckmN6auF0TXrRe4f5gnFRGlfTYN0izC_0T7lw=400">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michele Fredrickson – Zim, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board <br /> Member who Represents Home Workers or Worker Organizations #2 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Swanson – Marshall, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board <br /> Member who Represents Nursing Home Employers or Employer Organizations #3 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board holds public hearings on, and conducts investigations into, working conditions in the nursing home industry, and establishes operating procedures.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F334/1/01010196266d79d6-9057085b-880f-448a-b2f4-b6005773c277-000000/J1WC5tpmpnNHTKiAa1R0KRuC7sRFpYmeDHbwWhuDbH0=400">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tarryl Clark – St. Cloud, MN</strong> <br /> State Board of Civil Legal Aid <br /> Member #4 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Gordon – Edina, MN</strong> <br /> State Board of Civil Legal Aid <br /> Member #1 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Holley Horrell – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> State Board of Civil Legal Aid <br /> Member #5 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ana Pottratz Acosta – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> State Board of Civil Legal Aid <br /> Member #3 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Korey Wahwassuck – Grand Rapids, MN</strong> <br /> State Board of Civil Legal Aid <br /> Member #2 <br /> Effective: April 16, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Board of Civil Legal Aid</em>: <br /> The State Board of Civil Legal Aid works to ensure access to high-quality civil legal services in every Minnesota county.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Board of Civil Legal Aid can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F370/1/01010196266d79d6-9057085b-880f-448a-b2f4-b6005773c277-000000/LFjjFuINF6QK4wKWrhjiRv9ZfJ-IaxjZa5B2ocVG_uM=400">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency/1/01010196266d79d6-9057085b-880f-448a-b2f4-b6005773c277-000000/1Sni-gdQ2J__-IWmzcd-_ZpE0s1cxOlFn8Rhs588d4o=400">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p>6786842025-04-11T20:02:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-678586" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-10T20:46:29ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed two bills into law.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed two bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=senate%26f=SF823%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/0101019621720b36-990d3fa6-50ff-4da8-abb4-5a91b96cebd1-000000/gkAB7bs_lntT6jF2X3kS8wK30u3PiTm47GwS9lJAGxU=400">Senate File 823</a></u> streamlines a construction project on US 169 and HWY 182 by giving the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) authority to spend grant funding. This allows the construction project to move forward without MnDOT first having to enter into a grant agreement with Scott County, then having the county direct funds to back to MnDOT.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=Senate%26f=SF1360%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/0101019621720b36-990d3fa6-50ff-4da8-abb4-5a91b96cebd1-000000/N6Oa5uzdfNeTciYf8lI8siA7m9K6eeL05PnGErjV4tw=400">Senate File 1360</a></u> standardizes the speed limit for certain farm equipment at 35 mph. Under current law, some implements of husbandry have a speed limit of 30 mph and others have a speed limit of 35 mph. Standardizing the speed limit does not compromise safety and makes both compliance and enforcement easier.</p>6785862025-04-10T20:47:50Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-678185" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-09T18:20:46ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the death of the Honorable Patrick C. Diamond. This seat will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the death of the Honorable Patrick C. Diamond. This seat will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F09%2Ffile_attachments%2F3224841%2FElsmore,%2520Victoria.jpg/1/010101961b94b28e-729c4f5f-939b-4210-aa48-4ba0fc724f94-000000/fVysCj7102RsXqW-P5nx5Sdnt2eTDre2_3kcNCxZnio=400" target="_blank">Victoria Elsmore</a>:</strong> Victoria Elsmore is a district court referee in the family division of the Second Judicial District, presiding over dissolution, custody, support, domestic abuse, and harassment matters. She was previously a partner at Collins, Buckley, Sauntry &amp; Haugh, PLLP, where she practiced family law. Elsmore’s community involvement includes serving as a trustee on the Board of Trustees for Mitchell Hamline School of Law, an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, and the immediate past president of the Ramsey County Bar Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F09%2Ffile_attachments%2F3224866%2FSecord,%2520Erin.png/1/010101961b94b28e-729c4f5f-939b-4210-aa48-4ba0fc724f94-000000/Vi89UrpSPDjbEVVspe4r_Ur0ERrkOaSiEqZax63B6PY=400" target="_blank">Erin Secord</a>:</strong> Erin Secord is an assistant United States attorney and the coordinator of the Financial Litigation Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota. In this role, she handles the enforcement of restitution judgments, as well as a variety of civil matters, including torts, civil commitments, bankruptcy, foreclosures, and affirmative fraud cases. Secord was previously a litigation associate at Fredrikson &amp; Byron, P.A. and a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Donovan W. Frank and the Honorable Steven E. Rau of the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. Her community involvement has included serving as a volunteer religious education teacher, cross-country ski coach, and Girl Scout troop leader.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F09%2Ffile_attachments%2F3224867%2FWells,%2520Devona.jpg/1/010101961b94b28e-729c4f5f-939b-4210-aa48-4ba0fc724f94-000000/heABbk4tqiCHaSeMcWXYX98WxOfAMIiGTEaHWKezFL4=400" target="_blank">Devona Wells</a>: </strong>Devona Wells is an assistant county attorney in the Civil Division of the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, where she litigates complex civil cases and is general counsel to the county’s public health and housing stability departments. She was previously an attorney at Lockridge Grindal Nauen PLLP and a law clerk for the Honorable Natalie E. Hudson on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Wells’s community involvement includes serving on the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the Minnesota Rules of Civil Procedure, as vice president of the Mississippi Market Co-op board of directors in St. Paul, and as a volunteer for the Reader/Writer Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101961b94b28e-729c4f5f-939b-4210-aa48-4ba0fc724f94-000000/DVuXe9K4xsp8tS7ZZ6cs1aVxBw8rVKwwgowh3b1YpaE=400">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6781852025-04-09T18:22:07Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-678153" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-09T16:38:39ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced a new dashboard Minnesotans can use to track disruptions and cancellations of federal funding and their impact on services available to Minnesotans. Federal disruptions and cuts so far include grants to track measles and avian influenza, provide heating assistance, and mitigate flooding. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced a new dashboard Minnesotans can use to track disruptions and cancellations of federal funding and their impact on services available to Minnesotans. Federal disruptions and cuts so far include grants to track measles and avian influenza, provide heating assistance, and mitigate flooding.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Despite court orders prohibiting the federal government from freezing many funding streams, <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F04%2F09%2Ffile_attachments%2F3224751%2FImpacts%2520of%2520Sudden%2520Funding%2520Cancellations.pdf/1/010101961b5bc393-d2dfbe0e-fce2-4b67-86b7-d8a8bdea72fa-000000/bv3adPRWJytmS9ECZFhYwrp7ZOhZrO7J2lV51LPScD0=400">disruptions to federal funds</a> have continued. Some disruptions are short-lived. Other grants and awards are abruptly canceled altogether, resulting in layoffs and fewer services for Minnesotans. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Decisions made by billionaires in Washington are cutting real programs that save Minnesotans money, monitor disease outbreaks, and keep us safe. And they're just getting started on their promised cuts to Social Security and Medicaid,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Sweeping changes at the federal level are happening with little to no warning or public process. By tracking these changes, we’re doing what we can to keep Minnesotans informed on what we know and what's to come.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota state agencies report federal funding disruptions or cancellations to Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB), which tracks the ever-changing data and will post information about impacted funds to the new website, <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fmmb%2Fbudget%2Ffederal-investments%2Fdata-and-reporting%2F/1/010101961b5bc393-d2dfbe0e-fce2-4b67-86b7-d8a8bdea72fa-000000/wkF8MV4ADbwrZwnkuLyso3_Rko5dVKulneaQWaZKla0=400">mn.gov/mmb/budget/federal-investments/data-and-reporting/</a>, every weekday. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The site lists which grants or awards were disrupted or canceled, the federal agency that awarded the funds, the state agency that oversees the funds, a description of the impacted grant, the total award, the amount of the award impacted by the federal action, and the date of the action. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“One in every three dollars Minnesota state government spends currently comes from the federal government,”</strong> said MMB Commissioner Erin Campbell. <strong>“Consistent, timely access to federal dollars is needed to continue providing the services Minnesotans depend on. That includes funding for Medicaid, food assistance, childcare assistance, and employment counseling and financial assistance to families in poverty, among many other programs and services. This new online resource provides transparency into federal funding disruptions impacting Minnesota.”</strong> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In fiscal year 2025 alone, Minnesota was awarded 687 federal grants and awards totaling $23.3 billion. In addition to the significant losses in funding for vital services Minnesota is already experiencing, potential cuts in federal funding for entitlement programs like Medicaid, which Minnesota is required to provide, could create huge funding holes in Minnesota’s state budget.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Federal funding cancellations have already had a significant impact on Minnesotans across a wide range of sectors, including: </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota Department of Health</strong>  <br /> On March 24, the federal government cut more than $220 million in previously approved public health funding with no advance notice. Public impacts include: </p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>A potential rise in preventable illnesses due to reductions in funding for vaccines, disease tracking and outbreak responses </li> </ul> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Loss of infection-prevention training and capacity building at large long-term care facilities, as well as funding for HVAC upgrades to help prevent spread of disease</li> </ul> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Funding disruptions and loss for disease tracking and response in long-term care facilities, shelters, and correctional facilities </li> </ul> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Layoffs of 170 Minnesota Department of Health employees and retraction of job offers to nearly 20 others</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota Department of Human Services</strong>  <br /> On March 25, the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration notified the Minnesota Department of Human Services that several grants totaling up to $27.5 million had been abruptly terminated the day before. The sudden termination of previously authorized funds will have immediate and wide-ranging impacts. The lost funding impacts:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>School-based mental health services for children </li> </ul> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Access to the life-saving overdose reversal drug naloxone </li> </ul> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Critical treatment and recovery supports for people experiencing behavioral health issues </li> </ul> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Access to behavioral health care </li> </ul> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Ability to address disparities in Minnesota’s mental health system </li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota Department of Agriculture</strong>  <br /> Also in March, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced it was cancelling some already-approved grants to states. Minnesota was set to receive nearly $18 million over three years under approved agreements with the USDA. The canceled funding would have benefited Minnesota farmers, schools, early childcare operations, and food shelves. </p>6781532025-04-09T16:40:25Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-677690" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-04T20:13:49ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board; Board of Podiatric Medicine; Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee; Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority; and the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board; Board of Podiatric Medicine; Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee; Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority; and the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Janet Hou – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board <br /> Agricultural Chemical Manufacturer Representative <br /> Effective: April 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board:</em> <br /> The Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board accepts applications for reimbursement from the Agricultural Chemical Response and Reimbursement Account, determines eligibility and amount of reimbursement due, and notifies the Commissioner of Agriculture of eligible claims. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F9/1/01010196026a7661-1219fe6c-91d0-4ef1-a0d6-f865c8b862dc-000000/UtIMGK5PkKWLIoQZ3HCW2xg-PbyfjtH1SXZP5nKemHw=399" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicole Bauerly – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Podiatric Medicine <br /> Doctor #1 <br /> Effective: April 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cyndee Fields – Eagan, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Podiatric Medicine <br /> Public Member #1 <br /> Effective: April 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Ryan Peterson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Podiatric Medicine:</em> <br /> The Board of Podiatric Medicine licenses doctors of podiatric medicine and disciplines licensees. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Podiatric Medicine can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F31/1/01010196026a7661-1219fe6c-91d0-4ef1-a0d6-f865c8b862dc-000000/_KAvEh2tFcPCFclbsvGJgSBFfrF4hyT7j5Bk4NNKQnA=399" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gita Ghei – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee <br /> Public Member #2 <br /> Effective: April 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Colin Nelson-Dusek – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee <br /> Public Member #3 <br /> Effective: April 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Christina Chang</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee:</em> <br /> The Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee advises and makes recommendations to the State Capitol Preservation Commission regarding art exhibits to be displayed in State Capitol spaces. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F250/1/01010196026a7661-1219fe6c-91d0-4ef1-a0d6-f865c8b862dc-000000/bXvwU71Hl2j3iiXnbjWCftzpbFVtWK0UovUuXRLOlz8=399" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erich Heppner – Staples, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority <br /> Member with Higher Education Affiliation <br /> Effective: April 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Mary Thao <br /> <br /> <strong>David Rowland – Edina, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority <br /> Member with Experience in Municipal Finance <br /> Effective: April 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority assists institutions of higher education in the construction, financing, and refinancing of projects. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F110/1/01010196026a7661-1219fe6c-91d0-4ef1-a0d6-f865c8b862dc-000000/LeJzBrcrcPyo55kd0iIn29JGZRJokJlCBHPSmfvqtUw=399" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deborah Gleason – Minnetonka, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind <br /> Governor’s Workforce Development Council Representative <br /> Effective: April 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Kyle Van Acker</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelly Lemke – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind <br /> Statewide Independent Living Council Representative <br /> Effective: April 9, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Judy Sanders</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind:</em> <br /> The State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind advises the commissioner of Employment and Economic Development about programs of state services for the blind and performs other functions as provided in state and federal statute.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F151/1/01010196026a7661-1219fe6c-91d0-4ef1-a0d6-f865c8b862dc-000000/HPskZdQGwXg5nA4TjJ5qmjOl8jl2_1Ee0cfAYqfG634=399" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov%2FPosition/1/01010196026a7661-1219fe6c-91d0-4ef1-a0d6-f865c8b862dc-000000/q141t-BQE40ztL944CuYrOlq_HJMF9ZKihnogpb3edI=399" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p>6776902025-04-04T20:15:01Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-677676" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-04T19:31:20ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The new application deadline is 4:00 pm on April 14. The commission expects to hold interviews in early May.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The <strong>new application deadline is 4:00 pm on April 14</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in early May.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Please refer to the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fappointments%2Fjudicialappointments%2Fjudicialnews.jsp%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F672605/1/0101019602251b00-f8cc2397-accb-43eb-b066-df8a0500e431-000000/UQQyBw08nTBJGzQKyEACUEbcwLANrtFu4CRUVMHFl3s=399">original vacancy announcement</a></u> issued on March 13:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Erik J. Askegaard. This seat will be chambered in Aitkin in Aitkin County.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <u><a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a></u> .</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019602251b00-f8cc2397-accb-43eb-b066-df8a0500e431-000000/BV0zzRvZKmaJqBcUngfNBuKuTEZj2fohls9ChuNbD3U=399">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</em></p>6776762025-04-04T19:32:38Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-675740" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-28T20:20:30ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law that establishes new guidelines for partitions of real property.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law that establishes new guidelines for partitions of real property.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=Senate%26f=SF0202%26ssn=0%26y=2025/1/01010195de663178-09c67749-6764-4e28-bdee-76a207c5cafc-000000/TQAiRWU-yPd_-LL6n5WDkNYMbWUPtfTHFgKm4GX-CFg=398">Senate File 202</a> clarifies state statute related to partitioning real property, a legal process that can force the sale or division of land owned by multiple individuals. The bill also includes language that clarifies effective dates or legal procedures for resolving disputes over real property and partitions, eminent domain proceedings, and transfer on death deeds.</p>6757402025-03-28T20:22:08Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-675412" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-26T19:01:07ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David L. Knutson. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David L. Knutson. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F03%2F26%2Ffile_attachments%2F3209394%2FStaples,%2520Kelly%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010195d38d7cf0-536ff803-3e2f-461f-9cbe-43e5580408a5-000000/vxU2_C57-EqSx46-JmsuIzvQsWoqQ6tViN54mY_08nI=398" target="_blank">Kelly Staples</a>:</strong> Kelly Staples is a court-appointed counsel in paternity, child support, and civil commitment matters and a volunteer conciliation court referee in Dakota County. She also maintains a private family law practice focusing on child custody and domestic abuse cases. Staples’s community involvement includes serving on the board of directors for Legal Assistance of Dakota County, judging high school mock trial, volunteering at legal self-help clinics through 360 Communities, and supporting her children’s many activities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F03%2F26%2Ffile_attachments%2F3209395%2FWanka,%2520Nick%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010195d38d7cf0-536ff803-3e2f-461f-9cbe-43e5580408a5-000000/rAW5BGmCC1V5XuPEgjONnIR2B_ReONJPzLf55VgHwoQ=398" target="_blank">Nicholas Wanka</a>:</strong> Nicholas Wanka is the director of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit in the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General. He manages a team of prosecutors, investigators, and support staff who investigate and prosecute Medicaid provider fraud and the abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of vulnerable adults. He previously worked as an assistant attorney general, as an assistant county attorney in Aitkin County, and in private practice. His community involvement includes coaching youth flag football and hockey and volunteering at his children’s schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F03%2F26%2Ffile_attachments%2F3209369%2FWinter,%2520Aaron%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010195d38d7cf0-536ff803-3e2f-461f-9cbe-43e5580408a5-000000/ihNAQnOIdlyldORW7SmzSsxsVEhjiNc477Ub5Ut08pk=398" target="_blank">Aaron Winter</a>: </strong>Aaron Winter is a supervising attorney at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General, where he represents the Minnesota Department of Human Services in civil litigation and civil commitment proceedings. He previously served as an assistant attorney general in Tennessee, where he represented the state in criminal appeals and federal habeas litigation. Winter’s community involvement includes coaching youth soccer and flag football, judging high school mock trial, and coaching high schoolers in speech and debate.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010195d38d7cf0-536ff803-3e2f-461f-9cbe-43e5580408a5-000000/RvWOaG4sX85Ia4LQCm6jAaqeZWCiTQ0AsCYx5isRikA=398" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6754122025-03-26T19:02:25Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-674345" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-25T21:52:23ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced an update to the telework policy for state employees, requiring most state agency employees to work in-person for at least 50% of scheduled workdays beginning June 1. Around 60% of state employees already work in-person and did so throughout the entirety of the COVID-19 pandemic. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced an update to the telework policy for state employees, requiring most state agency employees to work in-person for at least 50% of scheduled workdays beginning June 1. Around 60% of state employees already work in-person and did so throughout the entirety of the COVID-19 pandemic. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This approach balances the flexibility of telework with the workplace advantages of being in office,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Having more state employees in the office means that collaboration can happen more quickly and state agencies can build strong organizational cultures more easily.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The policy change provides an exemption for employees who live more than 75 miles away from their primary work location, helping the State of Minnesota benefit from top talent in every corner of the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This policy change supports the economic vitality of office districts like downtown Saint Paul, bringing foot traffic back to businesses and public spaces. Many major Minnesota employers are also now requiring in-person workdays for their employees.</p>6743452025-03-25T21:54:03Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-674263" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-25T18:20:16ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in Senate District 6 in Cass, Crow Wing, and Itasca Counties.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in Senate District 6 in Cass, Crow Wing, and Itasca Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A special election to fill the vacancy will be held on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. If necessary, a special primary election for nomination of candidates will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions may be filed with the Secretary of State or the county auditors of Cass, Crow Wing, and Itasca Counties from Wednesday, March 26, 2025, until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A copy of the writ of special election can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F03%2F25%2Ffile_attachments%2F3207750%2FSpecial%2520Election%2520Writ%2520Senate%2520District%25206.pdf/1/01010195ce4f67d2-bf71585e-93dd-40a4-a016-5c182f933ce3-000000/1bxWKQPR5Qpgg3U-83HUjKVD8vVLh78Yg0KWMu6cphQ=397" target="_blank">here</a> .</p>6742632025-03-25T18:21:30Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-673920" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-21T22:03:55ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Accountancy; Board of Occupational Therapy Practice; Board of Optometry; Board of Psychology; Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction; Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council; Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee; Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee; and the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Accountancy; Board of Occupational Therapy Practice; Board of Optometry; Board of Psychology; Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction; Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council; Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee; Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee; and the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Andrea Chung – Lakeville, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Accountancy  <br /> Certified Public Accountant  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Replacing: Charles McElroy </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Accountancy:</em>  <br /> The Board of Accountancy examines, licenses, and regulates certified public accountants and registered accounting practitioners.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Accountancy can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F16/1/01010195ba56fcaf-be48819c-4475-4ca3-9a32-95bc819273bd-000000/l3J2-oJEEzCH8RpyCstbaj7LsAsM3kk8AJpU4q_gkF8=397">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Samantha Olsen – Cleveland, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Occupational Therapy Practice  <br /> Occupational Therapist #3 (Non-Metro)  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erin Staum – Oakdale, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Occupational Therapy Practice  <br /> Occupational Therapy Assistant #1  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice:</em>  <br /> The Board of Occupational Therapy protects the public through effective licensure and enforcement of the statutes and rules governing the practice of occupational therapy to ensure a reasonable standard of competent and ethical practice.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F235/1/01010195ba56fcaf-be48819c-4475-4ca3-9a32-95bc819273bd-000000/rLKG4XIvrJxGnZqOkX15pe1_gE07qKkzRxHeIyGzbIo=397">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Fernando Alvarado – Willmar, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Optometry  <br /> Optometrist #1  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eric Bailey – Buffalo, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Optometry  <br /> Public Member  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Optometry:</em>  <br /> The Board of Optometry licenses optometrists, adopts rules, and investigates complaints. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Optometry can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F28/1/01010195ba56fcaf-be48819c-4475-4ca3-9a32-95bc819273bd-000000/24YiHZh2PU9OZv7FvrX_jqHPxU5XPWgneYbufuyCJMc=397">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michelle Zhao – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Psychology  <br /> Public Member  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Psychology:</em>  <br /> The Board of Psychology establishes qualifications for licensing psychologists, examines and licenses qualified individuals, establishes fees for issuance and renewal of licenses and other services, establishes rules of conduct and takes appropriate action against licensees who do not meet and maintain those ethical requirements, establishes or approves programs that qualify for professional psychology continuing education credit, educates the public about licensure requirements and the rules of conduct, and facilitates consumers in the filing of complaints against licensees who may have violated the Psychology Practice Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Psychology can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F33/1/01010195ba56fcaf-be48819c-4475-4ca3-9a32-95bc819273bd-000000/T5npB6aqV3IcxzhWxaFDqIATRBYC3ktGBdzbmD2wbdM=397">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Janice Mehle – Chisholm, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction  <br /> Member #1  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Replacing: Farhia Budul </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Khou Vang – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction  <br /> Member #6  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027  <br /> Replacing: Beth Elstad </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction:</em>  <br /> The Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction identifies opportunities for, and barriers to, the development and effective implementation of policies and strategies to expand access to services for people in Minnesota suffering from addiction. The council promotes equity by examining what services and supports are needed in communities that are disproportionally impacted by the opioid epidemic.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F303/1/01010195ba56fcaf-be48819c-4475-4ca3-9a32-95bc819273bd-000000/StwqjnBWMQ2RUaBDE2giGRL47EhXaB7q206WG3wL09w=397">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Angela Thies – White Bear Lake, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Children's Cabinet Advisory Council  <br /> Member # 13  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: April 5, 2027  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council:</em>  <br /> The Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council advises the Children’s Cabinet. The advisory council focuses on equity and addressing the opportunity gap from a whole family, whole system approach.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F263/1/01010195ba56fcaf-be48819c-4475-4ca3-9a32-95bc819273bd-000000/QHstVTwZ6s76OqFXTKCiGDImv0ub17-3vgOjFPeI_HI=397">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sheila Kiscaden – Rochester, MN</strong>  <br /> Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee  <br /> Member #1  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Trahern Pollard – Brooklyn Center, MN</strong>  <br /> Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee  <br /> Member #7  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kathryn Richtman – St. Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee  <br /> Member #6  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee:</em>  <br /> The Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee is the supervisory board for the federal Juvenile Justice Program with respect to preparation and administration of the state plan and award of grants.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F74/1/01010195ba56fcaf-be48819c-4475-4ca3-9a32-95bc819273bd-000000/jQcT0jJNmj9lWW7cfLa9HHW2-s591d3ZNyFGxdttaQ0=397">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karla Bigham – Cottage Grove, MN</strong>  <br /> Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee  <br /> Voting Member  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027  <br /> New Seat </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anne Burt – Woodbury, MN</strong>  <br /> Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee  <br /> Co-Chair  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027  <br /> New Seat </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Keith Franke – Saint Paul Park, MN</strong>  <br /> Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee  <br /> Voting Member  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027  <br /> New Seat </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laurie Halverson – Eagan, MN</strong>  <br /> Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee  <br /> Co-Chair  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027  <br /> New Seat </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erica Lester – Eagan, MN</strong>  <br /> Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee  <br /> Voting Member <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027  <br /> New Seat </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sally Lorberbaum – Mendota Heights, MN</strong>  <br /> Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee  <br /> Voting Member  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027  <br /> New Seat </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Valentina Mgeni – Welch, MN</strong>  <br /> Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee  <br /> Voting Member  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027  <br /> New Seat </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeff Reed – Hampton, MN</strong>  <br /> Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee  <br /> Voting Member  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Charlie Zelle – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee  <br /> Non-Voting Member  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee:</em>  <br /> The Metropolitan Council Nominating Committee, which recommends candidates for the Metropolitan Council to the Governor, will host public meetings to accept statements from, or on behalf of, applicants for the positions. The council chair serves as a non-voting member of the nominating committee. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Metropolitan Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F80/1/01010195ba56fcaf-be48819c-4475-4ca3-9a32-95bc819273bd-000000/wWBZJGwjJ9zJBEqskcq1dK-m42BchyTM7qNok7eNcac=397">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elliot Butay – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Competency Attainment Board  <br /> Public Member  <br /> Effective: March 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Competency Attainment Board creates and administers a statewide, independent competency attainment system that certifies competency attainment programs and uses forensic navigators to promote prevention and diversion of people with mental illnesses and cognitive impairments from entering the legal system, support defendants with mental illness and cognitive impairments, support defendants in the competency process, and assist courts and partners in coordinating competency attainment services. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F310/1/01010195ba56fcaf-be48819c-4475-4ca3-9a32-95bc819273bd-000000/fyjDK_xL9Ae88MCUDVFk4JkFcrekd7obSi-rYeO86aA=397">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/01010195ba56fcaf-be48819c-4475-4ca3-9a32-95bc819273bd-000000/UEGqpMT5Tx_PagZek7WVUJtb_43O-5MvqaFYiy9C1MQ=397">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p>6739202025-03-21T22:05:53Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-673804" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-21T16:35:16ZGovernor Tim Walz today released his revised budget for the next biennium. The revised budget includes just under $250 million in additional ongoing reductions in FY 28-29, paired with small, primarily one-time investments in critical work, including funding to respond to Avian Influenza and law enforcement training. Budget includes additional responsible cuts, protects investments made last session1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released his revised budget for the next biennium. The revised budget includes just under $250 million in additional ongoing reductions in FY 28-29, paired with small, primarily one-time investments in critical work, including funding to respond to Avian Influenza and law enforcement training.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This budget is fiscally responsible and prioritizes the programs that will set Minnesotans up for success for generations to come,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By addressing the budget challenges we face today, we’re setting Minnesota up for long-term success and protecting the resources necessary to make Minnesota the best state to live, work, and raise a family.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Investments in the revised budget will support the state’s response to Avian Influenza and provide additional funding for law enforcement training through the Philando Castile Memorial Training Fund. The budget leaves over $2 billion on the bottom line in FY 26-27 and incudes roughly $250 million in additional ongoing reductions in FY 28-29.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The revised budget curtails spending growth while maintaining key services that improve Minnesotans’ lives,”</strong> said Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Erin Campbell. <strong>“This budget is fiscally responsible and recognizes the need to take action now to address the imbalance in revenues and spending long-term.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s revised budget includes the proposals in his original budget to curb growth in spending, lower the sales tax, combat fraud, and hold health insurers accountable for rising costs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Responsible Cuts and Curbing Growth</strong> <br /> The Governor’s budget includes responsible budget cuts and curbs unsustainable growth in spending in the programs that drive the structural deficit. The budget will limit year-over-year growth rates in Medicaid waivers without limiting eligibility for services, saving the state more than 1.3 billion dollars. The budget also cuts state funding to private schools and includes a 5% reduction in Special Education transportation reimbursement costs, saving approximately $50 million in each of the next two-year budget cycles while incentivizing schools to create efficiencies in transportation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lowering Taxes and Closing Loopholes</strong> <br /> The Governor’s proposal cuts the statewide sales tax by .075%, which would be the first sales tax cut in state history. He also proposes closing loopholes by expanding the sales tax base to services provided to individuals by investors, bankers, and lawyers, making the tax system more fair and less regressive. Additionally, the budget proposes an investment in a new corporate franchise tax division unit to audit complex pass-through entities and close loopholes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The budget also proposes an increase in the surcharge currently levied on health maintenance organizations from 0.6% to 1.25% of total premium revenue, to ensure large health care corporations pay their fair share.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stopping Fraud</strong> <br /> The Governor’s <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps:%252F%252Fmn.gov%252Fgovernor%252Fnewsroom%252Fpress-releases%252F%2523%252Fdetail%252FappId%252F1%252Fid%252F663528%2F1%2F01010194703f64c1-6b6b5745-ec47-460d-a88b-517aeb1849b8-000000%2FsyIrIZaiyUwUdPj8nOJBcJC0-FhNUnFLd3q-PFUowiI=388/1/01010195b9836852-da4ed690-8544-406b-beac-4ef6ba539eca-000000/7tcYarTfSPyqG9CavCveR7u6QGZtdITaQnRJ2rwXuqI=397" target="_blank">anti-fraud package</a> turns the dial toward tighter controls and greater oversight by strengthening enforcement authority and creating tougher penalties. The proposals include adding nine staff members to the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud unit; giving agencies expanded authority to stop payments from going to people and entities suspected, charged, or convicted of fraud or financial crimes; and using artificial intelligence to detect and prevent fraud. The package also increases the criminal penalty for stealing public funds by 20%.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Making Health Insurers Pay Their Fair Share</strong> <br /> The Governor’s revised budget includes his plan to hold health insurance providers accountable, save taxpayer dollars, and lower health insurance costs. The proposal would shift the responsibility for the state share of reinsurance to insurers rather than taxpayers. Governor Walz’s proposal comes as the Trump Administration pushes for $880 billion in cuts to federal Medicaid through 2034, which would shift costs to states and put millions of Americans, including thousands of Minnesotans, at risk of becoming uninsured.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2022, Governor Walz signed legislation to extend Minnesota’s reinsurance program – a program created to help stabilize high health insurance premiums in the individual insurance market. This session, the Governor’s proposal would shift the responsibility for the state share of reinsurance to insurers rather than taxpayers. Under this plan, insurance companies will be required to create a fund that covers high-cost procedures, like premature births or cancer treatments, for people on the individual market. The Governor’s plan also increases the surcharge currently levied on health maintenance organizations from 0.6% to 1.25% of total premium revenue, to ensure large health care corporations pay their fair share.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Details on the budget can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps:%252F%252Fmn.gov%252Fmmb-stat%252Fdocuments%252Fbudget%252F2025-budget-summary-spreadsheet.pdf%2F1%2F01010194708102de-bcce27f7-b57f-401f-9316-5a26a8ffb622-000000%2FbbcWXnd0Pux8t9i15gQHw3V28N1pELR1yXEAh_7iwu0=388/1/01010195b9836852-da4ed690-8544-406b-beac-4ef6ba539eca-000000/bIZOlJ3Dacz5xHfZAqyouBvEQaMa0f6GlVbLx66OT40=397" target="_blank">here</a> and on the Minnesota Management and Budget <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps:%252F%252Fmn.gov%252Fmmb%252Fbudget%252F%2F1%2F01010194708102de-bcce27f7-b57f-401f-9316-5a26a8ffb622-000000%2FDcJBBBmskSj9lL7uOaFOdIbhoAZszatcdw2wT9213MQ=388/1/01010195b9836852-da4ed690-8544-406b-beac-4ef6ba539eca-000000/eyToGDf3m7Lx7i9CXj1DN0EKTf8OEHCM7MtHwPpJKNM=397" target="_blank">website</a> .</p>6738042025-03-21T16:37:06Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-673676" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-20T19:51:30ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) today introduced a new statewide prevention strategy designed to enhance public safety and prevent acts of targeted violence before they occur.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) today introduced a new statewide prevention strategy designed to enhance public safety and prevent acts of targeted violence before they occur.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“There is no room for targeted violence in our communities,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Using data-driven research and a broad team of public safety and mental health professionals, we are doubling down on our work to combat targeted violence across the state and prevent it from occurring in the first place.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Developed by a multidisciplinary team of law enforcement, mental health professionals, educators, and community leaders, this strategy applies scientific research and evidence-based practices to prevent targeted violence in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. It focuses on identifying, assessing, and managing potential threats while ensuring privacy rights and civil liberties remain protected.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota has felt the immense pain caused by targeted violence, which has left behind the scars of fear and sorrow in our communities,”</strong> said BCA Superintendent Drew Evans. <strong>“We will never forget these events, and with this strategy we will continue to work in partnership with our law enforcement, mental health, and community organizations to intervene and help stop future acts of targeted violence from happening.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Key components of the strategy include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Building awareness and capacity</strong>: Equipping Minnesota's communities, institutions, and law enforcement agencies with the knowledge and resources to recognize early warning signs of violence through enhanced training, regional training networks, and strengthened regional awareness.</li> <li><strong>Investigative support and consultation: </strong>Providing support to various sectors — including public safety agencies, schools, faith-based organizations, and workplaces — to evaluate and manage threats.</li> <li><strong>Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM)</strong>: A statewide BCA-led team consisting of trained professionals from law enforcement, mental health, public health, and social services who are dedicated to assessing, evaluating, and supporting local stakeholders by providing consultation on threat management activities.</li> <li><strong>Ongoing monitoring and evaluation:</strong> Ensuring the strategy’s effectiveness through continuous monitoring, evaluation, and improvement.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This strategy is a proactive step toward ensuring Minnesotans have access to the resources and support needed to prevent violence at its earliest stages. For more information on <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fs3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com%252Fassets.dps.mn.gov%252Fs3fs-public%252FTargeted-Violence-Prevention-Strategy-for-the-State-of-Minnesota.pdf%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C61382bbd859341fcb35808dd67e493a4%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638780953602844162%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=N94wCDspi3eB1a1aOCoNcaJrHAU6MI8kdE%252F4orWGZFs%253D%26reserved=0/1/01010195b50de3e7-e2fd5fba-de8a-418a-ac38-c92979a09137-000000/YWKbWG_GDPfm_KuWMc0DW4D-K8hY6_8a1KvQJMnUFkg=397">Minnesota’s Targeted Violence Prevention Strategy</a> and how communities can get involved, visit the BCA’s website at bca.dps.mn.gov.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To report concerning or suspicious behavior, call the BCA Tip line at 877-996-6222, email <u><a href="mailto:bca.tips@state.mn.us">bca.tips@state.mn.us</a></u> or download the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdps.mn.gov%2Fdivisions%2Fbca%2Fbca-divisions%2Finvestigative-services%2Funsolved-cases%2Fsubmit-tip%2Fbca-tip-app/1/01010195b50de3e7-e2fd5fba-de8a-418a-ac38-c92979a09137-000000/NpFjBn2t2WLRg7Ig1FwtfXqqnKHN8ERzXUfQ9nN11sg=397">BCA tip app</a></u>.</p>6736762025-03-20T19:53:27Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-673094" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-17T19:57:00ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill that amends financial reporting requirements for grain buyers. The legislation will help ensure timely financial reports from grain buyers while substantially reducing the cost of annual financial reporting required for small grain buyers. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill that amends financial reporting requirements for grain buyers. The legislation will help ensure timely financial reports from grain buyers while substantially reducing the cost of annual financial reporting required for small grain buyers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Prosperity for our small farmers is not a partisan issue. I’m glad to see legislators come together in a bipartisan way to get this done,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“In the coming weeks and months I look forward to working with legislators of both parties to find more ways to lower costs and improve life for Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revisor.mn.gov%2Fbills%2Fbill.php%3Fb=Senate%26f=SF1552%26ssn=0%26y=2023/1/01010195a570007d-254173f5-90a5-4453-b7bf-0bb530a055d0-000000/u0OIEqQSeeaigmEUi8u1R-k0pHX9h8a6lvBty_gYYUQ=396" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Senate File 1552</span></a> <span style="font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">amends financial reporting requirements for grain buyers. The bill allows grain buyers purchasing under $7.5 million of grain annually to utilize either a certified public accountant (CPA) or an independent auditor for review. It also allows for either a CPA review or audit for grain buyers purchasing between $7.5 million and $17.5 million annually, and requires a CPA audit for grain buyers purchasing at least $17.5 million annually. This bill also amends the accounting standards acceptable for these reviews and audits.</span>6730942025-03-17T19:58:41Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-672927" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-14T22:57:38ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Saturday, March 15, 2025, to Sunset on Thursday, March 20, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Fire Chief Jason Gruett. Chief Gruett died on March 12, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Saturday, March 15, 2025, to Sunset on Thursday, March 20, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Fire Chief Jason Gruett. Chief Gruett died on March 12, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Chief Jason Gruett was a deeply respected leader and dedicated firefighter who selflessly served his community for nearly two decades,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Chief Gruett’s kindness, generosity, and commitment to service impacted countless lives. Minnesota mourns this tragic loss, and I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Confidential help and crisis support is available over the phone or online anytime for any firefighter and/or their family through the MnFIRE Assistance Program (MAP). Any member of a firefighter’s household, including children living away from home, can access the MAP by visiting <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.liveandworkwell.com%252Fen%252Fpublic%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C7cd77fe853c549069eab08dd6343eee0%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638775865591972079%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=Szx9NGS5QDAplttbnozZaL9ZgYsizAnm2XbyJyy0zhM%253D%26reserved=0/1/0101019596bef1dc-79e13c7c-dea6-42d7-abd7-504d691c6af1-000000/bmkuIEXclpi157j_U-XvNvpmRgBCiE7sucaFNZjT4ws=396">liveandworkwell.com</a></u> and entering access code MnFIRE, or calling 1-888-784-6634. Phone lines are answered 24/7 and provide confidential support, guidance, and mental health resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6729272025-03-14T23:00:00Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-672605" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-13T20:55:23ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Erik J. Askegaard. This seat will be chambered in Aitkin in Aitkin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Erik J. Askegaard. This seat will be chambered in Aitkin in Aitkin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on Thursday, April 3 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in May.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Ninth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101959125cd05-d5a23c17-6efd-4e77-b284-8ce933f204ba-000000/D_MOuWkLpPL5byIWVPVYJBKqdiDKH5INXL6h-r36KDc=396">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6726052025-03-13T20:57:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-672396" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-12T20:43:32ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced that exports increased 7% overall between 2023 and 2024, exceeding national export growth of 2% in the same period. Minnesota exported nearly $27 billion in agricultural, mining, and manufactured goods to about 200 countries, ranking 13th highest for export growth and 23rd highest in export value among all states.As Minnesota’s two largest export markets, Canada and Mexico have purchased $11.7 billion in goods from Minnesota in the last year1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced that exports increased 7% overall between 2023 and 2024, exceeding national export growth of 2% in the same period. Minnesota exported nearly $27 billion in agricultural, mining, and manufactured goods to about 200 countries, ranking 13th highest for export growth and 23rd highest in export value among all states.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota has been a consistent leader in the delivery and production of high-demand goods, driven by strong global ties and a workforce of world-class growers, problem-solvers, and innovators,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As President Trump threatens the partnerships that contribute billions of dollars to our economy, Minnesota will fight to protect relationships abroad and ensure continued economic growth.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"While I wish our businesses did not face the current moment's highly unsettled international trade landscape, at least we do so with great momentum from the prior year,"</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“I applaud the contributions of the workers and businesses across the state that made 2024 a strong year for exports in Minnesota. Together we will continue to work with our international trade partners to find a path forward that keeps Minnesota connected to the global market.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Exports of mineral fuel, oil (up $1.1 billion), optical, medical (up $463 million), plastics (up $243 million), and sugar (up $80 million) were major drivers of last year’s success. A resurgence of Minnesota’s mineral fuel and oil exports to Canada – which jumped 122% to $2.2 billion – was the dominant contributor to the state’s export growth.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Optical and medical goods grew a robust 11%, led by strong performances in Taiwan, Mexico, Korea, and China. Plastics reversed some of the decline of recent years with a gain of 24%, with high growth in markets such as Mexico, Costa Rica, Ireland, and Belgium. Exports of sugar products (up 85%) were propelled by sales to Mexico (up 178% to $136 million).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Overall, Minnesota exports saw growth across major world regions in 2024. Exports to North America saw notable gains (up 13% to $11.7 billion), fueled by both Canada and Mexico. Exports also saw growth across Asia (up 8% to $7 billion) and the Middle East (up 24% to $577 million). While exports saw the greatest growth in established markets such as Mexico, Canada, Taiwan, Thailand, and Korea, they also saw vigorous growth to emerging export markets such as UAE, Qatar, and Vietnam.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s success is driven by our close cooperative relationships with our key international trade partners, particularly our neighbors to the north and south – Canada and Mexico,”</strong> said Minnesota Trade Office Executive Director Gabrielle Gerbaud. <strong>“We will work diligently to preserve Minnesota’s forward momentum despite challenges that may be placed in our path, and continue to support the state’s hard-working exporters who were the driving force behind 2024’s growth.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The full 2024 annual report is posted on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdeed%2Fdata%2Feconomic-analysis%2Fexport-stats%2Fcurrent-past%2F/1/010101958c174051-ccfa9800-8423-42d1-993f-748b8e57e65e-000000/ZCuFs28jH8Txoh8S5NlE7GKcj2a72zEBrPharNp1Wn0=396" target="_blank">Minnesota Export Statistics</a> page on DEED’s website. For more detailed trade statistics, a new tool for viewing <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fdeed%2Fdata%2Feconomic-analysis%2Fexport-stats%2Fsnapshot%2F/1/010101958c174051-ccfa9800-8423-42d1-993f-748b8e57e65e-000000/7m2Et-4zFuPvktmwAn4SgVUL-zSydORmvA4YKOfsxKw=396" target="_blank">snapshots of Minnesota’s trade</a> with its major trading partners is also available.</p>6723962025-03-12T20:44:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-672357" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-12T18:29:20ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited an elementary school in Fridley to highlight the impact on Minnesota students and families as President Trump dismantles the U.S. Department of Education. Funding from the U.S. Department of Education provides critical resources to meet the needs of 2,500 schools and over 860,000 students in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited an elementary school in Fridley to highlight the impact on Minnesota students and families as President Trump dismantles the U.S. Department of Education. Funding from the U.S. Department of Education provides critical resources to meet the needs of 2,500 schools and over 860,000 students in Minnesota. Photos from today’s event are linked <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.flickr.com%252Fphotos%252Fmngov%252Falbums%252F72177720324397464%252F%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257Cf66b475bde6d4d3b143008dd618d7605%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638773982374918842%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=26nj%252BTcfXDMPE0QUYES027X5%252FjwSJUKmv2NyypSpfu8%253D%26reserved=0/1/010101958b8881c0-1f367e94-098b-4e65-8b0b-27a43920d80b-000000/R0DO0G1athcfEC00VLlxea06L5sGuRuy6pAfycK4UUE=396">here</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Dismantling the Department of Education has nothing to do with improving outcomes for our kids, it’s simply about taking away resources for public schools. As a former teacher, I know that President Trump’s dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education will do damage to our schools that will impact our kids for years to come,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As President Trump and his billionaire-led administration slash resources for students, I’m going to fight back as hard as I can to make sure kids have access to food, education, and opportunity.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota has a long-standing commitment to high-quality education and strong state-level policies that protect every child’s right to learn in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. For decades, federal investments have played a role in ensuring students receive the support they need to learn and thrive.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Kids need stability,”</strong> said Education Commissioner Willie Jett. <strong>“These actions will have the biggest consequences in our rural communities, on students from low-income families, and on those needing special education services. The Minnesota Department of Education is still here, and we will continue to work hard to ensure every student, regardless of their background or circumstance, has access to a quality education.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As President Trump dismantles the U.S. Department of Education, key programs and longstanding protections for students and schools in Minnesota are at risk, including $256 million in funding for students with disabilities; over $192 million to support students from low-income backgrounds, and English learners; $27 million to support academic enrichment activities; $6 million in funding for students in rural schools; and $38 million to support children living on military bases or Native American reservations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Disruptions to the U.S. Department of Education will also impact over $100 million in annual federal funding supporting Minnesota’s workforce development programs including career and technical education and workforce development and funding to expand employment and services for individuals with disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Cuts will impact students and families relying on financial aid supports and institutions receiving funding to increase access for low-income and first generation students. This includes $368 million in Pell Grants supporting 83,000 students in Minnesota and $27 billion in current and outstanding federal loans supporting the education of 789,000 Minnesota borrowers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Competitive funds, including funding to support mental health and prepare mental health professionals to serve Minnesota schools, and funding to recruit and develop teachers and educators is also at risk.</p>6723572025-03-12T20:42:36Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-671937" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-07T21:37:55ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Barber Examiners; Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy; Board of Dentistry; Board of Medical Practice; Clean Water Council; Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority; Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service; Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health & Developmental Disabilities; and Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Barber Examiners; Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy; Board of Dentistry; Board of Medical Practice; Clean Water Council; Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority; Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service; Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities; and Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lamberto Vergara – Woodbury, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Barber Examiners  <br /> Barber #2  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Barber Examiners:</em>  <br /> The Board of Barber Examiners oversees the administration, enforcement, regulation, and adoption of rules regulating the barber profession; makes rule changes; approves variances when applicable; and enters into contracts to protect the public through the regulation of all license types issued to practice or participate in barbering in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> Additional information about the Board of Barber Examiners can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F164/1/0101019572791c53-a22101c1-9d9e-49b0-9732-4d1c060f9336-000000/tAu2nf2_EpljmpwmGttWC4izgv6HQuOulNUd7RG3yio=395">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Dols – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy  <br /> Licensed Professional Counselor/Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dean Gilbertson – Mankato, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy  <br /> Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy:</em>  <br /> The Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy regulates the practices of alcohol and drug counseling, professional counseling, and professional clinical counseling in the State of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F20/1/0101019572791c53-a22101c1-9d9e-49b0-9732-4d1c060f9336-000000/-vJgSE7rzJYWgh9fFK_BnVjHFrHelJMjQYANhHk_PLM=395">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Trina Courtright – Isanti, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Dentistry  <br /> Dental Hygienist  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Priscilla Flynn </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Dentistry:</em>  <br /> The Board of Dentistry examines, licenses and regulates dentists, dental therapists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, and enforces the Minnesota Dental Practices Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Dentistry can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F21/1/0101019572791c53-a22101c1-9d9e-49b0-9732-4d1c060f9336-000000/ID_1b5-vP4nIq3Pt1zL9CI9gsAz7OeBMdlqTmC24KIo=395">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cherie Zachary – Bloomington, MN</strong>  <br /> Board of Medical Practice  <br /> Physician  <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Medical Practice:</em>  <br /> The Board of Medical Practice licenses and registers physicians, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, acupuncturists, athletic trainers, genetic counselors, naturopathic doctors, and traditional midwives, and enforces the relevant practice acts. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Medical Practice can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F27/1/0101019572791c53-a22101c1-9d9e-49b0-9732-4d1c060f9336-000000/cjmK77dauNqhRJRySzYfO8fcKOmDHeEykL3VBOJi_WM=395">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eunice Biel – Harmony, MN</strong>  <br /> Clean Water Council  <br /> Township Officers  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Replacing: Gary Burdorf </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Clean Water Council:</em>  <br /> The Clean Water Council advises on the administration and implementation of the Clean Water Legacy Act. The council is required to submit a biannual report to the Legislature and Governor that includes recommendations for Clean Water Fund appropriations, and an evaluation of progress made by the Clean Water Fund.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Clean Water Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/1/0101019572791c53-a22101c1-9d9e-49b0-9732-4d1c060f9336-000000/so0V3y1neZh-zqevngafZBA_kxcy6wMiJqn1H4OQY74=395">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joe Fowler – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority  <br /> Representative of a labor union with experience working on clean energy projects  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tessa Haagenson – Ramsey, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority  <br /> Member representing either a municipial electric utility or a cooperative electric association  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jenna Warmuth – Hermantown, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority  <br /> Member with expertise in the impact of climate change on Minnesota communities, particulary low-income communities  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 | <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority is charged with accelerating the deployment of clean energy projects, greenhouse gas emissions reduction projects, and other qualified projects through the strategic deployment of public funds in the form of grants, loans, credit enhancements, and other financing mechanisms.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F329/1/0101019572791c53-a22101c1-9d9e-49b0-9732-4d1c060f9336-000000/eZreCr-rdqoynxCdNz1q72dzxNCiGMPB24xOV9Mw9vs=395">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matt Anfang – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service  <br /> Community-based Service Agency or Organization Representative  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Replacing: William Arendt </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nomin Angarag – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service  <br /> Community Member  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Archie Black – Golden Valley, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service  <br /> Community Member  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Replacing: Thomas Horner </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Linda Gilligan – Edina, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service  <br /> Community Member  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karen Larson – Hugo, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service  <br /> National Service Representative  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mauricio Leon Mendez – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service  <br /> Community Member  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daniel McConnell – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service  <br /> Local Labor  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, also known as ServeMinnesota, provides grant funding, training, and technical assistance to nonprofits, government agencies, and schools that run AmeriCorps programs. The commission also pioneers strategic initiatives in a variety of impact areas to solve complex social problems. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F105/1/0101019572791c53-a22101c1-9d9e-49b0-9732-4d1c060f9336-000000/7xY2Usb0DzFemIPshniTQqQI3VOzdILKleR1y67UCt0=395">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Petronellah Bensen – Andover, MN</strong>  <br /> Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Consumer Representative G  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Olson – Golden Valley, MN</strong>  <br /> Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities  <br /> MRS Member A  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patricia Siebert – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities  <br /> Consumer Representative H  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicole Touroutoutoudis – Prior Lake, MN</strong>  <br /> Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities  <br /> MRS Member C  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026  <br /> Replacing: Immaculata Anyanwu </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities:</em>  <br /> The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities advises and assists the ombudsman in developing policies, plans, and programs to benefit persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities, chemical dependence, and emotional disturbance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health &amp; Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F128/1/0101019572791c53-a22101c1-9d9e-49b0-9732-4d1c060f9336-000000/VjGklAq10ROMWMIiVaxJs39c99YRTcvXXZsozuilgR0=395">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gift Saloka – Saint Cloud, MN</strong>  <br /> Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board  <br /> Teacher  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brandee Shoemaker – Montevideo, MN</strong>  <br /> Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board  <br /> Teacher  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Glazell Toledo – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong>  <br /> Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board  <br /> Teacher  <br /> Effective: March 12, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board:</em>  <br /> The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board is responsible for licensing teachers. The board evaluates candidates for compliance with statutory or rule requirements for licensure and develops licensure verification requirements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F234/1/0101019572791c53-a22101c1-9d9e-49b0-9732-4d1c060f9336-000000/2UEqEtvzPVYgBvtJGr8IAW6zePeiSNO9Hco9f8ZJ7A8=395">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/0101019572791c53-a22101c1-9d9e-49b0-9732-4d1c060f9336-000000/-J_-3TOpqCwIeKAJXAz_VbFS0kVHLxJtynWAZ80WwEw=395">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p>6719372025-03-07T21:39:30Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-671936" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-07T21:36:43ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Monday, March 10, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Officer Felicia Reilly. Officer Reilly died on March 1, 2025, as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty in 2010.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Monday, March 10, 2025, in honor and remembrance of Officer Felicia Reilly. Officer Reilly died on March 1, 2025, as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty in 2010.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Officer Felicia Reilly demonstrated selfless dedication and a deep commitment to serve and protect the people of Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“An inspiration to many, Reilly will be remembered for her dedication, compassion, and resilience. I extend my deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A copy of the Governor's proclamation can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F03%2F07%2Ffile_attachments%2F3187096%2F03.10.25%2520Officer%2520Felicia%2520Reilly%2520FAHS.pdf/1/010101957262804b-b22de74a-ae37-468d-9d4c-8e65ec466668-000000/-U9VA_CYbRbIwwwQqtweSp9knMD0YGHT1YG4BKvlg-I=395" target="_blank">here</a> .</p>6719362025-03-07T21:39:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-671697" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-06T17:51:48ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced a new resource for federal employees who have recently lost their jobs or are facing employment uncertainty. Minnesota’s tight labor market continues to be a challenge for businesses looking to hire in Minnesota, with less than one person unemployed for every job opening available. The initiative comes as the Trump administration, led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), seeks to lay off tens of thousands of dedicated public servants.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced a new resource for federal employees who have recently lost their jobs or are facing employment uncertainty. Minnesota’s tight labor market continues to be a challenge for businesses looking to hire in Minnesota, with less than one person unemployed for every job opening available. The initiative comes as the Trump administration, led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), seeks to lay off tens of thousands of dedicated public servants.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In Minnesota, we value the experience and expertise of federal workers, even if Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and DOGE do not,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Government workers provide services each of us relies on – from park rangers to firefighters to medical personnel who care for our veterans. If the Trump administration turned you away, Minnesota wants you.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">There are around 18,000 federal employees in Minnesota. President Trump’s planned federal cuts include the potential elimination of 80,000 jobs from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Reducing the Department of Veterans Affairs workforce to Pre-Pact Act levels would have negative impacts on veteran health care and potential disruptions to benefits. Veterans make up nearly 25% of the Department of Veterans Affairs workforce.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s federal workers can visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fmmb%2Fcareers%2Fsearch-for-jobs%2Ffederal-workers%2F/1/010101956c6a0a8f-84843044-7254-41fd-ae66-10f20cd1e9ed-000000/fLFTgMiYgXh0-Ub3myd_ADwa9NobCSbnOe-FoTJGfok=395">Minnesota Careers Website</a></u> to learn about available resources including:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Job search and application preparation, including in-person and online workshops, resume reviews, and networking opportunities</li> <li>Resources for veterans</li> <li>Instructions to apply for Unemployment Insurance benefits.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Mass layoffs have an economic impact on communities, not to mention families and workers experiencing them firsthand,”</strong> said Matt Varilek, Commissioner of the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). <strong>“During this time of heightened uncertainty, DEED staff is ready to help you find your next job through CareerForce, access unemployment benefits while you look for work, or connect you to training opportunities for the next phase of your career.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The State of Minnesota is a great place to work, with jobs in a wide variety of fields focused on providing essential services and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans,”</strong> said MMB Commissioner Erin Campbell. <strong>“We welcome applications from federal workers, who understand the power of public service to improve lives.”</strong></p>6716972025-03-06T17:55:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-671547" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-05T22:52:18ZFollowing the enactment of President Trump’s tariffs on Canada and Mexico, Governor Tim Walz today met with Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew to discuss ways to alleviate tariff impacts and strengthen our trade relationships.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Following the enactment of President Trump’s tariffs on Canada and Mexico, Governor Tim Walz today met with Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew to discuss ways to alleviate tariff impacts and strengthen our trade relationships. Yesterday, Governor Walz visited a corn and soybean farm in Cannon Falls where he <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F671344/1/010101956880a0ac-1ae827b4-f358-4ac2-9171-2c6a4b463bc3-000000/7sBQAAoqtwiCoFqCJYMvELOvSAqTcVtSZPtqg--EVaU=395" target="_blank">highlighted the impact of federal tariffs on Minnesota Farmers</a>. Photos from the meeting are linked <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720324251148%2F/1/010101956880a0ac-1ae827b4-f358-4ac2-9171-2c6a4b463bc3-000000/Idz0vjiWOaTik9UPhLH_obab3lrm5JTTU74onAHD2IA=395" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“President Trump’s tariffs pose a serious threat to the future of trade with Canada. But while the President may not value the partnerships that contribute billions of dollars to our economy, Minnesota does,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am working closely with Canadian leadership to help Minnesota get through this unnecessary and costly trade war.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective March 4, Canadian imports into the United States will be subject to an additional 25% tariff. Canadian energy products will be subject to a 10% tariff. In response, the Canadian government is imposing retaliatory tariffs on a wide range of products.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Ontario is levying a 25% export tax on electricity and has threatened to cut off electricity sales to the U.S. completely if President Trump moves forward with another round of tariffs on April 2. The cost is particularly acute for industrial customers in the northeastern part of the state where energy and supply chains will get more expensive. The new tariffs and response from Canada will reduce Minnesota’s competitiveness with other less-impacted regions of the United States.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Much of Minnesota’s natural gas comes from Canada, with five of the six natural gas pipelines that transport gas in Minnesota originating from Canada. Physical limitation to pipelines will make it hard to quickly switch to other sources, and the costs of the 10% tariffs will be passed on to Minnesota consumers. National estimates suggest that tariffs could raise U.S. gasoline prices $.05-$0.20 per gallon.</p>6715472025-03-05T22:53:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-671422" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-05T16:04:58ZFollowing heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions across the state, Governor Tim Walz today declared a peacetime emergency and authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide support for emergency storm operations.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] — Following heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions across the state, Governor Tim Walz today declared a peacetime emergency and authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide support for emergency storm operations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is no stranger to winter weather, but conditions can quickly become unpredictable and dangerous,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As we work to alleviate the dangerous road conditions, the National Guard is stepping up to provide life-saving support.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The state has received a request for National Guard assistance from the Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office to provide the personnel, equipment, facilities, and resources necessary to respond to the severe weather and rescue stranded motorists.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F03%2F05%2Ffile_attachments%2F3183239%2FExecutive%2520Order%252025-03.pdf/1/0101019566ebbd65-e2b9dbc3-1866-4368-a2c2-0495369c867a-000000/yN-pC-W-6MT4XqKVLDBEtUXTR0cEouSbwV4g2G8fTok=395" target="_blank">executive order</a> is effective immediately and remains in effect until emergency conditions caused by the winter storm subside or until March 9, 2025.</p>6714222025-03-05T16:09:40Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-671344" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-05T00:09:30ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited a corn and soybean farm in Cannon Falls to highlight the impact of President Trump’s tariffs on Minnesota farmers. Tariffs on Canada and Mexico take effect today, limiting markets for Minnesota agricultural products while raising prices on fertilizer and fuel used to grow crops in the state. Both Canada and Mexico are among the top three countries for Minnesota’s agricultural exports. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today visited a corn and soybean farm in Cannon Falls to highlight the impact of President Trump’s tariffs on Minnesota farmers. Tariffs on Canada and Mexico take effect today, limiting markets for Minnesota agricultural products while raising prices on fertilizer and fuel used to grow crops in the state. Both Canada and Mexico are among the top three countries for Minnesota’s agricultural exports. Photos from today’s event are linked <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.flickr.com%252Fphotos%252Fmngov%252Falbums%252F72177720324234159%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C9e6f71511d224f56555f08dd5b6f7177%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638767256392212559%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=XVHapkXGO1EEH0OT28tx%252BP34IJD6alJMf%252Fq4PXpJtkc%253D%26reserved=0/1/01010195637259db-44765db3-68c9-45a9-aeed-0977b7ce73d4-000000/-Ge5dH8cVmkQSCyZaDTPVhT9EAj7WjM45JWmv1b62c8=395">here</a></u> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In the last month, President Trump has made it abundantly clear that he does not care about the farmers who feed, fuel, and grow our country. The tariffs that took effect today will hurt our farmers, point blank,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As Governor, I will work to ensure Minnesota continues to be a valued trading partner, and we will continue to stand up and fight for the people who feed our families and drive our economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Agriculture is an essential part of Minnesota’s economy, employing hundreds of thousands of Minnesotans and generating over $100 billion dollars annually.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective March 4, President Trump has instated a 25% tariff on all goods imported from Canada and Mexico. In 2024, Minnesota exported $1.094 billion in food and agricultural goods to Mexico and $1.083 billion to Canada.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">President Trump also added an additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods, resulting in a cumulative 20% tariff. China is the largest buyer of U.S. soybeans purchasing $12.8 billion worth in 2024. Last week the United States Department of Agriculture’s FY 2025 export forecast for China was cut by $1.3 billion from the November 2024 projection, primarily due to reduced prospects for U.S. soybeans, corn, sorghum, and cotton.</p>6713442025-03-05T00:10:56Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-671137" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-03T16:46:46ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced three vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Amy E. Dawson, the Honorable Charlene W. Hatcher, and the Honorable Jay M. Quam. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced three vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Amy E. Dawson, the Honorable Charlene W. Hatcher, and the Honorable Jay M. Quam. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on March 24 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-April.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Fourth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101955cdf7b78-082d8190-27d0-40b7-939e-4a89da94fa72-000000/Ep_XuPydmQ0FOLTUEh9skcTmcAI5T4cqZiIEqiaIqA8=394">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6711372025-03-03T16:48:05Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-670924" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-27T21:20:27ZGovernor Tim Walz today discussed his plan to hold health insurance providers accountable, save taxpayer dollars, and lower health insurance costs. The proposal would shift the responsibility for the state share of reinsurance to insurers rather than taxpayers.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today discussed his plan to hold health insurance providers accountable, save taxpayer dollars, and lower health insurance costs. The proposal would shift the responsibility for the state share of reinsurance to insurers rather than taxpayers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz’s proposal comes as the Trump Administration pushes for $880 billion in cuts to federal Medicaid through 2034, which would shift costs to states and put millions of Americans, including thousands of Minnesotans, at risk of becoming uninsured.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"As President Trump looks to fund tax cuts for the wealthy by cutting health care for millions of Americans, we're going to save Minnesotans money by making sure the insurance industry is paying their fair share,"</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>"We’re helping ensure that families can afford their life-saving medication and emergency care."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2022, Governor Walz signed legislation to extend Minnesota’s reinsurance program – a program created to help stabilize high health insurance premiums in the individual insurance market. This session, the Governor’s proposal would shift the responsibility for the state share of reinsurance to insurers rather than taxpayers. Under this plan, insurance companies will be required to create a fund that covers high-cost procedures, like premature births or cancer treatments, for people on the individual market.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s plan also increases the surcharge currently levied on health maintenance organizations from 0.6% to 1.25% of total premium revenue, to ensure large health care corporations pay their fair share.</p>6709242025-02-27T21:21:43Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-670909" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-27T20:52:37ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the death of the Honorable Patrick C. Diamond. This seat will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the death of the Honorable Patrick C. Diamond. This seat will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on March 20 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in early April.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Second Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010195489300f0-f62dc4fa-e62b-4764-9570-c91a6fd0706a-000000/tg0qmHWow2Is1_hFeLLOfTSes5lAEU7U9kTT-xded-c=394">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6709092025-02-27T20:53:52Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-670629" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-26T19:39:48ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Beverly Luther Quast as a judge of the Minnesota Tax Court for a six-year term.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F02%2F26%2Ffile_attachments%2F3175650%2FLuther%2520Quast,%2520Beverly%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/010101954377b527-e6dedd20-9d1a-428c-8791-54a4566cf3c6-000000/AgShUoLO6iF_NZ1wqtZoUiIRQgWVZhRRbG6SI0WUe_Q=394" target="_blank">Beverly Luther Quast</a> as a judge of the Minnesota Tax Court for a six-year term.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my privilege to appoint Beverly Luther Quast to the Minnesota Tax Court,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She has a wealth of tax law experience that will help the court resolve the most challenging matters that come before it. Her entire legal career has been focused on mastering the complexities of our tax system to ensure that they are administered consistently for individuals and businesses.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Beverly Luther Quast</em> <em><br /></em> Beverly Luther Quast is a vice president of tax planning at U.S. Bank, where she advises on tax aspects of business transactions, mergers, and acquisitions. She was previously senior tax counsel at 3M Company, where she advised on federal, state, and international tax matters related to supply chain, mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, corporate reorganizations, and compliance. Luther Quast has also worked as an international tax counsel at Ameriprise Financial, as a senior international tax consultant at Deloitte Tax, LLP, and was an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota, where she taught corporate taxation law. Her community involvement includes mentoring new law students and tax lawyers, providing pro bono tax counsel, serving on her synagogue's finance committee, and volunteering for her college alumnae association. Luther Quast previously served as chair of the Minnesota Lavender Bar Association and as an adjunct professor of corporate taxation at the University of Minnesota Law School. She earned her B.A. from Wellesley College, her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School, and her LL.M. in taxation from the New York University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101954377b527-e6dedd20-9d1a-428c-8791-54a4566cf3c6-000000/NjJqwSD4Wm9nUTOojFBzh7rRpMw3KFXzf6Vk71cWOX8=394">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6706292025-02-26T19:41:23Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-670239" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-21T22:18:06ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports; Board of Medical Practice; Board of Nursing; Board of Pharmacy; Governor’s Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers; Governor’s Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota; Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine; Public Employees Retirement Association; and the State Capitol Preservation Commission.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports; Board of Medical Practice; Board of Nursing; Board of Pharmacy; Governor’s Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers; Governor’s Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota; Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine; Public Employees Retirement Association; and the State Capitol Preservation Commission.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Fredrick Dawe – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sandra Turbes – Northfield, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports <br /> Doctor <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Jane Pederson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports:</em> <br /> The Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports licenses administrators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, conducts studies of nursing home and assisted living administration; approves continuing education programs for administrators; and investigates complaints and allegations of rule violations. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F23/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/v9TMSqbDScGfmSE6K3XYsooxnsy-u-BXlXzjrA0Uwag=393" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Leopold Arko IV – Lauderdale, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Medical Practice <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Cheryl Bailey <br /> <br /> <strong>Tenbit Emiru – Plymouth, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Medical Practice <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Bruce Sutor – Rochester, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Medical Practice <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Medical Practice:</em> <br /> The Board of Medical Practice licenses and registers physicians, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, acupuncturists, athletic trainers, genetic counselors, naturopathic doctors, and traditional midwives; and enforces the relevant practice acts.  <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Medical Practice can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F27/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/yxRP8ihtsr6DYbJFD7Zpxdij8ApA1Z1A9Ii0hlYlZ6k=393" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Jacqueline Cunningham – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Nursing <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Katherine Lynch – Roseville, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Nursing <br /> Licensed Practical Nurse <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Jessica Miehe – White Bear Lake, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Nursing <br /> Registered Nurse <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Nursing:</em> <br /> The Board of Nursing oversees and ensures the safe practice of nursing in Minnesota. The board holds nurses accountable for conduct based on legal, ethical, and professional standards. The board regulates nursing practice through credentialing, education, discipline/complaint resolution, and nursing practice standards. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Nursing can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F101/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/TTzzcfdO0ZqDUbYaJuTbyPhE4VkeUP71NjugT03yZZ8=393" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a> <br /> <br /> <strong>Ben Maisenbach – Rosemount, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Pharmacy <br /> Pharmacist <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Brandon Ordway – Maplewood, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Pharmacy <br /> Pharmacist <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Rabih Nahas <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Pharmacy:</em> <br /> The Board of Pharmacy regulates the pharmacy profession and the quality, labeling and distribution of drugs. It also administers the Minnesota Prescription Monitoring Program, the Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program, and the Opiate Product Registration Fee Program.  <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Pharmacy can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F30/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/FJ4z3jXcQqCfrR57YsRKT0oAKtzR7Gbif0Kv6MxH1_0=393" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a> <br /> <br /> <strong>Patrice Bailey – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> Department of Agriculture Commissioner or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Andrea Vaubel <br /> <br /> <strong>Dan Glessing – Eagan, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> Minnesota Farm Bureau President or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Kevin Paap <br /> <br /> <strong>Emilia Gonzalez-Alvalos – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> Unidos MN Executive Director or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Rodolfo Gutierrez – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> HACER Executive Director or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Marc Major – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Hamse Warfa <br /> <br /> <strong>Allysa Wetzel-Moore – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> Minnesota Housing Finance Agency Commissioner or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> New Seat <br /> <br /> <strong>Maureen Ramirez – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> Department of Labor and Industry Commissioner or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Nicole Blissenbach <br /> <br /> <strong>Elise Sporre – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services AWP Project Manager or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Colin Laffey <br /> <br /> <strong>Naomi Trevino – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> Department of Education Commissioner or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> New Seat <br /> <br /> <strong>Gary Wertish – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> Minnesota Farmers Union President or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Rena Wong – Brooklyn Center, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> United Food and Commercial Workers Local 663 Director of Organizing or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Erik Zabel – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers <br /> Department of Health Commissioner or Designee <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Susan Bishop <br /> <br /> <em>About the Governor’s Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers:</em> <br /> The Governor’s Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers protects and promotes the safety, health, and wellbeing of agricultural and food processing workers; develops a system for effective communication between state agencies, community organizations, advocacy groups, and agricultural and food processing employers and workers; and provides a forum to engage, collect and analyze data and information, coordinate resources, and plan for future agricultural growing, food production, and processing seasons. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Governor's Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F377/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/Xdqj31-RWZVXdp15NBee73CCGYHzgRJ6vEL6e-HYa40=393" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Sherrie Pugh – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota <br /> Chair <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the Governor’s Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota:</em> <br /> The Governor's Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota was established to coordinate work across sectors, including state government, nonprofits, communities, businesses, and others to ensure Minnesota is an age-friendly state. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Governor’s Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F269/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/kN3Yh2TGCYqTz93Slvob5UfvnGcrTVeAYt0hu-B2RYA=393" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Mahlon Bauman – Buffalo, MN</strong> <br /> MN Board of Veterinary Medicine <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the MN Board of Veterinary Medicine:</em> <br /> The board of Veterinary Medicine licenses and regulates veterinarians, registers veterinary corporations, and investigates complaints against veterinarians and unlicensed persons practicing veterinary medicine.  <br /> <br /> Additional information about the MN Board of Veterinary Medicine can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F103/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/Zxe18PDexZnDEObaynvdWiY1LEE6ULSSMPdjzU3_M30=393" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Barbara Johnson – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Public Employees Retirement Association <br /> Representative of Cities <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 31, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>David Minke – Pine City, MN</strong> <br /> Public Employees Retirement Association <br /> Representative of Counties <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 31, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Scott Schulte <br /> <br /> <em>About the Public Employees Retirement Association:</em> <br /> The Public Employees Retirement Association provides retirement, survivor, and disability benefits for public employees of county and local government. The management of the public employee’s retirement fund is vested in a board of trustees.  <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Public Employees Retirement Association can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F133/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/3-FhtfsBhe9TpA44K2YZ8YiSdkPh1oAX149sbCVSHwg=393" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> <strong>Dan Hartman – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> State Capitol Preservation Commission <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Megan Kluthe – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> State Capitol Preservation Commission <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Mark Westpfahl – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> State Capitol Preservation Commission <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: February 26, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the State Capitol Preservation Commission:</em> <br /> The State Capitol Preservation Commission coordinates the restoration, protection, risk management, and preservation of the Capitol building. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the State Capitol Preservation Commission can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F186/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/e_T7DqIQybrPEGRaatyD0UNqXjPT_SOj5groOH1rXd8=393" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> . <br /> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the Minnesota <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency/1/010101952a8eb0f1-6a790d6b-fb2f-47f8-b1d7-0105831e6e3e-000000/PyQauU-2z8U0_rGt3t4cAyu48ELc9mGE_6dTQ1iOPpw=393" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p>6702392025-02-21T22:19:48Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-670044" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-20T20:55:56ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, February 22, 2025, in honor and remembrance of David Christopher Maland. Maland was shot while on duty as a federal border agent last month in Vermont. His interment is to be held on Saturday at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, February 22, 2025, in honor and remembrance of David Christopher Maland. Maland was shot while on duty as a federal border agent last month in Vermont. His interment is to be held on Saturday at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is deeply saddened by the loss of David Christopher Maland, a Minnesotan who committed his life to serving our nation,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota recognizes Maland’s dedicated service and sacrifice, and I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6700442025-02-20T21:11:58Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-670035" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-20T20:52:34ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David L. Knutson. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David L. Knutson. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on March 13 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in late March.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the First Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019524d9c4f2-f218da3b-3f65-447a-b3c3-88af0057cad3-000000/d8OKFgCE8CqEKwQJioYCrlVXnPedX2iOMTnpQx1huPs=393">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6700352025-02-20T20:57:24Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-669942" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-19T21:35:05ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota was ranked the second best state to both retire and raise a family. The Wallet Hub studies ranked states on factors including affordability, health and safety, education and child care, and quality of life.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota was ranked the second best state to both <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwallethub.com%252Fedu%252Fbest-and-worst-states-to-retire%252F18592%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C5ff78c6458d543543d2708dd5122db4e%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638755932333788262%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=AZh0l9HXXi3I65hWaXjP06djgX0KYTM5PhNKO3M0CpU%253D%26reserved=0/1/010101951feeb720-c1bd3f91-b373-4bbb-8caa-c0b7eca295bd-000000/zhmruwwmhfDSgiFG6m5cEJjdOyqyEtpfjgQDX2rpsSc=393">retire</a></u> and <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwallethub.com%252Fedu%252Fbest-states-to-raise-a-family%252F31065%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C5ff78c6458d543543d2708dd5122db4e%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638755932333807848%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=v557z2459IsshuWbOGh1sVNTHjG1MHH9UFGVw7WmC%252FE%253D%26reserved=0/1/010101951feeb720-c1bd3f91-b373-4bbb-8caa-c0b7eca295bd-000000/_7B6U5VuTmFthbJMT-tzalpHSzr7YZQkLiSjD5yWMSM=393">raise a family</a></u>. The Wallet Hub studies ranked states on factors including affordability, health and safety, education and child care, and quality of life.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am proud to once again celebrate Minnesota as a top state to retire and to raise a family,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These rankings are a reflection of our commitment to invest in the things that matter – economic opportunity, health and safety, and building strong communities. These are investments that I will continue to protect as we work towards building the best state for all Minnesotans from childhood through retirement.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz has made historic investments to increase child care access and affordability, bolster access to health care and mental health resources, provide universal school meals, reduce child poverty, and make life more affordable for working families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2023, Governor Walz signed historic bipartisan elder abuse legislation to regulate assisted living centers and allocated direct funding for nursing homes across the state. The administration also cut state taxes on social security for most seniors, took action to significantly lower the cost of prescription drugs, and provided funding for public safety needs to combat crime and keep communities safe.</p>6699422025-02-20T13:36:48Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-669823" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-18T21:35:05ZOn Tuesday, February 18, 2025, Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 25-02 authorizing the National Guard to provide temporary shelter for residents displaced by an apartment fire in Wadena County. One person was found deceased and nine residents have been displaced.Executive Order will support residents displaced by apartment building fire1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] — On Tuesday, February 18, 2025, Governor Tim Walz issued <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F02%2F18%2Ffile_attachments%2F3167977%2FExecutive%2520Order%252025-02.pdf/1/010101951b61d49e-29e423d9-f3dc-416e-95c1-0dc44957c1e3-000000/o4qexERnVj_9uQrARxvEJpwVrk2PIg5TUC8KMlI82Gg=393" target="_blank">Executive Order 25-02</a> authorizing the National Guard to provide temporary shelter for residents displaced by an apartment fire in Wadena County. One person was found deceased and nine residents have been displaced.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“My heart goes out to those enduring the devastation caused by the Wadena apartment fire and compounded by dangerously cold temperatures,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As our neighbors recover, we will provide every resource necessary to ensure their safety. I am grateful to our first responders who are stepping up to provide necessary resources as the community recovers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The executive order is effective immediately and remains in effect until National Guard resources are no longer needed or until February 25, 2025.</p>6698232025-02-19T16:11:24Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-668667" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-07T21:35:05ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Animal Health; Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design; Board of Dentistry; Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education; MN Board on Aging; State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind; and the State Rehabilitation Council.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Animal Health; Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design; Board of Dentistry; Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education; MN Board on Aging; State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind; and the State Rehabilitation Council. <br /> <br /> <strong>Jessica Koppien-Fox – Marshall, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Animal Health <br /> Licensed Veterinarian <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Animal Health:</em> <br /> The board carries out disease control programs for livestock and poultry. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Animal Health can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F17/1/01010194e225f329-bb920968-134e-48c0-bbda-9b51a554156c-000000/SazKd7DZnQE-S7Y11FOnBHGnUdJ3KCC10h7CYrk641I=391" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a> <br /> <br /> <strong>Alexa Choles – Minnetonka, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Certified Interior Designer #2 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Claudia Reichert <br /> <br /> <strong>Paul Brandt – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Geoscientist #1 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Sally Korsh – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Licensed Architect #2 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>David Martini – Shakopee, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Licensed Engineer #1 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Travis Thul <br /> <br /> <strong>Jean Otto – Edina, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Public Member #2 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Rachel Dwyer <br /> <br /> <strong>Lori Marco – Austin, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Public Member #3 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Eric Friske <br /> <br /> <strong>Shajive Jeganathan – Blaine, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Public Member #5 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: David Stenseth <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design:</em> <br /> The board licenses and regulates architects, engineers, land surveyors, landscape architects, geologists, and soil scientists, and certifies interior designers. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F18/1/01010194e225f329-bb920968-134e-48c0-bbda-9b51a554156c-000000/W7MHhJCDJzgD-6u6L_O9kcKg9sXolANCyUVXb1Nzs00=391" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Mark Roszkowski – Mendota Heights, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Dentistry <br /> Dentist #1 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Patricia Rake <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of Dentistry:</em> <br /> The board examines, licenses, and regulates dentists, dental therapists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, and enforces the Minnesota Dental Practices Act.  <br /> <br /> Additional information about the Board of Dentistry can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F21/1/01010194e225f329-bb920968-134e-48c0-bbda-9b51a554156c-000000/mEplhzzYZOLlOTdZEL-LhVIQNFMz9RQdUnLV0ZKQ8_E=391" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a> <br /> <br /> <strong>Dominque Pierre-Toussaint – Eden Prairie, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member #5 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Janet Mohr <br /> <br /> <strong>Shannon Finnegan – Bloomington, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member #8 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Leslie LeCuyer <br /> <br /> <strong>Megan Haley – St. Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member #9 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Dan Loritz <br /> <br /> <strong>Timothy Wollenzien – Moorehead, MN</strong> <br /> Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member #11 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Rebecca Petersen <br /> <br /> <em>About the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education:</em> <br /> The board cares for, manages, and controls the Perpich Center for Arts Education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F36/1/01010194e225f329-bb920968-134e-48c0-bbda-9b51a554156c-000000/a-wF9H9YKmmgqzaAZsrJwI8Tt-ahFSaoCISeOKPKYNM=391" target="_blank">Secretary of State's Website</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jane Pederson – Woodbury, MN</strong> <br /> MN Board on Aging <br /> Member #6 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Sally Macut – Minnetonka, MN</strong> <br /> MN Board on Aging <br /> Member #15 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Anjuli Cameron <br /> <br /> <strong>Leonard Levine – Mendota Heights, MN</strong> <br /> MN Board on Aging <br /> Member #21 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Khadija Zeig – Cottage Grove, MN</strong> <br /> MN Board on Aging <br /> Member #24 <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the MN Board on Aging:</em> <br /> The board develops, coordinates, evaluates, and administers federal and state funds for programs for the aging; makes grants to seven area agencies on aging and nonprofit agencies; and serves as advocate for older persons. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the MN Board on Aging can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F104/1/01010194e225f329-bb920968-134e-48c0-bbda-9b51a554156c-000000/2aZkgpSZejK5EbFTzJAYkFBIFU8eQE7EnBOOGNsScTQ=391" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Paulo Matheus Carvalho Chaves de Castro – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind <br /> Member - Client Assistance Program <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Ryan Haenze <br /> <br /> <strong>Robert Hobson – Maplewood, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind <br /> Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind:</em> <br /> The council advises the commissioner of the Department of Employment and Economic Development about programs of State Services for the Blind and performs other functions as provided in state and federal statute. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F151/1/01010194e225f329-bb920968-134e-48c0-bbda-9b51a554156c-000000/laY3hT7hkce6zxSHgyg8bat0D_ho702qONTov4RV6oA=391" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> <strong>Ty Barth – Jordan, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Business, Industry and Labor Representative <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Scott Berscheid <br /> <br /> <strong>Jill Belland – Buffalo, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Current or Former Recipient of Vocational Rehabilitation Services Representative <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Michael Etten <br /> <br /> <strong>Ben Coady – Rochester, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Business, Industry and Labor Representative <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Sue Fager – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council <br /> PACER Representative <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Deanne Curran <br /> <br /> <strong>James Houston – Burnsville, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Business, Industry and Labor Representative <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Shelly Weaver – Naytahwaush, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council <br /> American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Project Representative <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <strong>Mike Windsperger – Lake Crystal, MN</strong> <br /> State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Member <br /> Effective: February 12, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <br /> <em>About the State Rehabilitation Council:</em> <br /> The council works jointly with the MN Vocational Rehabilitation Program to develop goals and priorities, assess customer satisfaction, conduct needs assessments, and seek citizen input through public forums. <br /> <br /> Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F150/1/01010194e225f329-bb920968-134e-48c0-bbda-9b51a554156c-000000/6mDogVqp6E4bmBKZyzs6O_Du70w1hFjzmdlMzmvjRzg=391" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>. <br /> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/01010194e225f329-bb920968-134e-48c0-bbda-9b51a554156c-000000/Ez-k3IdUaeUbiloUXPy3fFguravf_F_q_nAbOYEkqYo=391" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p>6686672025-02-07T21:36:40Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-668635" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-07T20:23:38ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced he will lead a business development mission to the Netherlands from February 17-19, with stops in Eindhoven, The Hague, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Delft. The mission will focus on showcasing the state as a top destination for business investment, developing new partnership opportunities, and strengthening existing ties and investments.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced he will lead a business development mission to the Netherlands from February 17-19, with stops in Eindhoven, The Hague, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Delft. The mission will focus on showcasing the state as a top destination for business investment, developing new partnership opportunities, and strengthening existing ties and investments.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Business development missions provide an opportunity to strengthen international economic ties and lead to direct investment in Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong> “I am thrilled to lead this trip to the Netherlands to further strengthen the state's trade and investment relationships with an important international market.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota companies have a global marketplace, and DEED is committed to helping them find new customers and investment from around the world,"</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>"Visiting the Netherlands will help us establish new ties, strengthen existing relationships, and benefit Minnesota companies, workers, and the state's economy."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Trade Office at the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is organizing the business development mission. Governor Walz, DEED Commissioner Varilek, and Minnesota Trade Office leaders will facilitate a robust itinerary for the delegation as they meet with local elected leaders and Dutch companies looking to buy goods from North America.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The country occupies a strategic commercial location and is a key center within the global business network, with advanced infrastructure geared toward the transportation of goods, people, and data. Minnesota’s total trade in goods with the Netherlands was $908 million in 2024. The Netherlands is the state’s 10th largest export market, with $614 million in Minnesota exports in 2024. Minnesota imported $294 million in goods from the Netherlands that year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More than a dozen Netherlands-based companies have operations in Minnesota, employing 6,900 Minnesotans and with $328 million invested in gross plant, property, and equipment in 2024. More than 30 Minnesota companies – including giants such as 3M, Cargill, Ecolab, and C.H. Robinson – have business operations at about 200 locations in the Netherlands.</p>6686352025-02-07T20:24:48Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-668634" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-07T20:21:57ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension has formally established a centralized state fraud investigations unit. At the direction of Governor Walz, the Minnesota Department of Commerce's fraud investigators moved to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to create a centralized Fraud and Financial Crimes Unit, where they will have greater enforcement authority.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension has formally established a centralized state fraud investigations unit. At the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F663528/1/01010194e10c6900-40410c7b-bd56-48e0-8def-aa7a16386248-000000/UTKzRi6IooMQtCUZECYnofvBuGw3Q2S66YUflxcZOzc=391">direction</a> of Governor Walz, the Minnesota Department of Commerce's fraud investigators moved to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to create a centralized Fraud and Financial Crimes Unit, where they will have greater enforcement authority.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Fraud against public programs is unacceptable, and Minnesotans rightly have no tolerance for it. That’s why I directed my state agencies to move quickly to establish a law enforcement unit dedicated to fighting and investigating fraud,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As the state takes this critical step forward, I’m calling on the legislature to work together to pass a comprehensive package to prevent, detect, and put an end to fraud.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">By creating a centralized fraud investigations unit, the state will focus resources and funding to better investigate fraud impacting state programs and hold people accountable for these crimes. The state completed the transition of resources this week. Because the new office will streamline operations from across state government, it is not expected to require any additional funding.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Fraud and other financial crimes harm every Minnesotan,”</strong> said BCA Superintendent Drew Evans. <strong>“This new BCA unit will use its combined resources to go after criminals who are committing financial crimes, insurance fraud, wage theft, and fraud against Minnesotans and state government programs. The unit will help stop the people who commit these crimes from continuing to hurt our communities and hold fraudsters accountable.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In January, Governor Walz also proposed a new legislative package to prevent, detect, investigate, and penalize fraud in state programs. The legislative package includes:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Strengthened investigation and enforcement authority</strong></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Adding nine staff members to the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud unit.</li> <li>Give agencies expanded authority to stop payments from going to people and entities suspected, charged, or convicted of fraud or financial crimes.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Better detection and oversight</strong></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Use artificial intelligence to detect and prevent fraud. MNIT will partner with industry experts to create a pilot that would analyze data to help detect and flag payment anomalies for Medicaid providers through the Department of Human Services (DHS).</li> <li>Create a provisional license system for Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention providers and require more frequent re-validation visits.</li> <li>Add additional staff at Minnesota Management and Budget to help state agencies improve internal controls, mitigate risks, and build fraud awareness.</li> <li>Add additional employees to expand DHS’s capacity to prevent and detect fraud and ensure proper billing.</li> <li>Enhance oversight of Charter Management Organizations and tighten procurement and contract bidding integrity for Charter Schools.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Increased Criminal Penalties</strong></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Create a new “Theft of Public Funds” statute that increases criminal penalties by 20% compared to the existing “Theft” statute.</li> <li>Make providing kick backs a state crime, and give the Attorney General investigative authority</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tips can be submitted to the BCA’s fraud unit by calling 651-793-3750 or via email at <a href="mailto:MNfraud.Bureau@state.mn.us">MNfraud.Bureau@state.mn.us</a>. Learn more about the unit at <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdps.mn.gov%2Fdivisions%2Fbca/1/01010194e10c6900-40410c7b-bd56-48e0-8def-aa7a16386248-000000/Thdu06HCjzpmoYt5Utpo0Q0vBf1NCLx3EeJstctYbsc=391">bca.dps.mn.gov</a>.</p>6686342025-02-07T20:24:46Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-668279" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-06T16:50:20ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $6.1 million in grants to expand access to child care across the state. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has awarded 25 organizations with Child Care Economic Development Grants, expected to expand child care capacity by 1,400 slots statewide.Funding expected to create over 1,400 new child care slots1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced $6.1 million in grants to expand access to child care across the state. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has awarded 25 organizations with Child Care Economic Development Grants, expected to expand child care capacity by 1,400 slots statewide.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Affordable, reliable child care is essential for a thriving economy – it removes the barriers that prevent parents from entering the workforce, and makes life easier and more affordable for families,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These grants are creating opportunities for child care providers, expanding high-quality, affordable childcare, and growing our economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Access to affordable, reliable child care gives families and caregivers options and peace of mind,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Child care investments benefit businesses, families, and our economy. These new grants are helping us create a state where all families can thrive, and all children are set up for success from day one.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED's Child Care Economic Development Grant program provides funding to communities to invest in new or expanding child care businesses, including facility improvements, worker training, attraction, retention and licensing, and other strategies to reduce the child care shortage. The program, administered by DEED’s Office of Child Care Community Partnerships, coordinates the efforts of state government, communities, businesses, and non-profit organizations that are working to provide child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Of the funds awarded, 84%, or $5.1 million, will go towards increasing child care availability in Greater Minnesota, creating 1,337 slots.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Secure child care is a not only important for parents’ peace of mind, but is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy and thriving economy,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“As the demand for more child care availability continues to increase, public investments in this sector take on even greater importance. Today’s Child Care Economic Development Grants are one of the ways we’re working with partners around the state to serve working families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Access to workers remains the most difficult challenge facing economic growth in the greater Bemidji region. It's critical we increase workforce participation by reducing barriers to work for our community members - first among them is childcare. This grant will directly increase our economic growth and expansion in both the Bemidji area and the Red Lake Nation,"</strong> said Dave Hengel, Executive Director of Greater Bemidji, Inc., a grantee that will use funding to support three child care expansions and create a resource center for providers in its region.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thanks to DEED’s funding support, Latina family childcare providers can help solve the dire shortage of childcare spaces in Minnesota,”</strong> said Ruby Azurdia-Lee, President and CEO of Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio (CLUES). <strong>“CLUES’ East Side Childcare Business Incubator and Family Wellness Center will provide training, technical assistance, and classrooms to support Latina childcare providers in launching their own small businesses or expanding high quality care in their own homes. This funding will create up to 56 new childcare slots in a high poverty neighborhood and pilot a model of culturally responsive childcare business development that can be replicated and scaled in urban and rural communities throughout Minnesota, ultimately benefiting thousands of families across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since the inception of the office in July 2023, DEED has awarded $12 million in grants to 45 organizations to fund child care startups or business expansions, resulting in over 3,500 new child care slots. <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fsmilehub.org%252Fblog%252Fstates-providing-the-most-support-for-children%252F192%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C5c7b53e8b2144d1e67dc08dd462aa8f0%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638743871218898688%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=6Y41H3CD0sw6%252Bl68WFdfJ99V0UTl2Cw52zTnYfWKcOY%253D%26reserved=0/1/01010194dbf61bdf-27c0c108-700b-46a9-8b9d-7d706f0002cb-000000/w6tYlipMJXtFy8f_bb7KzRzU5OenCPOSkATxPHk71-k=391" target="_blank">SmileHub recently ranked</a> Minnesota a top state for children, in part because of the availability and credibility of the state’s child care centers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The following organizations were awarded Child Care Economic Development Grants in this funding round:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency – $240,000</li> <li>Becker County – $120,000</li> <li>Brainerd Family YMCA – $97,5000</li> <li>Catholic Charities Twin Cities – $240,000</li> <li>City of Hutchinson – $40,000</li> <li>City of Wadena – $195,000</li> <li>Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio (CLUES) – $300,000</li> <li>Cook County PHHS – $385,178</li> <li>Duluth Area Family YMCA – $480,000</li> <li>God’s Treasures Childcare Learning Center – $240,000</li> <li>Greater Bemidji, Inc. – $575,000</li> <li>Heartland Lakes Development Commission – $100,000</li> <li>Hendricks Community Hospital Association – $159,000</li> <li>Hmong American Partnership – $240,000</li> <li>ISO 482- Little Falls Community Schools – $240,000</li> <li>Kandiyohi County and City of Willmar EDC – $178,500</li> <li>Lil Chompers Child Care Inc. – $240,000</li> <li>Mapleton Economic Development Authority – $175,120</li> <li>Nobles County Community Service Agency – $480,000</li> <li>Northland Foundation – $240,000</li> <li>Northwest Minnesota Foundation – $134,530</li> <li>Otter Tail County – $240,000</li> <li>Renville County – $345,000</li> <li>Warroad Community Childcare Center – $240,000</li> <li>WomenVenture – $240,000</li> </ul>6682792025-02-06T16:51:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-668214" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-05T22:18:08ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in House District 40B in Ramsey County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued a <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F02%2F05%2Ffile_attachments%2F3155676%2FWrit%252040B%252002_05_2025.pdf/1/01010194d820b10a-ec951390-5d21-4026-a8e2-3fa59cab4471-000000/E9BV46ogL4es9oh7ocBddDXbOmqjHjkMLFi5W6bg6N8=391" target="_blank">writ of special election</a> to fill a vacancy in House District 40B in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A special election to fill the vacancy will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. If necessary, a special primary election for nomination of candidates will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions may be filed with the Secretary of State or the county auditor of Ramsey County from Thursday, February 6, 2025, until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.</p>6682142025-02-05T22:19:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-667949" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-04T20:50:21ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited the McDonough Community Center in St. Paul to encourage Minnesotans to claim the Child Tax Credit when filing their Minnesota income tax return. Last year, nearly 225,000 families claimed the Child Tax Credit and saw an average total credit of $2,500 back in their pockets. The tax credit of up to $1,750 per child is estimated to reduce child poverty by a third in Minnesota. Last year, Minnesota families received nearly $2,500 on average from the credit1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited the McDonough Community Center in St. Paul to encourage Minnesotans to claim the Child Tax Credit when filing their Minnesota income tax return. Last year, nearly 225,000 families claimed the Child Tax Credit and saw an average total credit of $2,500 back in their pockets. The tax credit of up to $1,750 per child is estimated to reduce child poverty by a third in Minnesota. Photos from the event can be found on <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720323604822/1/01010194d25c4572-37a29731-8aa0-4ffb-a386-b6b76a4c6789-000000/-C1QWOgIfSVVLsZN_wmgD52WEbW2f8CNejXOuL_c5wc=390" target="_blank">Flickr</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The goal of our nation-leading child tax credit is simple: to lift kids out of poverty and provide tax relief for working families,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“And with the advance payment option, we’re making it easier for families to get ahead and manage their household budgets. We’re focused on making life easier and more affordable for Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans can visit one of over 200 <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.revenue.state.mn.us%2Ffree-tax-preparation-sites/1/01010194d25c4572-37a29731-8aa0-4ffb-a386-b6b76a4c6789-000000/yX-e-feYGQ7JeYkmR5gKmmHXXm3mCMkHGmPUP3TPgOg=390">free tax preparation sites</a></u> across the state to receive help filing their taxes and claiming the Child Tax Credit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Taxpayers who qualify for Minnesota’s nation-leading Child Tax Credit will have the option to receive advance payments of the credit during this year’s tax filing season. Minnesota is the first state in the nation to offer this option for Child Tax Credit recipients.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If a taxpayer chooses the advance payment option while filing their 2024 income taxes, they will receive their full Child Tax Credit for 2024, part of their 2025 Child Tax Credit in three equal payments in the second half of the year, and the remaining part of the 2025 credit when filing their 2025 income tax return.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"When you increase family income, you improve child outcomes. The Child Tax Credit and advance payment option provides economic stability and security for Minnesotans,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Nearly a quarter of a million Minnesota households received the Child Tax Credit last year, and we want to see even more eligible families benefit from it this year.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Beginning with tax year 2023, taxpayers may qualify for a Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child, with no limit on the number of children claimed. This is a refundable credit, meaning they can receive a refund even if they do not owe tax. They must file an individual income tax return in order to claim the credit.</p>6679492025-02-04T20:51:27Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-667752" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-03T16:38:23ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Shireen Gandhi as temporary commissioner of the Department of Human Services (DHS) until a permanent commissioner is appointed. Gandhi will take over leadership of the agency following the departure of Jodi Harpstead, who stepped down on February 3 after five and a half years of service.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Shireen Gandhi as temporary commissioner of the Department of Human Services (DHS) until a permanent commissioner is appointed. Gandhi will take over leadership of the agency following the departure of Jodi Harpstead, who stepped down on February 3 after five and a half years of service. <br /> <br /> <strong>“I am grateful to Shireen Gandhi for stepping up to lead the Department of Human Services,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Gandhi has a wealth of experience in health care, budget, finance, and continuous improvement initiatives, and has been a champion for our children and families. As temporary commissioner, she is well positioned to leverage her skills and knowledge to ensure a seamless transfer of leadership.”</strong> <br /> <br /> <strong>“Shireen Gandhi has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the people of Minnesota, and I am immensely grateful for her willingness to step in as temporary commissioner of the Department of Human Services,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Gandhi possesses the skills and experience necessary to ensure the continued delivery of high-quality services to communities across Minnesota during this period of transition.”</strong> <br /> <br /> <strong>“I am honored that Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan have put their trust in me to lead the Department of Human Services as temporary commissioner,”</strong> said Shireen Gandhi. <strong>“DHS has talented staff and leaders across the agency, who are dedicated to delivering critical services to the people of Minnesota. Together we will continue the momentum of continuously improving our processes and strengthening our internal controls.”</strong> <br /> <br /> <em>About Shireen Gandhi</em> <br /> Shireen Gandhi joined the Department of Human Services in 2017, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience in health care to the agency. Prior to her temporary commissioner appointment, Gandhi served as a DHS deputy commissioner overseeing budgeting and financial operations, agency operations strategy, and other agency operations. Since 2022, Gandhi has served on the Technology Advisory Council, which advises the commissioner of Minnesota IT Services. <br /> <br /> Before her appointment as deputy commissioner in 2022, Gandhi served as assistant commissioner and chief compliance officer. She led the creation of a new compliance infrastructure and oversight program to improve operations and compliance with federal laws, regulations, and rules. She led and continues to champion agencywide process improvement initiatives to strengthen the internal controls of DHS. <br /> <br /> Gandhi has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communications from the University of Minnesota and a law degree from Hamline University School of Law. She is active in the Minnesota State Bar Association and a past chair of its Health Law Section. She is also a member of the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association. <br /> <br /> <em>About the Department of Human Services</em> <br /> Minnesota DHS’ mission is driven by collaboration with community and partners – counties, Tribes, and nonprofits – supporting people to thrive in community and live their healthiest and fullest lives. The DHS vision is that all people in Minnesota have what they need to thrive in community with no disparities. DHS is responsible for providing services for elders, people with disabilities and behavioral health needs, and those experiencing homelessness.</p>6677522025-02-03T20:56:06Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-667599" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-30T19:26:09ZToday, Governor Tim Walz announced the appointment of Audrey Partridge to serve as a commissioner of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC).1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F01%2F30%2Ffile_attachments%2F3148578%2FPartridge%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010194b91d29c8-99dac653-767b-4f35-8848-21a8ef3f7d0d-000000/EbQakoASZCJ-UQKeZMa6-Wn7ijn9dVaUJZCQj6X5Isw=390" target="_blank">Audrey Partridge</a> to serve as a commissioner of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Audrey Partridge as commissioner of the Public Utilities Commission,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Partridge is a proven leader with expertise in regulatory policy and extensive background in energy and environmental work. She will be an effective leader, positioned to guide Minnesota towards 100 percent clean energy while ensuring the delivery of safe, reliable, and sustainable utility services across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"I am so grateful to be appointed to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission. I thank Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan for trusting me to serve our state at this pivotal time in our clean energy transition,”</strong> said Partridge. <strong>“I will work each and every day to meet Minnesota's ambitious clean energy goals, while maintaining affordability and reliability, and supporting Minnesota's communities and our highly skilled energy workforce."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Audrey Partridge</em> <em><br /></em> Audrey is the director of policy for the Center for Energy and Environment, an organization she has been with since 2017. Before joining the Center for Energy and Environment, she held the roles of senior regulatory analyst and local energy policy manager with CenterPoint Energy. Audrey has also worked with CapX2020, the Metropolitan Council, and the Mental Health Association of Minnesota. Audrey earned a M.P.P. from the University of Minnesota and a B.S. from Macalester College.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Public Utilities Commission</em> <em><br /></em> The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission regulates the electricity, natural gas, and telephone services industries in Minnesota—ensuring safe, reliable, and effective utility services. The PUC is a five-member body with legislative and quasi-judicial functions.</p>6675992025-01-31T15:55:40Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-667230" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-29T19:26:09ZGovernor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for six Minnesota counties that suffered damage caused by severe thunderstorms and flooding last summer.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for six Minnesota counties that suffered damage caused by severe thunderstorms and flooding last summer.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m grateful for Minnesota’s emergency management team for coordinating closely with counties to assess damage and help communities recover from severe weather events,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re committed to continuing to do our part to help communities recover from last summer’s severe weather.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Isanti County is receiving emergency assistance for significant damage caused by severe thunderstorms on August 26, 2024. Dakota, Lyon, Olmsted, Ramsey, and Scott counties are receiving state emergency assistance to help cover the damage to public infrastructure caused by severe flooding between June 16 and July 4.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather events, impacts to outdated infrastructure and roadways have caused millions of dollars in damages statewide. Collaborative emergency planning at all levels of government and investments in infrastructure are critical to safeguarding against future damage.</p>6672302025-01-29T19:27:52Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-667229" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-29T19:22:46ZEarlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration and the tax law community to solicit applications, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Minnesota Tax Court. The panel announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy that occurred earlier this month.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Earlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration and the tax law community to solicit applications, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Minnesota Tax Court. The panel announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy that occurred earlier this month.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F01%2F29%2Ffile_attachments%2F3146650%2FHarmon,%2520Shannon%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010194b2a70e82-2a881d8f-5d0d-44a9-9b8c-cff1046adaf6-000000/_A38NReSxODYtFDsBUm0CStJMAhxKFcogUOjRWS4s1Q=390" target="_blank">Shannon Harmon</a>:</strong> Shannon Harmon is an assistant county attorney with the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, where she prosecutes felony complex economic crimes, including tax evasion and financial exploitation of vulnerable adults. She previously worked in the office’s Civil Division, where she represented the county in property tax matters before the Minnesota Tax Court. Harmon also served as an attorney in the IRS Office of Chief Counsel and the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office in the Tax Litigation Division. Her community involvement has included serving as a reader through the Reader/Writer Program and as a mentor through the University of St. Thomas School of Law Mentor Externship program and Minnesota Women Lawyers’ Student to Attorney Mentoring program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F01%2F29%2Ffile_attachments%2F3146651%2FLuther%2520Quast,%2520Beverly%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010194b2a70e82-2a881d8f-5d0d-44a9-9b8c-cff1046adaf6-000000/IGjOXNmAvDzeaeMrlgbruJIZw1Oi6qByE1F9IBKNnhE=390" target="_blank">Beverly Luther Quast</a>:</strong> Beverly Luther Quast is a vice president of tax planning at U.S. Bank, where she advises on tax aspects of business transactions, mergers, and acquisitions. She was previously senior tax counsel at 3M Company, where she advised on federal, state, and international tax matters related to supply chain, mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, corporate reorganizations, and compliance. Luther Quast has also worked as an international tax counsel at Ameriprise Financial and as a senior international tax consultant at Deloitte Tax, LLP. Her community involvement includes mentoring new law students and tax lawyers, providing pro bono tax counsel, serving on her synagogue's finance committee, and volunteering for her college alumnae association. Luther Quast previously served as chair of the Minnesota Lavender Bar Association and as an adjunct professor of corporate taxation at the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F01%2F29%2Ffile_attachments%2F3146652%2FTien,%2520Wendy%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/01010194b2a70e82-2a881d8f-5d0d-44a9-9b8c-cff1046adaf6-000000/B0Mh9r3dc0iXX9YX50nTW70FewhUtjl83OKNsV-hIIM=390" target="_blank">Wendy Tien</a>:</strong> Wendy Tien is a judge on the Minnesota Tax Court. She previously served as an assistant attorney general and manager of the Tax Division of the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, where she represented the state and its agencies in a wide range of tax, bankruptcy, and commercial litigation matters. Her community service includes volunteering as a judge for the MSBA Mock Trial program and sponsoring law students through the University of Minnesota Law School’s Judicial Externship program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/01010194b2a70e82-2a881d8f-5d0d-44a9-9b8c-cff1046adaf6-000000/TiKQdCBpNwWCTBI3hubGBKLpnqvTOfhNnTu4G4p_D5Q=390">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6672292025-01-29T19:24:27Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-666912" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-28T20:47:08ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan released the following statements today in response to President Donald Trump implementing a federal spending freeze, threatening $1.9 billion in federal funding the State of Minnesota receives each month.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan released the following statements today in response to President Donald Trump implementing a federal spending freeze, threatening $1.9 billion in federal funding the State of Minnesota receives each month.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Statement from Governor Walz:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“President Trump has just shut off funding for law enforcement, farmers, schools, veterans, and health care. Minnesota will do what we can to keep the lights on, but we cannot fill the nearly $2 billion hole this will put in the state budget’s each month. I do not believe this decision was constitutional and we will work diligently to reverse it, but we are preparing for every eventual outcome to help Minnesotans weather this storm.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I have reached out to the President and his supporters in Congress seeking answers, but we do not yet understand the intent of the unprecedented decision, nor we do know the extent to which it will impact our state. Shutting off this funding will have a devastating impact on peoples’ lives – from cancer patients, to securing our prisons. President Trump is leaving states out in the cold without any guidance or explanation. Minnesota needs answers. We will see President Trump in court.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Statement from Lieutenant Governor Flanagan:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This move by the Trump administration is cruel, reckless, and illegal.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“President Trump is again showing a complete lack of leadership and care for the people of our country. This will have devastating effects on our economy by keeping people from being able to get food, get to work, access health care, and look after their families. We will fight this all the way.”</strong></p>6669122025-01-28T20:48:54Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-666581" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-24T19:34:02ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota will send a crew of wildland firefighters from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to support response efforts amid ongoing wildfires in Southern California.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota will send a crew of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F01%2F24%2Ffile_attachments%2F3142584%2FDNR%2520Wildland%2520Fire%2520Fighters.jpeg/1/0101019499cd5f13-8fd0955b-efba-44f3-a7ed-e8cb9a4bca65-000000/UVPE0ov7ZBYRzyMP9OX7bgfdjfc7COTebLkszulQnGw=389" target="_blank">wildland firefighters</a> from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to support response efforts amid ongoing wildfires in Southern California.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota stands with Southern California and will do whatever we can to help the thousands of families impacted by wildfires,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am immensely proud of our emergency responders who are stepping up and providing critical support. They are protecting communities and saving lives.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It’s heartbreaking to see the disastrous impacts of the Southern California wildfires on human life, property, infrastructure, and resources,”</strong> said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“I’m proud that DNR’s wildland firefighters are answering the call to support these critical and life-saving response efforts with fellow emergency responders.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The DNR crew, which departed from the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center in Grand Rapids Friday morning, will receive their assignment once they arrive in Southern California. While there, the 10-person crew may be asked to help support ongoing fire response efforts or respond to new fire starts as Southern California continues to face extreme fire conditions. Members of this crew are highly skilled and specially trained in all aspects of wildland fire suppression, including structure triage, fire line construction, pump operations, and chainsaw use.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The DNR has been closely following the situation in California, and we were ready to support when the call came in,”</strong> said Paul Lundgren, Wildfire Section Manager with the Minnesota DNR.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">When the fires initially developed in early January, California was able to immediately access local and regional resources. As firefighting efforts continue, additional resources are needed and those are now coming from greater distances. The Minnesota DNR’s partnerships with state and federal agencies through mutual aid agreements facilitates sharing of wildland firefighting resources to support others in times of need.</p>6665812025-01-24T19:35:13Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-666576" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-24T19:28:14ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Clean Water Council; Governor’s Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota; Governor’s Workforce Development Board; and the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Clean Water Council; Governor’s Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota; Governor’s Workforce Development Board; and the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christine Meyer – Winona, MN</strong>  <br /> Clean Water Council  <br /> County Government Representative - Rural  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027  <br /> Replacing: Dan Sparks </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Fran Miron – Hugo, MN</strong>  <br /> Clean Water Council  <br /> County Government Representative - Seven-county Metropolitan Area  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Replacing: Trista Martinson </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Clean Water Council:</em>  <br /> The Clean Water Council advises on the administration and implementation of the Clean Water Legacy Act. The council is required to submit a biannual report to the legislature and Governor that includes recommendations for Clean Water Fund appropriations, and an evaluation of progress made by the Clean Water Fund.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Clean Water Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F44/1/0101019499c77f21-deec4e78-b5b1-4b3b-9e99-9ff63c439db1-000000/BzPVsOroa4nZKWFJVBmRi93P3eeO1gWOp_gzy_cKsBg=389">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Faron Jackson Sr. – Cass Lake, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota <br /> Member #6  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 | <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dian Lopez – Alexandria, MN</strong><strong><br /></strong>Governor's Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota  <br /> Member #5  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rajean Moone – Woodbury, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Russell Pointer Sr. – Lakeville, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota  <br /> Member  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mimi Stender – Duluth, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota  <br /> Member #4  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sandra Vargas – Golden Valley, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota  <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota:</em><em><br /></em>The Governor's Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota was established to work across sectors to ensure Minnesota is an age-friendly state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Council on Age-Friendly Minnesota can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F269/1/0101019499c77f21-deec4e78-b5b1-4b3b-9e99-9ff63c439db1-000000/aOQg__MJa4VXiOefHufthWPIPGJpQNlhcgRH_EK6trk=389">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeremy Andrist – Pine Island, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Workforce Development Board  <br /> Labor Organization Representative #5  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028  <br /> Replacing: Scott Parker </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Bruess – St. Joseph, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Workforce Development Board  <br /> Secondary, Postsecondary, or CTE Representative  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028  <br /> Replacing: Paul Pribbenow </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bernadette Burnham – New Brighton, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Workforce Development Board  <br /> Labor Organization Representative #4  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deborah Gleason – Minnetonka, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Workforce Development Board  <br /> Business Representative #20  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028  <br /> Replacing: Ralph Jacobson </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erica Lester – Eagan, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Workforce Development Board  <br /> Community-based Organization Representative  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2026  <br /> Replacing: Amanda Hardy </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ted Mondale – Minneapolis, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Workforce Development Board  <br /> Community-based Organization Representative  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028  <br /> Replacing: Tuleah Palmer </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marisa Rivera Lugo – Saint Paul, MN</strong>  <br /> Governor's Workforce Development Board  <br /> Adult Basic Education Representative  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028  <br /> Replacing: Eric Nesheim </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Workforce Development Board:</em>  <br /> The Governor’s Workforce Development Board assists the Governor in developing, implementing, and modifying the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Combined State Plan. It also reviews statewide policies and programs, provides recommendations on actions to improve the workforce development system and programs, and develops strategies to remove barriers to those programs, among other duties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Workforce Development Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F182/1/0101019499c77f21-deec4e78-b5b1-4b3b-9e99-9ff63c439db1-000000/5Cije5Am8Gal2R3N7kTstpWMdgSVNXw5nkXksD6ZOGw=389">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alexander Lucier – Mankato, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing  <br /> At-Large Member  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Replacing: Sally Prouty </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Autumn Moder – White Bear Lake, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing  <br /> At-Large Member  <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Replacing: Mohamed Mourssi-Alfash </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rebecca Thomas – Ramsey, MN</strong>  <br /> Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing  <br /> At-Large Member <br /> Effective: January 29, 2025  <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029  <br /> Reappointment </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing:</em>  <br /> The Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing represents and advocates for deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing Minnesotans via public policy.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F182/2/0101019499c77f21-deec4e78-b5b1-4b3b-9e99-9ff63c439db1-000000/PraXaIae89UP6bA-ckcG0Wwfl0WZf2qgCWgHLPL3SSQ=389">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/0101019499c77f21-deec4e78-b5b1-4b3b-9e99-9ff63c439db1-000000/4EMwPFF2geuchNpCqjT8PnZXkOKwAjpaAzK90h3cY5A=389">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p>6665762025-01-24T19:29:51Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-666562" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-24T18:46:41ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Kayla Johnson and Paul Gunderson as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. One seat will be chambered in Luverne in Rock County and Pipestone in Pipestone County, and the other seat will be chambered in St. Peter in Nicollet County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F01%2F24%2Ffile_attachments%2F3142513%2FJohnson,%2520Kayla%2520-%2520Headshot.jpg/1/0101019499987b02-773adeb8-bea0-4f1b-b703-46d35f17175d-000000/Qn3sny6_8j8qPICQN98wuNFsRuVo13mX4Abc-y8uHH8=389" target="_blank">Kayla Johnson</a> and <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F01%2F24%2Ffile_attachments%2F3142508%2FGunderson%2520Paul%2520-%2520Headshot.JPG/1/0101019499987b02-773adeb8-bea0-4f1b-b703-46d35f17175d-000000/Ns2Si_fCcmxJObwNlwPBczif9nOywwhUx50bJgssR5o=389" target="_blank">Paul Gunderson</a> as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. One seat will be chambered in Luverne in Rock County and Pipestone in Pipestone County, and the other seat will be chambered in St. Peter in Nicollet County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Kayla Johnson will replace the Honorable Terry S. Vajgrt for the seat chambered in Rock and Pipestone County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my privilege to appoint Kayla Johnson to the Fifth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her diverse practice background and ability to work with stakeholders to deliver fair and equitable justice will make her a great addition to the bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Paul Gunderson will replace the Honorable Todd W. Westphal for the seat chambered in Nicollet County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Paul Gunderson is a dedicated public servant who strives to improve the lives in his community,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“It is my honor to appoint him to Nicollet County where he will serve his neighbors with honor and distinction for years to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Fifth Judicial District consists of 15 counties in southwest Minnesota: Blue Earth, Brown, Cottonwood, Faribault, Jackson, Lincoln, Lyon, Martin, Murray, Nicollet, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, Rock, and Watonwan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Kayla Johnson</em> <br /> Kayla Johnson is an assistant county attorney in the Murray County Attorney’s Office, where she participates in treatment court and handles a broad range of matters, including juvenile prosecution, child protection, and land use matters. She is also a partner at Smith &amp; Johnson, a general practice law firm with an emphasis in child protection, real estate, estate planning, and municipal law. Johnson previously worked as an assistant public defender in the Fifth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office and as an associate attorney at Lynn A. Johnson Law Office, LLC. Her community involvement has included serving as a high school mock trial judge and coach, as well as a board member for WonderWorld Preschool Inc. and the Slayton Area Chamber of Commerce. Johnson received her B.A. from Hamline University and her J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Paul Gunderson</em> <br /> Paul Gunderson is an assistant county attorney in the Brown County Attorney’s Office, where he prosecutes adult felony and gross misdemeanor cases, and is a member of the Brown County Treatment Court staffing team. He previously was an associate attorney at Blethen Berens, where his practice included criminal defense, business litigation, and representing the City of New Ulm as an assistant city attorney. Gunderson’s community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Rules of Criminal Procedure and the New Ulm Chamber of Commerce Board. He also volunteers as a coach for a local college mock trial team and as a judge for college and high school mock trial competitions. Gunderson received his B.A. from Bethany Lutheran College and his J.D. from the University of North Dakota School of Law</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/0101019499987b02-773adeb8-bea0-4f1b-b703-46d35f17175d-000000/EgxFgPuYCdK6PW1NGfdHC9M1AMMHeygkUkcT7XRNwKc=389">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6665622025-01-24T18:48:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-666404" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-23T21:33:40ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced his 2025 infrastructure plan at the Rapidan Dam in Mankato. The Governor’s bonding proposal includes $887 million for projects that protect Minnesota’s drinking water, keep communities safe, and support housing development. Investments include funding for a new State Patrol headquarters and $10 million for Rapidan Dam recovery efforts.Governor’s bonding proposal includes $10 million to support Rapidan Dam recovery 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced his 2025 infrastructure plan at the Rapidan Dam in Mankato. The Governor’s bonding proposal includes $887 million for projects that protect Minnesota’s drinking water, keep communities safe, and support housing development. Investments include funding for a new State Patrol headquarters and $10 million for Rapidan Dam recovery efforts. Photos of the event can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720323376789%2F/1/01010194949db138-278b0b53-14b8-4134-88b7-1ffef20c7986-000000/ZVt800GUDAMGtPBK_W1Id9_qDoKrRAQgAYExs31QyQw=389" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m proposing an infrastructure plan that will protect our drinking water, improve public infrastructure, and enhance public safety,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Investing in the basics ensures that our communities have the infrastructure they need to thrive. With this plan, we’re delivering on the nuts and bolts of what government should provide, making life safer and easier for all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With this bonding plan, we’re expanding on last year’s significant work and making smart investments to keep Minnesotans safe and healthy,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“By promoting a strong economy, supporting affordable housing, enhancing public transportation, and improving infrastructure, we’re benefiting our communities, protecting our children and families, and ensuring a prosperous future for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Water and Transportation Infrastructure</em> <em><br /></em> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s Infrastructure plan invests more than $144 million in water and transportation infrastructure, including more than $107 million to support grants and low-interest loans to keep Minnesota’s water clean. The infrastructure plan also includes $5 million for flood mitigation and prevention, and $10 million for work on the Rapidan Dam.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Public Safety</em> <em><br /></em> The infrastructure plan allocates more than $239 million for public safety projects, including expanding laboratory and investigatory capacity for the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and building a Minnesota State Patrol headquarters.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Housing and Environment</em> <em><br /></em> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor have proposed an investment of over $44 million in housing and the environment, including $7 million for public housing rehabilitation and $17 million to update the Minneapolis Veterans Home.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Preservation of State Infrastructure</em> <em><br /></em> More than $395 million will go toward maintaining and renewing state facilities. This includes $206 million for Minnesota State and the University of Minnesota to repair and renovate buildings. Additional investments include $40 million for local government projects, $3 million for the Duluth Hangar in support of the 148th Fighter Wing of the Minnesota Air National Guard, and nearly $3 million in grants to construct and renovate early childhood facilities.</p>6664042025-01-24T03:45:07Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-666161" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-22T21:12:19ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the reappointment of the Honorable Sean M. Quinn as a judge of the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals for a six-year term.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the reappointment of the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F01%2F22%2Ffile_attachments%2F3140339%2FQuinn,%2520Sean.jpg/1/010101948fcfddd4-9f33bf95-f647-4e6f-b974-9a80cf6babb1-000000/tnnV8xX8meg9gP9jZhPCvz3ODSt9lA1oPW2KxRwe6i0=389" target="_blank">Honorable Sean M. Quinn</a> as a judge of the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals for a six-year term.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to reappoint Judge Quinn to the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“He is not only a talented judge with a deep understanding of workers’ compensation law, but he is also committed to teaching and growing this field for future generations.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Judge Sean Quinn is a judge on the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. He was previously a partner at Falsani, Balmer, Peterson &amp; Quinn in Duluth, representing injured and disabled people in workers’ compensation, personal injury, long-term disability, and social security disability claims. As a practicing attorney, Quinn was an active provider of pro bono services in northeast Minnesota, including serving as the chair of the board of the Volunteer Attorney Program. His community involvement has included coaching youth sports and the University of Minnesota Duluth mock trial team, and teaching community education classes. He is a frequent lecturer at local high schools through the Minnesota Supreme Court’s Lawyers in the Classroom program and has given many continuing legal education presentations on a variety of workers’ compensation topics. He received his B.S. from Carnegie Mellon University and his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101948fcfddd4-9f33bf95-f647-4e6f-b974-9a80cf6babb1-000000/heXp0SFJMufNZZtPfuYqdypOugr_WofD7-30A7Enl0c=389">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6661612025-01-22T21:14:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-665713" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-17T21:00:41ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that WalletHub has ranked Minnesota as a top state to raise a family. Minnesota ranked second in WalletHub’s study, which compared key factors across all 50 states including housing affordability, health care quality, safety, and school quality.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that WalletHub has ranked Minnesota as a top state to raise a family. Minnesota ranked second in <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fwallethub.com%252Fedu%252Fbest-states-to-raise-a-family%252F31065%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257C3a6257ee3af7447c6bfe08dd37279ae3%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638727365423075267%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=3BmTN8jOUZYRpzJYHeBKsFSvCAwD7WZ%252F32pjIcnoGmc%253D%26reserved=0/1/0101019475c411ee-d7459d00-c00a-494c-a48a-a010275319a6-000000/TDi8J4EvuWj4W7SWcoc4AMo6hgSCzUO-zd2N1mffd_k=388">WalletHub’s study</a> , which compared key factors across all 50 states including housing affordability, health care quality, safety, and school quality.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Making Minnesota the best state to raise a family has been my mission since day one,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Investments in education, tax cuts to the middle-class, paid family and medical leave, and public safety have set us apart as an example for how to make life easier for working families. I’ll protect these investments, and I won’t stop fighting until we are number one.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Children and families are at the center of everything we do,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Through smart investments in universal school meals, paid family and medical leave, affordable housing, and a nation-leading Child Tax Credit, Minnesota has become one of the best states in the country to raise a family. I’m so proud of this recognition.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz has made historic investments to increase child care access and affordability, bolster access to health care and mental health resources, provide universal school meals, reduce child poverty, and make life more affordable for working families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F665551/1/0101019475c411ee-d7459d00-c00a-494c-a48a-a010275319a6-000000/qSbFLkpIabd39RNGD6byIbLpGfn0mRL_QVbFQ-1vlU0=388">2025 biennial budget proposal</a> protects those investments that have made Minnesota one of the best states to raise a family, while ensuring stability and success in the years to come.</p>6657132025-01-17T21:01:12Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-665551" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-16T19:50:48ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today presented their 2025 biennial budget. The budget includes the first sales tax cut in state history and closes tax loopholes for services offered by wealth managers and lawyers. It also combats fraud and sets Minnesota up for success for years to come by curbing spending growth in the programs that drive the structural deficit.Budget includes first sales tax cut in state history, maintains a balanced budget for years to come by making cuts and curbing growth in spending, and protects investments made last session 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today presented their <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F01%2F16%2Ffile_attachments%2F3134680%2F2025%2520Budget%2520Summary.pdf/1/01010194703f2bd0-9bacb56c-31e4-4acc-b054-fe282e55bc90-000000/TYmVvKaUoHeckCDrnvOPqU__QZekjZj-c1TnVosOjP4=388" target="_blank">2025</a> <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FMNGOV%2F2025%2F01%2F16%2Ffile_attachments%2F3134680%2F2025%2520Budget%2520Summary.pdf/2/01010194703f2bd0-9bacb56c-31e4-4acc-b054-fe282e55bc90-000000/4TMd4E2Ztr5ZL0U_ovPGoeDMl0HjvFpLHll2_ippB6M=388" target="_blank">biennial budget.</a> The budget includes the first sales tax cut in state history and closes tax loopholes for services offered by wealth managers and lawyers. It also combats fraud and sets Minnesota up for success for years to come by curbing spending growth in the programs that drive the structural deficit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This budget is responsible, measured, and honest, and it starts with one goal: fiscal responsibility​,”</strong> said Governor Walz<em>.</em> <strong>“Our plan sets Minnesota up for success in the future by addressing long-term budget challenges and protecting the investments we made to improve lives, including universal meals, paid family and medical leave, and tax cuts for seniors and middle-class families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are providing Minnesota with a strong economy and stability for years to come building on investments in children and families from 2023,”</strong>  said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Our dedication to providing services and support for those who need it most remains consistent. This budget is centered on managing spending in areas we know will grow.</strong> <strong>Minnesota has always been and will remain a generous state, one that is committed to helping our neighbors.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If passed, the budget would leave $2.1 billion on the bottom line in FY 26-27, and $355 million in FY 28-29. This comes after fully replenishing the state’s rainy day funds and years of passing balanced budgets. Thanks to that sound fiscal management, Minnesota has earned <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F638976/1/01010194703f2bd0-9bacb56c-31e4-4acc-b054-fe282e55bc90-000000/YSJMfTbiP5rMHK-hKCA988slNmElThDd6s5PII1zw1k=388" target="_blank" /> <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F638976/1/01010194703f2bd0-9bacb56c-31e4-4acc-b054-fe282e55bc90-000000/YSJMfTbiP5rMHK-hKCA988slNmElThDd6s5PII1zw1k=388" target="_blank">AAA bond ratings</a> for three consecutive years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><img border="0" width="560" height="305" id="_x0000_i1025" src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MNGOV/2025/01/10875379/5945217/governors-budget_crop.jpg" alt="Gov's Budget" name="_x0000_i1025" /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Responsible Cuts and Curbing Growth</strong> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s budget includes responsible budget cuts and curbs unsustainable growth in spending in the programs that drive the structural deficit. The budget will limit year-over-year growth rates in Medicaid waivers without limiting eligibility for services, saving the state more than 1.3 billion dollars. <em>​</em>The budget also cuts state funding to private schools and includes a 5% reduction in Special Education transportation reimbursement costs, saving approximately $50 million in each of the next two-year budget cycles while incentivizing schools to create efficiencies in transportation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Governor’s budget proposal does exactly what we need,”</strong> said Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Erin Campbell. <strong>“It addresses the structural imbalance between revenues and expenses, brings spending on the fastest growing programs in the budget to more sustainable levels, broadens the sales tax base while providing the first-ever rate reduction in statewide sales taxes, and creates a projected positive balance – not only in the next biennium but also in the following one.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lowering Taxes and Closing Loopholes</strong> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor propose cutting the statewide sales tax by .075%, which would be the first sales tax cut in state history. They also propose closing loopholes by expanding the sales tax base to services provided to individuals by investors, bankers, and lawyers​, making the tax system more fair and less regressive. Additionally, the budget proposes an investment in a new corporate franchise tax division unit to audit complex pass-through entities and close loopholes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The budget also proposes an increase in the surcharge currently levied on health maintenance organizations from 0.6% to 1.25% of total premium revenue, to ensure large health care corporations pay their fair share.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Governor’s budget includes smart tax policy that will improve Minnesota’s tax system, particularly by cutting the general sales tax rate and broadening the base to include more services,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart. <strong>“This will help right-size our sales tax code to reflect a more service-oriented economy, create more stable revenue, and increase fairness for consumers and businesses.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stopping Fraud</strong> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F663528/1/01010194703f2bd0-9bacb56c-31e4-4acc-b054-fe282e55bc90-000000/OTeE1xxjp8LXFKNtq5du4U73yiqnL70slZQpNsx-VdA=388" target="_blank" /> <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnewsroom%2Fpress-releases%2F%23%2Fdetail%2FappId%2F1%2Fid%2F663528/1/01010194703f2bd0-9bacb56c-31e4-4acc-b054-fe282e55bc90-000000/OTeE1xxjp8LXFKNtq5du4U73yiqnL70slZQpNsx-VdA=388" target="_blank">anti-fraud package</a> turns the dial toward tighter controls and greater oversight by strengthening enforcement authority and creating tougher penalties. ​The proposals include adding nine staff members to the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud unit; giving agencies expanded authority to stop payments from going to people and entities suspected, charged, or convicted of fraud or financial crimes; and using artificial intelligence to detect and prevent fraud. The package also increases the criminal penalty for stealing public funds by 20%.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Targeted Investments</strong> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s budget also makes targeted investments to support Minnesota’s economic growth. The budget expands the Research and Development tax credit, maintaining Minnesota’s status as a hub for research and innovation. The budget expands Minnesota’s nation-leading Sustainable Aviation Fuel tax credit and supports the growth of the industry. It also contains permitting efficiency measures to shorten the time it takes for businesses to obtain the permits needed to safely operate in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Details on the budget can be found <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fmmb-stat%2Fdocuments%2Fbudget%2F2025-budget-summary-spreadsheet.pdf/1/01010194703f2bd0-9bacb56c-31e4-4acc-b054-fe282e55bc90-000000/ipNh-uPjRVbA1rFLBxfKzpOWTm-iBEzE6-3nGZm4ROE=388" target="_blank">here</a> and on the Minnesota Management and Budget <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fmmb%2Fbudget%2F/1/01010194703f2bd0-9bacb56c-31e4-4acc-b054-fe282e55bc90-000000/Pmo9v1FlRWudcsuQJ4hBcOsg8vwtUMDlH0pt8nqPMKM=388" target="_blank">website</a> .</p>6655512025-01-16T20:17:48Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-665237" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-15T21:37:26ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council; Board of Firefighter Training and Education Compensation Council; Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council; Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction; Minnesota Advisory Council on Infrastructure; Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission; Seaway Port Authority of Duluth; and State Guardian Ad Litem Board. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council; Board of Firefighter Training and Education Compensation Council; Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council; Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction; Minnesota Advisory Council on Infrastructure; Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission; Seaway Port Authority of Duluth; and State Guardian Ad Litem Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Zach Bruer – Grand Forks, MN</strong> <br /> Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council <br /> Potato Wash Plant Representative <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Lonnie Spokely</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council:</em> <br /> The Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council promotes Minnesota-grown Irish potatoes by providing grants for research and advertising.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council can be found on the  <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F14/1/010101946be16958-2780011d-ff13-4bb2-ae02-30f9d3c44bdc-000000/PPOhvRAVRWEgZQYR7lH1tyf8Q4hi7Z4FPXORewjuPRw=388">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jesse Buhs – Cloquet, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> League of MN Cities Representative <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Robert Falcon</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jason Forshee – Waseca, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> Career Firefighter <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Christopher Kummer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Firefighter Training and Education:</em> <br /> The Board of Firefighter Training and Education supports firefighter training and education and works to fund standardized training and licensing of the firefighters in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Firefighter Training and Education can be found on the  <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F24/1/010101946be16958-2780011d-ff13-4bb2-ae02-30f9d3c44bdc-000000/u-UrDTjPdjYi3mU6DxudIWSEZlySe_B9q2teWxCRa5E=388">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Boyd – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Compensation Council <br /> Citizen Member (District 4) <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Amy Koch</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Janice Brandt – Brooklyn Center, MN</strong> <br /> Compensation Council <br /> Citizen Member (District 5) <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Samuel Kaplan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Benjamin Gerber – Edina, MN</strong> <br /> Compensation Council <br /> Citizen Member (District 3) <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Charles Weaver</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Roger Josephson – Detroit Lakes, MN</strong> <br /> Compensation Council <br /> Citizen Member (District 7) <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Scott Van Binsbergen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amanda Matchett – Blaine, MN</strong> <br /> Compensation Council <br /> Citizen Member (District 6) <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2025 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amber Naqvi – Eagan, MN</strong> <br /> Compensation Council <br /> Citizen Member (District 2) <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2025 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jason Resseman – Lanesboro, MN</strong> <br /> Compensation Council <br /> Citizen Member (District 1) <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2025 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kristi Schmidt – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> Compensation Council <br /> Citizen Member (District 8) <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: April 3, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Noah Hobbs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Compensation Council:</em> <br /> The Compensation Council makes recommendations to the legislature on salaries for judges and constitutional officers by April 1 of each odd-numbered year. The council is comprised of 16 members—8 appointed by the Governor and 8 appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court—with members representing each congressional district.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Compensation Council can be found on the  <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F45/1/010101946be16958-2780011d-ff13-4bb2-ae02-30f9d3c44bdc-000000/6ngc-blTo_O8NCZ1MRvB3Qoaj5Odm3pBlQTXxfAywO8=388">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Allshouse – Ramsey, MN</strong> <br /> Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Berg – Owatonna, MN</strong> <br /> Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Rogers – Lake Elmo, MN</strong> <br /> Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About</em> <em>the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council :</em> <em><br /></em> The new Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council is the successor to the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board. The advisory council must review and make recommendations to the director and the deputy director of ambulance services on the administration, the regulation of ambulance services, medical response units, and the operation of the emergency medical services system in the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F365/1/010101946be16958-2780011d-ff13-4bb2-ae02-30f9d3c44bdc-000000/ZBqdKK4QYsofC5F4qsjKjhVtIlnCfj40NEJ6NMifBmE=388">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Wendy Jones – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction <br /> Chair <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Beth Elstad</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction:</em> The Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction identifies opportunities for and barriers to the development and implementation of policies and strategies to expand access to effective services for Minnesotans. The council also examines services, supports, and needs, and provides opportunities for Minnesotans who have experienced addiction.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction can be found on the   <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F303/1/010101946be16958-2780011d-ff13-4bb2-ae02-30f9d3c44bdc-000000/Qwr7DT6E0rSD2vLa0nsr6VOd4_rMaEmcAIifWo6AhKA=388">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robin Hutcheson – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Advisory Council on Infrastructure <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Kolodziejski – Ham Lake, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Advisory Council on Infrastructure <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Advisory Council on Infrastructure:</em> <em><br /></em> The Minnesota Advisory Council on Infrastructure defines and maintains a vision for the future of Minnesota's infrastructure that provides for its proper management, coordination, and investment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Advisory Council on Infrastructure can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F369/1/010101946be16958-2780011d-ff13-4bb2-ae02-30f9d3c44bdc-000000/QlEPKKAdg-BE8iJsU59esfHZNNl79Elbzh7cnMwzCZc=388">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marlon Meszaros – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <strong><br /></strong> Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission <br /> Treatment or Rehabilitative Service Provider <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Christopher Crutchfield</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission:</em> <em><br /></em> The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission establishes and modifies the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines, which promote uniform and proportional sentences for convicted felons and help to ensure that sentencing decisions are not influenced by factors such as race, gender, or the exercise of constitutional rights by the defendant.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Advisory Council on Infrastructure can be found on the <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F116/1/010101946be16958-2780011d-ff13-4bb2-ae02-30f9d3c44bdc-000000/2MqairiQe7k3hClna7z_FB2K6fSE49nStJAYOXhik48=388">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ida Rukavina – Eveleth, MN</strong> <br /> Seaway Port Authority of Duluth <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2031 <br /> Replacing: Anthony Sertich</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Seaway Port Authority of Duluth:</em> <br /> The Seaway Port Authority of Duluth promotes international and domestic waterborne commerce in port district, owns port and industrial properties, and may acquire or construct port facilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Seaway Port Authority of Duluth can be found on the  <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F139/1/010101946be16958-2780011d-ff13-4bb2-ae02-30f9d3c44bdc-000000/dxwxAb0MLIrA-XQOsJ1jcfy6Fab3eGjdpKmEg-wRze0=388">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Timothy Zuel – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> State Guardian Ad Litem Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 20, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Guardian Ad Litem Board:</em> <br /> The State Guardian Ad Litem Board creates and administers a statewide independent guardian ad litem program to advocate for the best interests of children, minor parents, and incompetent adults in juvenile and family court cases; approves and recommends to the legislature a budget for the board and the guardian ad litem program; and establishes guardian ad litem program standards, administrative policies, procedures, and rules.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Guardian Ad Litem Board can be found on the  <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FAgency%2FDetails%2F216/1/010101946be16958-2780011d-ff13-4bb2-ae02-30f9d3c44bdc-000000/VAxbACfvcPMCCStCJeGhdxU2XdKsHoEZrHXSjK8GoBc=388">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <u><a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%2FPosition/1/010101946be16958-2780011d-ff13-4bb2-ae02-30f9d3c44bdc-000000/uTjzUIf8FcBFyG7P_dAp7ly4dOY-7zUrxZpTXSUnPAM=388">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p>6652372025-01-15T21:39:15Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-665136" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-14T21:13:57ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the application process for Metropolitan Council District 12 and District 15 seats. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the application process for Metropolitan Council District 12 and District 15 seats.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Interested and eligible applicants must submit application materials via the Secretary of State’s</strong> <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Furldefense.com%252Fv3%252F__https%253A%252Fcommissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us%252FAgency%252FDetails%252F80__%253B!!J7wOScoSGA!_9SWA0LYgMTZtJDibrDp-F6iy2iHsO5Xo-gbEP2kS2XMbtKnN8Vzju16S_BPrZQMtMgGyqJ9qKvFvXOCxJP9efeN8Kl77A_oY0LR%2524%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257Cb9a2214982004958357a08dd34dd1502%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638724846322712546%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=Df6l5UVBDuAgJvEGui6IG1geUMtsoHCj0gGzuPWD8ko%253D%26reserved=0/1/0101019466a7c390-d7597002-d7c7-4726-b1bb-238bf6e9e554-000000/_kcx_76UMNfe5IWsJ-TP82IGS4eBidmbumys1z2Pl9Q=388"><strong>website</strong></a> <strong>by 4:00 PM on Friday, February 14.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Metropolitan Council</em> <br /> The Metropolitan Council is a state-funded regional planning agency that serves the Twin Cities' seven-county metropolitan area. The Council’s mission is to help ensure the orderly, economical development of the seven-county area and the efficient use of regional systems which include transportation, water (wastewater collection and treatment) and regional parks.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Metropolitan Council’s 16 district members each represent a geographically defined <a href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl=https%253A%252F%252Fmetrocouncil.org%252FAbout-Us%252FWho-We-Are%252FCouncilMembers%252FCouncil-Districts-Map.aspx%26data=05%257C02%257CMaggie.Wick%2540state.mn.us%257Cb9a2214982004958357a08dd34dd1502%257Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%257C0%257C0%257C638724846322738440%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata=TXvu4Ibg3Wn3IbrOS%252FFldNbU%252BPVw%252Fv02qJ4R1lUdsHQ%253D%26reserved=0/1/0101019466a7c390-d7597002-d7c7-4726-b1bb-238bf6e9e554-000000/b6fDhNngsMBAM4mlnLEPmVaDn8Qe-ihDo4NBFbVCLpc=388">Metropolitan Council district</a>. District members must reside in the districts they represent. They must also reflect the various demographic, political, and other interests in the metropolitan area, and they must be knowledgeable about urban and metropolitan affairs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">All members serve at the pleasure of the Governor. For questions, applicants may contact <a href="mailto:Gov.Appointments@state.mn.us">Gov.Appointments@state.mn.us</a> or (651) 417-7514 for further information about the application process or to request reasonable accommodations.</p>6651362025-01-14T21:15:58Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-664999" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-13T21:00:45ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the resignation of Jodi Harpstead, Commissioner of the Department of Human Services (DHS). Harpstead will depart her position effective February 3, 2025.Walz thanks Harpstead for over five years of service to the State of Minnesota1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the resignation of Jodi Harpstead, Commissioner of the Department of Human Services (DHS). Harpstead will depart her position effective February 3, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I want to extend my deepest thanks to Commissioner Harpstead for answering the call of public service five and a half years ago,”</strong> said Governor Walz<em>.</em> <strong>“I am proud of her work running the most complex and wide-ranging agency in state government. I am especially proud of how Commissioner Harpstead supported the enterprise-wide work to separate DHS into three separate agencies, which will make each of them more effective, more accountable, and easier to manage.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With intellect, compassion, and an innovative mindset, Commissioner Harpstead oversaw effective delivery of essential services to our children and families,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Commissioner Harpstead consistently led with a focus on the deeply human component of this work, touching lives in every corner of our state. She oversaw and bettered our state’s most critical services supporting Minnesotans most in need. I am immensely grateful for her dedication and leadership.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since her appointment in August 2019, Harpstead has overseen significant internal evolution and operational stability of the Department of Human Services. Key among her accomplishments was supporting the enterprise-wide work to separate the Department of Human Services into three distinct agencies, including the Department of Children, Youth, and Families as of July 1, 2024, and Direct Care and Treatment which will become independent on July 1, 2025. Under her leadership, the State of Minnesota’s 2024 Medicaid renewals process achieved the goal of no disparities within the Black and overall American Indian communities for the first time, and an 80% auto-renewal rate, earning Minnesota the rank of 8th in the nation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"I thank Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan for the honor and privilege of serving the people of Minnesota over two terms in their Administration,”</strong> said Harpstead. <strong>“I have been so proud to be the Commissioner of the caring, competent, and high-capacity Department of Human Services. I’m pleased that we were able to balance new, stronger process controls with greater responsiveness to community partners, worked with the DHS grants and contracts team to imagine a re-design of the agency’s thousands of grants, and built an unparalleled team of strong senior leaders.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Jodi Harpstead</em> <em><br /></em> Governor Walz named Jodi Harpstead commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Human Services in August 2019. Prior to her appointment, Commissioner Harpstead was the president and CEO of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS) since September 2011. She also was the executive vice president and chief operating officer for LSS and spent 23 years in a variety of positions with Medtronic, Inc.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Commissioner Harpstead has volunteered in leadership capacities for a variety of other organizations including Augsburg University, Lutheran Services in America and ARRM – the statewide association of community-based service providers for people with disabilities. She received her Master of Business Administration in finance and bachelor’s degree in business administration from Michigan State University.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Department of Human Services</em> <br /> Minnesota DHS’ mission is driven by collaboration with community and partners – counties, Tribes, and nonprofits – supporting people to thrive in community and live their healthiest and fullest lives. The DHS vision is that all people in Minnesota have what they need to thrive in community with no disparities. DHS’ largest financial responsibility is to provide health care coverage for low-income Minnesotans. They are also responsible for providing services for elders; people with disabilities and behavioral health needs; and those experiencing homelessness.</p>6649992025-01-13T21:01:47Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-664427" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-08T20:11:57ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $5.5 million in new funding for Minnesota food shelves. 50 percent of funds will go toward food from Minnesota producers and processers, supporting the local agricultural community.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced $5.5 million in new funding for Minnesota food shelves. 50 percent of funds will go toward food from Minnesota producers and processers, supporting the local agricultural community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“No family should be faced with a decision to either put food on the table or pay the bills. That’s why Minnesota has taken major strides to eliminate hunger, from investments in universal school meals to millions in funding for food shelves and agriculture support,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With this funding, we’re relieving a strain on family pocketbooks and ensuring a stable supply of healthy food to meet Minnesotans’ needs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This funding arrives during a challenging season for many Minnesota families and will help us deliver more food where it’s needed most,”</strong> said Second Harvest Heartland CEO Allison O’Toole. <strong>“We must continue to build on investments in the emergency food system along with universal school meals and the child tax credit in order to end hunger once and for all."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are so grateful for this investment from Governor Walz and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to provide quality and local foods to the emergency food system in Minnesota. The Food Group values supporting local producers and getting food to those who need it most in our communities – this grant does both,”</strong> said The Food Group Executive Director Sophia Lenarz-Coy. <strong>“We will be prioritizing more than half of the funds to source from local producers to build up our local food system and all the food will go to our network of over 200 food shelf partners. With food shelf visits in our state at record levels, this makes a significant impact.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This funding is authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act and allocated through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Funds will support Second Harvest Heartland and the Food Group, hunger-relief organizations that partner with food shelves to provide millions of meals across the state.</p>6644272025-01-08T20:14:52Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-663733" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-06T18:34:12ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan announced today that Charlene Briner will step down after building the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) from the ground up. OCM General Counsel Eric Taubel will serve as interim director.Names Office of Cannabis Management General Counsel Eric Taubel as interim director1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] — Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan announced today that Charlene Briner will step down after building the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) from the ground up. OCM General Counsel Eric Taubel will serve as interim director.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Charlene Briner has gotten Minnesota’s emerging cannabis industry off the ground in a safe and responsible way. It’s no easy task to build a regulatory framework around an entirely new industry from scratch, but under Charlene’s leadership, Minnesota laid the foundation for a successful marketplace for years to come,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am excited to welcome Eric Taubel as the new interim director. Eric is a proven, effective leader who brings legal expertise and a deep understating of state government and regulatory affairs. He will ensure continued growth and success as we work to make Minnesota competitive in this new industry.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Charlene Briner is an instrumental leader who has worked to ensure a safe, equitable, and sustainable cannabis market through the implementation of the Office of Cannabis Management. I’m deeply grateful for her service to our administration and the people of Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“As Eric Taubel steps in to fill this role, he will match her commitment and expertise, utilizing his outstanding legal acumen and strategic vision to ensure an equitable industry that prioritizes public health and maintains market integrity.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">During her time as interim director, Briner oversaw significant milestones in the implementation of Minnesota’s cannabis legislation, including: establishing a new state office that now employs more than 100 highly qualified staff; conducting an extensive rulemaking process to define regulations for the commercial cannabis industry, which will be finalized by the end of the first quarter of 2025; developing enhanced compliance and enforcement programs for the hemp-derived cannabinoid product market; facilitating submission and review of more than 1,800 business license applications, fostering industry growth and participation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Taubel, who has served as OCM’s general counsel for the last year, has played a key role in the creation and implementation of the new office. He has overseen drafting of the detailed regulations that will serve as the framework for the regulated cannabis market and played a significant role in tribal compact negotiations. Taubel developed the office’s legal strategy around enforcement and regulatory actions and led the office’s response to litigation. Taubel will assume the role as Interim Director of OCM after Briner’s last day on January 17, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I want to thank Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan for the opportunity to serve in their administration in this unique role,”</strong> said Briner. <strong>“I am incredibly proud of the team we’ve built and the milestones met in our ongoing work to stand up this new office and implement Minnesota’s cannabis law. I am confident the talented public servants continuing their important work will do so in a way that exemplifies OCM’s commitment to launch a safe, accessible, and equitable cannabis industry.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Charlene Briner</em><em><br /></em>With more than two decades in the public, political, and non-profit sectors, Charlene Briner has extensive state and local government experience in multiple states, serving as deputy commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education for both the Dayton and Walz administrations; deputy commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Human Services; and senior advisor at the Minnesota House of Representatives, as well as interim roles as executive director of the Minnesota Racing Commission and interim chief of staff at Boston Public Schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Eric Taubel</em> <br /> Eric Taubel came to OCM with experience in legal work at two other state agencies and in private practice. Before joining the OCM team, he was general counsel for the Minnesota Department of Education, where he was responsible for building the agency’s Office of General Counsel from the ground up, and previously was an attorney in the Office of the General Counsel at the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Taubel worked in private practice before joining the Department of Commerce. He has a law degree from the University of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Office of Cannabis Management</em> <br /> Established in August 2023, Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management is responsible for developing operational and regulatory systems to launch and oversee Minnesota’s new regulated cannabis market. OCM’s mission is to foster an equitable cannabis industry that prioritizes public health and safety, consumer confidence, and market integrity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">OCM also regulates the sale of hemp-derived cannabinoid products at more than 4,500 retailers and the state’s medical cannabis program, which has been in place since 2014 and currently serves more than 50,000 patients statewide.</p>6637332025-01-06T18:35:56Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-663528" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-03T17:41:58ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed an executive order creating a centralized state fraud investigations unit operated by law enforcement at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. The Governor also announced a new legislative package to prevent, detect, investigate, and penalize fraud in state programs. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed an executive order creating a centralized state fraud investigations unit operated by law enforcement at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. The Governor also announced a new legislative package to prevent, detect, investigate, and penalize fraud in state programs. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As long as there have been programs aimed at helping people, there have been fraudulent actors looking to steal from those who need them most. Our job is to stay one step ahead of them. We’re coupling new tools, like AI, with old fashioned police work, to slam the door shut on theft,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesotans rightly have no tolerance for misuse of taxpayer dollars. This plan directs every single state agency to work together to better prevent, detect, investigate, and punish fraud.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Strengthened investigation and enforcement authority</strong></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Create a centralized state fraud investigations unit through Executive Order to combat fraudulent activity impacting state programs. The Minnesota Department of Commerce's fraud investigators will move to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to create a Fraud and Financial Crimes Unit.</li> <li>Adding nine staff members to the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud unit.</li> <li>Give agencies expanded authority to stop payments from going to people and entities suspected, charged, or convicted of fraud or financial crimes.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Better detection and oversight</strong></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Use artificial intelligence to detect and prevent fraud. MNIT will partner with industry experts to create a pilot that would analyze data to help detect and flag payment anomalies for Medicaid providers through the Department of Human Services (DHS).</li> <li>Create a provisional license system for Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention providers and require more frequent re-validation visits.</li> <li>Add additional staff at Minnesota Management and Budget to help state agencies improve internal controls, mitigate risks, and build fraud awareness.</li> <li>Add additional employees to expand DHS’s capacity to prevent and detect fraud and ensure proper billing.</li> <li>Enhance oversight of Charter Management Organizations and tighten procurement and contract bidding integrity for Charter Schools.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Increased Criminal Penalties</strong></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Create a new “Theft of Public Funds” statute that increases criminal penalties by 20% compared to the existing “Theft” statute.</li> <li>Make providing kick backs a state crime, and give the Attorney General investigative authority</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This package is expected to have a net cost of approximately $39 million in FY 26-27 and $15 million in FY 28-29.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“AI has the potential to revolutionize the fight against fraud by detecting patterns, predicting risks, and protecting resources with unparalleled speed and accuracy,”</strong> said Commissioner of Minnesota IT Services Tarek Tomes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Fraud and other financial crimes harm every Minnesotan. They drive up prices of needed products, steal our tax dollars, reduce availability of funding for needed services, and more,”</strong> said Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans. <strong>“By combining state law enforcement resources, we will improve our ability to root out and prosecute these crimes with consistency, transparency and efficiency.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">These measures would build on the Governor’s previous efforts to combat fraud enacted in the 2023 legislative session, including:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Expanded Admin Office of Grants Management to strengthen grants oversight, including allowing debarment of grantees for up to three years</li> <li>New MMB internal audit function to add an additional layer of oversight to state government processes and operations.</li> <li>Strengthened DHS Compliance to improve controls, oversight, and contract compliance</li> <li>Creation of an MDE Office of Inspector General</li> <li>Expanded MDE Audit and Internal Controls</li> <li>Strengthened MDE Grant Administration</li> <li>Strengthened MDH Federal Funds Oversight</li> <li>Enhanced Grants Oversight Capacity at the Arts Board</li> </ul>6635282025-01-03T17:44:10Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-663457" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-02T18:45:58ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the 77th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener will take place in Crosslake on May 9-10, 2025. Each year Explore Minnesota works with the Governor’s Office, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and a Minnesota community to plan the event honoring the state’s rich tourism and fishing opportunities.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the 77th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener will take place in Crosslake on May 9-10, 2025. Each year Explore Minnesota works with the Governor’s Office, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and a Minnesota community to plan the event honoring the state’s rich tourism and fishing opportunities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am thrilled to bring the longtime tradition of the Governor’s Fishing Opener to Crosslake,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This region is known for its phenomenal fishing and outdoor recreation. It is also home to an incredible resort community, making Crosslake the perfect place to kick off summer.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This is the first time the Governor’s Fishing Opener event will be held in the Crosslake area and provides a platform to showcase the area’s natural beauty, diversity of fish species, and hospitality. With more than 15 resorts in the area, the city of Crosslake is an important part of Minnesota’s storied resort community. The state’s network of resorts plays a prominent role in making summers in Minnesota the best in the Midwest, combining generational businesses with distinctive guest experiences and family traditions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re bringing the Governor’s Fishing Opener north again, and we are excited to celebrate in the Crosslake area,”</strong> said Lauren Bennett McGinty, executive director of Explore Minnesota. <strong>“Along with excellent fishing and outdoor recreation, this area of Minnesota boasts a strong community of resorts, some dating back almost 100 years. These small businesses have provided unique experiences for visitors to our state for generations and continue to make Minnesota the best place to enjoy summer."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry, and in recent years has served as a kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am very excited that we will be celebrating the 2025 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener in Crosslake,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“The area offers great variety for anglers, including walleye, northern pike, and large and smallmouth bass, as well as lesser known yet prized native rough fish such as greater redhorse and white sucker. The area also boasts a number of other outdoor recreation opportunities, including three state parks, a state recreation area and a wildlife management area. I look forward to fishing and experiencing all the outdoor opportunities the Crosslake area offers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Crosslake area features dozens of lakes, including the 14 interconnected lakes of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, with 13,500 acres of water, numerous bays and islands, and 119 miles of shoreline. These waters offer excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, skiing, and swimming.</p>6634572025-01-02T18:47:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-663091" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-30T18:02:14ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in Senate District 60 in Hennepin County following the passing of Senator Kari Dziedzic.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in Senate District 60 in Hennepin County following the passing of Senator Kari Dziedzic.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A special election to fill the vacancy will be held on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. If necessary, a special primary election for nomination of candidates will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions may be filed with the Secretary of State or the county auditor of Hennepin County on Tuesday December 31, 2024. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions must be filed by 5:00 p.m. that day.</p>6630912024-12-30T18:03:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-663050" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-30T00:48:58ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Monday, December 30, until sunset on January 29, 2025, to honor the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Monday, December 30, until sunset on January 29, 2025, to honor the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“President Carter defined what it means to be a servant leader. He fought for our democracy, our climate, humanity, and civil rights around the world,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We can find peace today knowing that he is reunited with the love of his life, Rosalynn.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6630502024-12-30T16:50:27Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-662935" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-27T21:45:10ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in House District 40B in Ramsey County following the resignation of Representative-elect Curtis Johnson. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in House District 40B in Ramsey County following the resignation of Representative-elect Curtis Johnson.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A special election to fill the vacancy will be held on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. If necessary, a special primary election for nomination of candidates will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions must be filed with the Secretary of State or the county auditor of Ramsey County on Tuesday December 31, 2024. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions must be filed by 5:00 p.m. that day.</p>6629352024-12-27T21:46:35Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-662269" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-23T20:19:34ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Terry S. Vajgrt and the Honorable Todd W. Westphal. One seat will be chambered in Luverne in Rock County and Pipestone in Pipestone County, and the other seat will be chambered in St. Peter in Nicollet County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Terry S. Vajgrt and the Honorable Todd W. Westphal. One seat will be chambered in Luverne in Rock County and Pipestone in Pipestone County, and the other seat will be chambered in St. Peter in Nicollet County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amanda Delaney:</strong> Amanda Delaney is a managing attorney in the Fifth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office, where she represents indigent individuals charged with crimes. She was previously an assistant public defender in the Fifth Judicial District. Delaney’s community involvement includes serving as a board member for Rock County Opportunities and previously serving as a board member of the Southwest Crisis Center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Susan DeVos:</strong> Susan DeVos is an assistant county attorney in the Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office, where she represents the county in numerous areas including child protection, civil commitment, and appeals. She is a member of the Blue Earth County Family Dependency Treatment Court, Blue Earth County Child Protection Team, and Children’s Justice Initiative. DeVos was previously an associate attorney at Meagher &amp; Geer and a law clerk to the Honorable R.A. (Jim) Randall on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Her community involvement includes volunteering backstage for Mankato Ballet Company productions and as a judge for the McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Gunderson:</strong> Paul Gunderson is an assistant county attorney in the Brown County Attorney’s Office, where he prosecutes adult felony and gross misdemeanor cases, and is a member of the Brown County Treatment Court staffing team. He previously was an associate attorney at Blethen Berens, where his practice included criminal defense, business litigation, and representing the City of New Ulm as an assistant city attorney. Gunderson’s community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Rules of Criminal Procedure and the New Ulm Chamber of Commerce Board. He also volunteers as a coach for a local college mock trial team and as a judge for college and high school mock trial competitions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kayla Johnson:</strong> Kayla Johnson is an assistant county attorney in the Murray County Attorney’s Office, where she participates in treatment court and handles a broad range of matters, including juvenile prosecution, child protection, and land use matters. She is also a partner at Smith &amp; Johnson, a general practice law firm with an emphasis in child protection, real estate, estate planning, and municipal law. Johnson previously worked as an assistant public defender in the Fifth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office and as an associate attorney at Lynn A. Johnson Law Office, LLC. Her community involvement has included serving as a high school mock trial judge and coach, as well as a board member for WonderWorld Preschool Inc. and the Slayton Area Chamber of Commerce.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stefanie Menning:</strong> Stefanie Menning is an assistant county attorney in the Scott County Attorney’s Office, where she represents Human Services in child protection proceedings. She is a member of the First Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court and Scott County Treatment Court. Menning was previously an assistant county attorney in the Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office in the felony criminal division, an assistant Mankato city attorney, and an associate attorney at Brandt Law Office, P.A. Menning’s community involvement includes serving on the Staff Support Committee at First Lutheran Church of St. Peter, serving as an investigator for the 8th District Bar Association Ethics Committee, and volunteering as a basketball coach for the St. Peter Youth Basketball Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6622692024-12-23T20:22:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-662190" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-23T18:15:02ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced that Minnesota exports rose to $6.7 billion last quarter, jumping nearly 11% over the same quarter last year. Growth of Minnesota exports outpaced the national rate (3%) for the quarter and outperformed all but 12 other states.At $6.7 billion, state exports continue to outpace national rate1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced that Minnesota exports rose to $6.7 billion last quarter, jumping nearly 11% over the same quarter last year. Growth of Minnesota exports outpaced the national rate (3%) for the quarter and outperformed all but 12 other states.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s surge in exports is a reflection of the significant business expansion that continues to create job opportunities and strengthen our global trade networks,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With investments in business expansion and workforce development, we’re meeting global supply chain needs and enhancing ties with global partners while building a strong economy that supports communities at home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The first nine months of 2024 have seen Minnesota exports grow nearly 10% over the same time period in 2023, while the U.S. growth reached nearly 3% over the same period.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“2024 has been a strong year for Minnesota and has seen our economy outpace national trends every quarter,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“This growth is in no small part thanks to flourishing relationships with our international trade partners. Our robust global trade networks continue to create opportunity for Minnesotans with our connections abroad, passing that success on to a more vibrant, dynamic economy at home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Half of Minnesota’s top 10 products saw growth, with mineral fuel and oil (up 369%), plastics (up 27%) and aircraft and spacecraft (up 33%) among the leaders in gains. Growth in sales of optic and medical devices was driven by segments such as measuring and checking devices, and medical and surgical instruments.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s two largest markets, Canada (up 16%) and Mexico (up 30%), drove much of this quarter’s growth. Mineral fuel and oil exports contributed significant growth to Canada ($520 million, up from $15 million). Exports to Mexico were pushed by a variety of Minnesota goods, including electrical equipment, machinery, oil seeds and grain, and optic and medical goods.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Exports to Asia surged 18% to $1.8 billion this quarter due to a mounting demand for Minnesota goods, led by optic and medical goods, machinery, and electrical equipment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Meanwhile, exports to the Middle East leapt 27% to $129 million, fueled by strong sales to the United Arab Emirates of machinery, railway equipment and aircraft.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s exports continue to thrive and grow in the global market,”</strong> said Minnesota Trade Office Executive Director Gabrielle Gerbaud. <strong>“We look forward to fostering even stronger ties with our North American partners, as well as developing new connections and supporting export growth in key regions across the globe.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The full third quarter 2024 report is available on DEED’s website in the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/data/economic-analysis/export-stats/current-past/" target="_blank">Export and Trade Statistics section</a>.</p>6621902024-12-23T18:17:32Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-662083" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-20T22:31:53ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, Council on Disability, Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment, Office of School Trust Lands, Statewide Independent Living Council, and the Supervised Release Board. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, Council on Disability, Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment, Office of School Trust Lands, Statewide Independent Living Council, and the Supervised Release Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Emily Viergutz – New Hope, MN <br /></strong>Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System <br /> Student - Technical College <br /> Effective: December 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Micah Coatie</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System: <br /></em>The Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System governs state colleges and universities, including setting tuition and fees, approving programs of study, approving awarding certificates and diplomas, and adopting policies. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/37">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Leah Carpenter – Shakopee, MN <br /></strong>Council on Disability <br /> Member <br /> Effective: December 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Trent Dilks</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laura Isenor – Pine Island, MN <br /></strong>Council on Disability <br /> Member <br /> Effective: December 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Quinn Nystrom</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Abraham Tieman – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Council on Disability <br /> Member <br /> Effective: December 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Dave Johnson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeremy Tyler – Monticello, MN <br /></strong>Council on Disability <br /> Member <br /> Effective: December 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Denise Martineau</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Werlein – Little Canada, MN <br /></strong>Council on Disability <br /> Member <br /> Effective: December 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Hope Johnson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Wudlick – Excelsior, MN <br /></strong>Council on Disability <br /> Member <br /> Effective: December 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Quinn Nystrom</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on Disability: <br /></em>The Minnesota Council on Disability provides leadership to advocate for the rights of Minnesotans with disabilities, collaborate with the public and private sectors as a policy and technical resource advisor, and advise various state agencies and the Governor on matters that pertain to persons with disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on Disability can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/54">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Goering – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment <br /> Member with experience serving on a hospital or nonprofit board patients <br /> Effective: January 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kathryn Kallas – Orono, MN <br /></strong>Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment <br /> Member with experience (i) in the delivery of behavioral health services or care coordination or in traditional healing practices; (ii) as a licensed health care professional; (iii) within health care administration; or (iv) with residential services <br /> Effective: January 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Maertens – Marshall, MN <br /></strong>Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment <br /> Member with experience serving on a hospital or nonprofit board patients <br /> Effective: January 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carol Olson – New Prague, MN <br /></strong>Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment <br /> Member with experience (i) in the delivery of behavioral health services or care coordination or in traditional healing practices; (ii) as a licensed health care professional; (iii) within health care administration; or (iv) with residential services <br /> Effective: January 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chelsea Rivers – Chaska, MN <br /></strong>Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment <br /> Member with experience (i) in the delivery of behavioral health services or care coordination or in traditional healing practices; (ii) as a licensed health care professional; (iii) within health care administration; or (iv) with residential services <br /> Effective: January 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Prachi Striker – Saint Anthony, MN <br /></strong>Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment <br /> Licensed physician who is a psychiatrist or has experience in serving behavioral health patients <br /> Effective: January 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment: <br /></em>The Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment (DCT) is responsible for managing the DCT division of the Department of Human Services. The board will establish strategic planning, and policies and procedures for the DCT, and oversee the Chief Executive Officer. The board is responsible for the recommendation of policy changes, budget requests, and capital investment requests to the Governor’s Office, the state legislature, and Minnesota Management and Budget.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Executive Board of Direct Care and Treatment can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/362">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaron Vande Linde – Coon Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Office of School Trust Lands <br /> Director <br /> Effective: January 1, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2030 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Office of School Trust Lands: <br /></em>The Office of School Trust Lands advises and provides recommendations to the Governor, Executive Council, Legislative Permanent School Fund Commission, and Department of Natural Resources on school trust land management policies and activities. The office works with the Permanent School Fund Commission on legislation to secure the maximum long-term revenue from school trust assets and develops and implements long-range comprehensive strategic plans to ensure efficient management of those assets. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Office of School Trust Lands can be found on the <u><a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/aboutdnr/school_lands/index.html">Department of Natural Resources website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deborah Gleason – Minnetonka, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jacob Knaffla – Hibbing, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member - Other CIL Representative <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Rosalie Eisenreich</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Frances Lane – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Amy McClellan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephen Larson – Brainerd, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelly Lemke – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member - State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind Rep <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Judy Sanders</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy McClellan – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Ex-Officio Non-Voting Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Ed Lecher</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bethany Schwerr – Coon Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Tom Reed</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Morris Thompson – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Karen Larson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Statewide Independent Living Council: <br /></em>The Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council (MNSILC) works collaboratively with the Centers for Independent Living to create, monitor, review, and evaluate the State Plan for Independent Living. MNSILC coordinates activities with other entities in the state that provide services similar or complementary to independent living services. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Statewide Independent Living Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/152">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jo Earhart – Blaine, MN <br /></strong>Supervised Release Board <br /> Member of Various Backgrounds <br /> Effective: December 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Rana Alexander</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Supervised Release Board: <br /></em>The Supervised Release Board is established to review eligible cases and make release and final discharge decisions for inmates serving life sentences with the possibility of parole or supervised release; inmates serving indeterminate sentences for crimes committed on or before April 30, 1980; and inmates eligible for early supervised release. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Supervised Release Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/324">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p>6620832024-12-20T22:36:30Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-662028" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-20T20:32:54ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated the news that Minnesota was ranked a top-five state to retire by a Motley Fool study. States were ranked on factors including quality of life, affordable housing, safety, health care, and cost of living.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated the news that Minnesota was ranked a top-five state to retire by a <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fresearch%2Fbest-states-to-retire%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C43e0befdebfd44ce4c7b08dd21203b1b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638703144529987369%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=zfljN3rCsszzZg5WMtVTrO11QxFG2iNq1Hqs%2BTsZRcY%3D&amp;reserved=0">Motley Fool</a> study. States were ranked on factors including quality of life, affordable housing, safety, health care, and cost of living.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Americans deserve to retire with support and security, and that’s what we’re doing here in Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By cutting social security taxes, funding services that keep Minnesotans in their homes as they age, and investing in safe communities across the state, we’ve made Minnesota one of the best places to retire. I’m proud to see this accomplishment reflected in data.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last month, Governor Walz announced over <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/653199">$6 million in new state grants</a> to keep Minnesotans in their homes as they age. The grants fund services such as retrofitting residences to make them age-friendly and providing support for caregivers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This ranking comes as Minnesota was recently name a top state for <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/653015">children</a> and for <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/651486">finding a job</a> .</p>6620282024-12-20T20:34:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-661893" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-19T18:19:12ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced more than $10.5 million for seven business expansion projects in the state. The projects are expected to support 755 jobs and leverage more than $86 million in outside investment.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced more than $10.5 million for seven business expansion projects in the state. The projects are expected to support 755 jobs and leverage more than $86 million in outside investment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Investments in business expansion support innovation, drive business growth, and create good-paying jobs,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The expansion of these seven businesses will help Minnesota communities prosper and keep our economy strong.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is a top state for business in part because of effective partnerships between state government and the private sector,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Minnesota’s economy is in a strong place as we end the year and DEED will remain heavily focused on supporting business expansion and job creation in support of thriving local economies around the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/mn-jcf/" target="_blank">Job Creation Fund</a> (JCF) provides financial incentives to new and expanding businesses that meet certain job creation and capital investment targets. Eligible companies may receive up to $2 million for creating or retaining high-paying jobs and for constructing or renovating facilities or making other property improvements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/mif/" target="_blank">Minnesota Investment Fund</a> (MIF) provides financing to help add new workers and retain high-quality jobs – with a focus on industrial, manufacturing, and technology-related industries – increasing the local and state tax base and improving Minnesota's economic vitality. Funds are awarded to local units of government, which provide loans to assist expanding businesses. Some of the loans may be forgiven if specific goals are met.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Details on individual projects below:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Heliene USA, Inc., Rogers – JCF $601,350, MIF $2,300,000 <br /></em>Heliene USA, Inc. is a solar module manufacturer that currently operates two manufacturing lines of crystalline solar modules. The proposed project will establish a third manufacturing line, and will lease a 230,000-square-foot facility for additional manufacturing, warehouse, and distribution space. The total project cost is $15.07 million and is expected to create 182 jobs within the first two years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>States Manufacturing, Dayton – JCF $840,000, MIF $1,960,000 <br /></em>States Manufacturing provides integrated services through four manufacturing groups, including electrical solutions, metal fabrication, equipment shelters, and painting services. With a total project cost of over $23 million, the proposed project would renovate a 500,000-square-foot building and create 340 jobs within the first three years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Philips Image Guided Therapy Corp., Plymouth – JCF $1,540,500, MIF $2,000,000</em> <br /> Philips Image Guided Therapy, a medical device and technology systems company, will expand its Plymouth facility to add additional manufacturing and research and development areas, as well as a Global Customer MedTech Training Center that the company anticipates will bring up to 2,000 visitors annually. The company will invest approximately $31 million and create 158 new jobs – representing a more than 50% increase to its local workforce size – over the next four years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Little Sombrero Salsa, LLC, New Hope – MIF $185,000 <br /></em>Little Sombrero Salsa, LLC, is a salsa manufacturing company founded in Oklahoma in 1999 that recently reopened in 2023 under the same ownership. The proposed project will lease a 17,000-square-foot building in New Hope that will house an office space, warehouse, and manufacturing production line. The total project cost is $935,000 and is expected to create 40 new jobs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Monumental Sales, Inc., St. Cloud – JCF $175,000 <br /></em>Monumental Sales, Inc. is a granite product manufacturer specializing in granite memorials commemorating those who have passed. The proposed project will consolidate their locations and upgrade the new space for office operations and manufacturing. The total project cost is $9.5 million and is expected to create 10 new jobs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>St. Cloud Window, LLC, Sauk Rapids – JCF $175,000, MIF $150,000 <br /></em>St. Cloud Window, LLC designs and manufactures high-performance acoustic and historic replica aluminum windows, doors, storefronts, and curtainwalls for commercial and industrial buildings nationwide. The company’s expansion project includes renovating the company’s existing facility and site improvements, as well as the purchase of machinery and equipment. The total project cost is $3.6 million and is expected to create 19 new jobs over the next two years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Two Rivers Enterprises, Inc., Holdingford – JCF $120,000, MIF $200,000 <br /></em>Two Rivers Enterprises, Inc., is a custom stainless steel equipment manufacturer and fabricator for food processing, food service, restaurants, and medical practices. The proposed project will expand the current facility by adding 10,400-square-foot of production space, as well as purchase machinery and equipment. The total project cost is $1.7 million and is expected to create six new jobs.</p>6618932024-12-20T16:53:31Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-661542" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-18T18:19:12ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that taxpayers who qualify for Minnesota’s nation-leading Child Tax Credit will have the option to receive advance payments of the credit during the upcoming tax filing season. Minnesota is the first state in the nation to offer this option for Child Tax Credit recipients.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that taxpayers who qualify for Minnesota’s nation-leading Child Tax Credit will have the option to receive advance payments of the credit during the upcoming tax filing season. Minnesota is the first state in the nation to offer this option for Child Tax Credit recipients.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More than 223,000 tax returns claimed the new Child Tax Credit for tax year 2023, for an average total credit of $1,242. This tax credit put over $562 million into the budgets of Minnesota families this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>The goal of this nation-leading tax credit is to lower child poverty and provide tax relief for working class families in Minnesota. With the advance payment option, we’re making it easier for families to manage their annual household budget,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“This new option</strong> <strong>will increase financial freedom and ensure families have the support they need all year long.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If a taxpayer chooses the advance payment option during the upcoming filing season, they will receive their full Child Tax Credit for the current filing year, part of their following year credit in three advance payments sent in the second half of 2025, and the remaining part of the credit when filing their next income tax return.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s Child Tax Credit has the chance to be a transformative program for hundreds of thousands of Minnesota families,”</strong> said Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart. <strong>“Giving them the option to get a portion of next year’s credit in three installments will allow families to budget throughout the year instead of getting their refund in one lump sum when they file their taxes.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Beginning with tax year 2023, taxpayers may qualify for a Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child, with no limit on the number of children claimed. This is a refundable credit, meaning they can receive a refund even if they do not owe tax. They must file an individual income tax return in order to claim the credit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Learn more about income requirements and qualifications on the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit">Child Tax Credit webpage</a> .</p>6615422024-12-18T18:20:32Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-661523" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-17T16:17:35ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending two candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy on the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. This vacancy will occur in January 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending two candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy on the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. This vacancy will occur in January 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Janis Douglass: </strong>Janis Douglass is a compensation attorney principal at the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals, where she assists in the resolution of workers’ compensation appeals. She also serves as a deputy court administrator, where she manages day-to-day court operations. Douglass currently volunteers her time to efforts that support the rights of gender nonconforming youth and to initiatives that increase diversity in the legal profession and in state employment. Her community involvement has included service on the boards of several nonprofit community organizations in St. Paul’s Frogtown neighborhood.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sean Quinn:</strong> Sean Quinn is a judge on the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. He was previously a partner at Falsani, Balmer, Peterson &amp; Quinn in Duluth, representing injured and disabled people in workers’ compensation, personal injury, long-term disability, and social security disability claims. As a practicing attorney, Quinn was an active provider of pro bono services in northeast Minnesota, including serving as the chair of the board of the Volunteer Attorney Program. His community involvement has included coaching youth sports and the University of Minnesota Duluth mock trial team and teaching community education classes. He is a frequent lecturer at local high schools through the Minnesota Supreme Court’s Lawyers in the Classroom program and has given many continuing legal education presentations on a variety of workers’ compensation topics.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p>6615232024-12-18T16:19:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-660523" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-10T21:20:59ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $4.5 million in grants for 46 law enforcement agencies in Minnesota to support officer training and recruitment. The Governor made the announcement alongside cadets and police chiefs from across the state at Hennepin Technical College, which is one of two locations that will provide training for law enforcement candidates.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] — Governor Tim Walz today announced $4.5 million in grants for 46 law enforcement agencies in Minnesota to support officer training and recruitment. The Governor made the announcement alongside cadets and police chiefs from across the state at Hennepin Technical College, which is one of two locations that will provide training for law enforcement candidates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Police departments of all sizes are feeling the pinch of fewer officers,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re investing in building strong, well-trained law enforcement agencies that are fully staffed and ready to answer any call that comes in.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans deserve to feel safe no matter where they live,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) Commissioner Bob Jacobson. <strong>“Our goal is to provide this for them, but staffing challenges make this increasingly difficult.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The agencies receiving this funding will sponsor 94 candidates with two- and four-year degrees who want to make a career transition into law enforcement. All candidates will attend an intensive, comprehensive training program at Alexandria Technical &amp; Community College or Hennepin Technical College where they will go through the same training that traditional peace officer students complete.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The incentives of this training program are plentiful,”</strong> said Intensive Comprehensive Grant Administrator Mary Vukelich. <strong>“But this isn’t a free ride. Students will have to fully commit to this intensive and comprehensive curriculum that will give them the skills to become a licensed officer.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DPS’ Office of Justice Programs has approved $4.5 million in grant funding to the agencies. $50,000 is available for each candidate. The funding covers their salary and cost of education. Agencies awarded grants include the following departments:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Belle Plaine Police </li> <li>Big Stone County Sheriff </li> <li>Blaine Police</li> <li>Bloomington Police</li> <li>Brooklyn Center Police</li> <li>Brooklyn Park Police </li> <li>Carver County Sheriff</li> <li>Chisago County Sheriff </li> <li>Columbia Heights Police</li> <li>Edina Police</li> <li>Faribault Police </li> <li>Farmington Police </li> <li>Freeborn County Sheriff </li> <li>Fridley Police</li> <li>Hennepin County Sheriff</li> <li>Hopkins Police </li> <li>Lakeville Police</li> <li>Lino Lakes Police</li> <li>Maple Grove Police</li> <li>Medina Police</li> <li>Mendota Heights Police</li> <li>Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Police </li> <li>Minneapolis Police </li> <li>Minneapolis-St. Paul Int’l Airport Police</li> <li>Minnetonka Police</li> <li>Moorhead Police </li> <li>New Brighton Police </li> <li>Orono Police </li> <li>Owatonna Police </li> <li>Prairie Island Indian Community Police </li> <li>Richfield Police </li> <li>Rosemount Police </li> <li>Roseville Police </li> <li>Sartell Police </li> <li>St. Anthony Police</li> <li>Stearns County Sheriff</li> <li>St. Louis Park Police </li> <li>St. Paul Police </li> <li>University of Minnesota Police</li> <li>Wadena Police </li> <li>Waite Park Police</li> <li>Waseca County Sheriff </li> <li>Wayzata Police</li> <li>West Hennepin Public Safety </li> <li>Woodbury Public Safety</li> <li>Wyoming Police</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Intensive Comprehensive Grant Program enhances existing law enforcement recruiting programs. The ideal candidate is a non-traditional student who wants to work in law enforcement, but who faces challenges committing to the traditional 1.5 year-long education timeline. The program reduces the learning period to eight months or less.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This has been a game-changer,”</strong> said Tony Paetznick, director of public safety for the city of New Brighton. <strong>“If not for the program and commitment from the state, it would be difficult for any of us to fund an initiative like this. Additionally, the training the candidates get while earning a salary for their classroom time opens doors for quality people who might not otherwise consider careers in law enforcement.”</strong></p>6605232024-12-10T21:22:35Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-660514" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-10T21:05:50ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Mariam Mokri and Jennifer Olson as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Mariam Mokri and Jennifer Olson as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mariam Mokri will replace the Honorable Peter A. Cahill.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my pleasure to appoint Mariam Mokri to the Fourth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She is an experienced judicial officer who understands that faith in our justice system comes from ensuring that people, no matter their background, are heard and respected when they come to court.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jennifer Olson will replace the Honorable Susan M. Robiner.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jennifer Olson is going to be a remarkable addition to an already talented bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She has the unique ability to distill highly complex legal theories into clear and understandable arguments. The people of Hennepin County will be well served by her strong legal acumen and deep commitment to equal justice under the law.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District encompasses Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Mariam Mokri <br /></em>Mariam Mokri is a human services judge with the Department of Human Services. She previously served as a district court referee in the Civil and Criminal Divisions of the Fourth Judicial District and an assistant public defender in the Fourth Judicial District’s Public Defender’s Office. Mokri’s community involvement has included service as the chair of the Minneapolis Commission on Civil Rights and as a member of the Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers board of directors. She earned her B.A from Gustavus Adolphus College and from the University of Minnesota and her J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Jennifer Olson <br /></em>Jennifer Olson is an assistant attorney general in the Employment, Torts, and Public Utilities Commission Division in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, where she defends complex constitutional, statutory, employment, and tort litigation on behalf of the State of Minnesota and state agencies. She was previously a partner at Best &amp; Flanagan LLP, where she served as the firm’s pro bono partner, and an associate attorney at Stinson LLP. Olson’s community involvement includes serving on the Volunteer Lawyers Network Benefactors Board and the Minnesota Justice Foundation Board. She has also served in various leadership roles with the Hennepin County Bar Association and on the Minnesota State Bar Association’s Pro Bono Council. Olson has also volunteered as a pro bono attorney with the Advocates for Human Rights, representing clients seeking asylum. She earned her B.A from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and her J.D. from Boston College Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6605142024-12-10T21:22:31Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-658937" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-06T21:05:50ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the African American Health State Advisory Council, Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy, Board of Medical Practice, Board of Nursing, Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Governor’s Residence Council, Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, Minnesota Board of Social Work, Minnesota Environmental Quality Board, Minnesota State Arts Board, Minnesota Board on Aging, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training, State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind, and the Statewide Independent Living Council.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the African American Health State Advisory Council, Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy, Board of Medical Practice, Board of Nursing, Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Governor’s Residence Council, Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, Minnesota Board of Social Work, Minnesota Environmental Quality Board, Minnesota State Arts Board, Minnesota Board on Aging, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training, State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind, and the Statewide Independent Living Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Abdou Manjang – Otsego, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 6, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the African American Health State Advisory Council: <br /></em>The African American Health State Advisory Council advises the commissioner of health on issues to develop specific, targeted policy solutions to improve the health of African American Minnesotans, with a focus on United States-born African Americans. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the African American Health State Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/353" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Driever – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy: <br /></em>The Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy regulates the practices of alcohol and drug counseling, professional counseling, and professional clinical counseling in Minnesota. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/20" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Pazdernik – Detroit Lakes, MN <br /></strong>Board of Medical Practice <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: January 4, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Medical Practice: <br /></em>The board licenses and registers physicians, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, acupuncturists, athletic trainers, genetic counselors, naturopathic doctors, and traditional midwives, and enforces the relevant practice acts. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Medical Practice can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/27" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patrick Soria – Lakeville, MN <br /></strong>Board of Nursing <br /> Registered Nurse <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Nursing: <br /></em>The Board of Nursing oversees and ensures the safe practice of nursing in Minnesota, including credentialing, education, complaint resolution, and establishing practice standards.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Nursing can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/101" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Burrage – Robbinsdale, MN <br /></strong>Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training: <br /></em>The Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training licenses peace officers, establishes minimum qualifications and standards of conduct, and regulates professional peace officer education and continuing education.    </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/29" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jones VanHecke – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Residence Council <br /> Member - Higher Education Representative <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Residence Council: <br /></em>The Governor’s Residence Council is responsible for advising on the maintenance, decoration and furnishing of the Governor’s mansion. Additionally, the council oversees the restoration for the residence and the surrounding grounds and approves alterations to the existing structure.   </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Residence Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/67" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Andrews – Brainerd, MN <br /></strong>Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee: <br /></em>The Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee is the supervisory board for the federal Juvenile Justice Program with respect to preparation and administration of the state plan and award of grants. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/74" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katherine Driskell – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Licensed Social Worker <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joanne Kronstedt – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Board of Social Work: <br /></em>The Board of Social Work promotes and protects public health, safety, and welfare through the licensure and regulation of persons who practice social work in this state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Board of Social Work can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Angela Smith – New Hope, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Environmental Quality Board <br /> Public Member - 5th Congressional District <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board: <br /></em>The Environmental Quality Board advises the Governor and state legislature on environmental legislation and policy. Additionally, the board facilitates work among individuals, communities, and public and private organizations in the state to address environmental concerns.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carol Bruess – Saint Joseph, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota State Arts Board <br /> Member - Congressional District 6 <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota State Arts Board: <br /></em>The Minnesota State Arts Board encourages the creation, performance, and appreciation of the arts in the state. It is dedicated to making the arts available to all Minnesotans. The development of the arts is fostered through a series of grants, programs, and services which are administered by a professional staff.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota State Arts Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Linda Giersdorf – Mankato, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board on Aging <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the MN Board on Aging: <br /></em>The Minnesota Board on Aging develops, coordinates, evaluates, and administers federal and state funds for programs for the aging, makes grants to seven area agencies on aging and nonprofit agencies, and serves as an advocate for older persons.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the MN Board on Aging can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joseph Nayquonabe – Onamia, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Tribal Representative <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the MN Commission on National and Community Service: <br /></em>The Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, also known as ServeMN, provides grant funding, training, and technical assistance to nonprofits, government agencies, and schools that run AmeriCorps programs. The commission also pioneers strategic initiatives in a variety of impact areas to solve complex social problems.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the MN Commission on National and Community Service can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Quennel Cooper – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board <br /> Principal <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board: <br /></em>The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board is responsible for licensing teachers. The board evaluates candidates for compliance with statutory or rule requirements for licensure and develops licensure verification requirements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laurie York – White Earth, MN <br /></strong>State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training: <br /></em>Created by legislation in 2023, the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training was established to direct the Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training which serves parents and children in the child legal welfare system. The board works cooperatively with the head appellate counsel to govern the office and provide fiscal oversight.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hannah Harriman – Stillwater, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind <br /> Industry Representative <br /> Effective: January 7, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patrick Vellia – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind <br /> Deaf-blind Community Representative <br /> Effective: January 21, 2025 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind: <br /></em>The State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind advises the commissioner of employment and economic development about programs of State Services for the Blind and performs other functions as provided in state and federal statute.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6589372024-12-06T21:06:30Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-658760" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-12-06T15:58:25ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $19 million from the State of Minnesota to support SkyWater Technology’s plan to expand its semiconductor manufacturing facility in Bloomington, which is expected to create approximately 70 new jobs. The total project cost is $127 million.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced $19 million from the State of Minnesota to support SkyWater Technology’s plan to expand its semiconductor manufacturing facility in Bloomington, which is expected to create approximately 70 new jobs. The total project cost is $127 million.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Biden-Harris Administration also announced today that the U.S. Department of Commerce plans to provide up to $16 million in proposed direct funding under the CHIPS and Science Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota remains an established leader in manufacturing innovation, an accomplishment made possible through investments in high-tech business expansion, education, and workforce training,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong>“Our consistent support of companies like SkyWater encourages the establishment and growth of high-tech companies that keep Minnesota on the cutting edge of the semiconductor industry.</strong> <strong>We’re grateful to the U.S. Commerce Department for its commitment to Minnesota’s future and its partnership with our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s $19 million investment comes from the Minnesota Forward Fund, a Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) program Governor Walz signed into law last year to invest $400 million in business growth in Minnesota. It also provides matching funds for companies seeking federal resources like CHIPS Act funding. This is the Minnesota Forward Fund’s third award.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota's semiconductor sector is strong and growing, making our state an important hub for domestic manufacturing of this important resource,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“We are proud to partner with SkyWater Technology, the U.S. Commerce Department, and the City of Bloomington to keep Minnesota’s momentum going.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“SkyWater is a vital part of the Bloomington high-tech ecosystem, and we are excited to see this critical investment in our community,”</strong> said Bloomington Mayor Tim Busse. <strong>“We have appreciated the leadership that SkyWater has demonstrated to move the industry forward and are grateful to the Department of Commerce and State of Minnesota for recognizing and supporting those efforts.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SkyWater’s anticipated federal funding is the second in Minnesota from the 2022 U.S. CHIPS and Science Act, a $53 billion initiative by President Biden to grow U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, research and development, and workforce.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Part of SkyWater’s multi-year capital investment plan, this incremental funding would accelerate modernization and equipment upgrades to enhance production for customers in aerospace and defense as well as biomedical, industrial, thermal imaging, and quantum computing markets. The company’s investment would increase its U.S.-based semiconductor technology development and production capacity by 30% and create approximately 70 new jobs to support the workforce in Bloomington.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are pleased to receive this Minnesota Forward Fund award to expand our nation’s onshore capacity right here in Minnesota, and we’re proud of our role in helping to strengthen the U.S. supply chain for microelectronics,”</strong> said SkyWater CEO Thomas Sonderman. <strong>“As America’s Trusted Foundry, through our business model and expanding capabilities, we are creating a national asset for technology development, which is in a critical state domestically. We have been working to meet the specific needs of the Defense Industrial Base and commercial companies developing technologies of the future.”</strong></p>6587602024-12-06T15:59:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-656714" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-28T00:14:51ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota starting immediately, in honor and remembrance of Red Lake Nation Tribal Officer Jesse Branch. Officer Branch was killed in a traffic collision on Wednesday while on duty in Red Lake Nation.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota starting immediately, in honor and remembrance of Red Lake Nation Tribal Officer Jesse Branch. Officer Branch was killed in a traffic collision on Wednesday while on duty in Red Lake Nation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Officer Jesse Branch committed his life to public service. He was known for his love and dedication to Red Lake Nation, where he selflessly served his community,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With deep gratitude, Minnesota recognizes Officer Branch. His family, friends, and community are in our prayers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6567142024-11-28T00:16:52Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-656694" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-27T20:37:19ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $6 million in funding to support the expansion of emergency homeless shelter in Saint Paul. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced $6 million in funding to support the expansion of emergency homeless shelter in Saint Paul. This week the Governor announced <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/655280">$5 million for food security</a></u> ahead of the holiday season.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Housing is a basic human need, yet thousands of families struggle to find and maintain stable housing,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“When left with nowhere to turn, emergency shelters step in, providing warm spaces, hot meals, and needed services. This funding will provide necessary resources for shelters and homeless services.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Funding is authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act and will support Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul, a nonprofit organization that provides families with emergency shelter, food, clothing, tutoring and job coaching, and free legal assistance. The $6 million will fund Interfaith Action’s Project Home, an emergency shelter for families facing homelessness.</p>6566942024-11-27T20:38:33Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-656688" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-27T20:16:23ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection today announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Todd W. Westphal.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection today announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Todd W. Westphal. The seat will be chambered in St. Peter in Nicollet County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on December 11 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . <strong>The commission is currently reviewing applications for an additional vacancy in the Fifth Judicial District related to the retirement of the Honorable Terry S. Vajgrt. Applicants who applied for that vacancy will be considered for this opening and do not need to submit a new application.</strong>  The commission expects to hold interviews for these vacancies in mid-December.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Fifth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/" style="font-family: Verdana;">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6566882024-11-27T20:17:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-656680" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-27T19:17:53ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Cannabis Advisory Council, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, Minnesota Board of Social Work, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, Minnesota State High School League, and the Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Cannabis Advisory Council, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, Minnesota Board of Social Work, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, Minnesota State High School League, and the Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ann Philbrick – St. Paul, MN <br /></strong>Cannabis Advisory Council <br /> Expert in Clinical Pharmacy <br /> Effective: December 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Cannabis Advisory Council: <br /></em>The legislature created the Cannabis Advisory Council in 2023 to review national cannabis policy, examine the effectiveness of state policy, review development in the cannabis and hemp consumer industries, and review developments in the study of cannabis flower, cannabis products, artificially derived cannabinoids, lower potency hemp edibles, and hemp-derived consumer products.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Cannabis Advisory Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/332">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate Beane – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: December 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Capitol Area Architecture and Planning Board: <br /></em>The board is responsible for architecture, urban design, and comprehensive land-use planning in the capitol area of Saint Paul. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/42">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kimberly Dezurik – Little Falls, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Licensed Social Worker <br /> Effective: December 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Lori Thompson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Board of Social Work: <br /></em>The Board of Social Work promotes and protects public health, safety, and welfare through the licensure and regulation of persons who practice social work in this state. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Board of Social Work can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/102">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Meuers – Brooklyn Park, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Community-Based Service Agency or Organization Representative <br /> Effective: December 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service: <br /></em>The Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, also known as ServeMN, provides grant funding, training, and technical assistance to nonprofits, government agencies, and schools that run AmeriCorps programs. The commission also pioneers strategic initiatives in a variety of impact areas to solve complex social problems. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/105">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Yusuf Abdullah – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota State High School League <br /> Parent Member <br /> Effective: December 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Julie Anderson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota State High School League: <br /></em>The MSHSL is empowered to exercise supervision and regulation of interscholastic athletics, and musical, dramatic and other contests between pupils of Minnesota high schools. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota State High School League can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/118">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Frank Orton – Walker, MN <br /></strong>Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: December 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Vernon Kelley</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board: <br /></em>The board administers compensation from the petroleum tank release cleanup fund for cleanup of leaks and spills from petroleum storage tanks.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Petroleum Tank Release Compensation Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <u style="font-family: Verdana;"><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p>6566802024-11-27T19:53:30Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-656606" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-26T21:55:02ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the designation of the Honorable Jennifer L. Frisch as chief judge of the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Judge Frisch will serve the remainder of Chief Judge Segal’s term, which will expire on October 31, 2025. Governor Walz also announced the appointment of Rachel Bond to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Bond will fill the vacancy that will occur upon the retirement of Chief Judge Segal.Governor Walz also appoints Rachel Bond to Minnesota Court of Appeals1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the designation of the Honorable Jennifer L. Frisch as chief judge of the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Judge Frisch will serve the remainder of Chief Judge Segal’s term, which will expire on October 31, 2025. Governor Walz also announced the appointment of Rachel Bond to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Bond will fill the vacancy that will occur upon the retirement of Chief Judge Segal. This seat is designated for a resident of the Fifth Congressional District.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Judge Frisch is a remarkable leader who has the wisdom and compassion to guide the Minnesota Court of Appeals through the challenges ahead,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She has a proven track record of leading through consensus, which is essential when guiding a court that is as diverse and talented as the Court of Appeals. She will be great in this position.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Judge Frisch is an excellent choice to be the next chief judge for the Court of Appeals—a court that has the final say in about 95% of all appeals and operates with a heavy caseload and tight deadlines,”</strong> said Chief Judge Susan Segal of the Minnesota Court of Appeals.  <strong>“I know Judge Frisch will apply her talents to help the court navigate any and all challenges that the future may bring.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“By background, aptitude, and attitude, Judge Frisch has all of the tools to be an effective chief judge,”</strong> said Justice David Lillehaug, retired Minnesota Supreme Court justice. <strong>“Most importantly, all of her decisions – whether substantive or administrative – will reflect her deep commitment to the rule of law.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Mazel tov to Judge Frisch on her appointment as chief judge of the Minnesota Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Charlie Nauen, chair of the Judicial Endorsement Committee of the Minneapolis and St. Paul Jewish Federations. <strong>“Judge Frisch will bring vast experience as a trial and appellate judge to this leadership position.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Jennifer L. Frisch: <br /></em>Judge Jennifer Frisch was appointed by Governor Walz in 2020 as a judge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. She previously served as assistant chief judge in the Second Judicial District and as senior associate general counsel at the University of Minnesota. Frisch is an at-large member of the Minnesota Judicial Council and chair of the Council’s Court Operations Policy and Strategy Committee. She previously served on the Governor’s Council for Justice Reinvestment in Minnesota. Frisch’s community involvement includes serving on the Board of the Minnesota Supreme Court Historical Society, presiding as a moot court judge, and volunteering with Meals on Wheels. She earned her B.A. from Macalester College and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Rachel Bond to the Minnesota Court of Appeals,”</strong>  said Governor Walz. <strong> “Her expertise and breadth of experience, especially in criminal appellate law, will be an asset to the court and to the people of Minnesota. Her dedication to ensuring fair and equitable justice will make her a tremendous addition to the Court of Appeals.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Governor has made another excellent appointment with Rachel Bond,”</strong> said Chief Judge Susan Segal of the Minnesota Court of Appeals. <strong> “She has argued many cases before our court and is a highly respected appellate lawyer with experience not only in criminal, but also civil law. I know that she will be open and fair minded in her consideration of all cases and will always adhere to the law, without bias or prejudgment.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m thrilled that Rachel Bond has been chosen to serve on the Minnesota Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Justice Margaret Chutich, retired Minnesota Supreme Court justice. <strong>“She is a stellar advocate with broad experience, deep knowledge of the law, and common sense. Rachel will ensure that all who appear before the court are treated fairly and with respect.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Rachel Bond is an outstanding appointment to the Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Cathryn Middlebrook, chief appellate public defender at the Office of the Minnesota Appellate Public Defender. <strong>“As a longtime appellate public defender, Rachel is committed to fairness and equal justice. She is a remarkable attorney whose intellect, compassion, and deep knowledge of the law will make her an excellent appellate judge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Rachel Bond <br /></em>Rachel Bond is a managing attorney in the Office of the Minnesota Appellate Public Defender, where she supervises a team of attorneys and represents criminal defendants in appeals to the Minnesota Court of Appeals and Minnesota Supreme Court. She was previously at Faegre &amp; Benson LLP and Shearman &amp; Sterling LLP, as well as a law clerk to the Honorable Boyce F. Martin Jr. on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. Bond’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Supreme Court Advisory Committee for the Minnesota Rules of Civil Appellate Procedure and an adjunct professor at Mitchell Hamline. She also serves on the board of the Great North Innocence Project and as a judge for the William E. McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court Competition. Bond earned her B.A. from the University of Toronto and her J.D. from Boston University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p>6566062024-11-26T21:59:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-656571" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-26T20:17:48ZGovernor Tim Walz today presented Minnesota’s Thanksgiving turkey at the Capitol.With over 600 turkey farms statewide, Minnesota is the top turkey producer in the country1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today presented Minnesota’s Thanksgiving turkey at the Capitol. Photos from the event can be accessed <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720322185671%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cdf0e84f09e514d7271d408dd0e570f59%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638682489319441218%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=gHJCbtMxSOJ9M%2Bc%2BS7xbkYRyxA8c0%2BIjQeK1JibCIT8%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is proud to be the top turkey-producing state in the nation, thanks to our hardworking, dedicated turkey growers,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Our farmers and growers feed the world while driving Minnesota’s agricultural economy.</strong> <strong>I am grateful for their work to ensure we can enjoy our favorite foods this holiday season.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor was joined by Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, Minnesota Turkey Growers Association President Jake Vlaminck, Minnesota Turkey Research and Promotion Council President Loren Brey, and Second Harvest Heartland CEO Allison O’Toole.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota has consistently ranked #1 in the United States for turkey production, with over 600 turkey farms and 450 growers raising 40 million birds annually. Minnesota accounts for 18 percent of all turkeys produced in the U.S. The $12 billion industry supports over 46,000 jobs across Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At a food shelf on Monday, Governor Walz announced <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/655280">$5 million in new funding</a> to fight food insecurity ahead of the holidays.</p>6565712024-11-26T20:18:50Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-655281" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-25T19:58:00ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Susan M. Robiner, and the other vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Peter A. Cahill. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Susan M. Robiner, and the other vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Peter A. Cahill. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katie Allen:</strong> Katie Allen is a staff attorney and DNA consultant at the Neighborhood Justice Center, where she represents low-income community members facing criminal charges in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties. She has also served as defense counsel for the Ramsey County Mental Health Court and Ramsey County Adult Substance Abuse Court. Allen’s community involvement includes providing pro bono legal services to the Saint Paul Opportunity Center and serving as a community organization member on the Ramsey County Bail Reform Working Group. She also volunteers with Osseo area schools and the city of Maple Grove.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mariam Mokri:</strong> Mariam Mokri is a human services judge with the Department of Human Services. She previously was a district court referee in the Civil and Criminal Divisions of the Fourth Judicial District and an assistant public defender in the Fourth Judicial District’s Public Defender’s Office. Mokri’s community involvement has included service as the chair of the Minneapolis Commission on Civil Rights and a member of the Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers board of directors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Olson:</strong> Jennifer Olson is an assistant attorney general in the Employment, Torts, and Public Utilities Commission Division in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, where she defends complex constitutional, statutory, employment, and tort litigation on behalf of the State of Minnesota and state agencies. She was previously a partner at Best &amp; Flanagan LLP, where she served as the firm’s pro bono partner, and an associate attorney at Stinson LLP. Olson’s community involvement includes serving on the Volunteer Lawyers Network Benefactors Board and the Minnesota Justice Foundation Board. She has also served in various leadership roles with the Hennepin County Bar Association and on the Minnesota State Bar Association’s Pro Bono Council. Olson has also volunteered as a pro bono attorney with the Advocates for Human Rights, representing clients seeking asylum.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Andrew Tweeten:</strong> Andrew Tweeten is an assistant United States attorney in the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, where he pursues affirmative health care fraud matters on behalf of the United States and defends a wide variety of civil claims against federal officers and agencies. He was previously an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office and a law clerk for the Honorable Donald W. Molloy of the United States District Court for the District of Montana and the Honorable Sidney R. Thomas of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Tweeten’s community involvement includes singing and volunteering with One Voice Mixed Chorus. He also volunteers with the Minnesota Urban Debate League and judges college and high school mock trial and moot court competitions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matthew Wilcox:</strong> Matthew Wilcox is deputy general counsel for the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, where he manages a team of legal professionals and oversees the agency’s contracting and litigation portfolios. He also serves as an assistant staff judge advocate (Major) in the United States Air Force Reserve. Wilcox was previously an assistant city attorney for the City of Minneapolis and an assistant appellate defender in the Office of the Appellate Defender in Montana. His community involvement includes mentoring law students as part of the University of St. Thomas School of Law Mentor Externship Program. Wilcox is also a member of the American Legion and an Army veteran who deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a></u>.</p>6552812024-11-25T19:59:15Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-655280" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-25T19:56:34ZAhead of the holiday season, Governor Tim Walz today announced $5 million in new funding to put food on tables across the state. Governor Walz made the announcement and joined volunteers to stock shelves at the Neighborhood House food shelf in St. Paul.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Ahead of the holiday season, Governor Tim Walz today announced $5 million in new funding to put food on tables across the state. Governor Walz made the announcement and joined volunteers to stock shelves at the Neighborhood House food shelf in St. Paul.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“All Minnesotans deserve to sit around a full table and spend time with loved ones during the holidays,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesotans are generous people who do their part to ensure their neighbors have what they need – and this funding will go a long way to supporting those efforts. I’m grateful for our partnership with organizations working to tackle food insecurity and distribute these funds quickly.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Funding is authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act and will support food shelves amid increased visits and strains on the emergency food system. Funding will also support eligible Tribal Nations and American Indian Food Sovereignty grantees. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families will partner with The Food Group to distribute funds to food shelves across the state.</p>6552802024-11-25T19:59:12Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-654942" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-21T17:39:41ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Kathryn Lorsbach and Kimberly Wimmer as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The seats will be chambered in Park Rapids in Hubbard County and Grand Rapids in Itasca County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Kathryn Lorsbach and Kimberly Wimmer as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The seats will be chambered in Park Rapids in Hubbard County and Grand Rapids in Itasca County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Kathryn Lorsbach will replace the Honorable Robert D. Tiffany for a seat chambered in Hubbard County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am proud to appoint Kathryn Lorsbach to the Hubbard County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Not only is she a talented attorney, but she is not afraid to push the justice system to be the best that it can be. Her dedication and commitment to serving the people of northwestern Minnesota will make her an excellent addition to the bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Kimberly Wimmer will replace the Honorable Korey Wahwassuck for a seat chambered in Itasca County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Kimberly Wimmer,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her diverse practice background and sincere commitment to serving her community will make her an excellent judge. The Itasca County bench is gaining a brilliant legal mind who will help them tackle the challenges ahead.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District encompasses Aitkin, Beltrami, Cass, Clearwater, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Kittson, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Kathryn Lorsbach <br /></em>Kathryn Lorsbach is the county attorney in the Clearwater County Attorney’s Office, where she handles a broad range of criminal and civil matters. She was previously an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District and a law clerk for the Honorable Jonathan N. Jasper in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. Lorsbach’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Clearwater County DUI Treatment Court, the Clearwater Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative, and the Anishinaabe Sexual Assault Response Team. She received her B.A. from the University of Minnesota and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Kimberly Wimmer <br /></em>Kimberly Wimmer is the executive vice president and general counsel of TruStar Federal Credit Union, where she assists with the overall leadership of the credit union and oversees all legal matters for its six branches in northern Minnesota. She previously worked as a solo practitioner at Wimmer Law Office, P.A., where she handled both civil and criminal matters and worked as an assistant public defender for the State of Minnesota. Wimmer's community involvement includes serving on the Borderland Treatment Court Team; acting as a board member, secretary, and treasurer for Friends Against Abuse; serving as a board member and treasurer of the Littlefork-Big Falls School Board; and volunteering with various academic and athletic programs in local schools. She received her B.A. from Gustavus Adolphus College and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6549422024-11-21T18:24:44Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-654855" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-21T17:39:41ZThe Governor’s Office today announced a vacancy occurring on the Minnesota Tax Court in January of 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Governor’s Office today announced a vacancy occurring on the Minnesota Tax Court in January of 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The Minnesota Tax Court is an executive branch court established by the Minnesota Legislature to hear and consider tax-related cases. Individuals must be citizens of the State of Minnesota and must possess experience with and knowledge of taxation and tax laws. Judges are appointed by the Governor to serve six-year terms.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on December 12 and should be addressed to Governor Walz</strong>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6548552024-11-21T17:40:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-654765" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-21T16:48:15ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota was recognized by Results for America as a national leader in using evidence and data to guide decision-making and deliver better results for Minnesotans. Minnesota is one of only two states to receive Platinum Certification, the highest honor possible for evidence-based decision making. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota was recognized by <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fresults4america.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C469a719f36fe497972bf08dd0a4a3856%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638678036102231736%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=DbsyrGNaywulAxpWiWxxT%2BYE3pKWwhmnWRBS3Q%2B69u0%3D&amp;reserved=0">Results for America</a> as a national leader in using evidence and data to guide decision-making and deliver better results for Minnesotans. Minnesota is one of only two states to receive Platinum Certification, the highest honor possible for evidence-based decision making.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In Minnesota, we fund what matters most. Whether it’s investments like universal school meals, funding for child care, or tax cuts for the middle class, I am proud that Minnesota has once again been recognized for our commitment to using evidence and data to make the biggest impact in improving peoples’ lives,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By using data and evidence to drive decision making, we get real results.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We know government can make a huge difference in people’s lives, providing the support needed to ensure children have access to quality education from a young age, families have access to affordable childcare, adults with mental illness can achieve permanent housing, and so much more,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“Evidence-based decision-making helps ensure we’re investing in programs and services that work to improve lives.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota was one of only two states to receive Platinum Certification by Results for America, and one of seven states designated as national leaders in evidence-based decision-making. Highlights of the state’s data-driven work include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Over $2.1 billion invested over a three-year period in grants, contracts, and direct services to support children and families. This includes $387 million in Universal School Meals, and $36 million in Voluntary Prekindergarten.</li> <li>Including evidence indicators in public budget documents.</li> <li>Promoting budgeting towards equitable outcomes.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“More than ever before, state leaders of all political persuasions recognize the impact and importance of leveraging data and evidence in their decision making,”</strong> said Results for America co-founder and CEO Michele Jolin. <strong>“The certification process seeks to celebrate and expand on the successes that these states have already achieved in their pursuit of evidence-based solutions and the acceleration of economic mobility.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Led by Minnesota Management and Budget, the state’s <a href="https://mn.gov/mmb/budget/results-management/">Results Management</a> team partners with state agencies to identify public services that have been proven to work. The initiative uses rigorous research, local expertise, and data to give policymakers valuable information when making decisions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Results for America is a national nonprofit that promotes evidence-based policymaking. Its newly released <em><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2F2024state.results4america.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C469a719f36fe497972bf08dd0a4a3856%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638678036102262101%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=5QEDPjs7g%2Bc5VsG7x7HpUqkhrekppZAi6xB%2Bw0bUGbk%3D&amp;reserved=0">2024 Invest in What Works State Standard of Excellence</a></em> highlights advances in evidence-based grantmaking, budgeting and direct services, and identifies state efforts to build and use evidence and data to achieve better, more equitable results for residents.</p>6547652024-11-21T16:49:37Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-653503" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-19T19:49:47ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Benjamin Pieh as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. Pieh will replace the Honorable Thomas W. Van Hon and will be chambered in Montevideo in Chippewa County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Benjamin Pieh as a District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. Pieh will replace the Honorable Thomas W. Van Hon and will be chambered in Montevideo in Chippewa County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my pleasure to appoint Benjamin Pieh to the Eighth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“He is a longtime public defender who cares deeply about the fair administration of justice and protecting the rights of those he serves. As a dedicated resident of Chippewa County, he will take the bench every day with his community’s best interest in mind.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District encompasses Big Stone, Chippewa, Grant Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle, Meeker, Pope, Renville, Stevens, Swift, Traverse, Wilkin, and Yellow Medicine Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Benjamin Pieh is an assistant public defender in the Eighth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office, where he serves clients in criminal and juvenile delinquency cases in several counties. He was previously a law clerk for district court Judges Paul Nelson, Dwayne Knutsen, and Thomas Van Hon in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. Pieh chairs the 12th District Ethics Committee for the Minnesota Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility and was a member of the 12th District Fee Arbitration Committee. He is the president of the Prairie Arts Chorale, a volunteer judge with the MSBA Mock Trial Program, and active in several local charitable and faith organizations. Pieh received his B.S. from Luther College and his J.D. from Rutgers Law School - Newark.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6535032024-11-19T19:53:31Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-653404" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-18T22:15:29ZEarlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration and the chair and at-large members of the Commission on Judicial Selection to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Court of Appeals. The panel announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the upcoming vacancy on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Susan L. Segal at the end of the year. This seat is designated for Minnesota’s Fifth Congressional District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Earlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration and the chair and at-large members of the Commission on Judicial Selection to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Court of Appeals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The panel announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the upcoming vacancy on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Susan L. Segal at the end of the year. This seat is designated for Minnesota’s Fifth Congressional District.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rachel Bond: </strong>Rachel Bond is a managing attorney in the Office of the Minnesota Appellate Public Defender, where she supervises a team of attorneys and represents criminal defendants in their direct appeals to the Minnesota Court of Appeals and Minnesota Supreme Court. She was previously an attorney at Faegre &amp; Benson LLP and Shearman &amp; Sterling, as well as a law clerk to the Honorable Boyce F. Martin Jr. on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. Bond’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Supreme Court Advisory Committee for the Minnesota Rules of Civil Appellate Procedure and an adjunct professor at Mitchell Hamline School of Law. Her community involvement also includes serving on the board of the Great North Innocence Project and as a judge for the William E. McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court Competition.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carrie Ryan Gallia: </strong>Carrie Ryan Gallia is a senior associate general counsel in the Office of the General Counsel at the University of Minnesota, where she handles litigation and advises on student affairs, freedom of expression, civil rights, and other issues. She previously was an attorney at Lindquist &amp; Vennum and Fish &amp; Richardson, as well as a law clerk to the Honorable Carlos T. Bea on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Ryan Gallia’s community involvement includes teaching judicial writing at the University of Minnesota Law School, serving as a board member for Xperitas, and volunteering at Jefferson High School in Bloomington.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate Swenson:</strong> Kate Swenson is a partner at Greene Espel law firm, where she represents clients in the private and public sectors at all stages of dispute resolution, including trial and appeal in state and federal courts. She also chairs the firm’s Ethics Committee. Swenson was previously legal counsel to the 2011 Minnesota Special Redistricting Panel and served as a judicial law clerk for the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Her community involvement includes providing pro bono representation to people seeking asylum, serving as an officer of the Public Law Section Council of the Minnesota State Bar Association, serving as a board member of the Minnesota Justice Foundation, and mentoring law students.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6534042024-11-18T22:17:07Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-653199" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-15T16:11:16ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced over $6 million in new state grants to keep Minnesotans in their homes as they age. The Live Well at Home grants will support more than 30 organizations, funding services such as retrofitting residences to make them age-friendly and providing support for caregivers.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced over $6 million in new state grants to keep Minnesotans in their homes as they age. The Live Well at Home grants will support more than 30 organizations, funding services such as retrofitting residences to make them age-friendly and providing support for caregivers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Living at home provides people with identity, comfort, and community,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As so many families know, the choice to move, or have a family member move, to a nursing home can be an extremely difficult one. These grants are helping older adults maintain their independence and significantly improve quality of life for Minnesotans as they age.” </strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Most people prefer staying in their homes and research shows when they’re able to stay longer they are happier and have better health outcomes compared to people entering institutionalized care like nursing homes or assisted living facilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These grants support what most people want,”</strong> said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. <strong>“It’s a cost-effective investment in their health and happiness.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Grantees include: </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Northern Minnesota</em></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>ElderCircle, Grand Rapids, $295,000. The project will streamline community-based services for informal caregivers like family members. Services will help veterans, solo agers, and others 65 and older.</li> <li>Lighthouse Center for Vital Living, Duluth, $311,000. The "Empowering Older Adults" project will benefit 600 older adults and 250 caregivers in multiple Minnesota Arrowhead counties by promoting older adults’ safety, self-reliance and quality of life. Services will include in-home occupational therapy, assistive technology, device loans, technology training, activities to combat social isolation, caregiver support, and home modifications.</li> <li>North Shore Area Partners, Silver Bay, $60,000. Funding will provide direct in-home services and supports to 35 older adults living independently in their homes. Volunteer recruiting will increase. New programming will promote the health and well-being of older adults by coordinating with community partners to offer health, nutrition, and safety topics, financial fitness planning, and aging solo programming.</li> <li>Volunteer Services of Carlton County, $494,000. Funds will strengthen service capacity in assisted transportation, group respite, caregiver counseling, and chore services. </li> <li>Churches United in Ministry (Chum), Duluth, $111,000. To help older adults with histories of homelessness age in place, this project seeks to increase resident participation in professional services that support health, healing and stability, including medical, mental health, and recovery. Other objectives are reducing the numbers of residents who return to homelessness by keeping them involved with a community stabilized by safety, services, and on-site staffing.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Northwest Minnesota</em></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Knute Nelson, serving Minnesota and North Dakota, $607,000. The project aims to reduce unnecessary care transitions and improve mental health outcomes by supporting aging adults in Minnesota through care coordination, mental health promotion, and better access to culturally competent care to address the needs of older adults. Indicators of success will include improved service utilization, reduced care transitions, and better provider coordination.</li> <li>Living at Home of the Park Rapids Area, Park Rapids, $349,000. Collaborating with other service providers that work with rural older adults, this project will renovate a large space to deliver services to seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities. Additional resources include therapy delivery, exercise equipment, shared staff, access to a registered nurse, and quick availability to defibrillator machines.</li> <li>West Central Minnesota Communities Action, Elbow Lake $325,000. Reaching 11,000 older adults across five counties with homemaking, chores, and transportation. Funds will help expand the volunteer base, add a personal shopping service, and create a gig economy of chore contractors to deliver services while reducing travel time.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Southern Minnesota</em></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Benedictine Living Community, Rochester, $101,000. Updating and retrofitting an assisted living facility to replace 31 showers with accessible, walk-in ground level showers to promote resident independence and safety.</li> <li>Caregiver Response Effort &amp; Service Team, Fairmont, $45,000. The project will help serve 250 older adults to stay in their homes while living active, social, healthy lives.</li> <li>Goodhue County Habitat for Humanity, Red Wing, $186,000. Grant funds will support the Aging in Place program that modifies homes to keep rural, low-income homeowners over age 65 living safely in their homes. The number of homeowners served each year will increase from six to 15.</li> <li>Rebuilding Together Minnesota, Minneapolis (serving southwestern Minnesota), $79,000. Continued expansion will serve five southwestern counties with accessibility modifications to 25 senior homeowners, including five ramp projects. Other objectives include increasing regional partnerships and expanding volunteer capacity.</li> <li>SEMCAC, Rushford, $229,000. This project will add a commercial kitchen to construction of a new facility in Austin. The facility will also house Austin Head Start classrooms, with office space for staff and offices for the Mower County Emergency Crisis Assistance.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Twin Cities</em></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Cha-Ami Japanese Cultural Center, St. Paul, $52,000. Grant funds will help address the cultural, social, and health needs of Japanese immigrants and their descendants in Minnesota. The primary goal is to provide tailored health and wellness services and facilitate social connections and support networks via cultural enrichment programs, health and wellness workshops, caregiver support groups, networking, and social events.</li> <li>DARTS, West St. Paul, $267,000. Offering affordable solutions to older adults in Dakota, Ramsey and Washington Counties. The project will extend existing home services into southern Ramsey County, increasing tech support reach and facilitated grocery shopping programs as well as older adults' access to home modifications, homemaking, and outdoor chores.</li> <li>Jewish Family and Children’s Service, Minneapolis, $149,000. Goals include case management to help screen participants and connect them with resources to fit their needs, culturally specific food security including a Kosher Meals on Wheels program and reduced social isolation through senior companions and community-building programming.</li> <li>Korean Service Center, Minneapolis, $143,000. Grant funds will focus on improving transportation, bedside services, and the respite training program. The project includes transportation to medical appointments, social services, and social activities; adding a 24-hour bedside care program for older adults who need it; and respite caregiver training for staff, family members, and volunteers.</li> <li>Neighborhood Network for Seniors, St. Paul, $60,000. Serving numerous neighborhoods, this project provides services to help resolve barriers that keep seniors from accomplishing independent activities of daily living. Grant funds will also expand the service area.</li> <li>Newtrax, White Bear Lake, $70,000 to expand senior circulator loops. These transportation loops have effectively decreased social isolation and will be tried with new, more urban communities.</li> <li>Pillsbury United Communities, Minneapolis, $213,000. This project will provide 500 seniors, across three neighborhoods with intergenerational services to decrease social isolation and improve physical and mental health among seniors, promoting long, healthy lives in their homes. Services include one-on-one, group and large events.</li> <li>Rakhma Grace, Minnetonka, $199,000. Seeking to improve accessibility, safety, and inclusion for people with dementia, the project includes installing an elevator, improving outdoor living areas, and making safety updates such as security cameras for enhanced oversight, dementia friendly toilets, and fail-safe exits.</li> <li>Rakhma Joy, St. Paul, $132,000. This project will increase capacity by 20% while enhancing safety and inclusion. Two new private bedrooms will accommodate more residents. Other improvements include outdoor living spaces, fail-safe exits, a fire system, and dementia-friendly designs.</li> <li>Rebuilding Together Minnesota, Minneapolis, $213,000. Serving seven metro counties, this project will provide home accessibility modifications to 50 low-income older adults and add ramps for 20 low-income older adult households.</li> <li>The Salvation Army, Minneapolis, $328,000. This project will renovate Booth Manor senior housing, a 157-unit development for older adults providing affordable, independent living where residents can engage with the community and age in place. Renovations include unit retrofits for people with mobility limitations and security, health, and safety improvements.</li> <li>Senior Community Services, Minnetonka, $145,000. This project addresses the need to expand and sustain HOME Program services in rural Minnesota. Services encompass a range of indoor and outdoor tasks, including chore services, lawn care, seasonal raking, snow removal, minor repairs, handyperson tasks, homemaking, cleaning, painting, safety assessments, safety device installation, and technology support.</li> <li>SEWA-AIFW, Minneapolis, $325,000. This project supports older adults with South Asian heritage by delivering tailored services including meals, chores, respite care, transportation assistance and chronic disease management. The project will prioritize person-centered and community-driven approaches to service delivery.</li> <li>Spirit Care Services, Minneapolis, $341,000. Project goals are to provide enhanced home care and support services tailored to the needs of elder Native Americans. Key objectives are strengthening caregiver supportive services, expanding community support, and promoting healthy aging to support high-risk elder Native Americans, using tools like transportation, respite services, homemaking, chore assistance, and assistive technology.</li> <li>TRUST, Minneapolis, $213,000. Health and wellness services will benefit 1,500 older adults through physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being programs that provide assistance, assessments, management, resources, support services, and educational opportunities. Chore home services will expand to serve 375 older adults. Transportation assist services will help another 1,500.</li> <li>Centro Tyrone Guzman, Minneapolis, $131,000. This project pilots a new model to train and engage Spanish-speaking college interns to provide free respite services for low-income Latino elders, including elders with Alzheimer’s disease. The goal is increasing support for Latino families so their loved ones can continue living in their home as they age and require more assistance.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Central Minnesota</em></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Benedictine Living Community, formerly known as Assumption Community Services, Cold Spring, $95,000. Serving six counties in and around St. Cloud, the project will expand accessible transportation services throughout rural Stearns County, the St. Cloud metro, and bordering counties. This project will add volunteer drivers, pilot a transportation provider for wheelchair accessible vehicles, and become a special transportation service provider.</li> <li>Helping Hands Outreach, Holdingford, $50,000. Grant funds will help address the increasing population of older adults and caregivers to help their quality of life and ability to live independently at home. The project will recruit volunteers to deliver free services, support family caregivers and reduce social isolation for older adults living in Benton, Morrison, and Stearns counties.</li> </ul>6531992024-11-15T16:14:48Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-653167" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-14T22:49:26ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection today announced a vacancy occurring on the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals (WCCA). The vacancy will occur in January 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection today announced a vacancy occurring on the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals (WCCA). The vacancy will occur in January 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, candidates must be learned in the law, have been licensed to practice law for at least five years, and have experience with and knowledge of workers’ compensation and the workers’ compensation laws of Minnesota. In addition, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on December 5 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in December.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the WCCA have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6531672024-11-14T22:50:16Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-653117" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-14T19:14:22ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $112 million in federal funds awarded to the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Funding will provide energy assistance to income-eligible Minnesota homeowners and renters to help keep their homes warm this winter.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced $112 million in federal funds awarded to the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Funding will provide energy assistance to income-eligible Minnesota homeowners and renters to help keep their homes warm this winter.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In our coldest months, higher utility bills can put a strain on Minnesotans’ budgets,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Our Energy Assistance Program makes a big difference in alleviating this pressure, ensuring that Minnesotans get the help they need to make it comfortably through the winter. This funding will continue to lower costs and keep Minnesotans safe.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Energy Assistance Program is essential to help Minnesotans have warm, safe homes. We will be able to deliver that warmth to more than one hundred thousand homes this winter season,”</strong> said Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last year, the energy assistance program awarded 129,500 households with energy assistance, providing over $95 million to households, with an average household benefit of $736. This year’s funding will provide an increase in average household benefits.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Funding also prevented utility shutoffs for 43,000 households, provided emergency heating fuel deliveries to over 10,000 homes, and provided emergency furnace repairs to 6,600 homes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">About two thirds of the benefits go to homes outside the Twin Cities metro area. About 40 percent of households receiving energy assistance in Minnesota had a person over age 60 or had a household member with a disability, and about one in six households had children under age six living in the home.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">By applying for Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program, homeowners and renters may also qualify for Minnesota’s <a href="https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/weatherization/">Weatherization Assistance Program</a> and receive free home improvements to help save energy and ensure a warm, healthy, safe home.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information and to apply online: <a href="https://mn.gov/commerce/energy/consumer-assistance/energy-assistance-program/">mn.gov/homes</a>.</p>6531172024-11-14T19:19:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-653015" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-13T18:51:01ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that SmileHub has ranked Minnesota as a top state for children. The scorecard ranked states across four areas: health and wellness, support system strength, education system, and family and working life.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that SmileHub has ranked Minnesota as a top state for children. The scorecard ranked states across four areas: health and wellness, support system strength, education system, and family and working life.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In Minnesota, we have been steadfast in our commitment to support children and families. From our nation-leading child tax credit to historic investments in education and child care, we’re making an effort to help families where it matters the most,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The data shows that our efforts are paying off in working toward our goal of making Minnesota the best state in the nation for children.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Children of all races, incomes, religions, and zip codes deserve equal opportunity to learn, play, and thrive.</strong> <strong>In Minnesota, we’re making this a reality,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“SmileHub’s rankings reflect our work to strengthen resources for children, support middle class families, combat long-standing inequities, and build a brighter future for Minnesota. I am proud of all we have done for our youngest Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz has made historic investments to increase child care access and affordability, increase access to mental health resources, ensure universal school meals, and reduce child poverty.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In March 2023, Governor Walz signed <a href="https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/FNS/SNP/free/">Free School Meals for Kids</a> into law, ensuring no child goes hungry while lowering costs for families. In the first year of the program, over 150 million meals were served to children, saving families approximately $1,000 per student.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In May, Governor Walz signed the state <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit">child tax credit</a> into law, providing families up to $1750 per child. Aimed at cutting child poverty buy one-third, the credit has helped more than 215,000 Minnesota families, putting over $545 million back into family budgets.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Also in May, Governor Walz signed the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-624836#:~:text=The%20legislation%20funds%20a%20Summer,grant%20funding%20to%20expand%20access">education and children and families package</a> , and <a href="https://paidleave.mn.gov/">Paid Family and Medical Leave</a> into law. The education and children and families package funds a program to help families purchase healthy food for school-aged children during summer months, increases pre-k seats in the state, invests in improvements to Minnesota’s child protection system, and provides funding to expand access to child care. Minnesota was ranked in the top five states for lowest childcare costs relative to household income. Over <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-646566">$12 million in child care expansion</a> has been allocated this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program will provide partial wage replacement for 12-20 weeks of leave in a 52-week period for medical leave, bonding, or caring for a family member, alleviating the stress of caring for a new baby or sick child.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota ranked in the top five states for overall child well-being based on economic well-being, education, health, and family and community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SmileHub’s full report can be found <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fsmilehub.org%2Fblog%2Fstates-providing-the-most-support-for-children%2F192&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C381e2ab0111145a6bacc08dd0413a931%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638671204690784030%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=cojf2BrK06UpxslvOtZjhZczMRvNVxDjr8SDD5fVuUo%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p>6530152024-11-13T19:10:19Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-652807" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-12T19:02:19ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the application process is now open for a vacancy on the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). The vacancy will arise on January 6, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that the application process is now open for a vacancy on the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). The vacancy will arise on January 6, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission regulates the electricity, natural gas, and telephone services industries in Minnesota – ensuring safe, reliable, and effective utility services. The PUC is a five-member body with legislative and quasi-judicial functions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking individuals with experience in law, engineering, accounting, property and utility valuation, finance, science, agriculture, or natural resources. Those interested can find more information and apply for the position on the Secretary of State’s <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/134">website</a>.</p>6528072024-11-12T19:04:31Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-652804" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-10T21:26:21ZAhead of Veterans Day, Governor Tim Walz released the following op-ed on the state’s commitment and efforts to support Minnesota’s veterans:1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Ahead of Veterans Day, Governor Tim Walz released the following op-ed on the state’s commitment and efforts to support Minnesota’s veterans:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As a 24-year veteran of the Minnesota National Guard, I know that when you raise your hand to serve, you’re not just sacrificing your time. You’re sacrificing your health, safety, personal freedoms, and time with family in service to your country.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota is home to more than 285,000 veterans who have put their lives on the line to defend their state and country. I can’t think of a more noble cause. Now, with over half of Minnesota’s veterans over the age of 65, it’s time for us to serve them.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">When veterans serving our nation finally take their uniform off and return home, we’ve made the bipartisan commitment in Minnesota to provide them the support and care that properly honors the sacrifices they make, and that their families make.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That’s why I’m proud to say that this year Minnesota became the first state in the nation to build and open three veterans homes simultaneously. These homes, located in Bemidji, Preston, and Montevideo, will serve nearly 200 veterans needing skilled nursing care as they age.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This is a huge step forward in our work to support those who have answered the call to serve. Because as our veterans age, we have a responsibility to ensure they live in a supportive community and receive the care and services they need.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To the communities of Preston, Montevideo, and Bemidji – thank you for taking on this responsibility, as the five other Minnesota communities where veterans homes are located have proudly for decades. To the local health care providers, caregivers, and county veterans service officers – thank you for embodying what it means to give back and care for our veterans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I was grateful to take time this summer to dedicate each home and celebrate the years of work that have gone into planning, building, and opening these homes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">While I’m incredibly proud of this effort, I want to be clear that the work continues to support our veterans and military families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last month Hennepin County took a critical step toward the goal I set to end veteran homelessness in the state – becoming the 9th of 10 geographic areas in Minnesota to achieve the goal. This is collaborative, bipartisan work to provide the best services and care for our veterans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve also laid the groundwork for a fourth State Veterans Cemetery in northwest Minnesota. We’ve expanded service bonuses for post-9/11 era veterans and Gold Star Families. We’re working collaboratively to ensure our veterans are better served than they have ever been in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As long as we have veterans, we’re here to care for them. Let’s keep up the good work.</p>6528042024-11-12T19:04:27Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-651486" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-01T20:26:21ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that WalletHub has ranked Minnesota a top-three state for finding a job. This announcement follows Wednesday’s news that Solventum, a global health care company, will make a $200 million investment in Minnesota. WalletHub’s scorecard used 34 indicators of job market strength and economic health. Minnesota received top rankings for median household income, access to benefits, job opportunities per capita, support for working parents, and low unemployment.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that WalletHub has ranked Minnesota a top-three state for finding a job. This announcement follows Wednesday’s news that Solventum, a global health care company, will make a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=650968">$200 million investment</a> in Minnesota. WalletHub’s scorecard used 34 indicators of job market strength and economic health. Minnesota received top rankings for median household income, access to benefits, job opportunities per capita, support for working parents, and low unemployment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With a strong job market families earn more, save more, and are able to dedicate more time to their families,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We don’t just create jobs in Minnesota – we create good jobs that pay well, provide benefits, and offer protections. That has always been our guiding principle and I am glad to see that effort reflected in data</strong> <strong>.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a top state for business, health care, and manufacturing, Minnesota is paving the way for entry into high-demand, family-sustaining careers,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“We have been consistent in our commitment to invest in businesses while empowering workers and supporting families. We will continue this work to ensure Minnesota is a place where businesses and workers thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota also has the ninth highest share of workers with private health insurance and ranks as the fourth best state for working parents. In 2023, Governor Walz signed <a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/news/new-workplace-protections-programs-make-minnesota-best-state-workers">new workplace laws to protect paid time off and enhance health care coverage</a> . These laws, including earned sick and safe time, paid family and medical leave, and protection of preventative care are protecting workers and providing equitable economic opportunities for Minnesota children and families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2023, Governor Walz signed the <a href="https://lcpr.mn.gov/SecureChoice.htm">Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program</a> into law, enhancing retirement options for employees. Minnesota has the sixth best access to employer-based retirement plans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">WalletHub ranked Minnesota with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country and the 13th most job opportunities per capita. Investments in workforce development, including the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/about/what-we-do/objectives-plans/wioa.jsp">Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act</a> , connect Minnesotans to high-growth, high-demand career fields like manufacturing, education, and public safety. Workforce growth also comes from historic investments in higher education including opportunities for free college tuition for students with a family income under $80,000 and investments in child care and early learning.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota also received the third highest ranking for median household income and has the 10th highest average monthly starting salary.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Read the full report <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwallethub.com%2Fedu%2Fbest-states-for-jobs%2F35641&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C4ad1ee883a9148e070e608dcfa7e6ca7%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638660668149506771%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=s%2BcedbszUEBa7wXdOvLxwdyUZtAEg73Pl%2BNGwegs4Q8%3D&amp;reserved=0">here.</a></p>6514862024-11-01T20:27:41Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-651087" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-31T16:48:42ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Terry S. Vajgrt. The seat will be chambered in Luverne in Rock County and Pipestone in Pipestone County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Terry S. Vajgrt. The seat will be chambered in Luverne in Rock County and Pipestone in Pipestone County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on November 21 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-December.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Fifth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor ad Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6510872024-10-31T16:50:15Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-650968" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-30T18:33:16ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Solventum, a leading global health care company, will make a $200 million expansion in Eagan, retaining an estimated 2,000 Minnesota jobs. The expansion is supported by nearly $13 million in business development funding from the State of Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Solventum, a leading global health care company, will make a $200 million expansion in Eagan, retaining an estimated 2,000 Minnesota jobs. The expansion is supported by nearly $13 million in business development funding from the State of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Solventum’s expansion reinforces Minnesota’s track record as a globally recognized leader in manufacturing, health care innovation, and medical technology,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’ve worked with Solventum every step of the way on this announcement, retaining thousands of high-paying jobs and expanding opportunities for innovation, ensuring Minnesota remains the best state in the nation for health care.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Solventum will invest an estimated $209 million to relocate and consolidate staff and operations to a state-of-the-art research and development facility in Eagan from its legacy locations at 3M’s Maplewood campus. Relocation project costs include property acquisition, major renovations and significant machinery, equipment, and technology investments. Solventum expects to be in its new location by early 2026.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We thank Governor Tim Walz, Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Matt Varilek, and the City of Eagan for their partnership in making this project possible,”</strong> said Bryan Hanson, Solventum chief executive officer. <strong>“Minnesota’s support was instrumental in our decision to reinvest in the Twin Cities area. We look forward to continued growth as a global healthcare leader and a strong partnership with the State and City of Eagan.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"We’re thrilled Solventum chose to continue to expand its presence in Minnesota after an extensive search process,"</strong> said Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Having this Fortune 500 company contribute to local and global economies while retaining thousands of jobs in our state and tapping into Minnesota’s internationally-renowned health care and med tech ecosystem is a win across the board.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“ <strong>Solventum’s decision to relocate to Eagan is a testament to the strength and appeal of our city. We are committed to supporting their growth and ensuring that Eagan continues to be a vibrant location for businesses and employees alike,”</strong> said Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Solventum’s economic development awards come from DEED’s Job Creation Fund (JCF) and Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF). The JCF provides financial incentives to new and expanding businesses that meet certain job creation and capital investment targets. The MIF provides financing to help add new workers and retain high-quality jobs – with a focus on industrial, manufacturing, and technology-related industries – increasing the local and state tax base and improving Minnesota's economic vitality.</p>6509682024-10-30T18:34:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-650387" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-24T20:07:27ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Dylan Ferguson to serve as the inaugural director of the Office of Emergency Medical Services. Ferguson will start in this new role on January 1, 2025.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Dylan Ferguson to serve as the inaugural director of the Office of Emergency Medical Services. Ferguson will start in this new role on January 1, 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am proud to appoint Dylan Ferguson as director of the newly created Office of Emergency Medical Services,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The office will ensure emergency medical services providers have the tools they need to serve all Minnesotans. Ferguson brings more than two decades of EMS experience, and in his new capacity as director he will continue building and improving statewide services and programs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Dylan Ferguson is an experienced public servant who is committed to improving EMS services in Minnesota and I am excited that he will continue his great work as director of the Office of Emergency Medical Services,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“Under his leadership, Minnesota’s EMS professionals will receive the guidance necessary to provide the highest level of care and support to our communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am deeply honored to be appointed as the inaugural director of the new Office of Emergency Medical Services,”</strong> said Dylan Ferguson. <strong>“Throughout my career, I have been committed to supporting the EMS professionals our communities rely on daily. I look forward to collaborating with the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, state agencies, legislative partners, and the entire Minnesota community to further strengthen and enhance our statewide EMS system.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About</em> <em>Dylan Ferguson <br /></em>Dylan Ferguson has served as the executive director of the Minnesota Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board since February 2022 where he led multiple administrative and operational improvements. An EMS practitioner for two decades, he previously served as the director of the Bureau of EMS for the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Prior to joining state service, Ferguson served as the director of the McLean County Area EMS System in Central Illinois. He holds an M.A. in emergency and disaster management from American Public University and a B.S. from Illinois State University in political science and government.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About</em> <em>the Office of Emergency Medical Services <br /></em>The Office of Emergency Medical Services is a new office developed to regulate and support the emergency medical services industry. The office credentials EMS practitioners, including emergency medical technicians and paramedics, and administers grant funds to regional EMS systems. The office also provides oversight and effective regulation of licensed ambulance services and EMS education programs. The office is a successor to the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board.</p>6503872024-10-24T20:08:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-650288" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-23T19:30:49ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that Minnesota schools served more than 150 million meals to students in the first year of the Minnesota Free School Meals Program. The program saved Minnesota families approximately $1,000 per student. More than 150 million meals were served in the program’s first year, saving families thousands of dollars1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that Minnesota schools served more than 150 million meals to students in the first year of the Minnesota Free School Meals Program. The program saved Minnesota families approximately $1,000 per student. To celebrate the success, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan visited Oak View Elementary to serve breakfast to students. Photos of the Lieutenant Governor’s visit are available on <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720321452153%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Ce5931a07efd74e28c38408dcf392c482%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638653058932156451%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=EORfk8An9lcXo3sqUn66V65MxanzRHa0Sm2t8mRqPys%3D&amp;reserved=0">Flickr.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a former teacher, I know that learning has everything to do with how our kids are set up for success outside the classroom. By providing breakfast and lunch at school every day, we’re ensuring our children are prepared to learn,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“In partnership with the Minnesota Department of Education, we’re setting our students up for success, reducing grocery bills, and making mornings a little easier for families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am proud to be celebrating the first year of our free school meals program,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“When our kids are fed, they are better able to focus, learn, and tackle their busy days. By providing free breakfast and lunch at school, we’re nurturing our children, saving families thousands of dollars, investing in the long term future of Minnesota, and creating the best state in the country for kids.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">According to the Minnesota Department of Education, the number of school lunches served during the 2023-24 school year increased by 13.6 million meals compared to the same time period in 2022 – 2023, a 15 percent increase. The number of school breakfasts served to students last fall increased by 13.8 million meals compared to the previous school year, a 40 percent increase.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s commitment to feeding our kids is a commitment to their learning and development,”</strong> said Commissioner Jett. <strong>“Thank you to school staff for your dedication to providing high-quality, nutritious meals to students. Your hard work has led to more kids getting meals, giving them the foundation they need for a healthy day at school.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz signed Free School Meals for Kids into law in March 2023, to help make sure no student goes hungry, lower costs for families, and remove stigma from the cafeteria. The legislation allows students to get breakfast and lunch at no cost at schools that participate in both the federal National School Lunch Program and federal School Breakfast Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">​All public school districts in Minnesota participate in the Minnesota Free School Meals Program. ​An additional 167 charter schools and 163 private schools or residential child care institutions also participate in the Minnesota Free School Meals Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Paired with the success of this summer’s inaugural Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer program, Minnesota is ensuring families are supported and kids are well-nourished year-round. For more information, visit <a href="https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/FNS/SNP/free/">Minnesota Free School Meals: First Year Preliminary Summary</a> .</p>6502882024-10-23T19:32:06Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-650034" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-21T20:52:40ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota received $138 million in federal funding to improve I-494, one of the busiest corridors in the Twin Cities Metropolitan area. The funding comes from President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.Funding was made possible by the Biden-Harris Bipartisan Infrastructure Law1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota received $138 million in federal funding to improve I-494, one of the busiest corridors in the Twin Cities Metropolitan area. The funding comes from President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Interstate 494 is both a critical connection to the Minneapolis – St. Paul International Airport and a vital</strong> <strong>trucking route in Minnesota and the Upper Midwest,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These dollars will help us ensure the long-term economic vitality of the region while improving the safety and efficiency of our transportation system.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This funding will both improve this corridor for the traveling public and help us with efforts to reduce vehicle miles traveled by encouraging more options and car-sharing while also improving mobility and safety,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Transportation Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The funding is provided through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) program. INFRA supports highway and freight projects aimed at improving the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of freight and people in and across rural and urban areas.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The funding will be used to help complete the I-494 Airport to Highway 169 corridor project, which includes adding E-ZPass lanes on I-494 in both directions between Highway 169 and East Bush Lake Road, and I-35W and Highway 77. The project will also replace old infrastructure including a railroad bridge over I-494 between Lyndale Avenue and Nicollet Avenue and reconstruct the interchange at I-35W and 82nd Street.</p>6500342024-10-21T20:53:51Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-650027" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-21T20:50:55ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointments of Christopher Bates and Matthew Schmidt as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointments of Christopher Bates and Matthew Schmidt as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. These seats will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Christopher Bates will replace the Honorable Janet L. Barke Cain.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my pleasure to appoint Christopher Bates to the Dakota County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Whether working to improve outcomes for victims experiencing domestic violence or helping future generations reach their full potential, his focus has always been on improving lives. He will bring a valuable perspective to this court and the entire First Judicial District.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Matthew Schmidt will replace the Honorable Timothy J. McManus.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Matthew Schmidt will be a remarkable judge,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“As an established criminal defense attorney and a longtime resident of this community, he is ready to do the work of the people and continue moving the needle towards justice.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s First Judicial District consists of Carver, Dakota, Goodhue, Le Sueur, McLeod, Scott, and Sibley Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Christopher Bates <br /></em>Christopher Bates is the deputy director and chief general counsel of the Minnesota Cannabis Expungement Board. He previously served as an assistant county attorney for the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, an assistant city attorney for the Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office, and an assistant county attorney for the McLeod County Attorney’s Office. Bates’s community involvement includes serving on the board of directors for Mental Health Resources, volunteering with the Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities, and serving as a mock trial judge with the Minnesota State Bar Association. He earned his B.A. and J.D. from Hamline University.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Matthew Schmidt <br /></em>Matthew Schmidt is a partner at Ho &amp; Schmidt, LLP and a part-time public defender in the First Judicial District Public Defender’s Office. He was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Joy D. Bartscher on the Second Judicial District. Schmidt’s community involvement includes being a member of the South St. Paul Lions Club, where he volunteers for elementary vision screenings and helps raise funds for local athletic teams and the K-9 police fund. He also volunteers with his sons’ sports teams. Schmidt earned his B.A. from Gustavus Adolphus College and J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6500272024-10-21T20:53:47Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-649813" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-18T21:17:34ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the 2024 Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener will take place in east-central Minnesota at the Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center in Sandstone.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that the 2024 Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener will take place in east-central Minnesota at the Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center in Sandstone.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The season opener is a treasured event that brings communities together and connects us with the outdoors,”</strong> said Governor Walz<strong>.</strong> <strong>“I am grateful to the Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center in Sandstone for hosting this year’s deer hunting opener. Their exceptional natural resources and world-class educational facilities will make for a great opening weekend.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year’s celebration is organized by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Explore Minnesota, in partnership with Backcountry Hunters &amp; Anglers, Bluffland Whitetails Association, and the Minnesota Conservation Federation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am thrilled that the Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center will host this year’s Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener. They offer a phenomenal location to showcase Minnesota’s beautiful natural resources and hunting lands,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“I wish the best of luck to the 400,000 hunters who will participate this season.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s recognition and celebration of Minnesota’s firearms deer hunting season opener will be on Friday, Nov. 8, and Saturday, Nov. 9, at Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center in Sandstone, a nonprofit organization that provides children, adults, and families with outdoor learning and experiences year-round at their 780-acre nature campus.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Each year I look forward to welcoming Minnesota deer hunters to deer camp, wherever that deer camp may be. It’s a Minnesota tradition that is as much about the memories made with friends and family, both old and new, and our connections to the outdoors as it is about the harvest,”</strong> said Minnesota DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“I am excited to join partners and members of the Sandstone community to make those memories and connections as Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center hosts this year’s Minnesota Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The location of this year’s Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener provides the opportunity to highlight</strong> <strong>Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center in Sandstone, an education facility with historic roots on Grindstone Lake that serves more than 15,000 children, adults and families each year,”</strong> Explore Minnesota Director Lauren Bennett McGinty said. <strong>“Minnesota’s annual deer hunting season is a significant driver of spending at tourism-related businesses beyond summer and fall color seasons. The dollars invested by deer hunters provide crucial support to local businesses, serving as a cornerstone for the overall economic well-being of our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Highlights of the 2024 Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener include a listening session, lymph node extraction demo, deer processing demo and venison sampling, and a tour of Sandstone Wildlife Management Area.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We were impressed with the event last year and we’re thrilled to participate as a partner again this year,”</strong> said Taylor Bestor, Bluffland Whitetails Association president. <strong>“The Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener shines light on the great tradition of the Minnesota deer hunting opening weekend. Helping new hunters continues to be a highlight for me.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“At Minnesota Backcountry Hunters &amp; Anglers, we love helping people form connections to other people and to the natural world. One of the best ways to make those connections is by sharing food that we hunt. At this year’s Governors Deer Hunting Opener, Minnesota BHA is proud to present a venison sampler meal,”</strong> said Neal Jacobson, Backcountry Hunters &amp; Anglers, Minnesota chapter board member. <strong>“Communing over meals is where stories are shared, traditions are honored, and new friendships are forged.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As hunters begin their preparation for opening day, consider the impact you can make by guiding a newcomer into the world of hunting,”</strong> said Brad Gausman, Minnesota Conservation Federation executive director. <strong>“Introducing someone to hunting is an investment in our shared legacy. Let’s ensure that Minnesota’s hunting traditions endure by sharing the passion this year.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is known nationwide for its natural resources and outdoor recreation. Hunting is even enshrined in our state’s constitution. At Osprey Wilds, we are both excited and honored to host this year’s annual Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener,”</strong> said Bryan Wood, Osprey Wilds executive director. <strong>“Hunting plays a vital role in our state’s conservation efforts and provides an avenue for people of all backgrounds to connect with the outdoors.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener, now in its third decade, is a unique event celebrating the state’s white-tailed deer hunting heritage. Beyond tradition, it also fosters conversations on deer management, promotes outdoor skills, encourages new participants, and underscores the economic benefits of hunting and tourism.</p>6498132024-10-18T21:19:17Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-649733" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-17T20:49:48ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the manufacturer Sofidel will make a $200 million expansion in Duluth, supported by $5 million in business expansion funding from the State of Minnesota. The expansion will create at least 160 new jobs, tripling the company’s current workforce size.Sofidel expansion is supported by a $5 million investment from the State and is expected to create 160 new jobs1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that the manufacturer Sofidel will make a $200 million expansion in Duluth, supported by $5 million in business expansion funding from the State of Minnesota. The expansion will create at least 160 new jobs, tripling the company’s current workforce size.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is a top state for innovation in manufacturing </strong><strong>for a reason. Our investment in Sofidel is creating jobs and reinforcing Minnesota as a top place to live and work</strong> <strong>,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“In partnership with our Department of Employment and Economic Development, we are creating high-growth, high-demand, good-paying jobs, and building a stronger economy all across our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Funding comes from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) Job Creation Fund (JCF) and Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF). The JCF provides financial incentives to new and expanding businesses that meet certain job creation and capital investment targets. The MIF provides financing to help add new workers and retain high-quality jobs – with a focus on industrial, manufacturing, and technology-related industries – increasing the local and state tax base and improving Minnesota's economic vitality.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>This is an incredible investment in Duluth and the entire state – one that reinforces the company’s commitment to excellence in the paper manufacturing industry and northern Minnesota’s economic vitality,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“It’s an important demonstration of a public/private partnership – and Sofidel’s presence and efforts will contribute not only to the local and state economies but to the fabric of the community as well.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sofidel will expand their existing facility into an integrated, state-of-the-art production plant where raw materials are processed, manufactured, and packaged into finished goods such as paper towels, bath tissues, and napkins. The company will construct an automated warehouse for product storage and distribution. Construction will take place in phases beginning in late 2024 and continuing through late 2026. The completed project size will be nearly 600,000 square feet.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"This expansion is a testament to our long-term commitment to growth and innovation in the North American market. In Duluth, we found a favorable operating environment, with a skilled and dedicated workforce, and strong partnerships with local institutions and the community. These factors encouraged us to further invest in this facility,”</strong> said Simone Giacomelli, Integration Manager at Sofidel. <strong>“We are also grateful for the tremendous support from the State of Minnesota and the City of Duluth, which has been essential in bringing this project to life."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"I am incredibly grateful to the teams at</strong> <strong>Sofidel and DEED, as well as our fantastic City of Duluth staff, all of whom worked tirelessly to ensure the complicated pieces of this major expansion and development fell into place,”</strong> said Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert. <strong>“This is an investment in funding, jobs and to bringing a vibrant life to this manufacturing facility for decades to come. Duluth has a long and proud tradition of making things, especially related to the regional natural resource economy, and we're thrilled Sofidel sees that and is becoming part of that tradition."</strong></p>6497332024-10-17T20:51:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-649589" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-16T22:43:19ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Ortonville will host the 2025 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Ortonville will host the 2025 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am excited that the community of Ortonville will host the 2025 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The pheasant hunting opener celebrates our beautiful public lands and outdoor recreation, and Ortonville offers an excellent location for this time-honored tradition.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Big Stone Lake Area Chamber of Commerce applied on behalf of the community to host the 2025 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. Ortonville was then selected through a process that considered available hunting land, travel and tourism opportunities and community support.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are excited to host the 2025 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,”</strong> said Artie Arndt, Ortonville Chamber of Commerce VP/Tourism director. <strong>“Ortonville, Big Stone County, and its area sporting and wildlife organizations have a powerful impact, and we are looking forward to showing off the rich landscapes, welcoming community, and ample outdoor recreation opportunities. With over 25,000 acres of public hunting land, 12,000 acres of amazing fishing and a beautiful 18-hole golf course, the Ortonville area is one of the state’s best areas to live, work and play.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Ortonville is located along the western border of the state almost midway between the north and south boundaries and about 190 miles west of the Twin Cities. The community is known for scenic landscapes and boasts exceptional fishing and hunting within the county. Ortonville has a population of 2,021 and is the Big Stone County seat.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Ortonville will be a fantastic place to host the 2025 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,”</strong> said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“In addition to great hunting opportunities, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities at Big Stone Lake State Park or any one of the nearly two dozen Wildlife Management Areas nearby. For these reasons and more, we look forward to working with the city of Ortonville as we plan for next year’s big event!”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 2025 event, scheduled for Oct. 10-11, will be the 13th annual Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Explore Minnesota will assist local partners in planning the event.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Initiated by Gov. Mark Dayton in 2011, the event has been hosted by eight different communities, including Montevideo (2011 and 2016), Marshall (2012 and 2017), Madelia (2013), Worthington (2014 and 2022), Mankato (2015), Luverne (2018), Austin (2019), Owatonna (2023), and Sleepy Eye (2024).</p>6495892024-10-16T22:44:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-649351" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-15T17:20:48ZAs Hennepin County takes a critical step toward Governor Tim Walz’s goal to end veteran homelessness in the state, Governor Walz has proclaimed Veteran Homelessness Prevention and Awareness Day in Minnesota. Today Hennepin County became the ninth of 10 geographic areas in Minnesota to functionally end veteran homelessness. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – As Hennepin County takes a critical step toward Governor Tim Walz’s goal to end veteran homelessness in the state, Governor Walz has proclaimed Veteran Homelessness Prevention and Awareness Day in Minnesota. Today Hennepin County became the ninth of 10 geographic areas in Minnesota to functionally end veteran homelessness.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is committed to providing the best services and care for our veterans. Today we are one step closer to becoming the fourth state in the country to end veteran homelessness,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This wouldn’t be possible without our dedicated team at the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs and those across Hennepin County working tirelessly to meet the needs of every veteran. I extend my gratitude to everyone who has worked to bring us closer to achieving this goal.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Everyone deserves a safe place to call home, especially our warriors who have sacrificed so much to protect our state and our country,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am proud of the incredible undertaking of Hennepin County and the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, together we are ending veteran homelessness in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">When establishing its goal to end veteran homelessness in Minnesota, the state utilized 10 “continuums of care” based on geographic locations: West Central, Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest, Suburban Metro Area, Central, Hennepin County, St. Louis County, and Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hennepin County is the ninth continuum of care to receive a declaration of functionally no homeless veterans within its boundaries. Ramsey County will be the final continuum of care to end veteran homelessness in the state. Minnesota is on track to become the fourth state to end veteran homelessness.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Earlier this year, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs opened three new veterans homes in Bemidji, Montevideo, and Preston. Minnesota is the only state to open three new veterans homes simultaneously. The homes allow Minnesota to serve almost 200 more veterans needing skilled nursing care as they age.</p>6493512024-10-15T17:21:59Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-649344" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-15T16:54:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota will send additional personnel and supplies to South Carolina to assist in recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota will send additional personnel and supplies to South Carolina to assist in recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In the wake of this devastating hurricane season, Minnesota will continue to provide every possible resource to support communities across the south,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am proud of our dedicated emergency responders and public servants. They are making a critical difference.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) will deploy 10 staff members to operate heavy equipment and provide transportation support. They will also provide trucks, trailers, nurse tanks, chainsaws, protective equipment, and communications equipment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In response to landfall of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Governor Walz signed Emergency Executive Orders 24-10 and 24-12, authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance in Florida and North Carolina under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). Eleven soldiers from the Minnesota National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 171st Aviation Regiment, were deployed to North Carolina and thirteen airmen from the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing were deployed to Florida. The airmen from the Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing have since moved to North Carolina to provide emergency assistance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The St. Louis County Mobile Command Post and the Minnesota All Hazard Incident Management Team were also deployed to North Carolina and South Carolina. Following an additional EMAC request, ten MnDOT team members from northern Minnesota have been deployed to assist with recovery efforts in South Carolina. Their deployment includes the provision of supplies to assist with debris removal. They will continue recovery efforts in South Carolina through the end of October.</p>6493442024-10-15T16:55:18Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-649251" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-14T18:46:07ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending four candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Robert D. Tiffany and the Honorable Korey Wahwassuck. These seats will be chambered in Park Rapids in Hubbard County and Grand Rapids in Itasca County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending four candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Robert D. Tiffany and the Honorable Korey Wahwassuck. These seats will be chambered in Park Rapids in Hubbard County and Grand Rapids in Itasca County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heather Labat: </strong>Heather Labat is an assistant city attorney for the City of Bemidji, where she prosecutes misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases. She was previously a staff attorney with Legal Services of Northwest Minnesota and Anishinaabe Legal Services, an assistant county attorney in the Clearwater County Attorney’s Office, an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office, and a law clerk for the Honorable Lyonel F. Norris in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Labat’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Beltrami County Drug Court and serving on the board of directors for BI-CAP, an organization that helps low-income people in Beltrami and Cass counties. Her community involvement has also included serving as a high school mock trial judge and mentor in the Students First program with the Beltrami Area Service Collaborative.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kathryn Lorsbach:</strong> Kathryn Lorsbach is the county attorney in the Clearwater County Attorney’s Office, where she handles a broad range of criminal and civil matters. She was previously an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District and a law clerk for the Honorable Jonathan N. Jasper in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. Lorsbach’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Clearwater County DUI Treatment Court, the Clearwater Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative, and the Anishinaabe Sexual Assault Response Team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jordan Olsen:</strong> Jordan Olsen is a managing attorney in the Itasca County and Koochiching County public defender’s offices in the Ninth Judicial District. He was previously an assistant public defender in several counties across the Ninth Judicial District and a law clerk for the Honorable Anne M. Rasmusson in the Ninth Judicial District. Olsen is a member of the Public Defender DNA/Forensics team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kimberly Wimmer: </strong>Kimberly Wimmer is the executive vice president and general counsel of TruStar Federal Credit Union, where she assists with the overall leadership of the credit union and oversees all legal matters for its six branches in northern Minnesota. She previously worked as a solo practitioner at Wimmer Law Office, P.A., where she handled both civil and criminal matters and worked as an assistant public defender for the State of Minnesota. Wimmer's community involvement includes serving on the Borderland Treatment Court Team; acting as a board member, secretary, and treasurer for Friends Against Abuse; serving as a board member and treasurer of the Littlefork-Big Falls School Board; and volunteering with various academic and athletic programs in local schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6492512024-10-14T18:47:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-649199" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-12T17:47:40ZToday, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan celebrated the twelfth annual Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener in Sleepy Eye and Brown County. The weekend included a public lands celebration, community gathering, hunters’ breakfast, and a post-hunt lunch.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan celebrated the twelfth annual Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener in Sleepy Eye and Brown County. The weekend included a public lands celebration, community gathering, hunters’ breakfast, and a post-hunt lunch.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a lifelong hunter and Pheasants Forever member, I look forward to this weekend all year,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Hunting is a time-honored tradition in Minnesota that boosts our tourism economy and brings folks together outdoors. Thanks to the conservation work of Minnesota Pheasants Forever members, we’re ensuring this sport will be passed on to new generations. I’m wishing all Minnesotans a safe and successful hunting season.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It was a wonderful weekend to celebrate the Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener and showcase the best of Minnesota: our deep traditions, beautiful public lands, and strong outdoor recreation industry,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I’m grateful to the Sleepy Eye community for showing such hospitality and hosting a very successful opener.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With more than 400,000 Minnesotans participating in the state’s diverse hunting activities each year, hunting is a driver of the state’s tourism and outdoor recreation industries. The pheasant, grouse, and quail-hunting industries have a multi-million-dollar impact on the state economy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is a fantastic time of year to enjoy Minnesota’s public lands with fellow hunters, and there’s a wealth of public lands to choose from in the Sleepy Eye area,”</strong> said Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“Thanks to the Sleepy Eye community for their hospitality and showing us the best of what the area has to offer. We loved hearing from people about the value public lands and outdoor recreation bring to the community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Friday afternoon, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan and Commissioner Strommen attended a public lands celebration that recognized conservation efforts on the Rosenau-Lambrecht Wildlife Management Area. They also attended a community gathering in downtown Sleepy Eye with community members and leaders.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Saturday morning, Governor Walz hunted on the land of Matt Kucharski, former chair of the National Pheasants Forever board. Also joining the hunt were Marilyn Vetter, president and CEO of Pheasants Forever, and Scott Rall, president of Nobles County Pheasants Forever.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lieutenant Governor Flanagan hunted on the land of Tim Kraskey, Brown County Pheasants Forever chapter president. Her hunting party also included Explore Minnesota Tourism Executive Director Lauren Bennett McGinty; DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife Director Kelly Straka; Danielle LaRae Bowman, a Sleepy Eye resident and avid hunter; and Lily Kallevig, a senior at Sleepy Eye High School and member of the trap shooting team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 2024 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener showcased the many hunting, recreational, and community opportunities that Sleepy Eye and Brown County have to offer.</p>6491992024-10-15T21:48:09Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-649023" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-10T20:22:22ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Peter A. Cahill and Honorable Susan M. Robiner. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Peter A. Cahill and Honorable Susan M. Robiner. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on October 31 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in November.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Fourth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6490232024-10-10T20:23:55Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-649022" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-09T20:20:30ZToday, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is highlighting the life-saving work of the Minnesota National Guard and emergency responders who are providing emergency assistance to North Carolina and South Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene and Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton. Governor Walz has issued two executive orders directing the Minnesota National Guard to provide immediate emergency assistance. The state is constantly monitoring the need for additional support. Minnesota National Guard soldiers have transported over 30,000 pounds of cargo, including water, food, medicine, survival equipment, and relief supplies 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is highlighting the life-saving work of the Minnesota National Guard and emergency responders who are providing emergency assistance to North Carolina and South Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene and Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton. Governor Walz has issued two executive orders directing the Minnesota National Guard to provide immediate emergency assistance. The state is constantly monitoring the need for additional support.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota will provide every resource we can to support communities across the south that have been devastated by Hurricane Helene and are preparing for Hurricane Milton,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“​In this time of crisis, Minnesota’s citizen soldiers and first responders have demonstrated unyielding dedication. Their efforts are making a critical difference,</strong> <strong>helping impacted areas with everything from debris removal to moving food and medical supplies.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last week, ​Governor Walz signed Emergency Executive Order 24-10 authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance to North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene following a request from the Governor of North Carolina under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. Eleven soldiers and two Chinook helicopters from the Minnesota National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 171st Aviation Regiment, continue to support the mission in North Carolina. Over the last two days, they have supported seven missions transporting 30,600 pounds of cargo, including water, food, medicine, cold weather gear, tools, and other relief items. ​</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Monday, Governor Walz signed Emergency Executive Order 24-12 authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance to Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton. Thirteen airmen from the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing are en route to Florida and expected to arrive tomorrow. The Minnesota National Guard is working with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management division to determine mission requirements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota National Guard, St. Louis County Mobile Command Post, and the Minnesota All Hazard Incident Management Team are also on site in North Carolina and South Carolina assisting with recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The St. Louis County Emergency Mobile Command Post is deployed to Mitchell County, NC, to serve as the county’s mobile command post. The mobile command post is the county’s emergency operations center, coordinating response and recovery efforts. The MN-1 All Hazards Incident Management Team, based out of Anoka County, is currently working in Aiken County, SC, assisting with damage assessments and debris removal.</p>6490222024-10-10T20:21:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-648733" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-09T20:10:38ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $52 million in grants to expand broadband access to an estimated 7,700 homes and businesses throughout Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced $52 million in grants to expand broadband access to an estimated 7,700 homes and businesses throughout Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Investing in broadband infrastructure benefits businesses and communities across the state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“</strong> <strong>By connecting thousands of Minnesotans to businesses, education, and health care through broadband, we’re making Minnesota the best place to work, live, and do business.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Earlier this year, Governor Walz announced over <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/611711">$50 million to expand broadband access</a> to an estimated 8,900 homes and businesses throughout Minnesota. In May 2023, Governor Walz signed legislation providing $100 million to the state’s broadband grant funding program for the biennium.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Broadband is an essential resource</strong><strong>that gives Minnesota an economic competitive edge and provides more choices on where to work and live,”</strong>said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“</strong> <strong>It bolsters communities’ efforts to not only promote business attraction and expansion, but also empowers existing businesses with the many benefits that high-speed service can provide.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The grant awards announced today will help broadband providers expand high-speed broadband service in 24 counties across Minnesota. The grants come from <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/broadband/grant-program/" target="_blank">two DEED programs</a>:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$25 million from DEED's flagship Border-to-Border Broadband Program, through which broadband provider grantees are reimbursed for up to half the eligible cost of deploying broadband infrastructure, with funding for a single project capped at $10 million.</li> <li>$27 million from the Low Population Density Program, which offers grants to providers building broadband service to areas of Minnesota with particularly low population densities and high broadband deployment costs. The grants can be worth up to $10 million and cover up to 75% of the total cost of a project.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To date, DEED has awarded over $400 million in Border-to-Border or Low Population Density grants, providing broadband access to nearly 120,000 homes and businesses. Communities and internet service providers contributed over $48 million in matching funds for this grant round and over $400 million for all grant rounds to date.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED will continue administering nearly $652 million in federal <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/583127" target="_blank">Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program</a>funding from the Biden-Harris Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to expand broadband to the most unserved and underserved Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>Minnesota’s impressive broadband infrastructure progress and ongoing efforts are largely due to strong partnerships. As we celebrate this 10-year milestone, I want to thank our state leaders for appropriating the funds needed to continue this essential work and applaud our county and community leaders who recognized broadband’s value and provided the matching funds required to qualify for these state grants,”</strong>said Office of Broadband Development Executive Director Bree Maki. <strong>“I also want to commend our state’s broadband providers – from national names to small community co-ops and family-run businesses – who stepped forward to take on projects that are often challenging or located in the state’s most remote regions.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>List of Border-to-Border Grantees by County:</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aitkin <br /></strong>Mille Lacs Energy Cooperative <br /> $1,808,768</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carlton <br /></strong>Consolidated Telephone Company <br /> $2,127,530</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Fair</strong><strong>bault, Freeborn <br /></strong>Blue Earth Valley Telephone Company <br /> $1,779,163</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Fillmore <br /></strong>Ace Telephone Association <br /> $2,567,200</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Fillmore, Olmsted, Winona <br /></strong>MiEnergy Cooperative <br /> $3,164,721</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Isanti,</strong> <strong>Kanabec, Mille Lacs <br /></strong>East Central Energy <br /> $3,267,902</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kandiyohi <br /></strong>Meeker Cooperative Light &amp; Power Association – Gennessee Township <br /> $662,430 <br /> Meeker Cooperative Light &amp; Power Association – Kandiyohi Township <br /> $744,965</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mille Lacs <br /></strong>East Central Energy <br /> $3,604,567</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Morrison <br /></strong>Benton Cooperative Telephone Company <br /> $1,248,430</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nobles <br /></strong>Lismore Cooperative Telephone Co <br /> $208,598</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Olmsted <br /></strong>Kasson &amp; Mantorville Telephone Company <br /> $515,564</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>St. Louis <br /></strong>Mediacom LLC – Lakewood Normanna <br /> $145,000 <br /> Mediacom LLC – Lakewood South <br /> $232,800</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stearns <br /></strong>Meeker Cooperative Light &amp; Power Association <br /> $542,077 <br /> Arvig <br /> $708,790</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> <strong>Washington <br /></strong>Midco <br /> $689,700</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Wright <br /></strong>Meeker Cooperative Light &amp; Power Association <br /> $945,133</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tot</strong><strong>al: $24,963,338</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>List of Low Population Density Grantees by County</strong>:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Clearwater, Mahnomen <br /></strong>Garden Valley Telephone Company <br /> $4,626,012</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Le Sueur <br /></strong>Bevcomm Inc <br /> $1,101,801</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Martin <br /></strong>Federated Rural Electric Association <br /> $8,008,419</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Murray <br /></strong>Woodstock Telephone Company <br /> $2,914,733</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Otter Tail <br /></strong>Otter Tail Telcom <br /> $3,700,198</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>St. Louis <br /></strong>Paul Bunyan Rural Telephone Cooperative <br /> $3,924,157</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stearns <br /></strong>Runestone Telecom Association <br /> $1,538,614</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Waseca <br /></strong>Bevcomm Inc <br /> $1,186,050</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Total</strong> <strong>: $26,999,984</strong></p>6487332024-10-09T20:13:51Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-648479" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-08T01:30:28ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota starting immediately, in honor and remembrance of Law Enforcement Park Ranger Kevin Grossheim. Ranger Grossheim died while responding to a call in Voyageurs National Park.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota starting immediately, in honor and remembrance of Law Enforcement Park Ranger Kevin Grossheim. Ranger Grossheim died while responding to a call in Voyageurs National Park.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Kevin Grossheim was a dedicated ranger and public servant, known for his unwavering commitment to helping others,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota mourns this tragic loss, and requests all flags be lowered in recognition of Ranger Grossheim’s service and sacrifice.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6484792024-10-08T01:33:15Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-648474" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-07T21:26:45ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports, Board of Podiatric Medicine, Board of Water and Soil Resources, Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority, Food Safety and Defense Task Force, Minnesota Commission on the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing, and the Statewide Independent Living Council.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports, Board of Podiatric Medicine, Board of Water and Soil Resources, Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority, Food Safety and Defense Task Force, Minnesota Commission on the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing, and the Statewide Independent Living Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Cahill – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Michael Tripple</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports: <br /></em>The Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports licenses administrators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, conducts studies of nursing home and assisted living administration, approves continuing education programs for administrators, and investigates complaints and allegations of rule violations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Executives for Long-term Services and Supports can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/23">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christopher Neese – Champlin, MN <br /></strong>Board of Podiatric Medicine <br /> Doctor <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Jackie Pham</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Podiatric Medicine: <br /></em>The board licenses doctors of podiatric medicine, disciplines licensees, and registers corporations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Podiatric Medicine can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/31">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Schulz– Sebeka, MN <br /></strong>Board of Water and Soil Resources <br /> Soil and Water District Supervisor #2 <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Kurt Beckstrom</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Water and Soil Resources: <br /></em>The board oversees and coordinates the water and soil resources management activities of local units of government through approval of local plans, administration of state grants, cost-sharing contracts, performance evaluation, and administrative appeals and hearings. The board’s mission is to improve and protect Minnesota’s water and soil resources by working in partnership with local organizations and private landowners.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Water and Soil Resources can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/38">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kristi Schmidt – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Mary Finnegan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority: <br /></em>The authority is committed to helping provide a multi-dimensional entertainment and convention facility with high quality integrated support services that will maximize the economic and social benefit to the Duluth business community, investors, clients, and customers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/56">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Steven Foster – Elk River, MN <br /></strong>Food Safety and Defense Task Force <br /> Health or Food Professional <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Brent Kobielush</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ruth Linkenmeyer Meirick – Kasson, MN <br /></strong>Food Safety and Defense Task Force <br /> Statewide Farm Organization Representative <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stanley Osuagwu – New Brighton, MN <br /></strong>Food Safety and Defense Task Force <br /> Health or Food Professional <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Courtney Bidney</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carrie Rigdon – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Food Safety and Defense Task Force <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Steven Foster</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julia Selleys – Edina, MN <br /></strong>Food Safety and Defense Task Force <br /> Local Food Inspection Agency Representative <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Webber – New Prague, MN <br /></strong>Food Safety and Defense Task Force <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Christopher Gindorff</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Food Safety and Defense Task Force: <br /></em>The Food Safety and Defense Task Force advises the commissioner of agriculture and the legislature on food issues and food safety. The task force coordinates educational efforts regarding food safety, provides advice and coordination to state agencies as requested by the agencies, serves as a source of information and referral for the public, news media, and others concerned with food safety, and makes recommendations to Congress.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Food Safety and Defense Task Force can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/61">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Adrienne Haugen – Olivia, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing <br /> Advisory Committee Member #4 <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alison Mehlhorn – Oakdale, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaron Peterson – Warren, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing <br /> Advisory Committee Member #5 <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Samantha Porter – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karla Sand – Maplewood, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission on the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing: <br /></em>The Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing represents and advocates for deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing Minnesotans via public policy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Commission on the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/185">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy McClellan – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: October 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Gloria Lafriniere</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Statewide Independent Living Council: <br /></em>The Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council (MNSILC) works collaboratively with the Centers for Independent Living to create, monitor, review, and evaluate the State Plan for Independent Living. MNSILC coordinates activities with other entities in the state that provide services similar or complementary to independent living services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Statewide Independent Living Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/152">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://www.sos.state.mn.us/boards-commissions/">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6484742024-10-07T21:30:35Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-648432" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-07T19:46:08ZMinnesota Governor Tim Walz today signed Emergency Executive Order 24-12 authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance to Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz today signed Emergency Executive Order 24-12 authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance to Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota will provide every resource we can to support communities across the south that have been devastated this hurricane season,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“In this time of crisis, Minnesota’s first responders have demonstrated unyielding dedication. Their efforts are making a critical difference.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene made landfall, Hurricane Milton is rapidly intensifying and expected to overwhelm local emergency response teams. To manage widespread damage, Florida has requested assistance and support from first responders under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota National Guard is working with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management division to determine mission requirements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota National Guard, St. Louis County Mobile Command Post, and the Minnesota All Hazard Incident Management Team are also on site in North Carolina and South Carolina assisting with recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About EMAC <br /></em> EMAC is a mutual aid agreement between all 50 states. A requesting state asks for resources (people, equipment, etc.) based on their needs. Agencies in other states with those resources are able to respond to a request, but there is no obligation to participate. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management division coordinates the state’s EMAC requests.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Emergency Executive Order goes into effect today, October 7, 2024, and will remain in effect until National Guard resources are no longer required, or until November 6, 2024, whichever occurs first.</p>6484322024-10-07T19:47:53Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-648404" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-07T18:07:38ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Jessica Fralich as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. Fralich will replace the Honorable David M. Johnson and will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Jessica Fralich as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. Fralich will replace the Honorable David M. Johnson and will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to appoint Jessica Fralich to the St. Louis County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Ms. Fralich’s diverse practice background will help her step in immediately and tackle the variety of challenges thrown her way.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I applaud the appointment of Jessica Fralich,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“</strong><strong>Whether it is serving as Duluth’s city attorney or working as a judicial referee, her commitment to service and community is at the heart of what drives her. Her deep familiarity and understanding of the St. Louis County justice system will make her a great asset to this bench.</strong>”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District encompasses Carlton, Cook, Lake, and St. Louis counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Fralich:</strong> Jessica Fralich is the city attorney for the City of Duluth, where she oversees both civil and criminal litigation and advisory matters. She previously served as a referee for the Sixth Judicial District and as a prosecutor for the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office. Fralich has served as a team member for Domestic Violence Restorative Circles, the Domestic Violence Response Team, and the Range Coordinated Community Response Team. Her community involvement includes working with local agencies to develop and provide training designed to increase awareness regarding the impact of domestic abuse and ensure implementation of best practices by system professionals. Fralich earned her B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p>6484042024-10-07T18:10:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-648233" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-04T18:19:35ZGovernor Tim Walz today took executive action to make the State of Minnesota a recovery-friendly workplace. Under Executive Order 24-11, the state will adopt policies and procedures to increase support for employees in recovery. This executive order builds on legislation from the 2023 session establishing a statewide Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative by positioning state government to lead by example. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today took executive action to make the State of Minnesota a recovery-friendly workplace. Under Executive Order 24-11, the state will adopt policies and procedures to increase support for employees in recovery. This executive order builds on legislation from the 2023 session establishing a statewide <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/opioids/documents/2024compaleg.pdf">Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative</a> by positioning state government to lead by example.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>S</strong><strong>ubstance use disorder is a challenging journey</strong><strong>. P</strong><strong>roviding</strong><strong>support</strong> <strong>for employees’ health in the workplace is key to both achieving and sustaining recovery,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By increasing respect and support</strong><strong>for those in recovery</strong><strong>, we</strong><strong>can do a better job of</strong> <strong>retaining employees, supporting communities, and promoting the economic vitality of our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans dealing with substance use disorder deserve support, respect, and dignity, both at home and at work,”</strong> said Lieutenant Peggy Governor Flanagan<strong>.</strong> <strong>“As the second-largest employer in the state, I’m proud we’re taking steps to promote support for all Minnesotans in the workplace.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Recovery-friendly workplaces are work environments that assist employees with substance use disorder or in recovery, by:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>facilitating access to treatment and support for employees with substance use disorder and their families;</li> <li>coordinating the return to work;</li> <li>reducing the risk of substance use disorder through education</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Under Executive Order 24-11, state agencies will work collaboratively to facilitate conversations within state government and with state and local health agencies to provide education on substance use disorder. Additionally, agencies will strengthen staff training on opioids and substance use and provide enhanced education on substance use disorder to all Minnesotans. The Office of Addiction and Recovery will produce an annual report on the continued progress of the state’s recovery-friendly workplace initiatives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are appreciative of the Governor’s leadership and executive order directing the State of Minnesota to become a recovery-friendly workplace,”</strong> said Minnesota Building and Construction Trades Council President Dan McConnell. <strong>“By supporting employees who are in recovery and fostering an inclusive, supportive work environment, our state is taking proactive steps to address addiction and support improved mental health in our community. This initiative not only enhances the health and well-being of our state workforce but also strengthens our economy by reducing turnover, improving productivity, and promoting long-term recovery success. This is a great step towards building a stronger, healthier, and more resilient future for everyone.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We know firsthand that treatment works and recovery pays important dividends to everyone in Minnesota,”</strong> said William C. Moyers, vice president of public affairs for Hazelden Betty Ford. <strong>“When people like me overcome addiction, we are employable, productive, tax-paying citizens who prove day-after-day that making recovery Minnesota’s business is good common sense too.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Over the last several years the opioid epidemic has deeply impacted people across Minnesota, their families, their communities, and their employers,”</strong> said Paul Aasen, president and CEO of Minnesota Safety Council. <strong>“Being a recovery friendly workplace that is ready to support an employee either experiencing substance use themselves or with a family member experiencing issues is a win-win-win for the employee, their co-workers, and the employer.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Supporting employees and offering supportive working environments is more important than ever,”</strong> said Adam Duininck, president and CEO, Minneapolis Downtown Council. <strong>“Recovery friendly workplace initiatives foster stronger worker productivity, enhanced morale, and more supportive environments, enabling all employees to perform to their highest potential. Having the State of Minnesota lead the way as an employer in this space will make Minnesota’s workforce even stronger.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This executive order is part of the state’s efforts to address substance use disorder and the opioid epidemic in Minnesota. In 2023, Governor Walz signed over $200 million into law to combat substance use and the state’s opioid crisis through education, treatment, prevention, and recovery strategies.</p>6482332024-10-04T18:21:39Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-647924" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-02T22:16:10ZMinnesota Governor Tim Walz today signed Emergency Executive Order 24-10 authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance to North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz today signed Emergency Executive Order 24-10 authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance to North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Those recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene are not alone,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“Minnesota will be there to support the region however we can. As communities rebuild, I am grateful for the dedication of Minnesota’s first responders in answering the call to travel east to help impacted areas.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida on September 26 and has caused devastation across nearly 400 miles of the southeastern United States. Massive flooding, power outages, and widespread destruction of homes and infrastructure has left many displaced and has overwhelmed local emergency response teams. The Governor of North Carolina has requested Minnesota Army National Guard helicopter assets and support from first responders under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The St. Louis County mobile command post is currently en route to North Carolina to assist with the response. The Minnesota State Patrol and Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office have coordinated teams to assist with general law enforcement support in North Carolina and are awaiting assignment through EMAC. The Minnesota State Fire Marshal has been working with local fire departments to assemble equipment and personnel for dispatch to the affected areas as needed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About EMAC <br /></em>EMAC is a mutual aid agreement between all 50 states. A requesting state asks for resources (people, equipment, etc.) based on their needs. Agencies in other states with those resources are able to respond to a request, but there is no obligation to participate. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management division coordinates the state’s EMAC requests.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Emergency Executive Order goes into effect today, October 2, 2024, and will remain in effect until National Guard resources are no longer required, or until November 1, 2024, whichever occurs first.</p>6479242024-10-02T22:17:23Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-646777" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-27T17:58:06ZGovernor Tim Walz today directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, September 29, to honor firefighters who have been killed or injured in the line of duty. This order occurs annually in honor of Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, September 29, to honor firefighters who have been killed or injured in the line of duty. This order occurs annually in honor of Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Firefighters dedicate their lives to serving others. In times of crisis, they step up, risking their own safety to protect our communities,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We cannot take for granted the sacrifices firefighters and their families make. Today we remember and honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Minnesota fallen firefighters and their families.</p>6467772024-09-27T17:59:30Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-646566" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-26T17:31:57ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced over $6 million in new grants to expand access to child care for working families throughout Minnesota. The new grants follow record funding announced in May, and are expected to create thousands of new child care slots.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced over $6 million in new grants to expand access to child care for working families throughout Minnesota. The new grants follow record funding <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-624470">announced in May</a> , and are expected to create thousands of new child care slots.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Having access to affordable and reliable child care is what allows new parents to get to work. Investments like this</strong> <strong>help not only that parent, but their employer, their community, and our economy as a whole,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“These new grants will create thousands of new child care slots and expand support for middle-class families across Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Through historic child care investments, we’re nurturing our children, combating long-standing workforce inequities, maintaining a competitive economy, and building a strong state. With this work we’re taking major strides toward our goal of making Minnesota the best state in the nation for children,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“When we invest in the needs of children and families, we’re building a strong foundation for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/about/contracts/open-rfp.jsp">will accept proposals</a> for Child Care Economic Development grants through Oct. 31.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Grant awards of up to $600,000 can be used for child care business start-up, expansion or retention, provider training, facility modifications, employee retention, improvements required for licensing, and assistance with licensing and other regulatory requirements. At least half of the available grant funds will go to communities located outside the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area. DEED will also award up to $500,000 to a nonprofit to administer sub-grants for individual child care providers and centers seeking improvement funding for state licensing requirements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Child care remains a critical need in communities across the state. DEED’s Office of Child Care Community Partnerships helps child care businesses statewide access the support they need to succeed,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“This grant programs helps to create more child care slots and provide families with better access to high-quality, affordable child care that not only supports their economic stability, but also their children’s development."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our previous grant round funded numerous community-driven programs that leveraged local resources to design and implement solutions that are unique to their area and the families they serve,”</strong> said Director of Child Care Community Partnerships Tammy Wickstrom. <strong>“We’re excited to see the creativity grow as child care providers and community leaders collaborate on solutions for their local needs and look to other Minnesota communities for best practice ideas.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Earlier this year, DEED awarded $6.2 million to 21 organizations that are expected to increase child care program capacity by 2,241 slots. Since 2017, DEED has issued more than $12.7 million in Child Care Economic Development grants to 77 local governments and nonprofit organizations across the state, helping create up to 11,541 child care slots.</p>6465662024-09-26T17:33:09Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-646438" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-25T20:35:52ZDuring Minnesota’s first-ever workplace rights week, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan are highlighting new worker protections signed into law by Governor Walz. Elevated by the new laws, including earned sick and safe time and paid family and medical leave, Minnesota ranks among top states for workers and their families.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – During Minnesota’s first-ever workplace rights week, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan are highlighting new worker protections signed into law by Governor Walz. Elevated by the new laws, including earned sick and safe time and paid family and medical leave, Minnesota ranks among top states for workers and their families. Today, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan joined workers at Health Systems Cooperative Laundries to discuss worker rights and highlight the new workplace protections.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“No matter where you work, we’re going to make sure you’re safe and healthy on the job,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re supporting families, expanding worker protections, and giving workers a greater voice.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Feeling safe at work is not a privilege, it’s a right. When our workforce is protected, empowered, and healthy, we all benefit,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“That’s why, in Minnesota, we are investing in our employees through expanded access to paid leave and earned sick and safe time, and making sure everyone knows their rights.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2023, Governor Walz signed several new Minnesota workplace laws. These laws ensure safer working conditions, expand worker protections, and protect paid time off. The laws include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/sick-leave">Earned sick and safe time</a></li> <li><a href="https://mn.gov/deed/paidleave/">Paid family and medical leave</a></li> <li>Updates to the <a href="https://dli.mn.gov/business/employment-practices/womens-economic-security-act-faqs">Women’s Economic Security Act</a> to expand rights for lactating employees</li> <li>Establishment of the <a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/workplace-safety-and-health/mnosha-compliance-ergonomics">Minnesota OSHA Ergonomics Program</a></li> <li>Establishment of a <a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/about-department/boards-and-councils/nursing-home-workforce-standards-board">Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board</a></li> <li>New <a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/about-department/rulemaking/mnosha-compliance-warehouse-workers">worker safety requirements</a> for warehouse distribution centers</li> <li><a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/employment-practices/safe-workplaces-meat-and-poultry-processing-workers-act">Safe Workplaces for Meat and Poultry Processing Workers Act</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/employment-practices/construction-worker-wage-protection-act-faqs">Construction Worker Wage Protection Act</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/agriculture#:~:text=Under%20Minnesota%20law%2C%20employers%20are,in%20any%20two%20successive%20weeks.">Fair labor standards</a> for agricultural and food processing workers</li> <li><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/181.988">Noncompete clauses</a></li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans have the right to a safe workplace and to be paid what they are owed; they deserve to understand their workplace rights and feel empowered to assert them,”</strong> said DLI Commissioner Nicole Blissenbach. <strong>“This is a week when DLI will work in partnership with unions, community groups and other local, state and federal agencies to share information and connect with workers and employers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In recognition of Workplace Rights Week, DLI staff members plan to visit more than 1,000 worksites statewide to share information with workers and employers about their rights and responsibilities under Minnesota laws.</p>6464382024-09-25T20:36:53Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-646146" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-24T17:46:48ZIn recognition of Climate Week, Governor Tim Walz today highlighted nearly $3.5 billion in federal climate grants that Minnesota has received since 2022. Federal funding, combined with the state’s historic climate investments, is fueling the clean energy economy, creating new jobs, and generating billions in private sector investments statewide. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – In recognition of Climate Week, Governor Tim Walz today highlighted nearly $3.5 billion in federal climate grants that Minnesota has received since 2022. Federal funding, combined with the state’s historic climate investments, is fueling the clean energy economy, creating new jobs, and generating billions in private sector investments statewide.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Examples of Minnesota projects funded with federal grants include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>A <strong>$200 million</strong> grant to cut climate pollution from Minnesota’s food systems through support for farmers, electric vehicles, and waste reduction programs</li> <li>A <strong>$614 million</strong> investment in Minnesota and nearby states to improve electrical transmission to allow for more renewable energy</li> <li>A <strong>$62 million</strong> “Solar for All” grant that will help Minnesota increase access to solar energy in low- and moderate-income communities</li> <li>An <strong>$80 million </strong>investment in more than 50 transportation-focused projects like EV chargers in Greater Minnesota and new paths for walking and biking</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is leading the way in climate solutions. We have reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved energy efficiency, and invested in climate resilience,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This wouldn’t be possible without federal investments. Together, we will continue to build a cleaner, safer future for Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The major federal investments that we’re seeing in Minnesota show the momentum our state is building to combat the crisis of climate change,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“With our federal partners, we will continue to protect this state we love and make Minnesota the best place to raise our children.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In November of 2021, the Biden-Harris administration signed the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fbriefing-room%2Fstatements-releases%2F2021%2F11%2F06%2Ffact-sheet-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-deal%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C3b4e7331cca4487028f608dcdcbce787%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638627951173844428%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=FCL9c98bZr5gQLb6E1qg%2BZRQaO3s2FDgMv3qlbXVZIc%3D&amp;reserved=0">Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act</a> into law, authorizing more than $1 trillion of transportation and infrastructure investments. The <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fcleanenergy%2Finflation-reduction-act-guidebook%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C3b4e7331cca4487028f608dcdcbce787%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638627951173872908%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=95dJR5RFdmTE73v3kgt72f09acqig9rGhqFFCDRd5eE%3D&amp;reserved=0">Inflation Reduction Act</a> , passed in August 2022, is providing more than $370 billion for the development of domestic clean energy production, manufacturing jobs, and climate-focused innovation. Minnesota has leveraged the federal climate-related funds with state funding of about $1 billion, through the work of many in the state, encouraged by initiatives such as the <a href="https://mn.gov/commerce/energy/consumer/energy-programs/scf-capacity-matching-grants.jsp">Minnesota State Competitiveness Fund Match Program.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our state is leading with real solutions to the climate crisis and collaborating with the federal government to invest in Minnesota,”</strong> said MPCA Commissioner Katrina Kessler. <strong>“By bringing the vision of our Climate Action Framework to life, we are improving the everyday lives of Minnesotans today and for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2023 and 2024, the Minnesota Legislature approved over $1 billion in funding to transition to clean energy, reduce climate pollution, and prepare communities for the impacts of climate change. This funding, along with federal investments, have contributed to significant progress on Minnesota’s <a href="https://climate.state.mn.us/minnesotas-climate-action-framework">Climate Action Framework</a> , the state’s plan to reduce climate pollution and prepare for the impacts of climate change. State funding includes:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>A <strong>$100 million</strong> Climate Resiliency and Water Infrastructure Grant Program to help communities prepare for climate change</li> <li>A <strong>$30 million</strong> investment in the “Solar for Schools” program</li> <li>A <strong>$45 million</strong> investment in pre-weatherization and workforce training programs to improve homes and grow the clean energy workforce</li> <li><strong>$200</strong> million per year in energy transition industries over the next five years</li> <li><strong>$52.8</strong>million for mitigating and adapting to climate change</li> <li>Over <strong>$440 million</strong> for public transit each year to decrease vehicle miles traveled 20% per capita by 2050</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is experiencing an energy transformation with shifts in how we power our homes and businesses,”</strong> said Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold. <strong>“We are seeing clean energy investments in every corner of the state, for rural electric cooperatives, for schools and local government, for nonprofits, for Tribal Nations, for homeowners and renters, and more. The Commerce Department has been pursuing federal climate grants and providing technical support for other entities to apply for federal climate-related funding.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Federal, state, and private investments in clean water, clean energy, strong infrastructure, and environmental sustainability will benefit Minnesota families and communities for many years to come,”</strong> said Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Erin Campbell. <strong>“An influx of $3.5 billion in federal funding also provides significant economic and employment benefits now and into the future.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Allocated across state agencies, climate grants are allowing Minnesota to build resilience in the face of extreme weather events linked to climate change. With investments in Minnesota’s natural lands and waters, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has worked to mitigate and adapt to the changing climate. The DNR and its partners continue to prepare for weather extremes by building climate considerations into habitat and infrastructure projects. Funding also allows for sound management strategies of Minnesota’s forests, grasslands, wetlands, and peatlands, resulting in increased carbon absorption and providing clean water, habitat for pollinators and wildlife, economic opportunities, and recreation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans have seen for themselves how climate change is disrupting our natural resources, whether that’s the landscapes and waterways where we love to spend time, or the fish and wildlife that are such an important part of our ecosystem and identity as a state,”</strong> said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. “ <strong>The DNR is proud to work with our many partners at all levels of the public and private sectors to protect, conserve and manage our natural resources using science- and evidence-driven decision making to help ensure the future strength and vitality of our environment, economy and public health.”</strong></p>6461462024-09-24T17:47:55Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-646141" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-20T17:29:37ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the African American State Health Advisory Council, Board of Medical Practice, Board of Occupational Therapy Practice, Board on Aging, Governor’s Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention, and the State Rehabilitation Council.   1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the African American State Health Advisory Council, Board of Medical Practice, Board of Occupational Therapy Practice, Board on Aging, Governor’s Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention, and the State Rehabilitation Council.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Abdou Manjang – Otsego, MN <br /></strong>African American State Health Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the African American State Health Advisory Council: <br /></em>The African American Health State Advisory Council advises the commissioner of health on issues to develop specific, targeted policy solutions to improve the health of African American Minnesotans, with a focus on United States-born African Americans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the African American State Health Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/353">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Pazdernik – Detroit Lakes, MN <br /></strong>Board of Medical Practice <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Cybill Oragwu <br /> <em>About the Board of Medical Practice:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The board licenses and registers physicians, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, acupuncturists, athletic trainers, genetic counselors, naturopathic doctors, and traditional midwives and enforces the relevant practice acts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Medical Practice can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/27">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christine Hoepner – Buffalo, MN <br /></strong>Board of Occupational Therapy Practice <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Katelyn Bills</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Occupational Therapy: <br /></em>The Board of Occupational Therapy protects the public through effective licensure and enforcement of the statutes and rules governing the practice of occupational therapy to ensure a reasonable standard of competent and ethical practice.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Occupational Therapy can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/235">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Linda Giersdorf – Mankato, MN <br /></strong>Board on Aging <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Stephanie Klinzing</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board on Aging: <br /></em>The Board on Aging develops, coordinates, evaluates, and administers federal and state funds for programs for the aging; makes grants to seven area agencies on aging and nonprofit agencies; and serves as advocate for older persons.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board on Aging can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/104">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anne Bolstad – Cottage Grove, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Service Provider Member for Children with Disabilities Under 5 <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Jennifer Kruger</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Teya Dahle – Waseca, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Department of Human Services Representative <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Charlotte McDonald</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Danielle Hayden – Hugo, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Department of Children, Youth, and Families Representative <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kim Hicks – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> House of Representatives Member <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Laurie Pryor</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michele Kvikstad – Mendota Heights, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Department of Health Representative <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Sarah Dunne</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Angie Laschinger – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Department of Commerce Representative <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Katherine Blauvelt</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tina McKenzie Fredrickson – Makinen, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Special Education Director for Children with Disabilities <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Jessica Cook</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jyoti Wadhwa – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> State Coordinator of Homeless Education <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Roberto Reyes</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention: <br /></em>The council recommends policies to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated system of all state and local agency services for children under age five with disabilities and their families. The policies must address how to incorporate each agency's services into a unified system to find children in need of services, methods to improve public awareness, and assistance in determining the role of interagency early intervention committees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Interagency Coordinator Committee on Early Childhood Intervention can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/188">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anisa Ali – Columbia Heights, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Disability Advocacy Groups Representative <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Jillian Nelson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jenna Askevold – Mankato, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Community Rehabilitation Program Provider Representative <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Lisa Parteh</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daren Howard – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Disability Advocacy Groups Representative <br /> Effective: September 25, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Rebecca Puchtel</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Rehabilitation Council: <br /></em>The State Rehabilitation Council is responsible for advising the state government on the performance of Minnesota's vocational rehabilitation programs. The council helps prepare the state plan for vocational rehabilitation services; reviews and analyzes the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with, vocational rehabilitation services; conducts needs assessments; reports to the Governor and the U.S. Department of Education on the status of vocational rehabilitation programs; coordinates activities with other state councils with interest in the issues pertaining to disability and employment; and holds hearings and forums necessary to carry out the council's duties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/150">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6461412024-09-24T17:45:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-646140" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-19T17:29:37ZGovernor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for six Minnesota counties that suffered damage caused by severe weather this summer.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for six Minnesota counties that suffered damage caused by severe weather this summer.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s emergency management team has been coordinating closely with counties to assess damage from severe weather this summer,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’ll continue working to get communities the resources they need to recover.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Aitkin and Crow Wing counties experienced significant tornado damage on June 12. Beltrami, Big Stone, and Todd counties experienced significant damage caused by severe storms between July 31 and August 5. Marshall County experienced significant damage caused by flooding on July 26.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather events, impacts to outdated infrastructure and roadways have caused millions of dollars in damages statewide. Collaborative emergency planning at all levels of government and investments in infrastructure are critical to safeguarding against future damage.</p>6461402024-09-24T17:40:51Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-599757" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-19T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Emily Froehle as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Froehle will replace the Honorable Kristin A. Siegesmund and will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Emily Froehle as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Froehle will replace the Honorable Kristin A. Siegesmund and will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to appoint Emily Froehle to the Hennepin County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As someone who has served as both a prosecutor and public defender, she will be a judge who deeply understands the people who appear before the court and will work to reach equitable outcomes for all.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District encompasses Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Emily Froehle is an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she prosecutes serious felony matters. She was previously an assistant public defender in Hennepin County and a law clerk for the Honorable Gina M. Brandt and the Honorable Mark S. Wernick in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. She is a member of the MSBA’s Access to Justice Committee, the Hennepin County Bar Association Bar Memorial Committee, and the MSBA General Assembly. Her community involvement includes volunteering at Cornerstone and serving as a mock trial judge for both the MSBA and YMCA. Froehle earned her B.A. from American University and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the</p> <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">.</p>5997572024-09-24T17:34:59Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-646139" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-18T17:29:37ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Thomas W. Van Hon. This seat will be chambered in Montevideo in Chippewa County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Thomas W. Van Hon. This seat will be chambered in Montevideo in Chippewa County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Fitzgerald: </strong>John Fitzgerald is the first assistant county attorney at the Meeker County Attorney’s Office, where he supervises attorneys and support staff in the prosecution of a wide array of criminal matters. In addition to his supervisory role, he prosecutes a variety of misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, and felony-level offenses. Fitzgerald was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Kristine R. DeMay in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. His community involvement includes serving as chair of the Meeker Area Food Shelf. Fitzgerald is also an active member of the Litchfield Lion’s Club, where he sits on the board of directors as a past president and assists with various fundraising and other community service projects.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Benjamin Pieh: </strong>Benjamin Pieh is an assistant public defender in the Eighth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office, where he serves clients in criminal and juvenile delinquency cases in several local counties. He was previously a law clerk for district court Judges Paul Nelson, Dwayne Knutsen, and Thomas Van Hon in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. Pieh chairs the 12th District Ethics Committee for the Minnesota Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility and was a member of the 12th District Fee Arbitration Committee. He is the president of the Prairie Arts Chorale, a volunteer judge with the MSBA Mock Trial Program, and active in several local charitable and faith organizations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heidi Torvik:</strong> Heidi Torvik is an attorney at Lommen Abdo, P.A., where she represents plaintiffs and defendants in civil and criminal matters in state and federal court. She was previously an attorney at Chestnut Cambronne PA and an assistant county attorney in Chippewa County. Torvik has taught products liability as an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota Law School and recently co-authored a chapter for the Minnesota Insurance Law Deskbook on Agent and Broker Liability. She serves as a district ethics investigator and regularly performs at community, legal, and judicial events as part of a chamber music group composed of attorneys and judges.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p>6461392024-09-24T17:38:11Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-644847" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-17T17:29:37ZGovernor Tim Walz is encouraging Minnesotans impacted by this summer’s severe flooding to apply for federal assistance. Homeowners and renters in 19 counties affected by this summer’s severe flooding have until September 27 to apply for federal disaster assistance.Homeowners and renters have until September 27 to apply for federal disaster assistance1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz is encouraging Minnesotans impacted by this summer’s severe flooding to apply for federal assistance. Homeowners and renters in 19 counties affected by this summer’s severe flooding have until September 27 to apply for federal disaster assistance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Countless Minnesotans experienced flood damage to their homes this summer – not just losing furniture and belongings, but also critical infrastructure including water heaters and furnaces. Help is available, and I encourage all Minnesotans in the impacted counties to take advantage of these resources,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With the support from federal, state, and local partners, we’re not stopping until Minnesotans have what they need to recover.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The federal disaster assistance provides resources to reimburse individuals and communities for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repair and replacement of damaged infrastructure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The September 27 deadline applies to Minnesotans impacted by flooding in Blue Earth, Cook, Cottonwood, Faribault, Freeborn, Goodhue, Itasca, Jackson, Lake, Le Sueur, Mower, Nicollet, Nobles, Rice, Rock, St. Louis, Steele, Waseca, and Watonwan counties. Individuals in any additional counties granted eligibility for assistance will have a later deadline to apply for assistance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Information on how to apply for assistance is available <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fema.gov%2Fdisaster%2F4797&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cc563299d141e47841f5f08dcd73a54b8%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638621892765520468%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=F8P1XzPS6IzUOh%2FwXaSNh1A1fgum27oQrwfm5jEBI8A%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p>6448472024-09-17T17:33:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-644795" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-16T23:05:41ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan are celebrating a historic summer for infrastructure and safety improvements across the state. There have been 193 road and bridge projects statewide this construction season and an additional 54 projects to improve airports, water ports, railroad crossings, and transit infrastructure. Today, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan highlighted progress on the Highway 36 project in Roseville alongside leaders from the Minnesota Department of Transportation, Minnesota State Patrol, and the building and construction trades.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan are celebrating a historic summer for infrastructure and safety improvements across the state. There have been 193 road and bridge projects statewide this construction season and an additional 54 projects to improve airports, water ports, railroad crossings, and transit infrastructure. Today, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan highlighted progress on the Highway 36 project in Roseville alongside leaders from the Minnesota Department of Transportation, Minnesota State Patrol, and the building and construction trades.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From roads and bridges to water ports and railroads, we’re investing in our transportation infrastructure across the state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These construction projects are improving safety, strengthening commerce, and ensuring our systems are weather resilient – all while creating good-paying, union jobs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thanks to Minnesota workers, 193 road safety projects are wrapping up across the state as we gear up for winter,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“With historic infrastructure investments, we’re making commutes safer and more efficient while employing hundreds of Minnesotans with family-sustaining jobs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota has leveraged $1.6 billion in state and federal funding to invest in the nearly 250 infrastructure projects across the state this season. Because Minnesota has the fourth largest roadway system in the nation, with an average of more than 91 million vehicle miles driven every day on the state highway system, investments in safety and efficiency are crucial to the state’s transportation system.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz signed the two largest infrastructure bills in state history into law, including a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579789">$2.6 billion infrastructure bill</a> in 2023 and a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/450726">$1.9 billion investment</a> in 2020.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s roads were ranked the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/614156">best in the nation</a> by a Consumer Affairs <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.consumeraffairs.com%2Fautomotive%2Fus-road-conditions.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cba861a6664d5404f129608dcd67d4939%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638621080914074394%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=thv5r2nZws1rgdSndoZk%2BsNgArKeC2yOcypAe%2BoKqw0%3D&amp;reserved=0">analysis</a> earlier this year.</p>6447952024-09-16T23:06:38Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-644794" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-16T23:02:12ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota exports of goods surged to $7.1 billion in the second quarter of 2024, a 17% increase over the same period in 2023. Minnesota’s export growth topped the national rate (5%) for the quarter and was stronger than all but eight other states.At $7.1 billion, state exports up 17% in second quarter of 20241055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota exports of goods surged to $7.1 billion in the second quarter of 2024, a 17% increase over the same period in 2023. Minnesota’s export growth topped the national rate (5%) for the quarter and was stronger than all but eight other states.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s rapid growth of exports distinguishes the state as a leader on the global stage. This is an accomplishment made possible by the state’s innovative workers and businesses who consistently produce high-quality goods to</strong> <strong>meet global supply chain needs,”</strong><strong>said Governor Walz.</strong> <strong>“This surge in exports is proof that when we invest in workforce development, business expansion, and building strong partnerships abroad, our economy thrives.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota exports for the first six months of 2024 have grown 9% over 2023, while U.S. exports gained 2% over the same period.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s exports had an incredible second quarter, reflecting the hard work and innovative talent of Minnesota workers and businesses,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“We’re excited to see notable growth in newer markets and look forward to supporting Minnesota businesses as they expand and help our economy grow.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sales of Minnesota goods made huge gains of 41% to markets in North America ($3.4 billion), with both Canada and Mexico increasing by at least 40% each. Exports to Mexico were driven by core products such as vehicles (up 44%) and emerging segments, such as plastics (up 80%) and food by-products (up 98%).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Exports grew significantly to the Middle East (up 72%), as well as to Asia (up 3%), the Caribbean, Central and South America (up 8%), and Africa (up 8%).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Exports to Australia – now the state’s 10 ^th largest market – increased 18%. Last November, Governor Walz led the state’s first-ever trade mission to Australia.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The significant growth we saw in the second quarter is testimony to Minnesota’s role as a major player in international markets,”</strong> said MTO Director Gabrielle Gerbaud. <strong>“Continuing to showcase Minnesota as a top destination for business investment is paramount and we’re excited to continue developing the State’s international connections and partnerships.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The full second quarter 2024 report is available on DEED’s website in the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/data/economic-analysis/export-stats/current-past/" target="_blank">Export and Trade Statistics</a> section.</p>6447942024-09-16T23:04:46Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-644482" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-12T22:47:13ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointments of Justin Collins, Tricia Loehr, Jennifer Peterson, and Heather Pipenhagen as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. Three seats will be chambered in Anoka in Anoka County, and one will be chambered in Elk River in Sherburne County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointments of Justin Collins, Tricia Loehr, Jennifer Peterson, and Heather Pipenhagen as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. Three seats will be chambered in Anoka in Anoka County, and one will be chambered in Elk River in Sherburne County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Justin Collins will be replacing the Honorable Nancy J. Logering for a seat chambered in Anoka County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Justin Collins will be a great fit in Anoka County,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“His experience as both a public defender and prosecutor gives him a balanced approach that will serve him well in his new role. He will be great.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tricia Loehr will be replacing the Honorable James A. Cunningham for a seat chambered in Anoka County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am proud to appoint Tricia Loehr to the Tenth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Compassion, humility, and patience are qualities that great judges possess, and she has all of them. Ms. Loehr will be a leader on this bench and in this community for years to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jennifer Peterson will be replacing the Honorable Kristin C. Larson for a seat chambered in Anoka County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jennifer Peterson will be a welcome addition to the Anoka County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She understands that trust in our justice system is oftentimes less about the outcome and more about the process. She will take the bench every day with the understanding that everyone deserves their day in court.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Heather Pipenhagen will be replacing the Honorable Jonathan N. Jasper for the seat chambered in Sherburne County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to appoint Heather Pipenhagen,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“She has focused her entire legal career on advancing the common good, and her breadth of experience over decades of public service will serve the people of Sherburne County well.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District encompasses Anoka, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Pine, Sherburne, Washington, and Wright counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Justin Collins: <br /></em>Justin Collins is an assistant public defender in the Tenth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Anoka, where he defends persons charged with felony crimes. He was previously an assistant county attorney with the Washington County Attorney’s Office, where he served on the Washington County Drug Task Force, Washington County Mental Health and Opioid Re-Entry Program Planning Team, and the office’s Equity Change Team. Collins’s community involvement includes volunteering with the American Mock Trial Association, Feed My Starving Children, and the Washington County Food Drive. He received his B.A. from Hamline University and his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Tricia Loehr: <br /></em>Tricia Loehr is an assistant county attorney in the Washington County Attorney’s Office, where she handles juvenile delinquency and child protection matters. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office and a law clerk for the Honorable Edward Lynch in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Loehr is the chair of the Washington County Attorney’s Office diversity, equity, and inclusion work group and leads the Washington County multidisciplinary team for sexually trafficked and exploited individuals. She received her B.A. from the College of St. Benedict and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Jennifer Peterson: <br /></em>Jennifer Peterson is an assistant public defender in the Tenth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office, where she represents indigent clients primarily facing felony-level offenses. She also serves as the court-appointed counsel in Anoka County for individuals petitioned for civil commitment as mentally ill and/or chemically dependent. Peterson was previously a senior assistant director at the Office of Lawyer’s Professional Responsibility, where she investigated and prosecuted disciplinary actions against lawyers, and an assistant county attorney in the Isanti County Attorney’s Office. She is a member of the Tenth Judicial District’s Equal Justice Committee and the Tenth District Public Defender’s Wellness Committee. Her community involvement includes being a Big Sister and mentor to her Little Sister and volunteering with Twin Cities Rise. Peterson received her B.A. from the University of Wisconsin - River Falls and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Heather Pipenhagen: <br /></em>Heather Pipenhagen is an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she handles criminal appeals and civil commitment matters. She serves on the Minnesota County Attorney Association’s Appellate Advisory Committee and on the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the Rules Governing Proceedings under the Minnesota Commitment and Treatment Act. Pipenhagen previously worked as an assistant county attorney in the Washington County Attorney’s Office and as a law clerk to the Honorable Herbert P. Lefler in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. She currently serves on the Scandia City Council and is a member of the Scandia-Marine Lions. She received her B.A. from the University of Minnesota and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6444822024-09-12T19:46:35Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-644481" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-12T22:46:13ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced a new grant to support new farmers in Minnesota. The Beginning Farmer Equipment and Infrastructure Grant program through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) will provide up to $20,000 to reimburse costs associated with farm equipment purchases and farm infrastructure development.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced a new grant to support new farmers in Minnesota. The <a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/beginning-farmer-grant">Beginning Farmer Equipment and Infrastructure Grant</a> program through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) will provide up to $20,000 to reimburse costs associated with farm equipment purchases and farm infrastructure development.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thanks to our farmers and growers, Minnesota consistently leads the nation in agricultural production. Their work drives the economy and keeps us fed,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Supporting our farmers is common sense and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture is leading the way. The Beginning Farmer Equipment and Infrastructure grant is helping us maintain the integrity of our agricultural industry, providing necessary resources for Minnesotans to begin farming and grow their business – an investment that benefits us all.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“By supporting new farmers we’re ensuring the continued strength of our agricultural industry,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“Thanks to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Beginning Farmer Equipment and Infrastructure Grant we’re reducing barriers for new farmers, ensuring access to necessary resources, and prioritizing the future of farm businesses.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Besides finding land, getting the necessary farming equipment is one of the biggest hurdles beginning farmers face,”</strong> said MDA Assistant Commissioner Patrice Bailey. <strong>“Reducing those hurdles is key to ensuring the next generation of Minnesota farmers can succeed.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The MDA expects to award $800,000, allowing new farmers to pay for farm equipment and farm infrastructure including water access, irrigation, fencing, electricity, walk-in coolers, and production-related structures such as livestock buildings and greenhouses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Applications for the Beginning Farmer Equipment and Infrastructure Grant open September 24, 2024 and can be submitted through the MDA’s <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.grantinterface.com%2FHome%2FLogon%3Furlkey%3Dstatemn&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Caa25c171b95f4c9e14dd08dcd33916bf%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638617489389260844%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=eTquQrtc7hjBRHy6woe%2BEsohhPRoe0YVQtJfViGDLSU%3D&amp;reserved=0">online application system</a> .</p>6444812024-09-12T19:41:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-644399" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-11T22:46:13ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan joined veterans and hundreds of volunteers to take part in today’s National Day of Service and Remembrance. Volunteers assembled 230,000 meals for food shelves across Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan joined veterans and hundreds of volunteers to take part in today’s National Day of Service and Remembrance. Volunteers assembled 230,000 meals for food shelves across Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today, 23 years after the terrorist attacks that shook the nation, we pause to remember all that was lost – the fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, colleagues, and friends who never returned home – and honor the courage and resilience of the American people,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By coming together in a day of service we show that we are stronger when we lift others up, and we reaffirm our commitment to do right by the soldiers, veterans, and first responders who put their lives on the line to serve their communities and their country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“September 11, 2001, left a hole in our hearts and our country that can never be filled or forgotten,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Today, in coming together to serve others, we remember and honor those lost – the workers and first responders who walked out of their homes for the last time that morning – embodying the selflessness demonstrated on that day and every day since. As we remember the tragedy of 9/11, the heroism demonstrated on that day, and the years of rebuilding, we are guided in our unity and service to our neighbors.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Established by congress in 2009 and recognized annually, National Day of Service and Remembrance brings communities together to honor the lives and service of those lost on September 11, paying tribute through expressions of unity, kindness, and charitable service. On this 23rd anniversary of September 11, Governor Walz has also ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half staff.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota is committed to ensuring the wellbeing of veterans across the state, including the patriots who served our country in the aftermath of 9/11. State investments in veteran housing, suicide prevention, educational opportunities, and skilled nursing care are protecting the safety and security of our veterans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2022, Governor Walz signed the first-ever Veterans Omnibus Bill including funding for a service bonus payable to veterans who served from September 11, 2001, to August 30, 2021. As of August 2024, over 26,000 applications were approved for nearly $40 million in service bonuses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year, Minnesota opened three new veterans homes, becoming the first state in the nation to build and open three veterans homes simultaneously. The homes, located in Montevideo, Preston, and Bemidji will allow Minnesota to serve almost 200 more veterans. The openings come after more than a decade of advocacy and planning.</p>6443992024-09-11T22:48:39Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-644082" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-11T00:17:59ZIn observance of the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, Governor Tim Walz has proclaimed Wednesday as Patriot Day and ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Wednesday, September 11.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – In observance of the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, Governor Tim Walz has proclaimed Wednesday as Patriot Day and ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Wednesday, September 11.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“On September 11, thousands of innocent lives were lost in an unthinkable tragedy that profoundly changed our nation,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Yet, in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks, amidst unprecedented fear, pain, and mourning, the spirit of the American people prevailed. On the 23rd anniversary of that horrific day, we join together to mourn the lives lost, honor the nation’s heroic first responders, and reflect on the unwavering spirit of the American people.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags in observance of the anniversary.</p>6440822024-09-11T00:21:10Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-643904" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-10T17:24:58ZGovernor Tim Walz today highlighted funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that will build clean energy for rural communities across Minnesota. The Empowering Rural America Program will allocate $7.3 billion to rural electric cooperatives, including four Minnesota service providers, helping rural Minnesotans transition to clean, affordable, and reliable energy.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST.PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today highlighted <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.usda.gov%2Fmedia%2Fpress-releases%2F2024%2F09%2F05%2Fbiden-harris-administration-announces-73-billion-clean-energy%23%3A~%3Atext%3DWESTBY%252C%2520WI%252C%2520Sept.%25205%2Ccountry%2520through%2520the%2520Empowering%2520Rural&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cae796d530ad84724bd0008dcd1b82b14%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638615836171964443%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=n%2B7AjXsLRGBa13Xag3Gi2E6cZPGnJ4UvJWDwCyG4S1o%3D&amp;reserved=0">funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)</a> that will build clean energy for rural communities across Minnesota. The <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rd.usda.gov%2Fempowering-rural-america-program-project-announcements&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cae796d530ad84724bd0008dcd1b82b14%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638615836171977436%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=QvuX%2FB7CH3cJsq%2B4Nab5TA8N5Ofkm3nxuIGeuQDpHS8%3D&amp;reserved=0">Empowering Rural America Program</a> will allocate $7.3 billion to rural electric cooperatives, including four Minnesota service providers, helping rural Minnesotans transition to clean, affordable, and reliable energy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The expansion of green infrastructure will reduce the impacts of climate change while delivering more affordable electricity for Minnesotans,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“The Empowering Rural America Program grant is helping us build resilient communities, ensuring a smooth transition to clean energy while strengthening energy security, keeping electricity costs low, and creating good-paying jobs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 16 USDA selectees announced last week encompass about 5 million households across 23 states, representing 20% of the nation’s rural households, farms, businesses, and schools and include four Minnesota service providers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The $7.3 billion in financing is estimated to:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Leverage private investments of more than $29 billion</li> <li>Build more than 10 gigawatts of clean energy for rural communities across the country</li> <li>Reduce and avoid at least 43.7 million tons of greenhouse gases annually, equivalent to removing more than 10 million cars off the road every year</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With this federal funding, Minnesota’s rural electric cooperatives will be able to deliver more affordable, reliable, safer and cleaner energy for our rural communities,”</strong> said Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold. <strong>“This investment benefits all Minnesotans by building our state’s clean energy economy, creating new jobs and new infrastructure, and transitioning our state to a clean energy future.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The four electric cooperatives providing service in Minnesota include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Basic Electric Power Cooperative, with service territory in southwest Minnesota</li> <li>Dairyland Power Cooperative, with service territory in southeast Minnesota</li> <li>Great River Energy, with service territory encompassing northeast, central and southern Minnesota</li> <li>Minnkota Power Cooperative, with service territory in northwest Minnesota</li> </ul>6439042024-09-10T17:26:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-643518" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-09T16:49:27ZGovernor Tim Walz and Explore Minnesota today announced the launch of a new effort to attract business to Minnesota. The initiative is part of the state’s campaign aimed at attracting visitors, residents, and businesses to Minnesota by showcasing the state's world-class economic opportunities and high quality of life. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Explore Minnesota today announced the launch of a new effort to attract business to Minnesota. The initiative is part of the state’s campaign aimed at attracting visitors, residents, and businesses to Minnesota by showcasing the state's world-class economic opportunities and high quality of life.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, we’re focused on maintaining our record as a top state for business,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By telling the stories of companies who’ve found success in our state, we’re encouraging other businesses to look to Minnesota to grow and invest.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The new initiative, created in partnership with Explore Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), captures the stories of leading businesses across key industries, including manufacturing and biomedical technology. The campaign features testimonials from Mayo Clinic Business Development, Microbiologics, Polar Semiconductor, and Rosenbauer America. The <a href="http://www.exploreminnesota.com/business">campaign</a> will run nationwide through June 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s diverse economy serves as a foundation for businesses to start, grow, and prosper,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“We are proud to be ranked one of the best states for businesses bolstered by one of the highest-caliber talent markets in the country. We</strong> <strong>invite</strong> <strong>people to explore what our state has to offer for businesses and their employees.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota has long been a location for innovation and global impact. From conducting to the first open-heart surgery, to fostering the invention of groundbreaking devices, and now boasting more than two dozen business accelerators and incubators, the state is a leader in technological advancement. Decades of public and private investments in education have produced a robust and skilled workforce, making Minnesota’s talent pool one of the most educated and diverse in the country.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Through this new release in the Star of the North campaign, we’re showcasing how the state is reinvigorating the economy from high-tech manufacturing to industry-leading research and medical innovation,”</strong> said Explore Minnesota Executive Director Lauren Bennett McGinty. <strong>“The campaign articulates our diverse business ecosystem and talent market, high quality of life, and commitment to inclusive growth for businesses to thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Whether a company is opening its doors for the first time, or a long-standing business is expanding its production, business leaders know that Minnesota is a dynamic place to be,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Our state has a powerful innovation ecosystem, massive research-and-development spending, top-rated infrastructure, and a global talent market. And we’re doubling down on incentives and supports for companies looking to invest or expand.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to economic strength, Minnesota also stands out for its quality of life in every region. The state boasts a top-tier health care system, vast natural resources, and vibrant arts and culture scenes. Minnesota consistently ranks among the top states for livability, with a relatively affordable cost of living.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To learn more about business opportunities in Minnesota, visit <a href="http://www.exploreminnesota.com/" target="_blank">exploreminnesota.com</a> <u>/business</u> <em>.</em></p>6435182024-09-09T16:51:00Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-643108" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-05T18:05:19ZToday, Governor Tim Walz announced a vacancy on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Susan L. Segal. This seat is designated for Minnesota’s Fifth Congressional District. Governor Walz has asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration, the chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection, and the at-large members of the commission to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz announced a vacancy on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Susan L. Segal. This seat is designated for Minnesota’s Fifth Congressional District. Governor Walz has asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration, the chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection, and the at-large members of the commission to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The panel is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. The Governor is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on October 3 and should be addressed to Governor Tim Walz</strong>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For inquiries concerning the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p>6431082024-09-06T16:55:59Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-643107" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-05T18:02:12ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan are recognizing Workforce Development Month by highlighting efforts to connect more Minnesotans to high-growth, high-demand jobs through job training and workforce development programs. The state’s Dual Training Grant program has now been expanded to include the child care industry, providing $450,000 to support the training of dozens of new child care workers.Minnesota’s on-the-job training program expands to include child care industry1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan are recognizing Workforce Development Month by highlighting efforts to connect more Minnesotans to high-growth, high-demand jobs through job training and workforce development programs. The state’s Dual Training Grant program has now been expanded to include the child care industry, providing $450,000 to support the training of dozens of new child care workers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a top state for business, health care, and manufacturing, there are</strong> <strong>so many opportunities for people to enter high-demand, family-sustaining careers in Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’</strong> <strong>ve expanded on-the-job training and workforce development to grow our economy and build a strong, competitive workforce.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When we invest in workforce development and job training programs, we create economic opportunity for Minnesotans across the state,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“These programs are charting pathways for</strong> <strong>people in Minnesota to succeed in high-growth industries, from clean energy to health care.”</strong> <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and its business and nonprofit partners strive to connect all people who need work to the employers who want to hire them. These efforts are supported by additional state investment in training to bring more Minnesotans into the labor force.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Workforce development efforts include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/614773">Drive for Five Fund</a> to create a pipeline of workers who are skilled and prepared to pursue employment in five high-demand career areas.</li> <li>The <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/627251">Clean Economy Equitable Workforce</a> program to help underrepresented Minnesotans enter careers in the high-demand fields of construction, clean energy, and energy efficiency.</li> <li>The <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/628030">Transformative Career Pathways</a> program which provides job skills training, work readiness, internships, work experience, on-the-job training, and job placement for Minnesotans.</li> <li>The <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/627048">Dual Training Grant</a> program to help employers meet their workforce needs by creating on the job training programs for employees.</li> <li>Removing <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=589989#/detail/appId/1/id/597989">college degree requirements</a> for state jobs.</li> <li>Growing the education workforce through <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/626669">teacher apprenticeships</a> , <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/628023">teacher mentorship</a> programs, and <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/641830">special education</a> grants.</li> <li>A record expansion of <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-624470">child care</a> grants to create new child care slots across the state to serve working families.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Together, Minnesota’s workforce development professionals are helping to build the future of Minnesota’s workforce,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Our workforce development strategy is starting to have a real-world impact as initiatives are implemented across the state, and we’re excited to keep this momentum going for the people of Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> <strong>“We’re focused on preparing workers for employment in high-growth sectors that offer career pathways with family sustaining wages,”</strong> said Marc Majors, DEED Deputy Commissioner of Workforce Development. <strong>“Recent historic workforce investments will create more opportunity and have significant impact for years to come – and that’s good news for all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Many workforce development professionals will come together on September 12 in Duluth for the Minnesota Workforce Summit, sponsored by DEED.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Successful worker training takes partnership. Everyone benefits when employers invest in education and skills training for workers,“</strong> said Nicole Blissenbach, Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry commissioner. <strong>“We’ve seen proven results from apprentices in state registered apprenticeship programs who earn a good salary as they train to become highly skilled professionals and tradespersons. The department’s Dual-Training Pipeline and Youth Skills Training programs also support workers in an earn-and-learn model.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Part of making Minnesota the best place for families is ensuring every child receives a quality education. We’re building the best teaching workforce in the nation by expanding career pathways for new teachers and investing in programs to retain and support our teachers so that they can grow and thrive,”</strong> said Education Commissioner Willie Jett.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"From grants that support on-the-job training to</strong><strong>free college tuition for Minnesotans, we are making vital investments in our state workforce,”</strong>said Minnesota Office of Higher Education Commissioner Dennis Olson. <strong>“Our efforts are providing workers with the tools they need to succeed, connecting employers with highly skilled job candidates, and bolstering our state’s economy. All of which ensures we are building a state where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“A dynamic and growing workforce is vital for the economic success and growth of Minnesota,”</strong> said Iron Range Resources &amp; Rehabilitation Commissioner Ida Rukavina. <strong>“Our workforce development program facilitates partnerships with businesses and industries to enhance career exploration programs, develop tailored workforce training solutions and promote career pathway initiatives that encourage non-traditional students to enter high-demand fields. In addition, we are investing in housing, outdoor recreation, downtown revitalization, broadband connectivity and childcare services, all of which are instrumental in drawing new workers and families to the region.” <br /></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Developing the workforce of the future is critical,”</strong>said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. <strong>“We must work together to enhance and sustain high-need areas like direct support professionals in the caring careers field to help care for the aging and people with disabilities in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> Highlighted resources during Workforce Development Month:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Access the agenda for the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/events/summit/" target="_blank">Minnesota Workforce Summit</a> , which brings together key stakeholders from Minnesota’s workforce development system on September 12 in Duluth.</li> <li>Find career exploration, job search, and hiring assistance at a CareerForce location near you by visiting <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.careerforcemn.com%2Flocations&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cb226c74badf645a3fd5508dccdcfe157%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638611540459302857%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=AIrpAdI9MrVlSTSJ8hQVZ7r%2BYiOHVB01rtYMIxmCZ9s%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">CareerForceMN.com/locations</a>or by calling 651-259-7500.</li> <li>View <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.careerforcemn.com%2FWorkforceDevelopmentMonth&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cb226c74badf645a3fd5508dccdcfe157%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638611540459313218%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Xp5QrFbE4ZWCEezBH0rXfwjJbYFS45nbz6lMCMVVFZs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Workforce Development Month resources</a> including success stories and blog posts focused on specific areas of Minnesota from DEED’s regional labor market analysts.</li> <li>Access the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.careerforcemn.com%2FCreativeJobSearch&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cb226c74badf645a3fd5508dccdcfe157%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638611540459321017%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=8jzTpU%2BDOX16mFU0nV5XNt6P1e7DdI7tXz3idWNpJmQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">new Creative Job Search guide</a> , an updated version of this award-winning resource for career explorers and job seekers.</li> </ul>6431072024-09-05T18:04:08Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-643086" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-04T14:31:44ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Janet L. Barke Cain and the Honorable Timothy J. McManus. These seats will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill the vacancies in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Janet L. Barke Cain and the Honorable Timothy J. McManus. These seats will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christopher Bates: </strong>Christopher Batesis the deputy director and chief general counsel of the Minnesota Cannabis Expungement Board. He previously served as an assistant county attorney for the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, an assistant city attorney for the Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office, and an assistant county attorney for the McLeod County Attorney’s Office. Bates’s community involvement includes serving on the board of directors for Mental Health Resources and volunteering with the Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities and as a mock trial judge with the Minnesota State Bar Association <strong>.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Russell: </strong>Mary Russell is an assistant attorney general at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General, where she handles criminal prosecution and serves as a member of multiple anti-human trafficking task forces. She previously worked as an assistant county attorney for the Dakota County Attorney’s Office and as an assistant county attorney for the Kanabec County Attorney’s Office. Russell’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Zero Abuse Project Advisory Board for Excellence in Child Exploitation Investigations and as a mock trial judge. She has also volunteered with organizations that assist victims of domestic and sexual abuse.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matthew Schmidt:</strong> Matthew Schmidt is a partner at Ho &amp; Schmidt, LLP and a part-time public defender in the First Judicial District Public Defender’s Office. He was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Joy D. Bartscher in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. Schmidt’s community involvement includes being a member of the South St. Paul Lions Club, where he volunteers for elementary vision screenings and helps raise funds for local athletic teams and the K-9 police fund. He also volunteers with his sons’ sports teams.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelly Staples:</strong> Kelly Staples is a solo family law practitioner handling primarily dissolution, child custody, domestic abuse, and harassment cases. She also serves as court-appointed counsel in paternity, child support, and civil commitment matters and as a volunteer conciliation court referee in Dakota County. Staples’s community involvement includes serving as an executive board member for Legal Assistance of Dakota County and as a judge for high school mock trial. She is also a member of the board of directors at Momentum Dance Project.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaron Winter: </strong>Aaron Winter is a supervising attorney at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General, where he represents the Minnesota Department of Human Services in civil litigation and civil commitment proceedings. He previously served as an assistant attorney general in Tennessee, where he represented the state in criminal appeals and federal habeas litigation. Winter’s community involvement includes coaching soccer and flag football teams, judging high school mock trial, and coaching high schoolers in speech and debate.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6430862024-09-05T14:33:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-642921" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-03T20:13:39ZLieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today kicked off the 2024-25 school year by greeting students and educators at schools in St. Anthony and Northfield. For the second year, families are set to save thousands on school breakfast and lunch costs from Minnesota’s universal school meals program.New school year marks second year of universal school meals1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today kicked off the 2024-25 school year by greeting students and educators at schools in St. Anthony and Northfield. For the second year, families are set to save thousands on school breakfast and lunch costs from Minnesota’s universal school meals program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a former lunchroom supervisor and classroom teacher for over twenty years, I’m wishing my fellow teachers, school staff, and students an outstanding first day of school,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“For the second year, we’re making sure kids are ready to learn by providing free and healthy meals at school. We’re working together to make this school year a good one.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a mom of a new middle schooler, I know there’s nothing like the energy of the first day of school,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am so grateful for the educators and school staff who have been preparing for weeks to welcome students back to school. By investing in crucial resources, from free meals and special education to literacy programs and attendance, we’re making sure students and schools have the resources they need for a successful year.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For the second year in a row, Minnesota students will have access to free breakfast and lunch at school. In the first year of the program, breakfast participation increased over 40 percent, and lunch participation increased 20 percent compared to the prior year. An interactive map shows the increase in each</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New investments in K-12 education will also take effect this year, including teacher training efforts and a pilot program to promote school attendance and combat chronic absenteeism. Another $37 million has been dedicated to the Minnesota Reading to Ensure Academic Development Act, which will support literacy training and overhaul reading education in the state.</p>6429212024-09-03T20:14:44Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-642920" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-09-03T20:09:26ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David M. Johnson. The seat will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David M. Johnson. The seat will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeffrey Boucher</strong>: Jeffrey Boucher is the chief deputy attorney of the Carlton County Attorney’s Office, where he manages adult criminal prosecutions, complex violent felonies, and financial crimes. He serves as vice chair of the county policy committee and is a member of the Carlton Treatment Court team. Boucher was previously a special assistant county attorney in the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office. His community involvement includes serving on the board of directors for First Witness Child Advocacy Center in Duluth.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Fralich:</strong> Jessica Fralich is the city attorney for the City of Duluth, where she oversees both civil and criminal litigation and advisory matters. She previously served as a referee for the Sixth Judicial District and as a prosecutor for the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office. Fralich has served as a team member for Domestic Violence Restorative Circles, the Domestic Violence Response Team, and the Range Coordinated Community Response Team. Her community involvement includes working with local agencies to develop and provide training designed to increase awareness regarding the impact of domestic abuse and ensure implementation of best practices by system professionals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaron Welch:</strong> Aaron Welch is a senior assistant county attorney with the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office, where he works in the Range Criminal Division and serves as the legal training coordinator. He previously worked at the Kandiyohi County Attorney’s Office and in private practice. Welch’s community involvement includes serving on the Iron Range Equal Justice Committee, North St. Louis County Child Mortality Review Team, and the executive board of the Voyageurs Area Council. His community involvement has also included serving as president of the Range Bar Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6429202024-09-03T20:10:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-642709" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-29T17:52:35ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced new funding to expand biofuel availability across Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is currently seeking grant applications from gas stations looking to expand their selection of motor fuel blends containing at least 15% ethanol.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced new funding to expand biofuel availability across Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is currently seeking grant applications from gas stations looking to expand their selection of motor fuel blends containing at least 15% ethanol.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Investing in homegrown biofuels helps us lower emissions and save drivers money, while giving a boost to Minnesota’s agriculture and renewable energy sectors,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These grants will help gas stations invest in the infrastructure needed to expand their biofuel supply – it’s a win for farmers, business owners, and consumers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MDA’s Biofuels Infrastructure Grant Program will award over $3.3 million to service stations with no more than 10 petroleum dispensing sites in Minnesota to invest in equipment certified as compatible with E25 or higher blends. The grant program is funded through a legislative appropriation for MDA’s Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Program and with additional support from <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mncorn.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C835e8e91039348f21b6d08dcc84e4b30%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638605485826614690%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=wvXYJM3YUdMU%2FcvkcsNIoPY7bjDpFdKnUBtnfuPN2aU%3D&amp;reserved=0">Minnesota Corn</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s service stations play a fundamental role in connecting consumers with homegrown biofuels that provide drivers with cleaner, lower-cost fuel alternatives,”</strong> said Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. <strong>“Thanks to the support of the Minnesota Legislature and Minnesota Corn, we can continue to build out the infrastructure to meet the growing demand for higher blend motor fuels and boost our ag economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Examples of eligible equipment include retail petroleum dispensers, fuel storage tanks, and other equipment needed to dispense biofuels to the public. Applicants may request between $5,000 and $199,000 for an individual project and must commit at least 35% of the total project cost as a cash match.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Funds can only be used to pay for eligible costs incurred after the grant contract has been signed by all parties, which is expected to take place in early 2025. Applicants must be operating and dispensing fuel at the time of application. New stations under construction or planned for construction are not eligible.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Applications must be submitted through the MDA’s online portal by 4 p.m. on Thursday, October 30, 2024. Visit the <a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/agri-biofuels-infrastructure">AGRI Biofuels Infrastructure Grant webpage</a> for full eligibility and application details.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/agri">AGRI Program</a> administers grants to farmers, agribusinesses, schools, and more throughout Minnesota to advance the state’s agricultural and renewable energy sectors.</p>6427092024-08-29T20:37:31Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-642577" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-28T17:52:35ZGovernor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for four Minnesota counties that suffered damage from flooding in June. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for four Minnesota counties that suffered damage from flooding in June.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s emergency management team has been coordinating closely with counties to address damage caused by flooding this year,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Their work continues to help Minnesotans recover from this year’s severe flooding.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Big Stone, Rice, Sibley, and Todd counties experienced significant damage caused by flooding on June 2.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather events, impacts to outdated infrastructure and roadways have caused millions of dollars in damages statewide. Collaborative emergency planning at all levels of government and investments in infrastructure are critical to safeguarding against future damage.</p>6425772024-08-28T17:53:47Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-642476" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-28T02:12:58ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointments of Jessica Bierwerth, Stacy Deery Stennes, and Der Yang as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. Bierwerth will be replacing the Honorable Robyn A. Millenacker, Stennes will be replacing the Honorable Shawn M. Bartsh, and Yang will be replacing the Honorable John H. Guthmann. These seats will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointments of Jessica Bierwerth, Stacy Deery Stennes, and Der Yang as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. Bierwerth will be replacing the Honorable Robyn A. Millenacker, Stennes will be replacing the Honorable Shawn M. Bartsh, and Yang will be replacing the Honorable John H. Guthmann. These seats will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With these appointments, Governor Walz has appointed over 100 judges to the district court bench, which is over a third of the entire district court. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan look forward to continuing to build a bench that reflects Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Jessica Bierwerth to the Ramsey County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She has a wealth of practice experience that will lend itself well to the variety of cases and controversies she will encounter as a district court judge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jessica Bierwerth is a great fit for this bench,”</strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Ramsey County is a busy court system, and the judges who sit on this bench are expected to keep pace but never forget that everyone deserves their day in court. I am confident that she will meet this challenge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m pleased to appoint Stacy Deery Stennes,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her background working on complex civil litigation matters involving negligence, medical malpractice, and defective products will bring a valuable perspective to this court.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Stacy Deery Stennes will be an excellent addition to the Second Judicial District,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Not only is she a talented civil litigator, but she goes above and beyond to give back to the legal community and to help the next generation of lawyers and law students succeed.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to appoint Der Yang,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“She is an outstanding attorney who has worked tirelessly to ensure that the concept of equal justice under the law is realized by all who seek it. Her lived experience and deep roots in her community will make her a great addition to the Ramsey County bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I applaud Der Yang’s appointment,”</strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Ramsey County is home to a large and vibrant immigrant community, and Ms. Yang has dedicated her legal career to helping them navigate our complicated legal system. It is this commitment to serving others that gives me the confidence that she will be an outstanding judge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Second Judicial District encompasses Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About</em> <em>Jessica Bierwerth:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jessica Bierwerth is an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she handles adult criminal appeals and civil commitments. She previously handled child protection and adult criminal prosecution matters. Bierwerth’s community involvement includes serving on the board of directors of Merrick Community Service on Saint Paul’s Eastside. She previously volunteered with the Junior League of Saint Paul, Minnesota Women Lawyers, and as a high school mock trial judge. Bierwerth earned her B.A. from the University of Minnesota and her J.D. at William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Stacy Deery Stennes:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Stacy Deery Stennes is a partner at Conlin Law Firm, LLC, where she represents people who have been injured due to negligence, medical malpractice, and defective products. Her community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota State Bar Association Assembly, coaching high school mock trial, mentoring law students and new lawyers, and volunteering with Children’s Law Center and Open Arms Minnesota. Stennes’s community involvement has included serving as the former president of the Minnesota Association for Justice and a founding member of their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity committee. She is also a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates. She earned her B.A. from the College of St. Benedict &amp; St. John’s University and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Der Yang:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Der Yang is the founder and managing attorney of Village Lawyer, a general practice firm located in the Hmong Village on Saint Paul’s East Side that focuses on family law and criminal defense. She is also an adjunct professor at Mitchell Hamline School of Law where she teaches civil dispute resolution, civil procedure, and family law. Yang was previously an assistant public defender in the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender’s Office and a special public defender in the Sixth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office. She serves as chair of the Advocacy Committee for the Friends of the St. Paul Public Library, as a volunteer attorney for the Volunteer Lawyers Network, as a youth mentor with the Yang Wameng Association of Minnesota, and a competition brief and moot court judge at Mitchell Hamline School of Law and the University of Minnesota Law School. Yang received her B.A. from Hamline University and her J.D. from Hamline School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6424762024-08-28T02:14:20Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-642475" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-28T02:05:58ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Distribution of Endowment Fund Earnings Task Force, Minnesota Humanities Center, Task Force on Holistic and Effective Responses to Illicit Drug Use, and Young Women’s Initiative. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Distribution of Endowment Fund Earnings Task Force, Minnesota Humanities Center, Task Force on Holistic and Effective Responses to Illicit Drug Use, and Young Women’s Initiative.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Denise Dittrich – Champlin, MN <br /></strong>Distribution of Endowment Fund Earnings Task Force <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 15, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tracey Fiereck – Sauk Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Distribution of Endowment Fund Earnings Task Force <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 15, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tracy Lhotka – Ogema, MN <br /></strong>Distribution of Endowment Fund Earnings Task Force <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 15, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaron Vande Linde – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Distribution of Endowment Fund Earnings Task Force <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 15, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Distribution of Endowment Fund Earnings Task Force: <br /></em>The task force must examine the historical returns on the permanent school fund endowment and evaluate and recommend potential changes to the distribution of earnings. The task force may examine school trust endowment policies in other states. The task force recommendations may include proposed changes to state statutes and Minnesota's constitutional provisions governing the school trust fund endowment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Distribution of Endowment Fund Earnings Task Force can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/366">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marcheta Evans – St. Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Humanities Center <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Ali Elhassan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Flinn – Morris, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Humanities Center <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Annamarie Hill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matt Lindstrom – Collegeville, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Humanities Center <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Kristin White</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carter Meland – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Humanities Center <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Rebecca Evan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Josh Ney – St. Louis Park, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Humanities Center <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kim Schaufenbuel – Owatonna, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Humanities Center <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Humanities Center: <br /></em>The Minnesota Humanities Center conducts professional development opportunities for educators and the public, creates and disseminates one-of-a-kind educational resources, partners with a variety of communities and organizations to offer humanities-based programs statewide, offers and manages state and federal grant monies to statewide organizations pursuing humanities-based projects, and operates a full-service meeting and event center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Humanities Center can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/89">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christopher Bates – Rosemount, MN <br /></strong>Task Force on Holistic and Effective Responses to Illicit Drug Use <br /> Member with Knowledge of Expungement Law <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lauren Graber – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Task Force on Holistic and Effective Responses to Illicit Drug Use <br /> Member Representing an Organization with Knowledge of Youth Intervention Services and the Juvenile Justice System <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dziwe Ntaba – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Task Force on Holistic and Effective Responses to Illicit Drug Use <br /> Member who Resides in a Community that has been Disproportionately Impacted by Drug Sentencing Laws <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bradley Ray – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Task Force on Holistic and Effective Responses to Illicit Drug Use <br /> Academic Researcher Specializing in Drug Use or Drug Policy <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Task Force on Holistic and Effective Responses to Illicit Drug Use: <br /></em>The Task Force on Holistic and Effective Responses to Illicit Drug Use was established by the legislature to review reports on approaches to address illicit drug use in Minnesota, develop a phased timeline for implementation of policy changes, and make policy and funding recommendations to the legislature.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Task Force on Holistic and Effective Responses to Illicit Drug Use can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/361">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rania Abdullahi – Edina, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Josibeth Elena Aguilera – Tenstrike, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Reyna Davila-Day</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sita Baker – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Maya Betti – Shoreview, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Sophie Hoiseth</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bridget Cisneros – West Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Oluwatomi Omiwade</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sundus Dhayow – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mikayla Draughon – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ruthe Johnson – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Natividad Renee Herrera Garcia – Apple Valley, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sophie Hunter – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Maya Larson – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Riss Leitzke</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mumtaaz Mahammud Hirsi – Apple Valley, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lillian Masinde – Bloomington, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Madisen Lo</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Saynab Mohamed – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kavya Nair – Shakopee, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Lanaya Laurent</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Valahlena Rahyne Steeprock – Bemidji, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Ruiz Plaza – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Maria Shavers – Saint Cloud, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Solana Madison</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Himeeka Sunbeeb – Savage, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Lori Martin-Kingbird</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brook Swanson – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Reauna Stiff</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nalani Vang – Cottage Grove, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ely Zeimet – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Iman Ibrahim</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alexa Mae Zuniga – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Young Women's Initiative <br /> Member <br /> Effective: September 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Rayann Abdulkadir</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Young Women’s Initiative: <br /></em>Launched in 2016, the Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota (YWI MN) is a partnership between the Governor’s Office, the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota, and the YWCA. The YWI MN cabinet consists of young women and gender-expansive youth aged 16-24.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">YWI MN centers the leadership and solutions of young women of color, American Indian young women, young women from Greater Minnesota, LGBTQ+ youth, young women with disabilities, and gender-expansive youth. The initiative brings together nonprofits, businesses, government, philanthropies, and young women to promote equitable systems that benefit all, grounded in the belief that when young Black, Indigenous, and women of color in Minnesota thrive, families and communities thrive. The YWI MN’s statewide partnership and direct investments in young women and gender-expansive people are now being replicated across the nation through the National Philanthropic Collaborative of Young Women’s Initiatives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Young Women’s Initiative can be found on the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wfmn.org%2Fywi-mn%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cbdbc490b68514164b6ae08dcc6cca7ef%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638603829529057621%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=6gjBfvIcQxl2i9j4SaSvYy27cAVJzNHm6oYusF1E0JQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">Women’s Foundation of Minnesota website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position"> Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6424752024-08-28T02:12:21Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-642220" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-23T23:04:48ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill four vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Jonathan N. Jasper, and the other vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable James A. Cunningham, the Honorable Kristin C. Larson, and the Honorable Nancy J. Logering. Three seats will be chambered in Anoka in Anoka County, and one will be chambered in Elk River in Sherburne County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill four vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Jonathan N. Jasper, and the other vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable James A. Cunningham, the Honorable Kristin C. Larson, and the Honorable Nancy J. Logering. Three seats will be chambered in Anoka in Anoka County, and one will be chambered in Elk River in Sherburne County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Madelyn Adams: </strong>Madelyn Adams is the interim director of youth justice and wellness in the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, where she supervises juvenile delinquency prosecution, school attendance intervention, and restorative justice initiatives involving youth. She also serves as a senior attorney in the division, where she specializes in the prosecution of complex violent felonies and cases involving particularly sensitive victims. Adams was previously an assistant county attorney in the Washington County Attorney’s Office and an assistant public defender in the Second Judicial District Public Defender’s Office. Her community involvement includes volunteering in her children’s school and serving on various committees seeking to create fair and accessible opportunities for youth.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Justin Collins: </strong>Justin Collins is an assistant public defender in the Tenth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Anoka, where he defends persons charged with felony crimes. He was previously an assistant county attorney with the Washington County Attorney’s Office, where he served on the Washington County Drug Task Force, Washington County Mental Health and Opioid Re-Entry Program Planning Team, and the office’s Equity Change Team. Collins’s community involvement includes volunteering with the American Mock Trial Association, Feed My Starving Children, and the Washington County Food Drive.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jacob Fischmann: </strong>Jacob Fischmann is a senior assistant attorney in the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, where he supervises a team of attorneys prosecuting felony level narcotics and property crime cases. He also served in the Complex Prosecution Unit and the Adult Prosecution Division in the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office. Fischmann was previously an assistant county attorney with the Chisago County Attorney’s Office and an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office in the Public Safety Division and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. His community involvement includes teaching criminal procedure at St. Thomas School of Law and coaching girls hockey in Woodbury.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tricia Loehr: </strong>Tricia Loehr is an assistant county attorney in the Washington County Attorney’s Office, where she handles juvenile delinquency and child protection matters. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office and a law clerk for the Honorable Edward Lynch in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Loehr is the chair of the Washington County Attorney’s Office diversity, equity, and inclusion work group and leads the Washington County multidisciplinary team for sexually trafficked and exploited individuals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Peterson:</strong> Jennifer Peterson is an assistant public defender in the Tenth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office, where she represents indigent clients primarily facing felony-level offenses. She also serves as the court-appointed counsel in Anoka County for individuals petitioned for civil commitment as mentally ill and/or chemically dependent. Peterson was previously a senior assistant director at the Office of Lawyer’s Professional Responsibility, where she investigated and prosecuted disciplinary actions against lawyers, and an assistant county attorney in the Isanti County Attorney’s Office. She is a member of the Tenth Judicial District’s Equal Justice Committee and the Tenth District Public Defender’s Wellness Committee. Her community involvement includes being a Big Sister and mentor to her Little Sister and volunteering with Twin Cities Rise.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heather Pipenhagen:</strong> Heather Pipenhagen is an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she handles criminal appeals and civil commitment matters. She serves on the Minnesota County Attorney Association’s Appellate Advisory Committee and on the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the Rules Governing Proceedings under the Minnesota Commitment and Treatment Act. Pipenhagen previously worked as an assistant county attorney in the Washington County Attorney’s Office and as a law clerk to the Honorable Herbert P. Lefler in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. She currently serves on the Scandia City Council and is a member of the Scandia-Marine Lions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6422202024-08-23T23:06:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-642034" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-22T15:20:04ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced more than $5 million for three business expansion projects in the state. The projects are expected to support 175 jobs and leverage $72 million in outside investment.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced more than $5 million for three business expansion projects in the state. The projects are expected to support 175 jobs and leverage $72 million in outside investment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We didn’t achieve our ranking as a top state for business by accident. We earn that reputation by investing in business expansion, supporting innovation, and driving business growth,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These projects will create good-paying jobs and expand Minnesota’s leadership in health care and medical technology.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is one of the best places for businesses of any size to break ground, build, and expand,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“The Job Creation Fund and Minnesota Investment Fund’s record-breaking year is testament to how tirelessly DEED’s business development programs and staff work to make Minnesota a place businesses want to settle and thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Job Creation Fund (JCF) provides financial incentives to new and expanding businesses that meet certain job creation and capital investment targets.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Eligible companies may receive up to $2 million for creating or retaining high-paying jobs and for constructing or renovating facilities or making other property improvements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF) provides financing to help add new workers and retain high-quality jobs – with a focus on industrial, manufacturing, and technology-related industries – increasing the local and state tax base and improving Minnesota's economic vitality. Funds are awarded to local units of government, which provide loans to assist expanding businesses. Some of the loans may be forgiven if specific goals are met.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Details on individual projects below:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Golden Valley – JCF $1,840,000, MIF $1,370,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Baxter Healthcare Corporation is a global medical technology manufacturer headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois, with locations around the world. The proposed expansion will create a new research and development center in Minnesota that will support the company’s kidney care business. The total expansion cost is $40.7 million and is expected to create 70 jobs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">LISI Medical Remmele, Inc., Big Lake – MIF $550,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">LISI Medical — a division of LISI Group — is a medical device manufacturer that specializes in implants and instruments for minimally invasive surgery, as well as orthopedic, spinal, and trauma surgery. The proposed expansion will grow the existing Big Lake facility by approximately 45,000 square feet, bringing it to a total of 152,000 square feet. The total project cost is $23.5 million and is expected create 30 jobs within the first three years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Simpli-Fi Automation, Inc., St. Paul – JCF $268,000, MIF $1,000,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Simpli-Fi Automation, Inc. is a St. Paul-based company specializing in cutting-edge technology for health care. The company is planning to develop a 7,500-square-foot facility in St. Paul to create advanced materials used in health and environmental sensors that are vital for improving patient care and monitoring environmental conditions. The $12.2 million expansion is set to create or retain 75 jobs over the next three years.</p>6420342024-08-22T15:21:57Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-641942" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-21T20:05:14ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice, Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Governor’s Residence Council, Governor’s Workforce Development Board, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, and the Minnesota State Retirement System.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice, Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Governor’s Residence Council, Governor’s Workforce Development Board, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, and the Minnesota State Retirement System.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Donna Gjesvold – Saint Michael, MN <br /></strong>Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice <br /> Licensed Dietitian <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: August 1, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marjory Humbert – Champlin, MN <br /></strong>Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice <br /> Licensed Dietitian <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: August 1, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christine Rice – Hastings, MN <br /></strong>Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: August 1, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Samuel Ankrah</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice: <br /></em>The Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice is responsible for licensing dietitians and nutritionists, investigating violations, conducting hearings, and creating rules relating to this practice.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/22">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Burrage – Robbinsdale, MN <br /></strong>Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Justin Page</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tad Farrell – Floodwood, MN <br /></strong>Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Elected City Official <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Jay Arrowsmith</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST): <br /></em>The POST Board licenses peace officers, establishes minimum qualifications and standards of conduct, and regulates professional peace officer education and continuing education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/29">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>JoNes VanHecke – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Residence Council <br /> Higher Education Representative <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Fayneese Miller</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor's Residence Council: <br /></em>The Governor’s Residence Council is responsible for advising on the maintenance, decoration and furnishing of the Governor’s mansion. Additionally, the council oversees the restoration for the residence and the surrounding grounds and approves alterations to the existing structure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor's Residence Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/67">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Troy Haugen – Fergus Falls, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Vocational Education Representative <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Surya Iyer – Edina, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Chair <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Laura Beeth</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lance Louis – Cold Spring, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeff Rainey – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rebecca Cunningham – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> University of Minnesota Representative <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Joan Gabel</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor's Workforce Development Board: <br /></em>The Governor’s Workforce Development Board assists the Governor in developing, implementing, and modifying the WIOA Combined State Plan. It also reviews statewide policies and programs, provides recommendations on actions to improve the workforce development system and programs, and develops strategies to remove barriers to those programs, among other duties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor's Workforce Development Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/182">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rosa Perez – Burnsville, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs <br /> Member (District 2) <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Juventino Meza Rodriguez</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Juventino Meza Rodriguez – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs <br /> Member (District 5) <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Clara Perrin</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs: <br /></em>The Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs (MCLA) advises and informs the legislature, the Governor, and Lieutenant Governor on matters of importance to the Latino community. MCLA also serves as a bridge between the Latino community and state government. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/178">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erin Campbell – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota State Retirement System <br /> Appointed State Official <br /> Effective: August 26, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Jim Schowalter</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota State Retirement System: <br /></em>The board establishes rules and regulations for the administration of the Minnesota State Retirement System, Minnesota Deferred Compensation Plan, and the Health Care Savings Plan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota State Retirement System can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/119">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6419422024-08-21T20:08:29Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-641902" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-21T17:39:46ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Robert D. Tiffany and the resignation of the Honorable Korey Wahwassuck. These seats will be chambered in Park Rapids in Hubbard County and Grand Rapids in Itasca County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Robert D. Tiffany and the resignation of the Honorable Korey Wahwassuck. These seats will be chambered in Park Rapids in Hubbard County and Grand Rapids in Itasca County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on Wednesday, September 11 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in early October.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Ninth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6419022024-08-21T17:40:59Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-641830" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-21T14:58:55ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced nearly $10 million to support Minnesota’s special education workforce. The Education Pipeline grants awarded by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) will support and train special education teachers in over 35 districts, charter schools, and cooperatives. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced nearly $10 million to support Minnesota’s special education workforce. The Education Pipeline grants awarded by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) will support and train special education teachers in over 35 districts, charter schools, and cooperatives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a former classroom teacher for over 20 years, I understand the impact a dedicated teacher can have on their students’ lives,”</strong> said Governor Walz <strong>. “By investing in our special education workforce, we can help ensure every student in Minnesota receives the support they need to thrive in their education.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are committed to building an education system that gives every child in Minnesota a world-class education,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“By helping more Minnesotans enter the special education workforce, we can build school environments that meet the unique needs of each student.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Students in special education deserve great teachers, and this grant will help prepare teachers with the skills they need,”</strong> said MDE Commissioner Willie Jett. <strong>“We are working to create the best education workforce in the nation, and special education teachers are an important part of making sure every student in Minnesota receives a quality education.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Special Education Teacher Pipeline grant program was established in 2023. MDE awarded the first round of $20 million in funding to 25 grantees, benefiting more than 160 joint partners in March 2024.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Grantees include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Bemidji Independent School District, serving as a fiscal host for a joint grant with: <ul type="circle"> <li>Area Special Education Cooperative</li> <li>Crookston Public Schools</li> <li>Northwest Regional Interdistrict Council</li> <li>Northwest Service Cooperative</li> <li>PAWN Special Education</li> <li>Red Lake Public Schools</li> <li>Special Education Cooperative 382-52</li> </ul> </li> <li>Eden Prairie</li> <li>Lakes International Language Academy</li> <li>New Century School, serving as a fiscal host for a joint grant with: <ul type="circle"> <li>Ubah Academy</li> </ul> </li> <li>Noble Academy</li> <li>Southern Plains Education, serving as a fiscal host for a joint grant with: <ul type="circle"> <li>Blue Earth Area School District</li> <li>Fairmont Area School District</li> <li>Granada Huntley East Chain School District</li> <li>Martin County West School District</li> <li>Southern Plains Education Cooperative</li> <li>United South Central School District</li> </ul> </li> <li>Spero Academy</li> <li>Saint Paul Public Schools</li> <li>Saint Paul School of Northern Lights, serving as a fiscal host for a joint grant with: <ul type="circle"> <li>Academy for Sciences &amp; Agriculture (AFSA) Elementary and High School</li> <li>Athlos Leadership Academy and Athlos Academy of St. Cloud</li> <li>Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig School</li> <li>Community of Peace Academy</li> <li>Cornerstone Montessori Elementary School</li> <li>Cyber Village Academy</li> <li>Great River School</li> <li>La Crescent Montessori &amp; STEM School</li> <li>Minnesota Excellence in Learning Academy</li> <li>North Metro FLEX Academy</li> <li>Northern Lights Community School</li> <li>Northwest Passage High School</li> <li>Paladin Career &amp; Technical School</li> <li>Terra Nova School</li> <li>Schoolcraft Learning Community</li> <li>Sejong Academy</li> <li>St. Paul City School</li> <li>Technical Academies of Minnesota</li> <li>TrekNorth High School</li> <li>Venture Academy</li> <li>Vermilion Country School</li> <li>Voyageurs Expeditionary School</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Grantees and partners will use the funds to support teachers, paraprofessionals or other staff to become fully licensed special education teachers. This support may include providing tuition assistance or stipends, participant recruitment, and providing supports for participants including mentoring, licensure test preparation and technology support.</p>6418302024-08-21T15:00:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-641291" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-15T18:30:57ZAs parents begin back-to-school shopping, Governor Tim Walz today highlighted two tax relief programs that can help Minnesota families afford back-to-school expenses. Families with children in kindergarten through 12th grade may be eligible to lower their taxes or get a larger refund with the K-12 Education Subtraction and Credit.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] –<a name="_Hlk142394196" />As parents begin back-to-school shopping, Governor Tim Walz today highlighted two tax relief programs that can help Minnesota families afford back-to-school expenses. Families with children in kindergarten through 12th grade may be eligible to lower their taxes or get a larger refund with the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/k-12-education-subtraction-and-credit">K-12 Education Subtraction and Credit</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a former teacher, I know that a child’s success in the classroom relies on access to the tools and materials on their supply list. But I also know the stress</strong> <strong>that can accompany back-to-school shopping,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“With the K-12 Education and Subtraction Credit we’re investing in our children by ensuring no child has to forego necessary school supplies. We’re equipping our students and putting money back in pockets of hard-working Minnesotans – another step toward creating the best state in the nation for kids.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a mom, I know the anxiety that accompanies the start of a new school year, and I know that getting our kids back into the classroom can be expensive. However, parents should not have to compromise when it comes to providing their children with the tools and supplies necessary to succeed,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“The K-12 Education Credit will ensure that families don’t have to decide between their child’s school supplies and life’s other expenses. This is another way that we are working to take the weight off families’ shoulders while setting kids up for future success.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Claiming either the K-12 Education Subtraction or the K-12 Education Credit will financially benefit Minnesota families by reducing the tax they pay and could deliver a larger refund when filing a Minnesota income tax return,”</strong> said Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart. <strong>“By saving those receipts for qualifying education purchases, you will have the information needed at the time of filing to claim the credit or subtraction as well as the documentation necessary in case we need the information from you to verify your tax return information.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a name="_Hlk47531073" /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The K-12 Education Credit allows families to claim refunds on money spent for their child’s education, including school supplies required by the school, extracurricular classes, and tutoring. The K-12 Education Subtraction allows families to reduce their tax by subtracting up to $1625 in education expenses for each child in kindergarten through 6th grade, and up to $2500 for each child in 7th through 12th grade.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last year, more than 43,000 families received the K-12 Education Credit for an average credit of $333. Over 118,000 families received the K-12 Education Subtraction for an average subtraction of $1,395.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">These back-to-school credits are in addition to Minnesota’s nation-leading <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit">Child Tax Credit</a> that has put over $545 million back into the budgets of more than 215,000 Minnesota families this year.</p>6412912024-08-15T18:32:17Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-640779" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-13T20:07:39ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointments of Michael Leeser and Ole Tvedten as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. Leeser will replace the Honorable Greta M. Smolnisky and will be chambered in Moorhead in Clay County and Tvedten will replace the Honorable Sarah E. Hennesy and be chambered in St. Cloud in Stearns County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointments of Michael Leeser and Ole Tvedten as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. Leeser will replace the Honorable Greta M. Smolnisky and will be chambered in Moorhead in Clay County and Tvedten will replace the Honorable Sarah E. Hennesy and be chambered in St. Cloud in Stearns County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Michael Leeser to the Clay County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The determination and leadership that he has demonstrated throughout his career gives me confidence that he is the right person for this position.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I applaud the appointment of Michael Leeser,”</strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“His forward-thinking attitude and deep understanding of our justice system will enrich the Seventh Judicial District and the people it serves.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my privilege to appoint Ole Tvedten to the Stearns County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Much like the person he is replacing, Justice Sarah Hennesy, he will bring a practical and compassionate approach to this role. I look forward to seeing all the great work he will accomplish as Judge Tvedten.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Ole Tvedten will be a remarkable judge,”</strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“He is a lifelong public servant who is grounded in community and cares deeply about doing right for the people of Stearns County. He will work every day to strike the delicate balance of justice and mercy in every case he touches.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District consists of Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd, and Wadena counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em style=""><strong>About Michael Leeser <br /></strong></em>Michael Leeser is an assistant county attorney in the Clay County Attorney’s Office, where he prosecutes adult criminal and juvenile cases. He is a member of the Clay County Drug Court and Clay County Veterans Court teams. Leeser was previously an attorney with Lies, Bullis &amp; Hatting and an assistant city attorney for the Wahpeton City Attorney’s Office in North Dakota. He was also an adjunct professor at Minnesota State University Moorhead. Leeser’s community involvement includes serving as vice president of the Clay County Bar Association and as a board member of the Moorhead Economic Development Authority. He earned his B.A. from Utah Valley University and his J.D. from the University of North Dakota School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em style=""><strong>About Ole Tvedten <br /></strong></em>Ole Tvedten is the head of the Criminal Division of the Stearns County Attorney’s Office. He was previously an assistant county attorney in the Stearns County Attorney’s Office, where he was a trial prosecutor and appellate attorney. Tvedten’s community involvement includes serving on the Stearns County Opioid Community Advisory Committee, the Minnesota County Attorney Association’s Appellate Advisory Committee and Trial School, the Stearns County Domestic Violence Partnership, the Central Minnesota Human Trafficking Multi-Disciplinary Team, and the Stearns County Substance Abuse Court Steering Committee. He also volunteers with Project Connect, judges mock trial, and coaches girls youth sports. Tvedten earned his B.A. and J.D. from the University of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p>6407792024-08-13T20:09:34Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-640551" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-09T19:03:15ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Kristin A. Siegesmund. This seat will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Kristin A. Siegesmund. This seat will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Emily Froehle</strong>: Emily Froehle is an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she prosecutes serious felony matters. She was previously an assistant public defender in Hennepin County and a law clerk for the Honorable Gina M. Brandt and the Honorable Mark S. Wernick in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. She is a member of the MSBA’s Access to Justice Committee, the Hennepin County Bar Association Bar Memorial Committee, and the MSBA General Assembly. Her community involvement includes serving as a volunteer at Cornerstone and as a mock trial judge for both the MSBA and YMCA.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Olson:</strong> Jennifer Olson is an assistant attorney general in the Employment, Torts, and Public Utilities Commission Division in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, where she defends constitutional, statutory, employment, and tort litigation on behalf of the State of Minnesota and state agencies. She was previously a partner at Best &amp; Flanagan LLP, where she served as the firm’s pro bono partner, and an associate attorney at Stinson LLP. Olson’s community involvement includes serving on the boards of the Volunteer Lawyers Network Benefactors and the Minnesota Justice Foundation. She has also served in various leadership roles with the Hennepin County Bar Association and on the MSBA’s Pro Bono Council. Olson has also volunteered as a pro bono attorney with the Advocates for Human Rights, representing clients seeking asylum.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Andrew Tweeten:</strong> Andrew Tweeten is an assistant United States attorney in the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, where he pursues affirmative health care fraud matters on behalf of the United States and defends a wide variety of civil claims against federal officers and agencies. He was previously an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office and a law clerk for the Honorable Donald W. Molloy of the United States District Court for the District of Montana and the Honorable Sidney R. Thomas of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. His community involvement includes singing and volunteering with One Voice Mixed Chorus. He also volunteers with the Minnesota Urban Debate League and judges college and high school mock trial and moot court competitions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6405512024-08-09T19:05:04Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-639617" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-08-02T19:55:43ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that new figures released by the Minnesota Department of Revenue show the state’s nation-leading Child Tax Credit has put over $545 million into the budgets of more than 215,000 Minnesota families this year. Nearly 440,000 children have benefited with over $545 million going back into family budgets this year1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that new figures released by the Minnesota Department of Revenue show the state’s nation-leading Child Tax Credit has put over $545 million into the budgets of more than 215,000 Minnesota families this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With the majority of 2023 individual income tax returns processed, the department reports that more than 215,000 tax returns claimed the new Child Tax Credit, claiming over 437,000 eligible children for an average total credit of $1,244 per child.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This year, we invested directly in the financial security and wellbeing of families across the state through our nation-leading Child Tax Credit,”</strong> said Governor Walz. “ <strong>I’m grateful that nearly 440,000 children have already benefited. Minnesota is setting an example for the nation of how to lift families up, cut child poverty, and build a brighter future for Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This historic tax credit is a game-changer for Minnesota families,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I’m beyond thrilled to know that hundreds of thousands of families can live with a little less stress knowing there is extra money in the bank this year. This credit will help Minnesotans afford groceries, rent, or a new backpack for school, and this is just one way we are making Minnesota the best state for children and families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Through the leadership of Governor Walz, Minnesota’s Child Tax Credit has become an effective tool in our goal of reducing childhood poverty and making Minnesota the best place to raise a family,”</strong> said Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart. <strong>“The advanced payment option he championed will make the credit even more effective – allowing parents to budget and utilize the money throughout the year.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Minnesota’s Child Tax Credit <br /></em>Beginning with tax year 2023, taxpayers may qualify for a Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child, with no limit on the number of children claimed. This is a refundable credit, meaning they can receive a refund even if they do not owe tax. They must file an individual income tax return in order to claim the credit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Learn more about income requirements and qualifications on the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit" target="_blank">Child Tax Credit webpage</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Child Tax Credit advanced payment option is coming <br /></em>Minnesota is set to become the first state in the nation to roll out an advanced payment option of the Child Tax Credit beginning with tax year 2024. This option will give parents the flexibility to receive the money from the credit at intervals throughout the year instead of all at once when filing their returns.</p>6396172024-08-02T19:57:13Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-639204" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-31T17:04:34ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill three vacancies in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Shawn M. Bartsh, the Honorable John H. Guthmann, and the Honorable Robyn A. Millenacker. These seats will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill three vacancies in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Shawn M. Bartsh, the Honorable John H. Guthmann, and the Honorable Robyn A. Millenacker. These seats will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Bierwerth: </strong>Jessica Bierwerth is an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she handles adult criminal appeals and civil commitments. She previously handled child protection and adult criminal prosecution matters. Bierwerth’s community involvement includes serving on the board of directors of Merrick Community Service on St. Paul’s Eastside. She previously volunteered with the Junior League of St. Paul, Minnesota Women Lawyers, and as a high school mock trial judge.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stacy Deery Stennes:</strong> Stacy Deery Stennes is a partner at Conlin Law Firm, LLC, where she represents people who have been injured due to negligence, medical malpractice, and defective products. Her community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota State Bar Association Assembly, coaching high school mock trial, mentoring law students and new lawyers, and volunteering with Children’s Law Center and Open Arms Minnesota. Deery Stennes’s community involvement has included serving as the former president of the Minnesota Association for Justice and a founding member of their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity committee. She is also a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katharine Hannaher:</strong> Katharine Hannaher is the director of policy and law at the Minnesota Coalition Against Sexual Assault. She previously worked as the director of legal services at Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas and as an assistant public defender in the territory of American Samoa and the Fourth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office. Hannaher was also a law clerk for the Honorable Tony Leung and the Honorable Anne McKeig on the Fourth Judicial District. She also consults for Gender Justice in St. Paul, serves on the Minnesota Crime Victims Reimbursement Board, and is an active PTA parent in St. Paul Public Schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Palmer-Denig:</strong> Jessica Palmer-Denig is an administrative law judge at the Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings. She was previously a trial attorney at the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, an assistant attorney general with the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, and an attorney at Dorsey &amp; Whitney LLP. Palmer-Denig’s community involvement includes serving as the vice president of the Ramsey County Bar Foundation and as a member of the board of directors of the Ramsey County Bar Association. She is a founding co-chair of the bar association’s Youth Civics Initiative, which provides programming and support for civics education in Ramsey County’s schools. She previously served on the St. Paul Mayor’s Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities and volunteered as a community mediator.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cory Tennison:</strong> Cory Tennison is a senior assistant attorney in the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, where he specializes in sentencing, contested probation violations, and law clerk supervision. He previously worked as a trial attorney specializing in child abuse prosecution for that office. Tennison represents the office on the Robina Institute of Criminal Law and Criminal Justice’s Reducing Revocations Challenge committee. His community involvement includes serving as a New Brighton Parks &amp; Rec youth soccer coach and an adjunct professor at Mitchell Hamline, where he has taught criminal procedure and constitutional law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Der Yang:</strong> Der Yang is the founder and managing attorney of Village Lawyer, a general practice firm located in the Hmong Village on St. Paul’s East Side that focuses on family law and criminal defense. She is also an adjunct professor at Mitchell Hamline School of Law where she teaches civil dispute resolution, civil procedure, and family law. Yang was previously an assistant public defender in the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender’s Office and a special public defender in the Sixth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office. She serves as chair of the Advocacy Committee for the Friends of the St. Paul Public Library, as a volunteer attorney for the Volunteer Lawyers Network, as a youth mentor with the Yang Wameng Association of Minnesota, and a competition brief and moot court judge at Mitchell Hamline School of Law and the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6392042024-07-31T17:05:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-639131" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-30T21:52:13ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that WalletHub has ranked Minnesota the best state in the nation for health care for the second consecutive year. Minnesota’s ranking is based on 44 key indicators including cost, access, and health outcomes.For second consecutive year, WalletHub ranks Minnesota best in the nation based on 44 indicators1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that <u><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwallethub.com%2Fedu%2Fstates-with-best-health-care%2F23457&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Ce32a80e5728f49819c5208dcb0d12909%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638579659617808173%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=ctCChCsmoMDfw%2B37i5JaSKOMVGceiKM%2FlI1snhXJQpI%3D&amp;reserved=0">WalletHub</a></u> has ranked Minnesota the best state in the nation for health care for the second consecutive year. Minnesota’s ranking is based on 44 key indicators including cost, access, and health outcomes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s top spot in this ranking is a reflection of our world-renowned health care institutions and unwavering commitment to providing accessible and affordable health care to every Minnesotan,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“From lowering prescription drug costs to helping Minnesotans access affordable health insurance, we are proud of the work we’ve done to make high-quality health care affordable and accessible for Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is an incredible accomplishment,” </strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Over the years, we have worked to protect and expand access to health care, improve affordability, and guarantee life-saving health services. We will keep working to ensure that every Minnesotan can access the care they need and deserve.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This ranking highlights the Walz-Flanagan Administration’s efforts to improve health care access and quality. In January, Governor Walz announced that <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-600837">a record number of Minnesotans</a> signed up for private health insurance plans using MNsure, Minnesota’s official health insurance marketplace, helping over 146,000 Minnesotans secure critical medical coverage.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition, Governor Walz has worked to <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-630041">improve transparency</a></u> in prescription drug costs and make <u><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-428439">insulin more affordable</a></u> for Minnesotans.</p>6391312024-07-30T21:53:26Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-639129" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-30T21:50:04ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesotans in 19 counties working to recover from this year’s flooding can now request individual assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help recover from losses they suffered. The declaration will provide resources to reimburse individuals and communities for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repair and replacement of damaged infrastructure.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesotans in 19 counties working to recover from this year’s flooding can now request individual assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help recover from losses they suffered. The declaration will provide resources to reimburse individuals and communities for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repair and replacement of damaged infrastructure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz requested the amendment to the original June 28 declaration after damage assessments documented significant destruction to homes and businesses across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans’ homes, belongings, and family businesses were devastated by flooding this summer, and we aren’t stopping until they get the support they need to recover. This assistance is going to make a world of a difference for the individuals and businesses that were impacted,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful to our partners in the federal government for their continued commitment to our recovery efforts, and to the Minnesotans who carefully documented the extent of this damage.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The individual assessment declaration is the next step in the state’s ongoing dedication to assisting affected communities. Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) division Director Kristi Rollwagen said the newly announced designation could not have come without the work of the state’s residents, business owners, and local emergency managers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Even as so many people worked to rebuild from the devastation these floods caused, they all came together to get the counties and state officials everything we needed to get this important designation,”</strong> Rollwagen said.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">While individual assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster, it is a significant step in helping people meet their basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The following counties are currently part of the declaration: Blue Earth, Cook, Cottonwood, Faribault, Freeborn, Goodhue, Itasca, Jackson, Lake, Le Sueur, Mower, Nicollet, Nobles, Rice, Rock, St. Louis, Steele, Waseca, and Watonwan. Additional county designations may be added to the declaration if requested and warranted by the results of damage assessments.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In the coming days, FEMA, in partnership with HSEM, will establish disaster recovery centers to assist people in navigating the process and house state agency representatives to ensure individuals and businesses understand all the programs that are available. More information on how to access these centers will be forthcoming from FEMA.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In the meantime, individuals in the declared counties are encouraged to create an application online by visiting <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.disasterassistance.gov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cf18ad052308d4f5480ee08dcb0cc891e%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638579639775717527%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=aOywUMBox7AEK8KVra29T76mhBVfRLZM4TiWWnpJWAA%3D&amp;reserved=0">disasterassistance.gov/</a> . You can also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET.</p>6391292024-07-30T21:51:18Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-638988" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-29T23:34:50ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Thomas W. Van Hon. The seat will be chambered in Montevideo in Chippewa County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Thomas W. Van Hon. The seat will be chambered in Montevideo in Chippewa County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on August 19 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in September.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Eighth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor ad Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6389882024-07-31T19:51:51Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-638976" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-29T20:13:16ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has earned the highest bond rating from all major credit rating agencies for the third consecutive year. This month, Fitch, Moody’s, and Standard & Poor’s have all affirmed the state’s AAA rating.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has earned the highest bond rating from all major credit rating agencies for the third consecutive year. This month, Fitch, Moody’s, and Standard &amp; Poor’s have all affirmed the state’s AAA rating.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is the third year in a row all three rating agencies have ranked Minnesota bonds among the best in the nation for investors – a testament to the strength of our economy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“From Minnesota’s diverse business sector and skilled workers to our financial management and thoughtful budgeting, we’ve maintained a financial position that’s among the highest in the country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Maintaining top bond ratings helps us keep the cost of borrowing low when we invest in Minnesota infrastructure and projects,”</strong> said Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Erin Campbell. <strong>“Minnesota came out of the pandemic in a sound financial position, and we’ve been able to maintain that with low long-term debt, healthy reserves, and responsible financial management.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In affirming Minnesota’s AAA rating, Fitch stated, <strong>“Minnesota's 'AAA' IDR and GO bond ratings reflect the state's steadily growing and broad-based economy, highly educated workforce, expanding population and a revenue structure well-designed to capture economic growth. The ratings also reflect a low long-term liability burden and historically strong control over revenue and spending that, in conjunction with a sophisticated approach to reserve funding, leaves Minnesota well-positioned to manage through economic cycles while maintaining a high level of financial flexibility.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In affirming Minnesota’s AAA rating, Moody’s Investors Service stated, <strong>“Minnesota's AAA issuer rating reflects the state's strong reserves and liquidity, low leverage from debt, pension and OPEB liabilities, and diverse and high income economy. The rating also reflects strong fiscal governance practices and wide financial flexibility.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In affirming Minnesota’s AAA rating, S&amp;P Global stated, <strong>“Minnesota's 'AAA' GO rating reflects our view of the state's robust financial management and government framework, its demonstrated commitment to structural budgetary balance and to maintaining healthy reserves, its above-average economic characteristics, and its conservatively managed debt and liability profile. Given the state's historically strong financial position and a national economic forecast that points to ongoing, albeit moderating, growth through 2027, we do not expect downside credit risk to materially increase within the two-year rating outlook horizon.”</strong></p>6389762024-07-29T20:15:38Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-638950" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-29T19:07:31ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, Campaign Finance Board, Mentally Ill and Dangerous Civil Commitment Task Force, Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee, Minnesota Rare Disease Council, Minnesota State High School League, State Advisory Council on Mental Health, and the Statewide Independent Living Council. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, Campaign Finance Board, Mentally Ill and Dangerous Civil Commitment Task Force, Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee, Minnesota Rare Disease Council, Minnesota State High School League, State Advisory Council on Mental Health, and the Statewide Independent Living Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dawn Erlandson – Tonka Bay, MN <br /></strong>Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System <br /> At-large <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2030 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jacqueline Johnson – Minnetonka, MN <br /></strong>Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System <br /> At-large <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2030 <br /> Replacing: Alex Cirillo Jr.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jana Johnson – Apple Valley, MN <br /></strong>Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System <br /> Member - Congressional District 2 <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2030 <br /> Replacing: April Ho-Nishimura</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>George Soule – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System <br /> Member - Congressional District 5 <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2030 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System: <br /></em>The Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System governs state colleges and universities, including setting tuition and fees, approving programs of study, approving awarding certificates and diplomas, and adopting policies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dave Kleis – St. Cloud, MN <br /></strong>Campaign Finance Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Margaret Leppik</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Campaign Finance Board: <br /></em>The Campaign Finance Board administers programs for campaign finance disclosure for state elections, economic interest disclosure for state public officials and local officials in metropolitan governmental units, lobbyist registration and disclosure, and public subsidy of state candidates and political party committees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Campaign Finance Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Biglow – Roseville, MN <br /></strong>Mentally Ill and Dangerous Civil Commitment Task Force <br /> Attorney with Experience Representing Respondents in Mentally Ill and Dangerous Civil Commitments <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: August 1, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Donna Ennis – Cloquet, MN <br /></strong>Mentally Ill and Dangerous Civil Commitment Task Force <br /> Tribal Representative <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: August 1, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ian Heath – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Mentally Ill and Dangerous Civil Commitment Task Force <br /> Licensed Independent Practitioner <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: August 1, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sheila Novak – Stillwater, MN <br /></strong>Mentally Ill and Dangerous Civil Commitment Task Force <br /> Family Member <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: August 1, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Mentally Ill and Dangerous Civil Commitment Task Force: <br /></em>The Mentally Ill and Dangerous Civil Commitment Reform Task Force was established to evaluate current statutes related to mentally ill and dangerous civil commitments and develop recommendations to optimize the use of state-operated mental health resources and increase equitable access and outcomes for patients.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Mentally Ill and Dangerous Civil Commitment Task Force can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tiffany Determan – Cambridge, MN <br /></strong>Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Isanti County Official <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Susan Morris</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mike Huang – Chaska, MN <br /></strong>Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Non-county local government unit in the Metro area <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Jeppson – Blaine, MN <br /></strong>Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Official from a county located in the Metro area <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Jamie Schurbon</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Phil Klein – Hugo, MN <br /></strong>Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Non-county local government unit in the Metro area <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brad Larson – Savage, MN <br /></strong>Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Non-county local government unit in the Metro area <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Xiongpao Lee – Brooklyn Park, MN <br /></strong>Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Non-county local government unit in the Metro area <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Tonja West-Hafner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Valerie Neppl – Apple Valley, MN <br /></strong>Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Official from a county located in the Metro area <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kevin Watson – Vadnais Heights, MN <br /></strong>Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee <br /> Non-county local government unit in the Metro area <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee: <br /></em>The Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee oversees water supply planning and implementation for metropolitan area communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Arthur Beisang – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rae Blaylark – Robbinsdale, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Rare Disease Caregiver <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dan Endreson – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Health Plan Representative <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Abigail Miller</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jackie Foster – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Rare Disease Patient Organization <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Lee Jones</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kerry Hansen – Richfield, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Nurse or Advanced Practice Nurse <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Barbara Joers – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Hospital Administrator <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laura Lambert – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Researcher <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Paul Orchard</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Lando-King – Zumbrota, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Rare Disease Caregiver <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Karl Nelsen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alexandra Mohror – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Genetic Counselor <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Amy Gaviglio</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Orchard – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Kris Ann Schultz <br /> <strong><br /></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Peterson – Maple Grove, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Dentist <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Soryaya Beiraghi</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Schirber – Prior Lake, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Member with Identified Expertise <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sofia Shrestha – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Pharmacist <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Tom Blissenbach</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Doug Smith – Roseville, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Sheldon Berkowitz</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Tilstra – Sartell, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council <br /> Hospital Administrator <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council: <br /></em>The Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council advises state agencies on policies, access, equity, research, diagnosis, treatment, and education related to rare diseases.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Obie Kipper – Bloomington, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota State High School League <br /> Parent Member <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: May Thao Schuck</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota State High School League: <br /></em>The Minnesota State High School League exercises supervision and regulation of interscholastic athletics, and musical, dramatic, and other contests between students of Minnesota high schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota State High School League can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Driever – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>State Advisory Council on Mental Health <br /> Family Member <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Kenneth Moorman</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mandy Goh – Bemidji, MN <br /></strong>State Advisory Council on Mental Health <br /> Family Member <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Angela Schmitz</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Jones – Shoreview, MN <br /></strong>State Advisory Council on Mental Health <br /> Family Member <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Edward Krumpotich – Grand Rapids, MN <br /></strong>State Advisory Council on Mental Health <br /> Consumer <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Rozenia Fuller</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Advisory Council on Mental Health: <br /></em>The State Advisory Council on Mental Health advises the Governor and state agencies about policy, programs, and services affecting people with mental illness as well as educating the public about mental health across the lifespan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Advisory Council on Mental Health can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robyn Block – Good Thunder, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Linda Lingen – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Brian Baker</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Rheinberger – Stillwater, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Larry Lura</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michele Severson – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Statewide Independent Living Council <br /> State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Effective: August 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: David Fenley</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council: <br /></em>The Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council works collaboratively with the Centers for Independent Living to create, monitor, review, and evaluate the State Plan for Independent Living. The council coordinates activities with other entities in the state that provide services similar or complementary to independent living services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6389502024-07-29T19:13:04Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-638822" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-26T20:54:21ZGovernor Tim Walz has proclaimed today, Friday, July 26, 2024, as Minnesota Olympians Day to celebrate the twelve individuals from Minnesota who will join the world’s best athletes at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has proclaimed today, Friday, July 26, 2024, as Minnesota Olympians Day to celebrate the twelve individuals from Minnesota who will join the world’s best athletes at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota athletes competing include Sunisa Lee, artistic gymnastics; Dakotah Lindwurm, marathon; Sarah Bacon, diving; Payton Otterdahl, shot put; Jordan Thompson, volleyball; Alise Willoughby, BMX racing; Matthew Wilkinson, 3000 steeplechase; Naphessa Collier, basketball; Lara Dallman-Weiss, sailing; Regan Smith, swimming; and Anthony Edwards, basketball. Cheryl Reeve will also represent Minnesota as coach of Team USA’s Olympic women’s basketball team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“For decades, Minnesota athletes have excelled on the Olympic stage with record-breaking performances and inspiring achievements,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am immensely proud of the passionate, hard-working, determined individuals who will be representing Minnesota in the Paris Olympics. Regardless of the hardware brought home, Minnesota has a lot to celebrate this Olympic season.”</strong></p>6388222024-07-26T20:55:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-638746" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-25T21:06:36ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 24-09, amending Executive Order 24-05 to activate the State Soldiers Assistance Program Disaster Relief Grants and provide financial assistance to veterans following severe storms and flooding across the state.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 24-09, amending Executive Order 24-05 to activate the State Soldiers Assistance Program Disaster Relief Grants and provide financial assistance to veterans following severe storms and flooding across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Recovery efforts are far from over,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Our communities are resilient, but many are facing significant damage. With a focus on rebuilding, the state continues to stand ready to support, working in lockstep with MDVA and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to get impacted communities the resources they need.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Order 24-09 will allow the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs to provide financial assistance to veterans through the State Soldiers Assistance Program Disaster Relief Grants. The program provides disaster relief to Veterans and their dependents in the counties included in the executive order and additional counties identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.</p>6387462024-07-25T21:08:02Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-638637" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-24T21:29:28ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Janet L. Barke Cain and the Honorable Timothy J. McManus. These seats will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Janet L. Barke Cain and the Honorable Timothy J. McManus. These seats will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on August 14 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in early September.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the First Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6386372024-07-24T21:30:46Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-638440" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-23T19:31:50ZGovernor Tim Walz today joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state leaders at The Food Group in New Hope to announce a $200 million grant to cut climate pollution from Minnesota food systems. The funding was awarded through the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program.Funds will reduce climate pollution with new equipment for farmers, food waste prevention, peatland restoration, and electric vehicles1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state leaders at The Food Group in New Hope to announce a $200 million grant to cut climate pollution from Minnesota food systems. The funding was awarded through the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota has consistently been a leader in climate solutions. From clean energy to sustainable agriculture, our climate goals are ensuring a healthier, safer state. Today, we’re celebrating another significant milestone in this journey,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“With the EPA’s help, we are creating a food system that nourishes Minnesotans while reducing waste and climate pollution.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Climate-Smart Food Systems project will empower growers, processors, nonprofits, and local communities to build a food system that reduces waste and climate pollution while nourishing Minnesotans statewide. Elements of the project include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Protecting and restoring 10,000 acres of peatlands in Minnesota, which absorb and store climate pollution.</li> <li>Expanding support for farmers through the nationally recognized Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification and Soil Health Financial Assistance programs.</li> <li>Implementing innovative new technologies at food and organic waste processing sites.</li> <li>Helping small businesses, supermarkets, schools, hospitals, food banks, and corner stores invest in new, climate-friendly refrigerators.</li> <li>Replacing gas-powered vehicles and equipment used in food systems like tractors and freight trucks with EVs and advanced clean fuel options.</li> <li>Scaling up successful programs to prevent food waste and keep organic matter out of landfills.</li> <li>Coordination with Tribal governments and Low-Income and Disadvantaged Communities to improve food security and strengthen food sovereignty.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Biden-Harris administration is delivering unprecedented funding and resources to help Minnesota fight climate change, safeguard public health and grow its economy,”</strong> said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. <strong>“EPA congratulates Gov. Walz for his leadership and innovative plans to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions by decarbonizing the state’s food system across agricultural, industrial and waste sectors, to building a greener, cleaner, healthier future for all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> <strong>“This funding will have a transformational impact on Minnesota, from farms to food shelves across the state,”</strong> said Katrina Kessler, commissioner of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. <strong>“This investment will reduce greenhouse gasses while improving air quality, advancing new technologies, building food security and sovereignty, and directing benefits to low-income residents and communities of color.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe is excited about the award of the EPA’s Climate-Smart Food Systems grant to the State of Minnesota. This project includes tribal opportunities that strengthen tribal food sovereignty and address climate change concerns,”</strong> said Kelly Applegate, Commissioner of Natural Resources for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. <strong>“This grant works towards and compliments the efforts being put forth by Governor Walz’s Advisory Council on Climate Change. Together with the State of Minnesota, we can work towards climate solutions that benefit us all, and preserve the environment and natural resources for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Leaders celebrated the grant by visiting The Food Group, a nonprofit that distributes affordable healthy food in the Twin Cities and invests in training emerging farmers in organic and sustainable practices. The organization runs a mobile food market program that sells healthy foods on buses powered by clean energy and also recovers food from farms that may otherwise be thrown away.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"We cannot talk about a just and equitable food system without talking about climate smart policies and programs,"</strong> said Sophia Lenarz-Coy, executive director of The Food Group. “<strong>The Food Group is proud to be part of Minnesota's collaborative and committed community</strong> <strong>providing food for today and change for tomorrow and we are eager to see this funding in action.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The MPCA will manage the grant, which also provides funding to several other state entities including the Minnesota Departments of Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Health, and Board of Water and Soil Resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The climate-smart food systems project is one of 25 projects selected as part of a highly competitive Climate Pollution Reduction Grant application process. It is one of only three in the EPA’s midwestern Region 5 to receive funding. The EPA received nearly 300 applications from entities from across the country requesting a total of nearly $33 billion in funding.</p>6384402024-07-23T19:33:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-632494" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-18T19:16:30ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited the farm of Matt Kruger in Pine Island to highlight resources available for new farmers. A shortage of new farmers and financial barriers to farming threaten the future of agriculture. State resources including the Beginning Farmer Tax Credit, Beginning Farmer Loan Program, and the Down Payment Assistance Grant provide necessary supports to encourage new farmers.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[PINE ISLAND, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited the farm of Matt Kruger in Pine Island to highlight resources available for new farmers. A shortage of new farmers and financial barriers to farming threaten the future of agriculture. State resources including the Beginning Farmer Tax Credit, Beginning Farmer Loan Program, and the Down Payment Assistance Grant provide necessary supports to encourage new farmers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is built on agriculture. We rely on our farmers to feed our families and drive the economy and it is vital that we support our farmers and create opportunities for new folks to enter the occupation, especially amid difficult times,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am grateful for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture for their work ensuring that new farmers and rural communities can thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Beginning Farmer Tax Credit <br /></em>The Minnesota Beginning Farmer Tax Credit provides state tax credits to landlords and sellers who rent or sell farmland, equipment, livestock, and other agricultural assets to beginning farmers in the current tax year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Beginning Farmer Loan Program <br /></em>The Beginning Farmer Loan Program provides financial assistance to help people who want to farm in Minnesota. The program offers affordable financing, a reasonable down payment, and built-in safeguards, such as farm business management training and financial planning to help minimize the risk all farmers face.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Down Payment Assistance Grants <br /></em>The Minnesota Down Payment Assistance Grant offers up to <strong>$15,000 for qualified farmers purchasing their first farm</strong> <strong>.</strong>The grant program is administered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's (MDA) Rural Finance Authority as part of its mission to develop the state’s agricultural resources. MDA will award these grants using a random lottery process. Applications will open on August 1.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Severe flooding across the state has compounded challenges for new farmers with many facing the loss of crops, livestock, and profits. Additional funding through the <a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/disasterloan">Rural Finance Authority’s Disaster Recovery Loan Program</a> provides financial support amid recovery efforts.</p>6324942024-07-18T19:17:52Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-632074" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-15T18:53:09ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David M. Johnson. The seat will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David M. Johnson. The seat will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on August 5 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter.</strong> The commission expects to hold interviews in late August.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Sixth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6320742024-07-15T18:54:23Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-632019" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-15T16:26:03ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced he will lead a trade mission to the Netherlands and Ireland, November 16-22, 2024, with stops in the countries’ major business centers of Amsterdam and Dublin. The mission will focus on growing Minnesota’s exports of goods and services, showcasing the state as a top destination for business investment, developing new partnership opportunities, and strengthening existing ties. Applications open through Aug. 30 for Minnesota businesses to join the delegation1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced he will lead a trade mission to the Netherlands and Ireland, November 16-22, 2024, with stops in the countries’ major business centers of Amsterdam and Dublin. The mission will focus on growing Minnesota’s exports of goods and services, showcasing the state as a top destination for business investment, developing new partnership opportunities, and strengthening existing ties. This will be the first trade mission led by a Minnesota Governor to these two countries.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz will lead a delegation comprised of representatives from approximately 35 businesses and organizations within Minnesota’s medical technology, food and agriculture, environmental technology, and higher education sectors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Trade missions provide an opportunity to strengthen international economic ties and lead to direct investment in Minnesota. I am thrilled to lead a delegation to the Netherlands and Ireland to further strengthen the state's trade and investment relationships with these important international markets,"</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>"Both countries offer excellent opportunities for Minnesota companies to grow their business in Europe, as well as create new partnerships for the state."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota companies have a global marketplace, and DEED is committed to helping them find new customers and investment from around the world,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Visiting Ireland and the Netherlands will help us establish new ties, strengthen existing relationships and benefit Minnesota companies, workers and the state’s economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As the fourth largest agriculture exporting state, it’s important we support Minnesota farmers as they feed and fuel the world by fostering global market development,”</strong> said Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. <strong>“We look forward to building new relationships in Ireland and the Netherlands as we demonstrate the high-quality crops and livestock we grow and raise here at home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Trade Office at the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is organizing the trade mission and accepting <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/exporting/mission/">applications to join the delegation</a> through August 30, 2024.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz, DEED Commissioner Varilek, Agriculture Commissioner Petersen, and Minnesota Trade Office leaders will facilitate a robust itinerary for the delegation as they meet with local elected leaders and Dutch and Irish companies looking to buy goods from North America. Delegation participants will also receive an extensive business agenda based on their industry sector, including market briefings, site visits, and networking events with business and government leaders.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Netherlands ($701 million in Minnesota exports in 2023) and Ireland ($688 million) rank seventh and eighth, respectively, among Minnesota export markets. The Netherlands occupies a strategic commercial location and is a key center within the global business network, with advanced infrastructure geared toward the transportation of goods, people, and data. Ireland is considered by many U.S. companies to be a natural location for distribution throughout the European Union. In addition to its advantage of sharing a common language, access to well-connected business partners is relatively easy in the country’s pro-business and common law environment.</p>6320192024-07-15T16:27:08Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-631918" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-12T20:15:40ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board, Board of Nursing, Certification Advisory Committee, and the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board, Board of Nursing, Certification Advisory Committee, and the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeff Wheeler – Montrose, MN <br /></strong>Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board <br /> Representative of Chemical Retailers <br /> Effective: July 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board: <br /></em>The Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board accepts applications for reimbursement from the Agricultural Chemical Response and Reimbursement Account, determines eligibility and amount of reimbursement due, and notifies the Commissioner of Agriculture of eligible claims.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank" /><strong>Patrick Soria – Lakeville, MN <br /></strong>Board of Nursing <br /> Registered Nurse <br /> Effective: July 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Rui Pina</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Nursing: <br /></em>The Board of Nursing oversees and ensures the safe practice of nursing in Minnesota. The board holds nurses accountable for conduct based on legal, ethical, and professional standards. The board regulates nursing practice through credentialing, education, discipline and complaint resolution, and nursing practice standards.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Nursing can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katheryn Cranbrook – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Certification Advisory Committee <br /> Board-Certified Psychologist <br /> Effective: July 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Krysta Delgado – Cottage Grove, MN <br /></strong>Certification Advisory Committee <br /> Mental Health Professional <br /> Effective: July 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joshua Griffiths – Saint Peter, MN <br /></strong>Certification Advisory Committee <br /> Board-Certified Psychiatrist <br /> Effective: July 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Certification Advisory Committee: <br /></em>The Certification Advisory Committee was established to provide the State Competency Restoration Board with advice and expertise related to the certification of competency restoration programs. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Certification Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chandra Petersen – Kasota, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing <br /> Southeast Advisory Committee <br /> Effective: July 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Barry Siebert – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing <br /> Metro Advisory Committee <br /> Effective: July 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Dave McAuliffe</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Svatos – Eveleth, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing <br /> Northeast Advisory Committee <br /> Effective: July 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Maisie Blaine</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing: <br /></em>The Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing serves as the principal agency of the state to advocate on behalf of the deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing Minnesotans by working to ensure those persons have equal access to the services, programs, and opportunities available to others.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6319182024-07-12T20:18:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-631834" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-12T15:03:27ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota is ranked sixth in the nation for business, according to a recent CNBC study. Minnesota’s ranking is based on 128 key indicators in 10 categories of competitiveness, including workforce, infrastructure, economy, quality of life, and business friendliness. Minnesota was also recently ranked the best state for independent retailers, according to a B2B Reviews study, and earlier this week, the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport was named the best U.S. airport in 2024 by Travel + Leisure.CNBC study ranks Minnesota sixth in the nation based on 128 indicators1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota is ranked sixth in the nation for business, according to a recent <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnbc.com%2F2024%2F07%2F11%2Famericas-top-states-for-business-full-rankings.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C1c7beb2cc423494ac99608dca2832236%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638563931346622229%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=VWiOg6pX3dpHdiwO2w0G3SD1ldls9XEEeuov6Plb6A0%3D&amp;reserved=0">CNBC study</a> . Minnesota’s ranking is based on 128 key indicators in 10 categories of competitiveness, including workforce, infrastructure, economy, quality of life, and business friendliness. Minnesota was also recently ranked the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.b2breviews.com%2Fbest-states-for-independent-retailers%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C1c7beb2cc423494ac99608dca2832236%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638563931346635593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=lzuXoiWTrMvNaTaqMZUzS0TNqsmMYTTwtuG%2Benr2LKU%3D&amp;reserved=0">best state</a> for independent retailers, according to a B2B Reviews study, and earlier this week, the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport was named the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.travelandleisure.com%2Fwba-2024-united-states-airports-8659765&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C1c7beb2cc423494ac99608dca2832236%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638563931346643904%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=cpfvZ3uYuwr9GBvznuI4UwHHSnTy%2FlbntorH3N2gcUQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">best U.S. airport</a> in 2024 by Travel + Leisure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These rankings are a testament to our focus on investing in key areas that make our businesses and economy strong: job training, workforce development, child care, and broadband access,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Businesses in top industries, from health care to renewable energy and manufacturing, understand the benefits of investing and growing in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This ranking comes as the Governor recently celebrated a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/630780">$24 million investment</a> in job training and economic development programs. Governor Walz also recently announced an <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/628030">over $12 million investment</a> to train workers for high-demand employment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Businesses in high-growth industries choose to invest in Minnesota. In June, Minnesota <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/627639">secured $213 million</a> to finance Bioforge Marshall LLC, a 500,000-square-foot sustainable biomanufacturing facility in Marshall, Minnesota. In May, Governor Walz celebrated Polar Semiconductor’s historic <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/624025">$525 million investment</a> to expand their Bloomington facility. Last winter, the Governor celebrated Mayo Clinic’s <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/601720">$5 billion expansion</a> in downtown Rochester.</p>6318342024-07-12T15:04:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-631771" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-11T18:41:27ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 24-08, continuing the Governor’s Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers and updating the original executive order that established the committee. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 24-08, continuing the Governor’s Committee on the Safety, Health, and Wellbeing of Agricultural and Food Processing Workers and updating the original <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-472656">executive order</a> that established the committee.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s agriculture and food processing workers work hard every day to put food on the table for families across the country,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The health, safety, and wellbeing of these workers remains a priority and I’m grateful that the work will continue to ensure their voices are heard and address the challenges facing this industry.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Order 24-08 extends the existence of the committee and updates the membership and meeting requirements.</p>6317712024-07-11T18:43:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-631770" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-11T18:35:26ZToday, Governor Tim Walz co-chaired the Council of Governors’ 29th plenary meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah. The meeting focused on progress made on issues of homeland security, cybersecurity, emergency management and disaster response, issues impacting the Air and Army National Guard, and strategic defense budget planning.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[SALT LAKE CITY, UT] – Today, Governor Tim Walz co-chaired the Council of Governors’ 29th plenary meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah. The meeting focused on progress made on issues of homeland security, cybersecurity, emergency management and disaster response, issues impacting the Air and Army National Guard, and strategic defense budget planning.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It was an honor to convene a bipartisan Council of Governors meeting today and discuss how we can work together to advance our shared goal of ensuring the safety and security of each of our states,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By strengthening partnerships across states and with the federal government, we can better tackle the most pressing issues facing our country: from emergency management and disaster response to cybersecurity.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The President’s bipartisan Council of Governors was established by the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 as a forum for governors to exchange views, information, or advice with the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of Homeland Security, and the White House Homeland Security Council on matters of national security, homeland defense, and disaster response and recovery. Governor Walz, a 24-year veteran of the Army National Guard, was appointed by the President in 2021 to lead the council along with co-chair Vermont Governor Phil Scott. Walz was first appointed to the council in 2019.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 29th plenary meeting was attended by leaders and senior officials across the federal government, including: the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the Executive Office of the President.</p>6317702024-07-11T18:36:28Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-631634" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-10T18:08:53ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced four vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable James A. Cunningham, the Honorable Jonathan N. Jasper, the Honorable Kristin C. Larson, and the Honorable Nancy J. Logering. Three seats will be chambered in Anoka in Anoka County, and one will be chambered in Elk River in Sherburne County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced four vacancies in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable James A. Cunningham, the Honorable Jonathan N. Jasper, the Honorable Kristin C. Larson, and the Honorable Nancy J. Logering. Three seats will be chambered in Anoka in Anoka County, and one will be chambered in Elk River in Sherburne County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on July 31 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in late August.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Tenth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6316342024-07-10T18:10:15Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630958" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-02T22:14:40ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 24-07, amending previous executive orders to ensure that they apply to new agencies. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 24-07, amending previous executive orders to ensure that they apply to new agencies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Order 24-07 amends Executive Order 19-34 to add the commissioners of the Department of Children, Youth and Families and the Office of Cannabis Management to the Children’s Cabinet. It also amends Executive Orders 22-16, 22-20, 23-03, and 23-14 and makes sure that the executive orders that protect reproductive health care services, improve information security programs, protect gender affirming health care services, and improve access to state employment apply to the Department of Children, Youth and Families and the Office of Cannabis Management. Finally, it amends Executive Order 23-13 by updating the emergency responsibilities of state agencies to include the Department of Children, Youth, and Families and the Office of Cannabis Management.</p>6309582024-07-02T22:16:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630811" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-01T22:02:22ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated $24 million in funding for job training and economic development programs. The funding, which takes effect today, will support entrepreneurs and start-up businesses with operating needs, fund training programs, and support community events that provide an economic boost, including the Special Olympics, Taste of Minnesota, and other festivals. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today joined veterans and community leaders to officially dedicate the new Bemidji veterans home. In addition to Bemidji, MDVA opened two other Minnesota Veterans Homes in Montevideo and Preston earlier this year. The three new homes will allow Minnesota to serve almost 200 more veterans needing skilled nursing care as they age.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We have an obligation to meet the needs of our veterans and the opening of the Bemidji Veterans Home is a reflection of our commitment to fulfill that obligation,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Together with MDVA we are providing necessary support and resources to ensure the wellbeing of veterans across Minnesota. I extend my gratitude to everyone who has worked around the clock to make Minnesota the first state in the nation to build and open three veterans homes simultaneously.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are grateful so many elements came together to make this a reality,”</strong> says Brad Lindsay, Commissioner, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA). <strong>“We wouldn’t be here today at this new veterans home without the hard work and support of the Bemidji community, the funding from the State as well as the Federal Veterans Administration, and collaboration with many institutions, organizations and businesses.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our residents and their families deserve the very best,”</strong> says Bemidji Veterans Home Administrator Kevin Gish. <strong>“This dedication marks an important day for Bemidji and Northern Minnesota. It’s helping fulfill our mission to serve veterans and their families with the benefits they’ve earned.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To be accepted for admission, residents must be:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Discharged under honorable conditions from any branch of the U.S. armed forces and a current resident of Minnesota, who served 181 consecutive days on active duty, unless discharged earlier because of disability incurred in the line of duty</li> <li>The spouse of an eligible veteran who is at least 55 years old and meets residency requirements.</li> <li>Able to demonstrate a medical or clinical need for skilled nursing care.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.macvso.org%2Ffind-a-cvso.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Ce4bab215a7374cc64edc08dc9a10dcbb%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638554644530825042%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Y%2BQffYMEGm%2FuK%2BvJ%2B4ew7jnmm5oZmHlsWwB4BDNBBak%3D&amp;reserved=0">County Veterans Service Officers</a> are available to assist future residents with the admission application process. Admissions inquiries can also be emailed to <a href="mailto:NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us" title="Email NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us">NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To learn more about joining the employee team and working with veterans in Bemidji, visit <a href="https://mn.gov/mdva/about/work-for-mdva/index.jsp" title="Work for MDVA">MinnesotaVeteran.org/Careers</a>.</p>6308112024-07-01T22:03:52Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630780" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-07-01T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated $24 million in funding for job training and economic development programs. The funding, which takes effect today, will support entrepreneurs and start-up businesses with operating needs, fund training programs, and support community events that provide an economic boost, including the Special Olympics, Taste of Minnesota, and other festivals. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated $24 million in funding for job training and economic development programs. The funding, which takes effect today, will support entrepreneurs and start-up businesses with operating needs, fund training programs, and support community events that provide an economic boost, including the Special Olympics, Taste of Minnesota, and other festivals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Investments in job training and economic development strengthen our workforce and boost our economy,”</strong> said Governor Walz <strong>. “This funding will enhance Minnesota’s culture of innovation, global talent market, and high quality of life, allowing us to continue to build the best state to live, work, and raise a family.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The programs supported by this funding include:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$2.5 million for Launch Minnesota for innovation grants to assist eligible Minnesota entrepreneurs or start-up businesses with their operating needs</li> <li>$1 million to the Entrepreneur Fund to capitalize its revolving loan funds to address unmet financing needs in northeast Minnesota of for-profit business startups, expansions, and ownership transitions</li> <li>$1 million to the New American Development Center to provide small businesses and entrepreneurs with technical assistance, financial education, training, and lending</li> <li>$2 million to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games</li> <li>$1.25 million to the Minneapolis Downtown Council for infrastructure and associated costs for the Taste of Minnesota</li> <li>$1 million to the city of Brooklyn Park to develop a biotech innovation district</li> <li>$1 million to the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce for technical support to Black-owned small businesses</li> <li>$1 million to WomenVenture for supporting child care providers by providing business training, mentorship, services, and educational materials</li> <li>$700,000 for the Shakopee Chamber Foundation for the Shakopee area workforce development scholarship pilot program</li> </ul>6307802024-07-01T20:13:39Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630518" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-30T00:59:56ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that 22 counties have been approved for a federal disaster declaration by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for severe flooding over the last two weeks. The declaration will provide resources to reimburse communities for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repair and replacement of damaged infrastructure. 20 additional counties currently under review1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that 22 counties have been approved for a federal disaster declaration by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for severe flooding over the last two weeks. The declaration will provide resources to reimburse communities for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repair and replacement of damaged infrastructure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This announcement comes after Governor Walz sent a letter to the President requesting a Presidential Disaster Declaration. Yesterday, Governor Walz and FEMA Regional Administrator Tom Sivak provided an update on the state’s flood outlook and ongoing emergency response.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’ve seen the damage across our state firsthand – it’s going to take a united effort at every level of government to quickly rebuild and recover. This assistance is going to make all the difference in that recovery,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful to our partners in the federal government for doing their part, just as Minnesotans have done theirs, filling tens of thousands of sandbags, checking in on their neighbors, and volunteering their time.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The counties approved for public assistance include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Blue Earth</li> <li>Carver</li> <li>Cass</li> <li>Cook</li> <li>Cottonwood</li> <li>Faribault</li> <li>Fillmore</li> <li>Freeborn</li> <li>Goodhue</li> <li>Jackson</li> <li>Lake</li> <li>Le Sueur</li> <li>Murray</li> <li>Nobles</li> <li>Pipestone</li> <li>Rice</li> <li>Rock</li> <li>St. Louis</li> <li>Steele</li> <li>Wabasha</li> <li>Waseca</li> <li>Watonwan</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Damage assessments are ongoing and additional counties and forms of assistance may be added once the assessments are completed.</p>6305182024-06-30T01:01:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630501" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-28T21:22:08ZGovernor Tim Walz today authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide public safety support for the 2024 Republican National Convention. The convention, which will be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from July 15 through July 18, has been designated as a national special security event by the United States Department of Homeland Security due to the scale of security operations required.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide public safety support for the 2024 Republican National Convention. The convention, which will be held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from July 15 through July 18, has been designated as a national special security event by the United States Department of Homeland Security due to the scale of security operations required.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am immensely grateful to our Minnesota National Guard members,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Their willingness to step up, whether in Minnesota or across the nation, is critical. Their support in Wisconsin will help ensure a safe, secure event.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Wisconsin’s local, county, and state governments have requested additional resources to host a safe and secure event. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has declared a state of emergency and requested the support of the Minnesota National Guard under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact to supplement local resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The executive order is effective immediately and will remain in effect until resources are no longer required, or until July 21, whichever occurs first.</p>6305012024-06-28T21:24:12Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630473" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-28T20:14:19ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Campaign Finance Board, Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board, Environmental Quality Board, Gambling Control Board, Governor's Workforce Development Board, Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority, Minnesota Housing Finance Authority, and the State Advisory Council on Mental Health. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, Campaign Finance Board, Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board, Environmental Quality Board, Gambling Control Board, Governor's Workforce Development Board, Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority, Minnesota Housing Finance Authority, and the State Advisory Council on Mental Health.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tanya Gladney – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Instructor of Peace Officer Education Program <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelly Phillips – Champlin, MN <br /></strong>Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Peace Officer Representing the Minnesota State Troopers Association <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Pilar Stier</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chou Yang – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> Municipal Police Officer <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST): <br /></em>The POST Board licenses peace officers, establishes minimum qualifications and standards of conduct, and regulates professional peace officer education and continuing education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephen Swanson – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Campaign Finance Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Campaign Finance Board: <br /></em>The board administers programs for campaign finance disclosure for state elections, economic interest disclosure for state public officials and local officials in metropolitan governmental units, lobbyist registration and disclosure, and public subsidy of state candidates and political party committees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Campaign Finance Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amber Lage – Isanti, MN <br /></strong>Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board <br /> Professional Firefighter <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2024 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Saehr – Pierz, MN <br /></strong>Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board <br /> Volunteer Firefighter Representative <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2024 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board: <br /></em>The Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board advises and reviews applicants for state or federal emergency medical services funds; makes recommendations to the legislature on improving the access, delivery, and effectiveness of the state’s emergency medical services delivery system; and establishes procedures for investigating, hearing, and resolving complaints against emergency medical services providers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ed Brands – Morris, MN <br /></strong>Environmental Quality Board <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Kenneth Foster</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicholas Martin – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Environmental Quality Board <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Angela Smith – New Hope, MN <br /></strong>Environmental Quality Board <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Mehmet Konar-Steenberg</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Environmental Quality Board: <br /></em>The Environmental Quality Board advises the Governor and legislature on environmental policy. Additionally, the board facilitates work among individuals, communities, and public and private organizations in the state to address environmental concerns.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about Environmental Quality Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank" /><strong>Alan de Jesus – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Gambling Control Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Beth Pinkney</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate Luthner – Forest Lake, MN <br /></strong>Gambling Control Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>James Nardone – Grand Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Gambling Control Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Gambling Control Board: <br /></em>The board works to ensure the compliance of gambling laws and rules via issuing, suspending, and revoking licenses of organizations, distributors, and manufacturers of gambling equipment. Additionally, the board is responsible for registering gambling equipment, collecting license fees, inspecting records, and conducting hearings related to operational integrity and law compliance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about Gambling Control Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hannah Alstead – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Labor Organization Representative <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Misun Bormann – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Mary Ferguson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amanda Hardy – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Community-based Organization Representative <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Ekta Prakash</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Surya Iyer – Edina, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Jason Duininck <br /> <strong><br /></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Niedermeyer – Brooklyn Center, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Community-based Organization Representative <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Suyapa Miranda</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sandra Pulles – Brooklyn Park, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Community-based Organization Representative <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Kyle Van Acker</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Travis Thibodeau – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Labor Organization Representative <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: July 1, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Karlton Scott</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>DeLinda Washington – Bloomington, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Tory Schalke</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Zirbes – New Hope, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Katherine McClelland</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Workforce Development Board: <br /></em>The Governor’s Workforce Development Board assists the Governor in developing, implementing, and modifying the WIOA Combined State Plan. It also reviews statewide policies and programs, provides recommendations on actions to improve the workforce development system and programs, and develops strategies to remove barriers to those programs, among other duties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Workforce Development Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Ives – Grand Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kenneth Westphal – St. Peter, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Raymond Vinzant</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority: <br /></em>The Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority assists institutions of higher education in the construction, financing, and refinancing of projects. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John DeCramer – Marshall, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Housing Finance Authority <br /> Member and Chair <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Terri Thao – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Housing Finance Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Housing Finance Authority: <br /></em>The Minnesota Housing Finance Authority issues financing dedicated to housing low and moderate-income Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Housing Finance Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dave Lee – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>State Advisory Council on Mental Health <br /> Psychologist <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: David Nathan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eren Sutherland – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>State Advisory Council on Mental Health <br /> Minnesota Disability Law <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katie Twyman-Metzger – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>State Advisory Council on Mental Health <br /> Center Representative Consumer <br /> Effective: July 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Al Levin</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the </em>State Advisory Council on Mental Health<em>: <br /></em>The State Advisory Council on Mental Health advises the Governor and state agencies about policy, programs, and services affecting people with mental illness as well as educating the public about mental health across the lifespan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Advisory Council on Mental Health can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6304732024-06-28T20:19:15Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630437" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-28T19:14:24ZAs the state transitions from emergency response to damage assessment and recovery, Governor Tim Walz today joined Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Regional Administrator Tom Sivak to provide an update on the state’s current flood outlook and ongoing emergency response. Over 40 counties throughout the state have been impacted by flooding, which has disrupted agriculture and damaged roads, businesses, homes, and property.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – As the state transitions from emergency response to damage assessment and recovery, Governor Tim Walz today joined Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Regional Administrator Tom Sivak to provide an update on the state’s current flood outlook and ongoing emergency response. Over 40 counties throughout the state have been impacted by flooding, which has disrupted agriculture and damaged roads, businesses, homes, and property.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As we begin to get a clearer picture of the extent of the damage, we’re turning over every rock to coordinate and fund the state’s recovery,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful for our partnership with FEMA officials - we’re working in lockstep to get impacted communities the resources they need to start the long journey toward recovery and rebuilding.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Public Safety's Homeland Security and Emergency Management division is working directly with local, county, state, and FEMA officials on the ground to assess damage and provide state assistance where needed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The state has assisted local communities with emergency flood operations and will continue to assist as Minnesota transitions from a focus on response to recovery and rebuilding:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Last weekend, Governor Walz issued a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/628510">peacetime emergency</a> and activated the Minnesota National Guard to assist with local emergency flood operations. The Executive Council has extended the peacetime emergency for an additional 30 days.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Last Friday, Governor Walz traveled to the cities of <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/628500">Cook and Biwabik</a> in Northeastern Minnesota where floodwaters damaged residences and businesses and washed out dozens of roads.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The Minnesota All-Hazards Incident Management Team, a pre-identified group of emergency responders from across the state, is assisting Jackson County with incident management.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has provided 175,000 sandbags and multiple water pumps to protect critical infrastructure in Rice, Le Sueur, Jackson, Rock, St. Louis, and Blue Earth County.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The Minnesota Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters group has established shelters in Cook and Faribault, debris removal assistance and a 211 hotline to connect community members with volunteer resources.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s State Fire Marshall division coordinated five firefighters from Luverne and Minneapolis to assist the Jackson Fire Department with two boats on standby for swift water rescue.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>USACE and the Minnesota Department of Transportation are working with local governments on critical infrastructure surveys and assessments, including flood modeling.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>On Tuesday, Governor Walz, United States Senator Amy Klobuchar, and public safety and emergency management staff took an <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/628843">aerial tour</a> to survey the full extent of damages in Henderson, Le Sueur, the Rapidan Dam, and Waterville.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Based on preliminary damage assessments, Governor Walz sent a letter this week to the President requesting a Presidential Disaster Declaration. If granted, the federal disaster declaration would provide much-needed resources to reimburse communities for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repair and replacement of damaged infrastructure.</li> </ul>6304372024-06-28T19:15:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630241" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-28T01:12:08ZGovernor Tim Walz today joined veterans and community leaders to officially dedicate the new veterans home in Preston. The home came to fruition after more than a decade of advocacy and planning and two years of construction. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today joined veterans and community leaders to officially dedicate the new veterans home in Preston. The home came to fruition after more than a decade of advocacy and planning and two years of construction.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to dedicate and showcase the state’s newest veterans home in Preston,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Our veterans have made considerable sacrifices to protect our state and country, and it is now our turn to take care of them. I am grateful to the Department of Veterans Affairs and everyone who has worked tirelessly to build these crucially needed homes and create the spaces our veterans deserve.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our residents deserve the very best,”</strong> says Brad Lindsay, Commissioner, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA). <strong>“The facility is absolutely beautiful, and we were thrilled to collaborate with our veterans and the community to make this happen. This dedication marks a meaningful day for all of southeastern Minnesota. It’s the embodiment of our mission to serve Minnesota Veterans and their families with the benefits they’ve earned.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to Preston, MDVA opened two other Minnesota Veterans Homes – one in Montevideo and the other in Bemidji – earlier this year. Minnesota is the only state to build and open three Veterans Homes at one time. The three new Homes will allow Minnesota to serve almost 200 more Veterans needing skilled nursing care as they age.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Wold Architects and Engineers, a St. Paul-based architectural and engineering firm with health care and senior living design expertise, led the designs. The Home centers around a residential skilled care model and embodies the principles of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) small house design guide.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are honored to be a part of a project that gives back to those who have risked their lives for our country,”</strong> says Sara Malin, Principal at Wold Architects and Engineers. <strong>“After meeting with the local veterans to understand what is unique to their community, we landed on a design that encourages community use and has space for large family visits, a unique aspect to the family structures of the veterans that live in this region.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To be accepted for admission, residents must be:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Discharged under honorable conditions from any branch of the U.S. armed forces and a current resident of Minnesota, who served 181 consecutive days on active duty, unless discharged earlier because of disability incurred in the line of duty.</li> <li>The spouse of an eligible veteran who is at least 55 years old and meets residency requirements.</li> <li>Able to demonstrate a medical or clinical need for skilled nursing care.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.macvso.org%2Ffind-a-cvso.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C565b8b1c2a534494ea5f08dc96e88472%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638551172621761379%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=DJeqIYXKVw1XzIEF5BUJOluTJjTKVMh3QoWWa0AHHLI%3D&amp;reserved=0">County Veterans Service Officers</a> are available to assist future residents with the admission application process. Admissions inquiries can also be emailed to <a href="mailto:NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us" title="Email NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us">NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To learn more about joining the employee team and working with veterans in Preston, visit <a href="https://mn.gov/mdva/about/work-for-mdva/index.jsp" title="Work for MDVA">MinnesotaVeteran.org/Careers</a> .</p>6302412024-06-28T01:14:16Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630240" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-28T01:10:01ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited a wind energy farm in Dexter, Minnesota where he held a ceremonial bill signing for legislation that will shorten and streamline the energy permitting process. Reforms are estimated to result in time savings of 9-12 months for permitting and building renewable energy and transmission projects. More efficient and streamlined permitting processes will aid in the state’s transition to 100 percent clean electricity by 2040.Legislation will streamline the energy permitting process and help the state transition to 100 percent clean electricity by 20401055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited a wind energy farm in Dexter, Minnesota where he held a ceremonial bill signing for legislation that will shorten and streamline the energy permitting process. Reforms are estimated to result in time savings of 9-12 months for permitting and building renewable energy and transmission projects. More efficient and streamlined permitting processes will aid in the state’s transition to 100 percent clean electricity by 2040. Governor Walz was joined by bill authors Senator Nick Frentz and Representative Jamie Long, and clean energy advocates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As I sign this legislation, communities from one end of our state to the other are looking at months of rebuilding after an extreme weather event exacerbated by climate change. This is a measure that will help protect our environment and get the clean energy projects that are going to help fight climate change in motion,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Today, we’re cutting red tape for businesses, helping more projects get off the ground, and supporting the clean energy job sector to make the transition to a clean energy economy easier. Together we’re taking meaningful steps to combat climate change.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The legislation streamlines the energy permitting process by creating two separate review processes: a standard review for smaller wind and solar projects and power lines and a more intensive review for larger projects, such as major transmission lines or power plants. The legislation also modifies rules governing certificates of need and site and route permits for large electric power plants and high-voltage transmission lines. The modifications remove roadblocks for renewable power developers, making it easier to build in Minnesota.</p>6302402024-06-28T01:14:04Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630229" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-28T01:01:46ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the elevation of the Honorable Sarah E. Hennesy to the Minnesota Supreme Court, and the other vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Greta M. Smolnisky. The seats will be chambered in St. Cloud in Stearns County and Moorhead in Clay County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the elevation of the Honorable Sarah E. Hennesy to the Minnesota Supreme Court, and the other vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Greta M. Smolnisky. The seats will be chambered in St. Cloud in Stearns County and Moorhead in Clay County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Chantry:</strong> Amy Chantry serves as a judicial referee in the Tenth Judicial District, where she presides over housing, harassment, domestic violence, minor criminal, and minor civil matters. She previously served as a legal and policy advisor at the Minnesota Department of Health and as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable David R. Battey. Chantry’s community involvement includes volunteering as a high school mock trial judge and for various student activities at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Simon George:</strong> Simon George is the managing attorney of the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender’s Offices in Becker and Douglas counties. He was previously a part time public defender in the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender’s Office, while also operating a private criminal defense practice. George’s community involvement has included volunteering with Rotary International and Shriners International, and he is a former member of the Frazee-Vergas School Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Leeser:</strong> Michael Leeser is an assistant county attorney in the Clay County Attorney’s Office, where he prosecutes adult criminal and juvenile cases. He is a member of the Clay County Drug Court and Clay County Veterans Court teams. Leeser was previously an attorney with Lies, Bullis &amp; Hatting and an assistant city attorney for the Wahpeton City Attorney’s Office in North Dakota. He was also an adjunct professor at Minnesota State University Moorhead, where he taught a course on the introduction to law for the Healthcare Administration program. Leeser’s community involvement includes serving as vice president of the Clay County Bar Association and as a board member of the Moorhead Economic Development Authority.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Minard: </strong>Michael Minard is an assistant public defender in the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Moorhead, where he represents low-income defendants charged with criminal offenses. He was previously an assistant public defender in the Third Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Faribault. Minard’s community involvement includes serving as the vice president of the Clay County Bar Association and volunteering for the Moorhead Youth Hockey Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ole Tvedten:</strong> Ole Tvedten is the head of the Criminal Division of the Stearns County Attorney’s Office. He was previously an assistant county attorney in the Stearns County Attorney’s Office, where he was a trial prosecutor and appellate attorney. Tvedten’s community involvement includes serving on the Stearns County Opioid Community Advisory Committee, the Minnesota County Attorney Association’s Appellate Advisory Committee and Trial School, the Stearns County Domestic Violence Partnership, the Central Minnesota Human Trafficking Multi-Disciplinary Team, and the Stearns County Substance Abuse Court Steering Committee. He also volunteers with Project Connect, judges mock trial, and coaches girls youth sports.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6302292024-06-28T01:06:06Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630042" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-26T22:35:09ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of the Minnesota State Academies, Board of Water and Soil Resources, Board on Aging, Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage, Minnesota Commission on National Community Service, Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission, and Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of the Minnesota State Academies, Board of Water and Soil Resources, Board on Aging, Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage, Minnesota Commission on National Community Service, Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission, and Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hernán Moncada – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Minnesota State Academies <br /> Blind Community Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Jessica Eggert</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jamie Speier – Albany, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Minnesota State Academies <br /> Public Member with Business, Administrative, or Financial Expertise #1 <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board on Minnesota State Academies: <br /></em>The board governs the Minnesota State Academies for the Deaf and the Blind. The board must promote academic standards based on high expectations and an assessment system to measure academic performance toward the achievement of those standards.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board on Minnesota State Academies can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/155">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eunice Biel – Harmony, MN <br /></strong>Board of Water and Soil Resources <br /> Township Officer <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> <strong>Joseph Collins – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of Water and Soil Resources <br /> Watershed District Representative #2 <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jayne Hager Dee – Northfield, MN <br /></strong>Board of Water and Soil Resources <br /> Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor #2 <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ted Winter – Fulda, MN <br /></strong>Board of Water and Soil Resources <br /> Citizen Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Water and Soil Resources: <br /></em>The board oversees and coordinates the water and soil resources management activities of local units of government through approval of local plans, administration of state grants, cost-sharing contracts, performance evaluation, and administrative appeals and hearings. The board’s mission is to improve and protect Minnesota’s water and soil resources by working in partnership with local organizations and private landowners.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Water and Soil Resources can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/38" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dave Beal – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Board on Aging <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Cathleen Faruque</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate Grathwol – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board on Aging <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mazel McCoy-Anderson – Maplewood, MN <br /></strong>Board on Aging <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Maria Michlin</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Valentina Mgeni – Welch, MN <br /></strong>Board on Aging <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Johnny Johnson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christine Mueller – Roseville, MN <br /></strong>Board on Aging <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: John Doan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Maureen Schneider – Willmar, MN <br /></strong>Board on Aging <br /> Member and Chair <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ann Thole – Bloomington, MN <br /></strong>Board on Aging <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karen Webb – Rosemount, MN <br /></strong>Board on Aging <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: William Tiedemann</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board on Aging: <br /></em>The Minnesota Board on Aging develops, coordinates, evaluates, and administers federal and state funds for programs for the aging, makes grants to seven area agencies on aging and nonprofit agencies, and serves as an advocate for older persons.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board on Aging can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/104">Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gloria Atika – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Nerita Hughes</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cindy Devonish – Eagan, MN <br /></strong>Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Biftu Bussa</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ellena Kaine-George – Big Lake, MN <br /></strong>Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Alfreda Daniels</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Victor Obisakin – Mendota Heights, MN <br /></strong>Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage <br /> Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Hollies Winston</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage: <br /></em>The council advises the Governor and the legislature on issues confronting the constituency of the council, legislative changes needed to improve the economic and social condition of the constituency of the council, and effect of proposed administrative and legislative changes on the constituency of the council. The council serves as a liaison between state government and organizations that serve the constituency of the council and performs or contracts for the performances of studies designed to suggest solutions to the problems of the constituency of the council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/177">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Clyne – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on National Community Service <br /> Community Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Quirk – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on National Community Service <br /> Volunteerism with Older Adults <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Philip Rutherford – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on National Community Service <br /> Community Member <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission on National Community Service: <br /></em>The Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, also known as ServeMinnesota, provides grant funding, training, and technical assistance to nonprofits, government agencies, and schools that run AmeriCorps programs. The commission also pioneers strategic initiatives in a variety of impact areas to solve complex social problems. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Commission on National Community Service can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/105">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amirthini Keefe – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission <br /> Public Member - Felony Crime Victim <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Brooke Morath</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission: <br /></em>The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission establishes and modifies the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines, which promote uniform and proportional sentences for convicted felons and helps to ensure that sentencing decisions are not influenced by factors such as race, gender, or the exercise of constitutional rights by the defendant.  </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The guidelines serve as a model for the criminal justice system, and provide a standard to measure how well the system is working. The purpose of the guidelines is to establish rational and consistent sentencing standards that promote public safety, reduce sentencing disparity, ensure that the sanctions imposed for felony convictions are proportional to the severity of the offense and the offender's criminal history. The guidelines also support the appropriate use of finite correctional resources. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dupree Edwards – Fridley, MN <br /></strong>Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities <br /> Consumer Representative <br /> Effective: July 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities: <br /></em>The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities advises and assists the ombudsman in developing policies, plans, and programs to benefit persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities, chemical dependence, and emotional disturbance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Advisory Council on Mental Health can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/142">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></u></p>6300422024-06-26T22:40:17Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-630041" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-26T22:33:19ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced a significant step in the state’s effort to bring price transparency to the prescription drug market. Today the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) published the inaugural list of 364 drugs from 76 manufacturers that will now be subject to reporting from drug manufacturers, pharmacy benefit managers, wholesalers, and pharmacies. Information collected will shed light on how prices grow as they move through the supply chain and inform actions policymakers can take to make prescription drugs more affordable.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced a significant step in the state’s effort to bring price transparency to the prescription drug market. Today the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) published the inaugural list of 364 drugs from 76 manufacturers that will now be subject to reporting from drug manufacturers, pharmacy benefit managers, wholesalers, and pharmacies. Information collected will shed light on how prices grow as they move through the supply chain and inform actions policymakers can take to make prescription drugs more affordable.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Access to necessary medications is a right, not a privilege. Yet, for many across the state and nation, the high cost of prescription drugs forces tough decisions when it comes to affording health care,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am grateful to the Minnesota Department of Health for their crucial work in increasing transparency of the prescription drug market. This is a major step towards our goal of creating a more affordable health care system.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Publication of the drugs of substantial public interest list is a quarterly requirement of the bipartisan Minnesota Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act first passed in 2020 and expanded in 2023. Among the first of its kind in the nation, the law aims to provide consumers, health care plans, policymakers, and hospitals with previously unavailable information about cost drivers that impact prescription drug prices in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Due to the complexity and lack of transparency of the prescription drug market, patients and policymakers lack the information needed to understand why drugs are so expensive and how to make the market work more effectively to improve affordability. Many Minnesotans are unable to afford the high and rising costs of critically important drug therapies. MDH’s publication will begin addressing this issue by increasing access to actionable information across the pharmaceutical supply chain.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is a strong first step toward pulling back the curtain to show the cost drivers that make up prescription drug prices in Minnesota,"</strong> said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. <strong>“The diversity of medications on the list released today provides MDH and stakeholders with more meaningful and actionable information about the prescription drug supply chain and what influences affordability.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With the help of quarterly lists of drugs that represent a substantial interest to Minnesotans released by MDH, Minnesota will be exploring different aspects of the prescription drug market that impact drug affordability. The inaugural list focuses on groups of medications – drug products that share a generic name and dosage form – where the total amounts paid (consumer and insurer payments) were significantly above drug manufacturer list prices.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Following engagement with stakeholders and a review of data available in the Minnesota All Payer Claims Database, MDH’s Prescription Drug Price Transparency program identified the top 10 groups of medications with the greatest absolute difference between the total paid amount for commercial claims and the total list price.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More than one-third of retail drugs (37%) dispensed in the private market meet the list criteria: They cost at least $100 and have paid amounts of 25% or more above the manufacturer list price. The list of drugs MDH will be collecting data on is just the tip of the iceberg as it focuses on the 10 drug families with highest “mark-up” above list price. This mark-up above the list price effectively doubled spending on prescription drugs, and Minnesotans ended up paying more than $345 million in 2022 above manufacturer prices.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This data will also be of interest to legislators and advocates as they craft targeted policies to improve affordability,”</strong> said State Health Economist and Director of MDH's Health Economics Program Stefan Gildemeister. <strong>“Researchers and the industry will benefit from this information, which will be the first true accounting of movement of money between entities in the prescription drug supply chain.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Nobody should be forced to choose between affording their life and affording to live, but the high cost of prescription drugs forces that choice onto so many Minnesotans,”</strong> said Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. <strong>“I am pleased that the Minnesota Department of Health is bringing some much-needed transparency to the prescription drug market. That transparency is essential to ensuring policymakers have the information needed to take action to lower drug prices, which is why increasing transparency in the prescription drug market was one of the key recommendations from my Advisory Task Force on Lowering Pharmaceutical Drug Prices. This is a great step towards building a better Minnesota where everyone can afford their lives.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to the list of public interest drugs, MDH also released updated reporting guidelines for entities subject to reporting. These entities will have approximately 90 days from now to file their initial reports. The reports will then be made available to the public in both downloadable files and data dashboards along with MDH analyses and data presentations in existing <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/data/rxtransparency/dashboards/index.html">drug price transparency dashboards</a> and <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/data/rxtransparency/reports.html">legislative reports</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MDH is also interested in hearing from Minnesotans about how prescription drug prices impact their health care, what affordability concerns <a name="_Int_1lVgGPL7">exist</a>, and which drugs might benefit from pricing transparency. Minnesotans interested in providing their insights can complete the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.office.com%2FPages%2FResponsePage.aspx%3Fid%3DRrAU68QkGUWPJricIVmCjJEFDds2GihEt42OkgoSyU1URFFVTE1VWFlFQ1JIMVVRQ09CUkdBWUpTOS4u&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C51b72396b615403dd0b008dc95e864a1%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638550072589010081%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=xZ0nsQAE5E6j4o4rVGzxDFtDr4K%2BLf5uBjl0Pbtu%2B5w%3D&amp;reserved=0">Public Input on Prescription Drug Price Transparency in Minnesota</a> form to share their experiences and help guide MDH’s ongoing drug price transparency work.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information on MDH’s prescription drug price transparency efforts is available on the MDH <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/data/rxtransparency">Prescription Drug Price Transparency</a> webpage.</p>6300412024-06-26T22:34:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-628843" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-25T23:02:17ZGovernor Tim Walz, United States Senator Amy Klobuchar, and public safety and emergency management staff today took an aerial tour of Henderson, Le Sueur, the Rapidan Dam, and Waterville following storms and severe flooding across Southern Minnesota. Over 40 counties throughout the state have been impacted by flooding, which has disrupted agriculture and damaged roads and property. Since June 18, Southern and Central Minnesota have been significantly impacted.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz, United States Senator Amy Klobuchar, and public safety and emergency management staff today took an aerial tour of Henderson, Le Sueur, the Rapidan Dam, and Waterville following storms and severe flooding across Southern Minnesota. Over 40 counties throughout the state have been impacted by flooding, which has disrupted agriculture and damaged roads and property. Since June 18, Southern and Central Minnesota have been significantly impacted. Photo and video from the tour are attached and available <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Ce76f72fa679240789be408dc9563ebc2%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638549503679025744%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=j8lKUA8uwZ1bDaWCRO7IeThkhr9dscDFI2ORkCB7WKw%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In Le Sueur County, the city of Waterville and surrounding area received significant rainfall, causing evacuations and substantial damage. Southwest of Mankato, floodwaters have caused a breech in the Rapidan Dam and closures of major highways in the Minnesota River valley have forced detours and impacted traffic patterns.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Southern Minnesota is my home – I’m hearing incredibly challenging stories from friends and family in Mankato. My heart goes out to the families who have lost their homes, their businesses, their priceless personal belongings,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“However, when faced with crisis, we come together. Community members, volunteers, emergency responders, and local leadership are stepping up in big and small ways to keep their neighbors safe and ensure they have something to eat and a place to stay. The state is here to help and we will continue our work to keep our people, property, and public infrastructure protected.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In the last few days, I have seen the damage left behind by the storms and floods, but I have also seen Minnesotans’ unparalleled strength and compassion. From brave first responders and our National Guard keeping people safe to volunteers filling sandbags, people across our state are coming together to help,”</strong> said United States Senator Klobuchar. <strong>“I’m working closely with state and local officials to ensure we can rebuild and recover. All public infrastructure damage is being documented so when the federal threshold for FEMA disaster relief is reached, that relief will be delivered quickly.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is resilient. In times like these, we come together to ensure the safety of our neighbors and communities,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“As flooding and severe weather continues, the state is here to support. I extend my gratitude to those on the ground, responding in real time as disaster strikes. Your support exemplifies the values we hold as Minnesotans. We will recover from this, together.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Across the state, public safety officials, local governments, community members, and volunteers are working to protect property and infrastructure from additional damage. Several counties have declared local emergencies and activated emergency operation plans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last Friday, Governor Walz traveled to the cities of Cook and Biwabik in Northeastern Minnesota where floodwaters damaged residences and businesses and washed out dozens of roads. On Saturday, Governor Walz issued a peacetime emergency and activated the Minnesota National Guard to assist with local emergency flood operations. On Sunday, Senator Klobuchar met with local officials in Carver, Waterville, and Northfield, and on Monday she was in Mankato.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) has implemented the Minnesota Emergency Operations Plan, making state agencies available to assist local governments. HSEM will continue to coordinate the provision of on-site support and assistance to affected local governments and determine the need for supplementary emergency assistance.</p>6288432024-06-25T23:04:41Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-628510" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-23T02:06:46ZFollowing heavy rainfall across Southern Minnesota, Governor Tim Walz today declared a peacetime emergency, authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to be available to provide support for emergency flood operations as areas across the state experience extreme flood conditions.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Following heavy rainfall across Southern Minnesota, Governor Tim Walz today declared a peacetime emergency, authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to be available to provide support for emergency flood operations as areas across the state experience extreme flood conditions. The Minnesota National Guard is in close communication with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management team to support communities across the state. The National Guard is authorized to provide support via Emergency Executive Order 24-05 in the event other state or local agencies are unable to meet the demands of the flood conditions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Across the state, intense rain has had catastrophic effects. Flooding has left entire communities under feet of water, causing severe damage to property and numerous road closures. As flooding continues, the National Guard is ready to step up to help our neighbors,”</strong> <strong>said Governor Walz.</strong><strong>“Their response will provide invaluable support that will be critical in ensuring the safety of Minnesotans during this difficult time.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The state has received a request for National Guard assistance from the Le Sueur County Sheriff for logistics and operations support. Guard members are prepared to mobilize as early as Sunday, if needed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In Le Sueur County, the City of Waterville and surrounding community have experienced approximately 14-18 inches of rainfall. In lakes Tetonka and Sakatah, and the Cannon River, water has reached uncontrollable levels. Residents have been evacuated and the flood has already caused significant damage.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Waterville city staff, Le Sueur County Emergency Management, the Le Sueur County Sheriff’s Office, and volunteers have been working for several days to mitigate the effects of the severe weather. Continuously rising water levels following additional weekend rainfall has necessitated additional manpower and resources.</p>6285102024-06-23T02:08:30Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-628499" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-21T19:17:53ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of High Pressure Piping Systems, Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Advisory Group, Explore Minnesota for Business Council, Explore Minnesota Tourism Council, Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention, Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations, Minnesota Racing Commission, and the State Advisory Council on Mental Health. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of High Pressure Piping Systems, Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Advisory Group, Explore Minnesota for Business Council, Explore Minnesota Tourism Council, Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention, Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations, Minnesota Racing Commission, and the State Advisory Council on Mental Health.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matthew Marquis – Plymouth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of High Pressure Piping Systems</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">High Pressure Piping Industry Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: December 31, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of High Pressure Piping Systems:</em> <br /> The Board of High Pressure Piping Systems adopts rules for Minnesota’s high pressure piping code, provides code interpretation, and adopts rules to regulate high pressure piping licensure registration.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of High Pressure Piping Systems can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/25" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alex Abraha – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Advisory Group</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Gracie George</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>James Densley – Arden Hills, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Advisory Group</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information Advisory Group:</em> <br /> The Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information Advisory Group is advises statewide criminal justice information policy and funding issues.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Visit the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/226" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>for more information.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pamela Schechtman – Excelsior, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Explore Minnesota For Business Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Representative in Marketing, Human Resources, or Executive Leadership from Minnesota-Based Companies with more than 100 Employees Representing Minnesota's Key Industries</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Explore Minnesota for Business Council:</em> <br /> The Explore Minnesota for Business Council advises the Explore Minnesota director and acts to serve the broader interest of promoting overall livability and workforce and economic opportunity in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Explore Minnesota for Business Council can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/355" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David McArthur – Walker, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Explore Minnesota Tourism Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Campground Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: David Langhoff</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council:</em> <br /> The Explore Minnesota Tourism Council serves the broader interests of tourism in Minnesota by promoting activities that support, maintain, and expand the state’s domestic and international travel market.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/60" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patsy Butterworth – Rosemount, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent of a Child Under 7</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate Quale – Edina, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent of a Child Under 7</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention:</em> <br /> The Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention advises and assists the Minnesota Department of Education with fulfilling federal and state early childhood special education obligations for children with disabilities and their families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/188" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Suzanne Anderson – Mahtomedi, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Business, Industry, and Labor Representatives</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Farfum Ladroma – North Branch, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Postsecondary Administrator</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kim Hiel</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cindy Walters – Chaska, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Education Representatives</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations Board of Directors:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations Board of Directors promotes and supports career and technical student organizations as they work to provide student opportunities for leadership, personal development, community service, and career preparation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Foundation for Student Organizations Board of Directors can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/287" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Melanie Benjamin – Onamia, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Racing Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Roy Johnson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Johnny Johnson – Welch, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Racing Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Dan Erhart</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Racing Commission:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Racing Commission provides regulatory oversight for live horse racing and wagering, online wagering, and card clubs at both of Minnesota’s racetracks.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Racing Commission can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/114" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Liz Boldon – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Mental Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Legislator Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Melissa Wiklund</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Wayne Garrett – Angora, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Mental Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Registered Nurse</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Cynthie Christensen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cecilia Hughes – Maplewood, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Mental Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Family Member of an Adult with a Mental Illness</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Amanda Larson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Kjolsing – Willmar, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Mental Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rodney Peterson – Kasson, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Mental Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">County Commissioner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Beth Prewett – Grand Rapids, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Mental Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Professional Clinical Counselor</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 26, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Advisory Council on Mental Health:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Advisory Council on Mental Health advises the Governor and state agencies on policy, programs, and services affecting people with mental illness as well as educating the public about mental health.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Advisory Council on Mental Health can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/142" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6284992024-06-21T20:57:16Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-628500" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-21T19:17:53ZGovernor Tim Walz today traveled to the cities of Cook and Biwabik in Northeastern Minnesota to survey damage caused by severe flooding. As Southern and Central Minnesota are expected to experience flood conditions in the coming days, Governor Walz has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to monitor conditions over the weekend. Ahead of additional weekend rainfall, Governor Walz has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to monitor flooding in Southern and Central Minnesota1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today traveled to the cities of Cook and Biwabik in Northeastern Minnesota to survey damage caused by severe flooding. As Southern and Central Minnesota are expected to experience flood conditions in the coming days, Governor Walz has activated the <a href="https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/hsem/seoc/Pages/about-seoc.aspx">State Emergency Operations Center</a> to monitor conditions over the weekend. Parts of St. Louis County received seven to ten inches of rain and parts of Carlton, Crow Wing, Lake, and Itasca Counties received two to six inches. Photos of the Governor’s visit are <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720318130184%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cecad3b16e295434e282d08dc922463bc%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638545932221070163%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=MpddJMZ4HsTv3LAlHFg2vF%2FFUrqBAbcM0nLPO6aLXRk%3D&amp;reserved=0">available online</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When it comes to Minnesota weather, we never know the hand we are going to be dealt. From last year’s summer drought and forest fires to the major flooding we are dealing with today, what remains consistent is the ability of our communities to come together in times of crisis,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Here amidst the flooding, I am reminded of the strength and resilience of Minnesotans. Together we will build back, and the state stands ready to support.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In downtown Cook, floodwaters measure several feet, impacting residences and businesses. More than 40 roads throughout the county have been washed out or flooded. In Biwabik, near Giants Ridge, several water line washouts have resulted in a boil water advisory and business closures in the area. This is the second-largest natural disaster that St. Louis County has seen in three decades.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In response, St. Louis County has declared a state of emergency. The declaration of local emergency allows the county to begin the process to establish eligibility to access state disaster relief funding if the damage does not reach the required threshold for a federal major disaster declaration.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State funding includes:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>TheDisaster Assistance Contingency Account which can be used to support local governments as they recover from a natural disaster. This funding is used to help repair damage to public infrastructure.</li> <li>The Transportation Disaster Account which can be used for local governments to help support damage to local highways.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Following a state preliminary damage assessment, if the damage exceeds the required threshold, the state may request a major disaster declaration from the President as well as assistance from the Small Business Association (SBA). The federal disaster declaration would unlock public assistance for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities. Additional assessments from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and SBA will determine eligibility for impacted residents and businesses to obtain individual assistance through FEMA or low interest loans through SBA. Once assessments are made, they will undergo an approval process for authorization.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional state supports for small businesses are available through the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s Small Business Development Centers, such as technical assistance to help find grants or low interest loan solutions.</p>6285002024-06-21T20:57:12Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-628187" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-20T18:25:15ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Kristin A. Siegesmund. This seat will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Kristin A. Siegesmund. This seat will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on July 18 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in early August.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Fourth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6281872024-06-20T18:26:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-628030" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-18T18:47:34ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced over $12 million for job skills training, work readiness, internships, work experience, on-the-job training, and job placement for Minnesotans. This is the funding awarded under the Targeted Populations Workforce Competitive Grant Program, and will allow organizations to serve an estimated 2,100 Minnesotans. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced over $12 million for job skills training, work readiness, internships, work experience, on-the-job training, and job placement for Minnesotans. This is the funding awarded under the Targeted Populations Workforce Competitive Grant Program, and will allow organizations to serve an estimated 2,100 Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Anyone who has submitted a job application knows the difficulty and frustration that can come with finding work,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“For underserved communities, those challenges are compounded. Lack of opportunities for continued education, training, and work experience can hurt job prospects. These grants directly address those disparities to help Minnesotans find fulfilling careers and earn sustaining wages while ensuring businesses fill open positions with skilled workers – it’s a win for workers, businesses, and the economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Race, gender, and zip code should not be barriers to work. Yet, for many individuals this is a reality,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Historically marginalized communities continue to face disparities that prohibit workforce entry and career growth. These grants are a vital step in increasing accessibility for those who have consistently faced such barriers. This investment in job training, work readiness, and job placement is an investment in economic equity.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"This is a strong group of grantees with specific experience reaching out to underserved communities across Minnesota,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“These organizations will provide technical and work-readiness skills training along with the support needed to help more Minnesotans secure in-demand jobs with opportunities for career growth and assist Minnesota employers in hiring the workers they need."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Legislature passed $50 million during the 2023 session for the Targeted Populations Workforce Programs initiative, which focuses on populations of workers who have been historically overlooked and often face multiple barriers to employment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Welcoming people from diverse backgrounds build stronger workplaces and will create a more equitable Minnesota economy,”</strong> said DEED Deputy Commissioner for Workforce Development Marc Majors. <strong>“Minnesota employers need trained and work-ready candidates to meet hiring demands. These grantees will help Minnesotans overcome barriers to employment and provide them with the support needed to help ensure employment success. Targeted Populations grant-funded programs are one way DEED delivers for workers and employers, and we believe this focused approach utilizing trusted community organizations will be transformative.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It’s an exciting opportunity to engage underserved and under-resourced communities and support and empower those communities to make the transition into the green economy – not just the skills training for people to move into clean energy jobs but also to help communities adopt clean energy practices and make other green economy transitions</strong> <strong>,”</strong> said Robert Blake, Executive Director of Native Sun, about the Targeted Populations grant his organization is receiving.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Native Sun is a Native-led nonprofit organization that promotes energy efficiency, renewable energy, and an equitable energy transition through education and workforce training. Native Sun will introduce underserved communities across Minnesota to the many employment opportunities in clean energy-related fields and help them earn initial certifications, as well as focus on preparing people to manufacture solar modules at a soon-to-be-built facility in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Targeted Populations grants are part of a slate of historic workforce development investments at DEED. The state is investing more than $216 million through June 30, 2025, including $50 million through Targeted Populations; <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/press-releases/?id=1045-614713">$20 million for Drive for 5</a> , which is focused on training for employment in the caring professions, education, manufacturing, technology, and the trades; and <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/press-releases/?id=425890#/detail/appId/1/id/627246">$2.7 million in Clean Economy Equitable Workforce grants</a> to help prepare Minnesotans for good-paying union trade jobs in the high-demand fields of construction, clean energy, and energy efficiency. This significant investment will help Minnesota address its ongoing tight labor market as well as achieve a more equitable economy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Targeted Populations Grantees include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Asian American Business Resilience Network, serving the Twin Cities Metro – $600,000</li> <li>Community Integration Center, serving the Wilmar area – $420,000</li> <li>Community Resource Center, serving the Twin Cities Metro – $600,000</li> <li>Friends of Career Solutions, serving Central Minnesota – $400,000</li> <li>Global Fatherhood Foundation, serving the Twin Cities Metro – $375,000</li> <li>Horn Of Africa Development and Education Foundation (HADEF), serving the Twin Cities Metro – $350,000</li> <li>Immigrant Development Center, serving Clay and Moorhead Counties – $700,000</li> <li>Latino Chamber of Commerce, serving the Twin Cities Metro and Greater MN – $350,000</li> <li>MADDADS, serving the Twin Cities Metro – $500,000</li> <li>Minnesota Training Partnerships serving the Twin Cities Metro – $490,000</li> <li>Native Sun Community Power Development, serving the Twin Cities Metro and Greater MN – $600,000</li> <li>Neighborhood Hub, serving the Twin Cities Metro – $1,000,000</li> <li>Organization of Liberians in Minnesota, serving the Twin Cities Metro – $400,000</li> <li>Push for Prosperity, serving the Twin Cities Metro and Greater MN – $650,000</li> <li>River Bend Nature Center, serving the Faribault Region – $600,000</li> <li>Sierra Leone Community in Minnesota, serving the Twin Cities Metro – $500,000</li> <li>Smart North, serving the Twin Cities Metro and Greater MN – $700,000</li> <li>Somali American Social Service Association, serving the Twin Cities Metro and SE MN and Olmsted County – $1,000,000</li> <li>Somali Medical Association of America serving Greater MN – $500,000</li> <li>Somali Parent Academy, serving the Twin Cities Metro – $300,000</li> <li>TechFluent, serving the Twin Cities Metro and Greater MN – $500,000</li> <li>Wellspring Second Chance Center, serving the Twin Cities Metro – $800,000</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Two additional Targeted Populations grant opportunities are currently available. Minnesota community-based organizations are encouraged to apply for <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/about/contracts/open-rfp.jsp#10">Targeted Populations Capacity Building Competitive Grants</a> to increase their capacity to provide workforce services and training to historically underserved communities of color or low-income communities. Eligible small Minnesota businesses are encouraged to apply for <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/about/contracts/open-rfp.jsp#11">Targeted Populations - Diversity and Inclusion for Small Employers Competitive Grants</a> to obtain diversity and inclusion training resulting in their ability to engage, hire, and retain people of color in a variety of roles.</p>6280302024-06-18T18:48:54Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-628023" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-18T18:07:34ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $8 million to support mentorship programs for new teachers in teacher shortage areas, including special education. Grantees will work with districts and schools throughout the state to support mentoring programming for new teachers. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced $8 million to support mentorship programs for new teachers in teacher shortage areas, including special education. Grantees will work with districts and schools throughout the state to support mentoring programming for new teachers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Positive mentorship can be the difference between a fulfilling career and burnout,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Teachers are supporting, mentoring, and caring for our kids every day. If we are to fulfill our mission of creating the best state in the country for children, we must take care of our teachers. These grants are a step forward in filling gaps and providing necessary resources in a demanding profession.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Investing in teachers is common sense. When they are cared for and supported, students reap the benefits,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“These mentorship grants are providing that support and helping ensure the presence of high-quality, diverse teachers in the areas where they’re most needed. We’re building a strong teacher workforce that will have positive benefits for years to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Grantees include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Lakes Country Service Cooperative</li> <li>Learning Disabilities Association of Minnesota</li> <li>Minnesota Zej Zog</li> <li>Regents of the University of Minnesota</li> <li>Resource Training and Solutions Cooperative</li> <li>Sourcewell Service Cooperative</li> <li>South Central Service Cooperative</li> <li>Southwest West Central Service Cooperative</li> <li>UpLIFT Movement</li> <li>Zumbro Education District</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Grantee induction support to districts and charters may include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Providing seminars, workshops and forums for mentors and new teachers</li> <li>Facilitating mentor and leader training</li> <li>Supporting on-the-ground coaching</li> <li>Guiding the development of an induction vision, mission and program goals</li> <li>Supporting new teacher orientation and onboarding</li> <li>Providing opportunities for regional networking, affinity groups and communities of practice</li> <li>Assessing and adjusting program effectiveness</li> <li>Distributing mentor stipends</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Teaching is a demanding profession, and we want to give new teachers the best start to their career. Minnesota teachers are the best of the best, and we are excited to connect Minnesota’s next generation of teachers with some of the outstanding educators working in the field today,”</strong> said Commissioner Willie Jett. <strong>“We look forward to the work these organizations will do to prepare teachers to have successful and meaningful careers and impact the lives of their students from day one.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“New Teacher Center's partnership with the Minnesota Department of Education is a true collaboration,”</strong> said Amy Feehan, New Teacher Center director of programs. <strong>“Supporting the development and pilot implementation of the Minnesota Induction Framework represents our decades-long commitment to building working conditions for new teachers that support growth mindsets, centering students and educator retention. We look forward to deepening efforts to develop systemic supports for new teachers with regional grantees.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz and the 2023 Legislature passed the Statewide Teacher Mentoring Program grants last spring as part of the Education Bill.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Under Governor Walz’s leadership, Minnesota has invested in expanding resources to support and diversify the education workforce in Minnesota. MDE established the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvmm0dj30.r.us-west-2.awstrack.me%2FL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Feducation.mn.gov%252FMDE%252Fdse%252Fequitdiv%252F%2F1%2F010101900dc366cc-2bd7b1ec-dcc7-477f-a920-aea065f6c6ab-000000%2F5MeLhYco1SHa90CTqBbfEzjSYVk%3D379&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C0850faedc8374985732d08dc8fc12b84%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638543307078854647%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=doL7R0P5h7HoK%2F3B2XANkS0YjJkEMdL7N%2BA15ocmSfI%3D&amp;reserved=0">Educator Workforce and Development Center</a> to create more programs to support districts, schools, communities, and Tribal Nations in work to recruit, diversify, develop, and retain educators in order to build the best teaching workforce in the nation.</p>6280232024-06-18T18:09:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-627879" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-17T19:52:14ZGovernor Tim Walz today held a ceremonial bill signing for legislation that will help ease the burden of medical debt on Minnesotans. Governor Walz was joined by Attorney General Keith Ellison, bill authors Senator Liz Boldon and Representative Liz Reyer, and impacted Minnesotans to celebrate the signing. The provisions are part of the Minnesota Debt Fairness Act, which was signed into law this session. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today held a ceremonial bill signing for legislation that will help ease the burden of medical debt on Minnesotans. Governor Walz was joined by Attorney General Keith Ellison, bill authors Senator Liz Boldon and Representative Liz Reyer, and impacted Minnesotans to celebrate the signing. The provisions are part of the Minnesota Debt Fairness Act, which was signed into law this session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Life-saving cancer treatments or a trip to the emergency room shouldn’t cause a tanked credit score or a lifetime of debt,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Thanks to the work of the Attorney General, legislators, and Minnesotans who’ve shared their stories, these reforms will help Minnesotans get the care they need, manage their medical debt, and feel protected in their most vulnerable moments.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We all agree that if you borrow money, you should pay it back. We also all agree that we shouldn’t punish people for getting sick. We also agree that a debt-collection system that makes it harder for people to pay back what they owe does nobody any good. And we also agree that debt collection shouldn’t create more debt,”</strong> said Attorney General Ellison.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With the passage and signing today of the Debt Fairness Act, we have a fairer, more dignified, and more just system for repaying debt than we did before. My thanks go to chief authors Senator Liz Boldon and Representative Liz Reyer for their outstanding work in seeing it through to passage, and to Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan for their steadfast support. There is more work to do, and we’re not done yet — but today, Minnesotans facing debt, including medical debt, can rest easier in the knowledge that the law provides them with more protections than it did before,”</strong> Attorney General Ellison concluded.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The legislation eases the burden of medical debt for Minnesotans by:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Banning medical providers from withholding medically necessary care due to unpaid debt;</li> <li>Preventing medical debt from impacting credit scores</li> <li>Eliminating automatic transfers of medical debt to a patient’s spouse</li> <li>Establishing strong new protections from unethical medical debt collections practices</li> <li>Requiring medical providers to publish their medical debt collection practices</li> <li>Creating a new process to help people dispute medical coding and billing errors</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Debt Fairness Act makes additional debt reforms, including:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Establishing automatic income-based wage garnishment levels, ranging from 10% to 25%, rather than the flat 25% garnishment cap that previously existed</li> <li>Extending Minnesota’s wage garnishment protections to independent contractors and everyone living and working in Minnesota</li> </ul>6278792024-06-17T19:54:17Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-627757" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-14T20:46:27ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design; Board of Cosmetologist Examiners; Board of Medical Practice; Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans; Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity; Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday; Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention; Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission; Minnesota Board of Social Work; Minnesota Forest Resources Council; Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities; Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board; and the One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design; Board of Cosmetologist Examiners; Board of Medical Practice; Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans; Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity; Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday; Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention; Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission; Minnesota Board of Social Work; Minnesota Forest Resources Council; Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities; Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board; and the One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marcus Hampton – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Licensed Land Surveyor <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Paul Vogel</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gerald Jones – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Daniel Cermak</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laura Kamin-Lyndgaard – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Licensed Landscape Architect <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Graham Sones</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daniel Kelsey – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Licensed Engineer <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erica Larson – Sunfish Lake, MN <br /></strong>Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Certified Interior Designer <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Andrew Portis – Saint Louis Park, MN <br /></strong>Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design <br /> Licensed Architect <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Margaret Parsons</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design: <br /></em>The Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design licenses and regulates architects, engineers, land surveyors, landscape architects, geologists, and soil scientists and certifies interior designers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/18" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mahogany Plautz – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Cosmetologist Examiners <br /> Cosmetologist <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Cosmetologist Examiners: <br /></em>The Board of Cosmetologist Examiners promotes public health and safety by inspecting salons and schools, licensing practitioners and establishments, and enforcing laws and regulations surrounding cosmetology practices.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Cosmetologist Examiners can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/165" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Carter – Saint Cloud, MN <br /></strong>Board of Medical Practice <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Kimberly Spaulding</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pamela Chawla – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Medical Practice <br /> Physician <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Allen Rasmussen – International Falls, MN <br /></strong>Board of Medical Practice <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Stephanie Bumgardner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Medical Practice: <br /></em>The Board of Medical Practice licenses and registers physicians, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, acupuncturists, athletic trainers, genetic counselors, naturopathic doctors, and traditional midwives and enforces the relevant practice acts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Medical Practice can be found on <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/27" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Yixiu Chen – Plymouth, MN <br /></strong>Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans <br /> Vietnamese Ancestry Group Representative <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: David Hoang</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shwetha Vijayakumar – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans <br /> Asian Indian Ancestry Group Representative <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Saraswati Singh</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Touachongka Xiong – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans <br /> Hmong Ethnic Group Representative <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Ma Xiong</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ajeet Yadav – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong>Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: David Maeda</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans: <br /></em>The Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans advises the Governor and the Legislature on issues pertaining to Minnesotans of Asian Pacific ancestry and advocates on behalf of this community on legislative and administrative matters within state government.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/176" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Yohannes Agegnehu – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Rachel Zhang</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Burrage – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Bernadette Burnham</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Arnoldo Curiel – Oakdale, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Rebecca Evan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jim Heighington – Golden Valley, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Elda Macias</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Victor Obisakin – Mendota Heights, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Emmanuel Oppong</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joseph Rand – Clearwater, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Georgia Miller-Kamara</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kayla Renney – Detroit Lakes, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Pleasant Radford</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nneka Sederstrom – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Natalie Ringsmuth</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Antony Stately – Prior Lake, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mirdalys Tweeton – Elk River, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Myat Thanda Tun</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ThaoMee Xiong – Edina, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Kenneth Rodgers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dasharatha Yata – Plymouth, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Community Council on Inclusion and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Ravyn Gibbs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Community Council on Inclusion and Equity: <br /></em>The Governor’s Community Council on Inclusion and Equity will advise and collaborate with the One Minnesota Council and the Governor's Office of Equity, Opportunity, and Accessibility to ensure the implementation of equitable practices for the State of Minnesota to address disparities, inequities, and systemic racism in Minnesota communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Community Council on Inclusion and Equity can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/285" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Burrage – Robbinsdale, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: March 31, 2025 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday: <br /></em>The Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday plans celebrations to bring the Minnesota community together and reflect and build on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., celebrate the Black experience, and strengthen connections.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/66" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tammy Arend – Mora, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Head Start Director <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Lori Gunnink</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Cook – Esko, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Special Education Director <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Tina Fredrickson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Driever – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Parent of a Child Under 12 <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Jennifer Stieve</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Megan Hacker – Maple Grove, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Parent of a Child Under 7 <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Syeda Zehra</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Ishaug – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Provider Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Maya Nishikawa – Maple Grove, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Service Provider Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Judy Swett – Bloomington, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention <br /> Advocacy Organization Representative <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Robbi Weil</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention: <br /></em>The Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention advises and assists the Minnesota Department of Education with fulfilling federal and state early childhood special education obligations for children with disabilities and their families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/188" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Craig Angrimson – Apple Valley, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Phillip Drobnik – Eveleth, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Hahm – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission <br /> Chair <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Hahm – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matt Privratsky – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Kathryn Barton</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chris Tholkes – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Brook Bordson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Allison Zelms – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission: <br /></em>The Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission supports amateur sports associations in the state and promotes amateur sporting events. The commission’s work includes governing the National Sports Center, creating amateur sporting events, and fostering partnerships between public, private, state, and local organizations. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/98" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katherine Driskell – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Licensed Social Worker or Licensed Graduate Social Worker or Licensed Independent Social Worker or Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Donna Ennis</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate Goodman – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Licensed Graduate Social Worker or Licensed Independent Social Worker <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joanne Kronstedt – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Mary Weaver</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lori Thompson – Brainerd, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Licensed Social Worker <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pa Vang – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board of Social Work <br /> Licensed Social Worker or Licensed Graduate Social Worker or Licensed Independent Social Worker or Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Board of Social Work: <br /></em>The Minnesota Board of Social Work promotes and protects public health, safety, and welfare through the licensure and regulation of people who practice social work in the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Board of Social Work can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/102" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Stansberry – Cass Lake, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> United States Forest Service Representative <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Forest Resources Council: <br /></em>The Minnesota Forest Resources Council develops recommendations to the governor and to federal, state, county, and local governments regarding forest resources policies and practices. The council is also responsible for implementing the policies and programs called for in the Sustainable Forest Resources Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Forest Resources Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/88" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Abdi Matan – Mankato, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities <br /> Private Non-Profit Representative <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities: <br /></em>The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities works to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports and services to achieve increased independence, productivity, self-determination, integration, and inclusion in the community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/109" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Keith Brooks – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Joe Hobot</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Northrup – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Robert Marsh</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deborah Roberts – Bloomington, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Traci Tapani</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Theisen – Hugo, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board: <br /></em>The Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board administers the Job Skills Partnership grant programs that bring employers with specific training needs together with educational or other non-profit institutions that can design programs to meet those needs. The board provides grants to educational institutions and other nonprofit organizations for the purpose of training workers. The board also administers the state's Dislocated Worker Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/112" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Cunningham – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Alice Roberts-Davis</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Ho – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rebecca Lucero – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jean Kim Maierhofer – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Jim Schowalter</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marc Majors – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Robert Doty</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Andrea Perez-Maikkula – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: John Harrington</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Seth Strong – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Dennis Olson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Winnie Sullivan – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Heather Mueller</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tarek Tomes – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Halkeno Tura – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Jan Malcolm</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mai Vang – MN <br /></strong>One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 19, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Steve Grove</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity: <br /></em>The One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity focuses on ensuring that those who are most affected by state government decisions are involved and centered in the decision-making process.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity can be found on the <a href="https://mn.gov/oeoa/about/councils/one-minnesota-council.jsp" target="_blank">Office of Equity, Opportunity, and Accessibility’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6277572024-06-14T20:58:43Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-627696" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-14T14:21:27ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced three vacancies in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Shawn M. Bartsh, the Honorable John H. Guthmann, and the Honorable Robyn A. Millenacker. These seats will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced three vacancies in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Shawn M. Bartsh, the Honorable John H. Guthmann, and the Honorable Robyn A. Millenacker. These seats will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on July 12 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter. The commission expects to hold interviews in late July.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Second Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6276962024-06-14T14:26:55Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-627639" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-13T21:39:08ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced Minnesota has secured funding that will finance Bioforge Marshall LLC, a 500,000-square-foot biomanufacturing facility in Marshall, Minnesota. The plant, owned by Solugen, a climate technology company focused on minimizing carbon emissions, will utilize Minnesota grown corn to manufacture chemicals usually made from oil, resulting in significantly lower carbon emissions.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced Minnesota has secured funding that will finance Bioforge Marshall LLC, a 500,000-square-foot biomanufacturing facility in Marshall, Minnesota. The plant, owned by Solugen, a climate technology company focused on minimizing carbon emissions, will utilize Minnesota grown corn to manufacture chemicals usually made from oil, resulting in significantly lower carbon emissions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This investment in sustainable manufacturing is a major win for Minnesota and a big step towards our goal of carbon free electricity by 2040,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Solugen’s expansion will help reduce greenhouse gasses while creating jobs and placing Minnesota at the forefront of biotechnology and biomanufacturing. With this partnership we’re ensuring a greener future and putting Minnesota on the map as a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The project will be funded by a $213.6 million loan from the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Loan Programs Office, the largest U.S. government investment in bioindustrial manufacturing since an Executive Order advancing biotechnology and biomanufacturing. An additional $15 million will come from the Minnesota Forward Fund, a new Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) program Governor Walz signed into law last year. The fund will invest $400 million in business growth in Minnesota and will provide matching funds for companies seeking federal resources like CHIPS Act, IRA and IIJA. This is the Minnesota Forward Fund's second award.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The facility will manufacture various organic acids for use in concrete, cleaning, agriculture, and energy industries. Current operations at Bioforge Houston have demonstrated an over 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared with conventional petroleum-based methods. Operations in Marshall are expected to reduce emissions equivalent to powering 3500 American homes annually. This project is expected to create up to 100 jobs during construction and 56 highly skilled, full-time manufacturing jobs once fully operational.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Bioforge Marshall LLC represents the first major Solugen expansion and the largest of their operations. Their expansion will include the development and implementation of a comprehensive community benefits plan including curriculum advisors for local students to provide training opportunities and internships.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Construction is expected to be completed by 2025.</p>6276392024-06-13T21:40:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-627251" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-11T20:12:31ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $2.7 million in grants to build career pathways for Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) and low-income Minnesotans into good-paying union trade jobs in the high-demand fields of construction, clean energy and energy efficiency.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] –Governor Tim Walz today announced $2.7 million in grants to build career pathways for Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) and low-income Minnesotans into good-paying union trade jobs in the high-demand fields of construction, clean energy and energy efficiency.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“A green economy sets us up for a healthier future while ensuring that all Minnesotans share the benefits of clean and renewable energy. This includes equal opportunity to fill cutting edge</strong> <strong>jobs that will become available</strong> <strong>,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These grants are helping us build the skilled, diverse workforce we need to achieve 100% clean energy by 2040.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Climate change has disproportionately impacted the people who are least responsible for the problem, namely low-income communities and communities of color,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“That’s why these grants are so important. They’re helping us ensure that those who have continually dealt with the negative impacts of climate change are given an opportunity to fill the good-paying jobs that are part of a more sustainable economy. These grants represent a small step towards climate justice.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Nine workforce development organizations around Minnesota will receive funding from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) Clean Economy Equitable Workforce initiative, a new program to develop a skilled, diverse workforce to support the state's transition to a green economy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Clean Economy Equitable Workforce program invests in historically overlooked workers to provide rewarding career opportunities for BIPOC communities,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Minnesota needs workers with the right skills to build and deploy climate solutions that promote energy efficiency, advance resiliency and support the state’s transition to clean energy. DEED is helping prepare Minnesota’s workforce to fill the growing number of good-paying new jobs as the state moves toward a cleaner, more sustainable, more equitable and climate-ready economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong> <strong>Minnesota’s clean energy businesses employ tens of thousands of workers and will add many more clean energy and energy efficiency jobs as the state works toward achieving its commitment to 100% clean electricity by 2040,”</strong> said DEED Deputy Commissioner for Workforce Development Marc Majors. <strong>“This initiative helps eliminate workforce barriers and invests in career readiness and skills development for BIPOC workers looking to join the rapidly growing clean energy field. Additionally, we’re excited to partner on this initiative with the Wilson Foundation and the Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies as they offer an opportunity for additional funding to DEED grantees in this critical sector.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota's clean energy businesses added more than 1,900 workers in 2022 – a 3.4% increase over 2021 – now employing almost 60,000 Minnesotans, according to a <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cleanenergyeconomymn.org%2Fpress-releases%2F2023-clean-jobs-midwest&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C34bbe14df6394d83080008dc8a4d5dae%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638537312118611500%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=KyoKL5g8TJ1FjUdiT5SwCuQcyGyiCEx8pB2UDm8pTS8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">recent analysis</a> from Clean Energy Economy MN.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">All grant recipients will provide the following services for program participants:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Workforce training, case management services and support to achieve certification or credentials.  </li> <li>Career development support that includes career setting goals based on the individual’s personal strengths and addressing potential barriers to achieving goals.</li> <li>Workers' rights training including labor organization introduction, legal advocacy and wage recovery.    </li> <li>Employment placement and advancement with employer partners that offer self-sustaining wages and/or entry into registered apprenticeships.</li> <li>Culturally appropriate and linguistically relevant job readiness training curricula. </li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Summit Academy OIC is looking forward to contributing to this impactful initiative, preparing a diverse talent pool for current and emerging careers in clean energy and energy efficiency,”</strong> said Leroy West, Summit Academy OIC President and CEO. <strong>“We are deeply committed to building a climate-ready workforce and partnering with organizations to support a clean <u>AND</u> equitable economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The following organizations were awarded Clean Economy Equitable Workforce grants:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$400,000 to Avivo for an HVAC training. The organization is headquartered in Minneapolis and with 10 locations around the Greater Twin Cities metro including Buffalo, Milaca and St. Cloud.</li> <li>$400,000 to Summit Academy OIC for electrician and carpentry training. The organization has two locations in Minneapolis.</li> <li>$400,000 to Workforce Development, Inc. for construction industry pathways. The organization is based in Rochester, with nine locations across Southeastern Minnesota.</li> <li>$340,000 to the Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council for power line, solar energy, wind turbine and electric vehicle technician training and home energy efficiency training. The organization has offices in Marshall, Montevideo and Worthington and serves 14 counties in Southwestern Minnesota.</li> <li>$310,000 to HIRED for home energy audit and home insulation training. The organization is based in Minneapolis and serves the Twin Cities metro area.</li> <li>$300,000 to Minnesota Training Partnerships for wind energy installation/millwright training. Headquartered in St. Paul, this non-profit organization was founded by the Minnesota AFL-CIO.</li> <li>$200,000 to Community Action Duluth for green building and home energy reduction training.</li> <li>$200,000 to Unidos Minnesota for pre-apprenticeship training. The Latino-led organization is based in Minneapolis.</li> <li>$150,000 to the Initiative Foundation for energy efficiency training. The organization is based in Little Falls and serves Central Minnesota.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Wilson Foundation and the Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies have issued a joint Request for Proposals to the nine DEED grantees in order to strategically align private support with the state’s funding. The goal of the private support is to enable grantees to provide participants with flexible financial resources that go above and beyond standard wrap-around support, further enabling their success. Up to $600,000 in private funding will be awarded to DEED grantees in July.</p>6272512024-06-11T20:14:23Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-627048" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-10T19:21:05ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the recipients of the 2024 Dual Training Grants awarded by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE). In total, $5.4 million was awarded to 84 Minnesota employers to fund dual training programs for 958 employees in high-demand industries. Grants are awarded to employers in advanced manufacturing, agriculture, health care services, information technology, child care, transportation, and legal cannabis industries. Over $5 million in Dual Training Grants will connect 958 employees in high-demand industries with new training and career pathways1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the recipients of the 2024 Dual Training Grants awarded by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE). In total, $5.4 million was awarded to 84 Minnesota employers to fund dual training programs for 958 employees in high-demand industries. Grants are awarded to employers in advanced manufacturing, agriculture, health care services, information technology, child care, transportation, and legal cannabis industries.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These career growth and training opportunities allow Minnesotans to get ahead in their careers while helping businesses recruit and retain talent. It’s a win-win,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“As Minnesota sees an increase in high-demand, good-paying jobs, we’re investing in the economic future by ensuring the workforce is supported.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These grants are crucial for supporting our state’s workforce and reflect our commitment to building a strong economic future for Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“This program will ensure businesses in high-demand industries can build their workforce while more workers gain access to different training and career pathways: it’s a win-win scenario.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">OHE’s Dual Training Grant program partners with <a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/pipeline"><strong>Minnesota Dual-Training Pipeline</strong></a> at the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) to help employers meet their workforce needs by creating earn-and-learn programs for employees. Employers collaborate with training providers and contribute substantially to career advancement and development of their employees by providing them with on-the-job training and supporting their postsecondary education. Grant funds can be used to cover the cost of dual trainees' tuition, fees, and required materials for the related instruction training in program occupations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Employers can apply for up to $15,000 (or 10% of the requested grant amount) for dual trainee support costs like transportation, tutoring, and translation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Dual Training Programs are one of the many pathways Minnesotans can choose when pursuing a career after high school,”</strong> OHE Commissioner Dennis Olson said. <strong>“I am thrilled we can support these employers, helping them train employees while filling jobs in high-need industries.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Through on-the-job training and classroom learning, Dual-Training Pipeline helps employees gain skills, credentials and advance their careers while also helping employers meet their workforce needs,”</strong> said Nicole Blissenbach, DLI commissioner. <strong>“We are excited to continue supporting Minnesota workers and employers through these grants and create more earn-and-learn dual training opportunities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Grants were awarded in the following industries:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>26 grants were awarded in the Advanced Manufacturing industry</li> <li>2 grants were awarded in the Agriculture industry</li> <li>8 grants were awarded in the Child Care industry</li> <li>42 grants were awarded in the Health Care Services industry</li> <li>2 grants were awarded in the Information Technology industry</li> <li>3 grants were awarded in the Transportation industry</li> <li>1 grant was awarded in both the Agriculture and Child Care industries</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Grants were awarded to the following Minnesota employers:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Aagard - Alexandria</li> <li>Absolute Quality Manufacturing – New Brighton</li> <li>Allina Health – Minneapolis</li> <li>Alomere Health – Alexandria</li> <li>American Crystal Sugar Company – Moorhead</li> <li>Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce – Anoka</li> <li>Apple Tree Dental – Mounds View</li> <li>Bedford Industries – Worthington</li> <li>Beehive Homes of Lakeville – Lakeville</li> <li>Behrens Manufacturing – Winona</li> <li>Blaine Lakes Dental – Blaine</li> <li>BTD Manufacturing – Lakeville</li> <li>C.A.R.E. Clinic – Red Wing</li> <li>Center for Alcohol and Drug Treatment – Duluth</li> <li>CentraCare Health System – St. Cloud</li> <li>Cerenity Senior Care – White Bear Lake</li> <li>Children’s Dental Services – Minneapolis</li> <li>Children's Minnesota – Minneapolis</li> <li>Clearbrook-Gonvick School ISD 2311 – Clearbrook</li> <li>Community Dental Care – Maplewood</li> <li>Crown Cork &amp; Seal – Faribault</li> <li>Crystal Valley Cooperative – Mankato</li> <li>Cuyuna Regional Medical Center – Crosby</li> <li>Daikin Applied Americas – Faribault</li> <li>Delta Air Lines – Minneapolis</li> <li>Design Ready Controls – Brooklyn Park</li> <li>Dotson Iron Castings – Mankato</li> <li>Fair Meadow Nursing Home – Fertile</li> <li>Fairview Health Services – Minneapolis</li> <li>Family Tree Clinic – Minneapolis</li> <li>Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare – St. Paul</li> <li>Grand Village – Grand Rapids</li> <li>Greater Bemidji – Bemidji</li> <li>Hand &amp; Stone Massage and Facial Spa – Brooklyn Park</li> <li>HealthPartners Institute – Bloomington</li> <li>Hennepin Healthcare Foundation – Minneapolis</li> <li>Hypointe Childcare – Lakeville</li> <li>In Control – Fridley</li> <li>Indigo Signworks – Chanhassen</li> <li>Intek Plastics – Hastings</li> <li>JBS – Worthington</li> <li>Jones Metal – Mankato</li> <li>Jord BioScience – St. Paul</li> <li>Kids Haven – Buffalo</li> <li>Lake County Ambulance Service – Two Harbors</li> <li>Lifespark – Saint Louis Park</li> <li>Mankato Clinic – Mankato</li> <li>Mayo Clinic – Rochester</li> <li>Mental Health Resources – St. Paul</li> <li>Mille Lacs Health System – Onamia</li> <li>Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association – Brooklyn Park</li> <li>Minnetronix Medical – St. Paul</li> <li>Montessori American Indian Childcare Center – St. Paul</li> <li>North Mankato Family Dentistry – North Mankato</li> <li>North Memorial Health Care – Robbinsdale</li> <li>Nurse Next Door – Hopkins</li> <li>Our Lady of Peace – St. Paul</li> <li>Pacific Dental Services – Chaska</li> <li>Perham Health – Perham</li> <li>Pike Lake Dental Center – Duluth</li> <li>Plastic Products Company – Lindstrom</li> <li>Post Consumer Brands – Northfield</li> <li>Primrose School of Woodbury – Woodbury</li> <li>Project Turnabout – Granite Falls</li> <li>Reflections Dental Care – Brooklyn Park</li> <li>Rise Early Learning Center – Minneapolis</li> <li>River City Therapy Center – Red Wing</li> <li>rms Company – Coon Rapids</li> <li>Salute Dental – St. Paul</li> <li>Sanco Enterprises – Shoreview</li> <li>Somic Packaging – Eagan</li> <li>Sonnet Montessori and Child Care – Lakeville</li> <li>Stevens Community Medical Center – Morris</li> <li>Syngenta Seeds – Amboy</li> <li>Technologist Computers – Minneapolis</li> <li>The Toro Company – Bloomington</li> <li>Touchstone Mental Health – Minneapolis</li> <li>Travis Prunty DDS PLLC – Mankato</li> <li>Two Rivers Enterprises – Holdingford</li> <li>UMC – Monticello</li> <li>United Taconite – Iron Junction</li> <li>University of Minnesota – Crookston</li> <li>Woodhouse Spa – St. Paul</li> <li>Yellow Brick Road Early Childhood Development Center – Plymouth</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">During the 2023 legislative session, an additional $1 million per year investment was made by the Legislature and Governor Tim Walz to establish a Dual Training Grant program for the legal cannabis industry employers. An application for eligible legal cannabis employers is expected to open soon.</p>6270482024-06-11T18:13:04Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-626963" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-07T20:43:39ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the African American Health State Advisory Council, Board of Barber Examiners, Board of Marriage and Family Therapy, Explore Minnesota Tourism Council, Lake Superior Center Authority, Mineral Coordinating Committee, and Plumbing Board.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the African American Health State Advisory Council, Board of Barber Examiners, Board of Marriage and Family Therapy, Explore Minnesota Tourism Council, Lake Superior Center Authority, Mineral Coordinating Committee, and Plumbing Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rae Blaylark – Robbinsdale, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ronda Chakolis – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cindy Devonish – Eagan, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Charles Dixon – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patrick Ingram – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Andrea Lawson – Maple Grove, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brittany Lewis – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carolyn Livingston – Northfield, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul May-Kramer – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pleasant Radford – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christopher Smith – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>African American Health State Advisory Council <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the African American Health State Advisory Council: <br /></em>The African American Health State Advisory Council identifies health disparities found in African American communities and their contributing factors and recommends policies and strategies to address such disparities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the African American Health State Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/353" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kevin Ayers – Mankato, MN <br /></strong>Board of Barber Examiners <br /> Barber <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joshua Franklin – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of Barber Examiners <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Kristopher Custer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Barber Examiners: <br /></em>The Board of Barber Examiners oversees the administration, enforcement, regulation, and adoption of rules regulating the barber profession.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Barber Examiners can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/164" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anna Clavin – Saint Cloud, MN <br /></strong>Board of Marriage and Family Therapy <br /> Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Andrea Hendel</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shonda Craft – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Marriage and Family Therapy <br /> Higher Education Representative <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy: <br /></em>The Board of Marriage and Family Therapy regulates the practice of marriage and family therapy in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/26" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shannon McKeeth – New Ulm, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Bed and Breakfast Representative <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Charles Dougherty</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council: <br /></em>The Explore Minnesota Tourism Council serves the broader interests of tourism in Minnesota by promoting activities that support, maintain, and expand the state’s domestic and international travel market.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/60" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Douglas Britton – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Lake Superior Center Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tina Koecher – Kerrick, MN <br /></strong>Lake Superior Center Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 7, 2030 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Lake Superior Center Authority: <br /></em>The Lake Superior Center Authority aims to enhance public awareness of the vital role large freshwater lakes play in the ecosystem, and more generally educate the public on the preservation and protection of such lakes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Lake Superior Center Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/75" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Arbogast – Eveleth, MN <br /></strong>Mineral Coordinating Committee <br /> Labor Representative <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Mineral Coordinating Committee: <br /></em>The Mineral Coordinating Committee plans for diversified mineral development. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Mineral Coordinating Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/83" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matthew Anderson – Mahtomedi, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board <br /> Public Health Programs Representative <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: May 5, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Suyapa Miranda</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Fisher – Bloomington, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board <br /> Small Group or Individual Health Policy Representative <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: May 5, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board: <br /></em>The Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board is responsible for operating the Minnesota Insurance Marketplace.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/200" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kent Erickson – Mankato, MN <br /></strong>Plumbing Board <br /> Non-Metro Municipal Plumbing Inspector <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Adam Johnson – Belle Plaine, MN <br /></strong>Plumbing Board <br /> Water Conditioning Contractor <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Michael Herman</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Justin Parizek – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong>Plumbing Board <br /> Residential Plumbing Journeyworker <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Philip Wood – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Plumbing Board <br /> Non-Metro Commercial or Industrial Plumbing Contractor <br /> Effective: June 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Michael Dryke</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Plumbing Board: <br /></em>The Plumbing Board adopts the plumbing code and rules that regulate the licensing and registration of plumbing-related professions and issues code interpretations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Plumbing Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/132" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6269632024-06-07T20:48:18Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-626922" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-07T16:41:34ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in Senate District 45 in Hennepin County following the resignation of Senator Kelly Morrison.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in Senate District 45 in Hennepin County following the resignation of Senator Kelly Morrison.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A special election to fill the vacancy will be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. If necessary, a special primary election for nomination of candidates will be held on Tuesday, August 13, 2024. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions may be filed with the Secretary of State or the county auditor of Hennepin County from Monday, June 10, 2024, until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, 2024.</p>6269222024-06-07T16:43:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-626669" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-05T18:11:53ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today joined Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE) Commissioner Dennis Olson to announce the opening of applications for three Minnesota student teacher grants and loan repayment programs. The programs will play a critical role in supporting new teachers as they enter the profession. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today joined Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE) Commissioner Dennis Olson to announce the opening of applications for three Minnesota student teacher grants and loan repayment programs. The programs will play a critical role in supporting new teachers as they enter the profession.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We depend on our educators day in and day out,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“By providing financial assistance, we’re helping more people choose a career in education, and ensuring the continued strength of our teacher workforce.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Teachers do incredible work in the classroom to educate and nurture our children every day. From kindergarten to high school, high-quality teachers are shaping future generations. Yet, the burden of financial hardship creates an obstacle for many seeking a career in education,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Through these programs we are growing and diversifying our teacher workforce to fill vital positions. Our teachers are a priority and we’re ensuring that they’re supported.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over the next 10 years, the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) projects there will be over 18,000 job openings for elementary school teachers and more than 14,000 job openings for middle and high school teachers. By investing in programs that support teachers-in-training, the state hopes to attract more people into the profession and provide the support they need while earning their degree.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Investing in our teacher workforce is an investment in the future of our state,”</strong> Commissioner Dennis Olson said. <strong>“These programs are helping to expand our teacher workforce and connect districts across our state – from Bemidji to Austin – with the next generation of educators.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=2248">Minnesota Student Teacher Grants (STG)</a> program provides financial assistance to support students in becoming teachers. There are two student teacher grants with applications opening today:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Minnesota Student Teachers in Shortage Areas Grant (STSA)</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The STSA grant is available to eligible students who intend to teach in a license shortage area or rural school district after graduating and receiving their teaching license. In 2023, 107 students received awards. The amount of funding awarded was $685,000, with the average award amount being $6,401.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Minnesota Underrepresented Student Teacher Grant (USTG)</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The USTG grant is available to eligible students who belong to a racial or ethnic group underrepresented in the Minnesota teacher workforce. In 2023, 119 students received awards. The amount of funding awarded was $693,306, with the average award amount being $5,826.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To apply for the 2024-2025 Student Teacher Grants, applicant should use the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmnaid.guarantorsolutions.com%2FStudentPortal%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C63a817660dfc4bc198c008dc8578f8e9%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638532001894588754%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=nTWllFlyQ9srOrhlnVeD6KazTY6upL1WVrCDNIglhSE%3D&amp;reserved=0"><strong>MNAid Student Portal</strong></a> . To learn more about the program, eligibility, selection process, and how to apply, <a href="https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=2248">visit the OHE website</a> . <a href="https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/Documents/Student%20Teacher%20Grants/Apply%20to%20the%20Student%20Teacher%20Grants%20on%20MNAid%20Student%20Portal_ADA.pdf">OHE has also put together a guide for applicants</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota Student Teacher Grants Priority Application Deadlines:</strong></p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Fall 2024: July 26, 2024</li> <li>Spring 2025: November 8, 2024</li> <li>Summer 2025: April 18, 2025</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Applications will still be accepted after the priority deadlines but eligible students will most likely be placed on the waitlist. While recipients could receive up to $7,500, award amounts are based on funds availability.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additionally, the <a href="https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=2191">Minnesota Teacher Shortage Student Loan Repayment Program</a> provides student loan repayment assistance to eligible teachers providing classroom instruction in Minnesota. The purpose of the program is to encourage eligible teachers, particularly those who belong to a race or ethnicity underrepresented in the MN teacher workforce, to teach in Minnesota. In 2023, 175 students received loan repayment, with the average award being $997.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Awards for this program are not made on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible applicants who belong to a race or ethnicity underrepresented in the MN teacher workforce are awarded first. To the extent funds are available, eligible applicants who teach in a designated teacher shortage area or who teach in a rural school district will be awarded based on a prioritization process. Eligible applicants will be notified if they are selected for application review in October, with awards being disbursed in spring 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Alongside these programs, the 2024 legislative session saw an investment in two more programs that will bolster the educator workforce pipeline:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>A $1 million investment in the <a href="https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=2508">Aspiring Teachers of Color program</a> , allowing the effort to continue for one more year. The Aspiring Teachers of Color program provides financial assistance to eligible undergraduate and graduate students who are preparing to become teachers, have demonstrated financial need, and belong to a racial or ethnic group underrepresented in the state’s teacher workforce. To date, 205 future Minnesota teachers have benefitted from this program.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The Student Teaching Stipend Pilot Program, which will be administered by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, is a 12-week pilot program beginning this fall. It will provide stipends of up to $7,500 to eligible student teachers enrolled in teacher training programs at seven Greater Minnesota colleges and universities, including St. Cloud State University, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College and the University of Minnesota Duluth. It is expected to support nearly 900 aspiring teachers in our state.</li> </ul>6266692024-06-05T18:16:38Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-626666" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-05T18:07:45ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that 35 law enforcement agencies across the state will receive funding for the new Intensive Comprehensive Peace Officer Education and Training (ICPOET) Grant Program.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that 35 law enforcement agencies across the state will receive funding for the new Intensive Comprehensive Peace Officer Education and Training (ICPOET) Grant Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More law enforcement agencies are experiencing staffing shortfalls as officers retire, and fewer people are choosing to enter the profession.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Law enforcement is a critical public service. We cannot keep our communities safe without trained, licensed officers – this program will help interested Minnesotans enter the profession,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This funding is a demonstration of our commitment to support officer training and build a force that reflects the communities they serve.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans deserve to feel safe no matter where they live,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) Commissioner Bob Jacobson. <strong>“Our goal is to provide this for them, but staffing challenges make this increasingly difficult.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The agencies receiving this funding will sponsor 50 candidates with two- and four-year degrees who want to make a career transition into law enforcement. All candidates will attend an intensive, comprehensive training program at Alexandria Technical &amp; Community College from Oct. 1 through February 2025 and Hennepin Technical College from Oct. 14 through March 2025. During this time, candidates will go through the same training that a traditional peace officer student completes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The incentives of this training program are plentiful,”</strong> said ICPOET Grant Administrator Mary Vukelich. <strong>“But this isn’t a free ride. Students will have to fully commit to this intensive and comprehensive curriculum that will give them the skills to become a licensed officer.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Agencies are accepting applications and a number of them have already filled their sponsorships. Other agencies still have openings. People interested in becoming a peace officer should contact one of the following agencies as soon as possible to determine if they’re still looking for candidates. Recruiting deadlines vary but they are fast approaching. ICPOET candidates must be hired by September to begin training on time.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DPS’ Office of Justice Programs (OJP) has approved $2.5 million in grant funding for the agencies through this first cohort. $50,000 is available for each candidate. The funding covers salary and the cost of education. Agencies awarded grants include:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">1. Belle Plaine Police <br /> 2. Big Stone County Sheriff <br /> 3. Blaine Police <br /> 4. Bloomington Police <br /> 5. Brooklyn Park Police <br /> 6. Carver County Sheriff <br /> 7. Chisago County Sheriff <br /> 8. Columbia Heights Police <br /> 9. Faribault Police <br /> 10. Freeborn County Sheriff <br /> 11. Hennepin County Sheriff <br /> 12. Hopkins Police <br /> 13. Lakeville Police <br /> 14. Lino Lakes Police <br /> 15. Maple Grove Police <br /> 16. Medina Police <br /> 17. Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Police <br /> 18. Minneapolis Police <br /> 19. Minneapolis-St. Paul Int’l Airport Police <br /> 20. Moorhead Police <br /> 21. New Brighton Police <br /> 22. Orono Police <br /> 23. Owatonna Police <br /> 24. Prairie Island Indian Community Police <br /> 25. Richfield Police <br /> 26. Rosemount Police <br /> 27. Roseville Police <br /> 28. Sartell Police <br /> 29. St. Louis Park Police <br /> 30. St. Paul Police <br /> 31. Wadena Police <br /> 32. Waseca County Sheriff <br /> 33. West Hennepin Public Safety <br /> 34. Woodbury Public Safety <br /> 35. Wyoming Police</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The ICPOET Grant Program complements existing peace officer recruiting programs, including Pathway to Policing. The ideal ICPOET candidate is a non-traditional student who wants to work in law enforcement, but who faced challenges committing to the traditional 1.5 year-long education timeline. The ICPOET Grant Program can be completed in eight months or less.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is a win-win situation for everyone involved,”</strong> said Belle Plaine Police Chief Terry Stier. <strong>“Candidates will live out their dream of becoming a peace officer. Agencies are solving ongoing staffing challenges, and as a result, communities across Minnesota will be safer.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This summer, OJP will offer another $2.25 million in funding for agencies interested in participating in the second cohort. The request for proposal (RFP) period will open on June 11 and close on July 31. Once grants are awarded, training will be offered from March through July 2025 and will take place at the schools mentioned above.</p>6266662024-06-05T18:09:56Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-626304" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-06-03T21:34:04ZOn Tuesday, Governor Tim Walz will travel to France, where he will attend the 80th Anniversary D-Day Presidential Ceremony and recognize the Minnesotans who fought in World War II. He will also travel to Canada, where he will lead a business delegation focused on strengthening economic ties and promoting Minnesota as a trade destination. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – On Tuesday, Governor Tim Walz will travel to France, where he will attend the 80th Anniversary D-Day Presidential Ceremony and recognize the Minnesotans who fought in World War II. He will also travel to Canada, where he will lead a business delegation focused on strengthening economic ties and promoting Minnesota as a trade destination.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota has many connections to World War II. Throughout the war, Minnesota soldiers distinguished themselves, showcasing bravery, heroism, and sacrifice in combat, aiding soldiers, and providing communication support.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Those who stormed the shores of Normandy on D-Day demonstrated a fierce commitment to our country and to the ideals of freedom, courage, and sacrifice. Minnesota holds strong ties to this historic day, represented by the many soldiers who courageously risked their lives in the name of liberty,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am honored to have the opportunity to stand next to them in commemoration of their dedication and service.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The D-Day Presidential Ceremony honors the troops who landed in Normandy on June 6, 1944. Several world leaders and dozens of World War II veterans are expected to attend.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to the D-Day commemoration, Governor Walz will meet with leadership from Saint-Gobain and Cargill, two Minnesota companies with operations in France. Saint-Gobain is one of the world’s largest building and materials companies. They are in the process of investing $7 million to relocate the North American headquarters to Minnesota, an investment that will create 40 new jobs. Cargill is a key Minnesota partner and a major player in the supply of starch, industrial chocolate, and other food ingredients.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz will then travel to Canada, leading a delegation of state agencies and Minnesota economic development and agricultural leaders to promote Minnesota as a destination for trade and business investment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our close relationship with Canada is based on more than just proximity. Our trade and investment ties are strong and expanding, and this trip will help both Minnesota and Canada drive economic growth and create jobs</strong> ,” said Governor Walz.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Trade Office at the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is organizing the mission. Officials with DEED and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture are joining Governor Walz in Canada.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“DEED is leading Minnesota's coordinated strategy to grow our trade relationship with Canada,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Canada is Minnesota’s largest trading partner and foreign direct investor. On this trip, we will not only highlight and work to grow those ties, but reaffirm our friendly relationship with our neighbors to the north.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Canada has long been one of Minnesota’s top agricultural trading partners,”</strong> said Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. <strong>“We have a strong working relationship with our neighbors, and we look forward to strengthening our partnerships so that farmers on both sides of the border can benefit.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Total trade in goods between Minnesota and Canada was valued at $21 billion in 2023. Minnesota’s exports to the country were worth $7 billion, making Canada the largest single buyer in Minnesota's $25 billion export portfolio. Exports of mineral fuels, vehicles, machinery and iron ore make up about half of all Minnesota product exports to Canada.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More than 60 Canadian companies operate at about 450 business locations in Minnesota, employing 28,400 Minnesotans and investing $13.2 billion in plant, property and equipment. Canada has the highest investment level and employment level in Minnesota of any country. About 60 Minnesota companies operate at about 1,600 business locations in Canada.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Canada is a leading trade partner for Minnesota’s agricultural products, with exports totaling $1.24 billion in 2023. Top ag products exported to the country include corn ($311 million); ethanol ($154 million); and bakery goods, cereals, and pasta ($117 million).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">During the three-day business development mission, the delegation will attend two major economic development and diplomatic gatherings: the US Canada Summit in Toronto and the Conference of Montreal in Quebec. Governor Walz will speak at both conferences. He and delegation members will also meet with civic, business, and agricultural leaders in both cities. <br /> <br /> Members of Governor Walz’s delegation to Canada includes representatives from Destination Medical Center, GREATER MSP, and the Medical Alley Association.</p>6263042024-06-03T21:36:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-626163" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-31T20:20:11ZAlongside veterans and community leaders, Governor Tim Walz today officially dedicated the new veterans home in Montevideo. The Montevideo Veterans Home is one of three new Minnesota veterans homes that the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) opened this year1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Alongside veterans and community leaders, Governor Tim Walz today officially dedicated the new veterans home in Montevideo. The Montevideo Veterans Home is one of three new Minnesota veterans homes that the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) opened this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota remains committed to our veterans. The opening of the Montevideo Veterans Home, the third this year, is a reflection of that commitment,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This is another step in the right direction as we continue our work and fulfill our duty to support veterans and end veteran homelessness.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“MDVA is honored to recognize the major accomplishment of opening this crucially needed home in Montevideo,”</strong> said MDVA Commissioner Brad Lindsay. <strong>“As our 285,000 Minnesota Veterans age, it is more important than ever that we can care for them in their final years.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to Montevideo, MDVA opened veterans homes in Preston and Bemidji earlier this year. Minnesota is the only state in the nation to build and open three veterans homes simultaneously. The three new homes will allow Minnesota to serve almost 200 more veterans needing skilled nursing care as they age.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Plans for the new Montevideo home became a reality after more than a decade of advocacy and planning and two years of construction.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Groundbreaking for the Montevideo Veterans Home took place in August 2021 for the 72-bed skilled nursing facility, located at 2190 William Ave. All residential units include private baths and are split into two sections and four “neighborhoods” of 18 residents each, avoiding long hallways. Move-in day for the first residents was in January.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To be accepted for admission, residents must be:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Discharged under honorable conditions from any branch of the U.S. armed forces and a current resident of Minnesota, who served 181 consecutive days on active duty, unless discharged earlier because of disability incurred in the line of duty.</li> <li>The spouse of an eligible veteran who is at least 55 years old and meets residency requirements.</li> <li>Able to demonstrate a medical or clinical need for skilled nursing care.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.macvso.org%2Ffind-a-cvso.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cc5da961cde884647d7b508dc81982c31%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638527737862514823%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=IkvFMLrggi8GF7%2Fy1zG4C9HVbS32Ohw2Zp9ddc8jxrM%3D&amp;reserved=0">County Veterans Service Officers</a> are available to assist future residents with the admission application process. Admission inquiries can also be emailed to <a href="mailto:NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us">NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To learn more about joining the team visit <a href="https://mn.gov/mdva/about/work-for-mdva/index.jsp" title="Work for MDVA">MinnesotaVeteran.org/Careers</a> .</p>6261632024-05-31T20:25:39Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625996" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-31T05:06:16ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota starting sunrise on Friday, May 31, 2024, to honor Minneapolis Police Officer Jamal Mitchell who died in the line of duty. Officer Mitchell was shot while responding to an emergency call in Minneapolis on Thursday evening.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota starting sunrise on Friday, May 31, 2024, to honor Minneapolis Police Officer Jamal Mitchell who died in the line of duty. Officer Mitchell was shot while responding to an emergency call in Minneapolis on Thursday evening.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota mourns the loss of Officer Jamal Mitchell, a dedicated public servant and hero in his community who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting his neighbors,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Our first responders are first to step in during crisis. We must never take their commitment for granted, and we must ensure they can answer their call of duty without fearing for their own lives. My heart is with the family and loved ones of Officer Mitchell at this time.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6259962024-05-31T09:38:26Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625941" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-30T17:03:16ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota is launching the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program to help families purchase food during the summer months.Summer EBT is expected to feed up to 400,000 kids1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota is launching the <a href="https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/children-and-families/economic-assistance/food-nutrition/programs-and-services/summer-ebt.jsp">Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program</a> to help families purchase food during the summer months.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Summer EBT will provide grocery-buying benefits to low-income families with school-aged children when schools are closed for the summer. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that more than 400,000 children in Minnesota could benefit from the program, bringing in an estimated $100 million in food benefits for families between the summers of 2024 and 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The end of the school year should not mark the start of food scarcity,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This program, which has been a major priority of our administration, provides a boost for families, allowing them to ensure that their children have enough food to keep them going all summer and ready to learn come fall.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As someone who utilized the free and reduced lunch program, I know firsthand the impact of food insecurity. Our kids shouldn’t have to worry about where their next meal will come from. I also know that when the school year ends, kids can fall through the cracks,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“This program is a vital safety net for our children. It’s a continuation of our commitment to making life more affordable for everyone, and this program ensures that all children can stay healthy and fed all year long.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The program provides families with $120 per eligible school aged child during the summer months to purchase healthy foods with funds placed on EBT cards sent to families at the end of July or beginning of August. The benefits can be used at retailers like grocery stores and farmers markets to purchase healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, meats and other protein sources, whole grains and dairy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’ve seen the benefits free school meals have given to students and families,”</strong> said Education Commissioner Willie Jett <strong>. “This program will ensure that access to food continues through the summer, so students don’t fall behind on their learning and development.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Summer can be difficult for families who rely on school meals to help feed their children,”</strong> said Assistant Human Services Commissioner Tikki Brown. <strong>“Providing additional food support during this time can help alleviate that stress for families and ensure children can stay healthy and focused, setting them up for success all year round."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Education, the Minnesota Department of Human Services and Minnesota IT Services will work together to determine eligibility and get the benefits to children and families across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Many families will be automatically enrolled for Summer EBT if they qualify for free or reduced-price meals based on family income or if they participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP), Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Foster Care, or Medical Assistance (MA).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Households can contact their school or school district to get an application if they are not automatically enrolled to see if they are eligible. For more information about Summer EBT program go to <a href="https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/children-and-families/economic-assistance/food-nutrition/programs-and-services/summer-ebt.jsp">Summer EBT / Minnesota Department of Human Services (mn.gov)</a> .</p>6259412024-05-30T17:05:01Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625725" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-28T19:53:10ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Luis Rangel Morales as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Rangel Morales will replace the Honorable Shawn M. Moynihan and will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Luis Rangel Morales as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Rangel Morales will replace the Honorable Shawn M. Moynihan and will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my pleasure to appoint Luis Rangel Morales to the First Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Appearing before the court is an intimidating experience for everyone, but Mr. Rangel Morales has proven throughout his career how empathy and compassion can ease those anxieties while also ensuring the equitable administration of justice. This skillset will be invaluable as a judge for the people of Dakota County.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Luis Rangel Morales will be a remarkable judge,”</strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“His exceptional legal acumen, lived experience, and public defense background will bring a unique and needed perspective to this important role. I look forward to seeing all the great work he will do for this court and community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s First Judicial District consists of Carver, Dakota, Goodhue, Le Sueur, McLeod, Scott, and Sibley counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Luis Rangel Morales is a staff attorney and director of community engagement for the Neighborhood Justice Center, where he represents low-income community members facing criminal charges in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties. He has also served as defense counsel for the Ramsey County Veterans Treatment Court and Ramsey County DUI Court. Rangel Morales’s community involvement includes serving as chair of the St. Paul Planning Commission and vice-chair of St. Paul’s Board of Zoning Appeals. He has also volunteered with organizations helping at-risk youth. Rangel Morales received his B.A. from the University of St. Thomas and his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6257252024-05-28T19:54:35Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625696" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-28T17:30:21ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that eight Minnesota members of the Minnesota All Hazards Incident Management Team (MN-AHIMT) are traveling to Iowa to assist local first responders as communities begin recovering from tornadoes that tore through the Greenfield area. Governor Walz authorized the 14-day mission following a request from Iowa officials through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that eight Minnesota members of the Minnesota All Hazards Incident Management Team (MN-AHIMT) are traveling to Iowa to assist local first responders as communities begin recovering from tornadoes that tore through the Greenfield area. Governor Walz authorized the 14-day mission following a request from Iowa officials through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In Minnesota we’re no strangers to the devastation of tornadoes. We know the heartbreak that accompanies the loss of homes and businesses and the necessity of working together to rebuild,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“In the wake of this storm, we are stepping up to support our neighbors</strong> <strong>.</strong> <strong>My heart goes out to the community of Greenfield as they recover.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MN-AHIMT members are highly trained and skilled public safety professionals who serve in a variety of disciplines. Upon arriving in Iowa, the emergency managers, firefighters, medical, law enforcement, and public works experts will support field operations and support with volunteer management, debris management, and the disaster declaration process.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2022, the MN-AHIMT deployed to DeSoto County, Florida to assist with Hurricane Ian recovery efforts. EMAC is a mutual aid agreement between all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands. A requesting state asks for resources based on their needs and while any state can respond, there is no obligation to participate.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/hsem/Pages/default.aspx">Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management</a> (HSEM) division coordinates the state’s EMAC requests. Additional information about EMAC is available <a href="https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/hsem/emergency-response/Pages/emergency-management-assistance-compact.aspx">here</a> .</p>6256962024-05-28T17:31:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625607" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-24T20:58:36ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed all remaining bills passed in the 2024 legislative session, among which are provisions that will allow ride share services to remain in Minnesota, increase penalties for straw purchases, and help fund a new State Patrol headquarters. The bill also includes provisions to increase penalties for straw purchases and allocates funding for a new State Patrol headquarters1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed all remaining bills passed in the 2024 legislative session, among which are provisions that will allow ride share services to remain in Minnesota, increase penalties for straw purchases, and help fund a new State Patrol headquarters.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Protecting workers is a priority for our administration. This bill is a reflection of our commitment to ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for rideshare drivers,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I applaud the work of Representative Hassan and Senator Fateh and the work of the entire legislature in finding a solution on this pressing issue.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Uber and Lyft are vital services that Minnesotans across the state rely on every day,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Rideshares get people to doctor’s appointments, work, and school and are a vital stopgap for those who lack other forms of transportation. Those providing these services deserve fair wages and protections. As we continue to fight for our workers, I am grateful for that work that was done to pass this legislation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In response to the Burnsville shooting that killed two police officers and a firefighter/paramedic, Governor Walz today signed legislation that increases the penalty for straw purchases from a gross misdemeanor to a felony. It also bans binary triggers on firearms.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The tragic death of three first responders in Burnsville reminds us that there is a lot of work left to do to protect our communities and first responders,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This legislation will help ensure responsible gun ownership and prevent guns from ending up in the wrong hands.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Combatting gun crimes in Minnesota requires the implementation of commonsense gun legislation,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“With this bill we are working upstream to prevent tragedies like that which occurred in Burnsville. Gun laws are helping us build a safer Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">An allocation of $22.5 million for the purchase of land and the design of a new patrol headquarters was also included in the bill. The funding will streamline operations and improve the State Patrol’s ability to provide public safety services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Renovations to the Minnesota State Patrol headquarters are long overdue,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Our officers work around the clock to keep our roads and motorists safe</strong> <strong>. They deserve the facilities and resources necessary to do their best work.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor also signed the following bills today:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Historical horse racing ban at licensed racetracks (<a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF2219&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 119, Senate File 2219</a>)</li> <li>Investments in workforce and small business development, including a $12.4 million investment in the state's workforce and investments in communities of color across the state ( <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF5289&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 120, Senate File 5289</a></li> <li>Modification of existing cannabis law, and adjustment of appropriations to the Office of Cannabis Management and the Department of Health (<a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF4757&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 121 House File 4757</a>)</li> <li>Consumer protection focused provisions including the expansion of enforcement against copper wire theft and insurance fraud (<a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF4757&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 121 House File 4757</a>)</li> <li>Critical public safety and judiciary budget and policy provisions (<a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF5216&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 123, House File 5216</a>)</li> <li>Increased transparency among landlords with their policies and fees, increased opportunities for tenants to clear evictions from their records (<a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF3492&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 118, Senate File 3492</a>)</li> <li>Modifications of provisions governing disability, aging, and substance use disorder services (<a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF5335&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 125, Senate File 5335</a>)</li> <li>Financially supporting farmers and agricultural communities (<a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF4942&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 126, Senate File 4942</a>)</li> <li>Streamlining and accelerating permitting timelines and processes for clean energy and transmission projects (<a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF4942&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 126, Senate File 4942</a>)</li> <li>Funding for Fostering Independence Grant (FIG) Program to remove financial barriers for Minnesota students who were in the foster care system and policy and technical changes to higher education provisions (<a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF4024&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 124, House File 4024</a>)</li> </ul>6256072024-05-24T21:00:07Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625602" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-24T20:43:17ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy, Commission on Judicial Selection, Explore Minnesota Business Council, Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250, Minnesota Forest Resources Council, Plumbing Board, State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care, and Supervised Release Board.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy, Commission on Judicial Selection, Explore Minnesota Business Council, Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250, Minnesota Forest Resources Council, Plumbing Board, State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care, and Supervised Release Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bharati Acharya – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy <br /> Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sandra Clark – Andover, MN <br /></strong>Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy <br /> Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Majorie Van Slyke</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Driever – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Rachel Dame</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Roy Kammer – Kasota, MN <br /></strong>Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy <br /> Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy <br /></em>The Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy regulates the practices of alcohol and drug counseling and professional counseling and professional clinical counseling in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/20" target="_blank">Secretary of State's website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daryl Fuchihara – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Commission on Judicial Selection <br /> Sixth Judicial District Attorney Member <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Replacing: Daniel Lew</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Roxanna Gonzalez – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Commission on Judicial Selection <br /> At-large Attorney Member <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Replacing: Justin Page</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Justin Perl – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Commission on Judicial Selection <br /> Fourth Judicial District Attorney Member <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Replacing: Roxanna Gonzalez</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Commission on Judicial Selection: <br /></em>The Commission on Judicial Selection solicits, considers, and recommends candidates to the Governor for vacancies in the district courts and the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Commission on Judicial Selection can be found <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/commissionjudicialselection.jsp" target="_blank">here.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Byers – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota for Business Council <br /> Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Representative <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Flynn – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota for Business Council <br /> Representative from statewide or regional marketing or business association leadership, the Iron Range, or a nonprofit focused on economic development or human resource management <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sean Higgins – Falcon Heights, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota for Business Council <br /> Member representing Minnesota's start-up and entrepreneurial industry who has started at least one Minnesota-based business in the last five years and has at least 20 employees <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicholas Leonard – Fergus Falls, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota for Business Council <br /> At-large representative in the field of general marketing, talent attraction, or economic development <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tawnya Stewart – Golden Valley, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota for Business Council <br /> Representative in marketing, human resources, or executive leadership from Minnesota-based companies with more than 100 employees representing Minnesota's key industries <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amanda Taylor – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota for Business Council <br /> Representative from statewide or regional marketing or business association leadership, the Iron Range, or a nonprofit focused on economic development or human resource management <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Denise Williams – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota for Business Council <br /> Representative from a Minnesota college or university staff, faculty, leadership, student leadership, or alumni association <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Explore Minnesota for Business Council: <br /></em>The Explore Minnesota for Business Council advises the Explore Minnesota director and acts to serve the broader interest of promoting overall livability and workforce and economic opportunity in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Explore Minnesota for Business Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/355" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Minks – Sturgeon Lake, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Member with Experience and Expertise in History or History Education, Tourism, or the Humanities <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250:</em> <br /> The Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250 coordinates Minnesota America 250 activities to ensure that all Minnesotans have opportunities to learn about our complex and inspiring past.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250 can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/354" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kim Berns Melhus – Hugo, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Environmental Organization Representative <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Linda Kingery – Puposky, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Private Forest Land Owner <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Janet Erdman<strong><br /></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Benjamin Wallace – Warroad, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Secondary Wood Products Manufacturing Organization Representative <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Robert Owens</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Forest Resources Council:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Forest Resources Council develops recommendations for forest resources policies and practices.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Forest Resources Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/88" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Becker – Maple Grove, MN <br /></strong>Plumbing Board <br /> Licensed Professional Engineer <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jonathan Lemke – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Plumbing Board <br /> Metro Commercial or Industrial Journeyworker Plumber <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Plumbing Board: <br /></em>The Plumbing Board adopts the plumbing code and rules that regulate the licensing and registration of plumbing-related professions and issues code interpretations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Plumbing Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/132" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tina Rucci – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Maren Hulden</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care: <br /></em>The State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care makes recommendations to the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council and Children’s Cabinet and fulfills the duties required under the federal Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/264" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rana Alexander – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Supervised Release Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christine Bray – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Supervised Release Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Andrew Larson – Crookston, MN <br /></strong>Supervised Release Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jody Nelson – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Supervised Release Board <br /> Individual with an Academic Degree in Neurology, Psychology, or a Comparable Field and who Has Expertise in the Neurological Development of Juveniles <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sheryl Ramstad – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Supervised Release Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Donald Streufert – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Supervised Release Board <br /> Individual with an Academic Degree in Neurology, Psychology, or a Comparable Field and who Has Expertise in the Neurological Development of Juveniles <br /> Effective: May 29, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Supervised Release Board: <br /></em>The Supervised Release Board reviews eligible cases and makes eligible release and final discharge decisions for incarcerated individuals serving life sentences or indeterminate sentences.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Supervised Release Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/324" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</p>6256022024-05-27T05:01:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625601" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-24T20:25:54ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota from sunrise until noon on Monday, May 27, 2024, in honor of those who have died while serving in the United States military.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota from sunrise until noon on Monday, May 27, 2024, in honor of those who have died while serving in the United States military.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Memorial Day serves as a day of remembrance for people to gather for one purpose: to remember our fallen, pay homage to their sacrifice and courage, and recognize the selflessness of military service,”</strong> reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. <strong>“We honor those today who made the ultimate sacrifice for this great nation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6256012024-05-24T20:26:55Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625499" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-24T02:42:44ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Erin Lindhart Felten and Dwight Luhmann as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Erin Lindhart Felten and Dwight Luhmann as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lindhart Felten will replace the Honorable Joseph F. Chase and will be chambered in Rochester in Olmsted County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“<strong>It is my pleasure to appoint Erin Lindhart Felten to the Olmsted County bench,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her wealth of judicial experience serving as a referee, combined with her deep understanding of the justice system in the Third Judicial District, will allow her to hit the ground running right away.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Referee Lindhart Felten is an excellent choice for this seat,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“She has proven herself to be a highly effective and passionate public servant. Referee Lindhart Felton’s commitment to ensuring that everyone who comes before the court is treated fairly gives me the confidence that she will be a phenomenal judge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Luhmann will be replacing the Honorable Mary C. Leahy and will be chambered in Winona in Winona County</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am excited to appoint Dwight Luhmann to the Winona County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His broad legal background and firm but graceful approach to guiding his clients through challenging moments in their lives will make him an exceptional jurist.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I applaud the appointment of Dwight Luhmann,”</strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“He has demonstrated a clear passion and commitment for his community through his private and public service. His knowledge, understanding of, and deep connection to Winona County, in addition to his wide range of practice, will serve the Third Judicial District well.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Third Judicial District encompasses Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca, and Winona counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Erin Lindhart Felten: <br /></em>Erin Lindhart Felten is a referee in the Third Judicial District and is chambered in Olmsted County. She was previously an attorney at Hoversten, Johnson, Beckmann &amp; Hovey LLP. Lindhart Felten’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the MSBA Family Law Section, Olmsted County Bar Association, Mower County Historical Society, Mower County Agricultural Society, Mower County Humane Society, and Friends of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. She also volunteers with the booster program of the Austin Packer basketball and football teams.She received her B.A. from the Luther College and J.D. from the University of Iowa College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About</em> <em>Dwight Luhmann: <br /></em>Dwight Luhmann is a solo practitioner and the Preston city attorney, where he practices in the areas of criminal law, family law, estate planning, real estate, probate, and civil litigation. He also serves as the prosecuting attorney for the cities of Rushford and Wykoff. Luhmann previously worked as an attorney for David A. Joerg, P.A. in Preston. His community involvement includes serving as the chair of the Preston Economic Development Authority, the president of the Fillmore County Law Library Board, and the parent attorney representative for the Fillmore County Children’s Justice Initiative. Luhmann is a past board member and president of the Preston Area Community Foundation. He received his B.S. from North Dakota State University and J.D. from University of North Dakota School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" style="font-family: Verdana;">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">.</p>6254992024-05-24T02:45:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625498" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-24T02:40:24ZGovernor Tim Walz signed a bill in Hoyt Lakes today allocating $30 million for rural emergency medical services (EMS). 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz signed a bill in Hoyt Lakes today allocating $30 million for rural emergency medical services (EMS). Governor Walz was joined by bill authors, Senator Judy Seeberger and Representative John Huot, state representatives, and advocates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When Minnesotans are faced with a medical emergency, they should expect that help will come – whether they live in Minneapolis or on the Iron Range,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re strengthening rural emergency services so that there will always be someone to answer Minnesotans’ call for help. While there is still work to be done, this funding will serve as a critical first step.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF4738&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 122, House File 4738</a> makes provisions to and allocates money for emergency medical services. This includes the allocation of $30 million for rural EMS, with $6 million for the establishment of an alternative EMS response model pilot program and $24 million in short-term emergency aid. The bill also establishes the Office of Emergency Medical Services to replace the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board.</p>6254982024-05-24T02:41:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625495" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-23T14:36:41ZGovernor Tim Walz today has authorized the Minnesota National Guard to transport equipment that will support search and rescue operations in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA). The assistance is authorized by Emergency Executive Order 24-04.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today has authorized the Minnesota National Guard to transport equipment that will support search and rescue operations in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA). The assistance is authorized by Emergency Executive Order 24-04.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On May 18, four canoeists went over Curtain Falls inside the BWCA. Two members of the group have been rescued; however, two Minnesota residents remain missing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“No one expects their vacation to turn to crisis. Yet, when four canoeists went over Curtain Falls in the BWCA, this became a reality,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“My family is intimately familiar with the fear and heartbreak these canoeists are feeling. We are praying for those involved and immensely grateful to everyone from the Sheriff’s office to the National Guard who are supporting this mission.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota National Guard will provide a CH-47 (Chinook) helicopter and four crew members for the mission in the BWCA. The crew has been requested to provide lift assets to transport a boat and additional equipment from the Ely airport to the area where two Minnesotans went missing. This mission is in response to a request for assistance from the St. Louis County Sheriff.</p>6254952024-05-24T02:39:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625232" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-22T14:36:41ZAhead of the first game in the Western Conference Finals, Governor Tim Walz has proclaimed today “Wolves Back Day” in the State of Minnesota to celebrate the Minnesota Timberwolves NBA playoff run.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Ahead of the first game in the Western Conference Finals, Governor Tim Walz has proclaimed today “Wolves Back Day” in the State of Minnesota to celebrate the Minnesota Timberwolves NBA playoff run.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“At 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, all eyes will be North as the Timberwolves bring conference championship basketball back to Minnesota again,”</strong> reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. <strong>“Sports have the power to bring people together, and Minnesota fans are excited to cheer on our beloved Timberwolves.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan encourage Minnesotans to join in cheering on the Timberwolves tonight at 7:30 pm.</p>6252322024-05-24T02:34:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-625228" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-21T20:07:27ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF4097&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 114, Senate File 4097</a> : The Omnibus Commerce Policy Bill. This bill makes modifications to provisions related to insurance, financial institutions, commercial regulations, and consumer protections, as well as making reforms to medical debt statutes and the laws governing student loans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Medical payments should not be an insurmountable, lifelong burden that impacts your ability to buy a house or retire with dignity,”</strong> said Governor Walz <strong>. “Yet, taking an unexpected trip to the emergency room can wipe out your savings and destroy your credit score. This bill is an important step toward making sure that the fear of medical debt does not prohibit access to healthcare.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3911&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 116, House File 3911</a> : The Environment and Natural Resources supplemental Budget Bill. This bill establishes coordinated permitting work across agencies, provides resources for regulatory work in environmental justice areas, funding for pollinator habitats, and funding for other environment and natural resources programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF0716&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 117, Senate File 716</a> : The Minnesota African American Family Preservation Act Bill. This bill makes modifications to child welfare provisions to promote the stability and security of African American and over-represented children in the child welfare system, and it ends the pattern of disproportionate removal from their families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Prioritizing the welfare of children today will pay off for generations to come,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Disparities in our child welfare system have persisted for too long. This is a major step towards becoming the best state in the nation for all children.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Family separation is the most traumatic event that can happen on the life of a child,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Many communities of color and specifically the African American community have seen their families broken apart at disproportionate rates. I’m excited to see our state beginning to work upstream and find solutions that will help keep families together and tech us lessons that can inform the child welfare system as a whole. I am grateful for all of the community advocates and elected leaders who have worked on this important issue over many years.”</strong></p>6252282024-05-22T14:28:16Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624993" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-20T20:07:27Z Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill that will eliminate junk fees by requiring companies to disclose mandatory fees in product advertising.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill that will eliminate junk fees by requiring companies to disclose mandatory fees in product advertising. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan were joined by bill authors, Senator Lindsey Port and Representative Emma Greenman, and advocates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans value transparency, which is why we’re putting an end to junk fees on everything from food and entertainment to hotels and credit card fees,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This bill is going to protect Minnesotans’ bottom line, provide clarity for consumers, and ensure companies aren’t using deceptive practices to rip their customers off.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Hidden junk fees tacked on by companies like food delivery apps, hotels, and ticket sellers can cost families thousands of dollars a year,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“This important piece of legislation will protect Minnesotans from deceptive practices and save them real money.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3438&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 111, House File 3438</a> bans the practice of hidden and deceptive fees which cost the average Minnesota family more than $3,000 per year. The bill requires that the full price of a product, including all mandatory fees, must be disclosed at the beginning of the transaction and in any advertising. It also prevents charges that don’t align with any additional product or service.</p>6249932024-05-20T20:09:06Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624975" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-20T18:12:17ZGovernor Tim Walz, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota invite young women and gender-expansive youth from across the state to apply for 24 open positions with the Young Women’s Cabinet. Young women and gender-expansive people between the ages of 16 and 24 are invited to apply. Applications are available through the YWCA St. Paul website and will be accepted through Friday, June 14.The Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota brings together philanthropic, nonprofit, and government sectors to improve outcomes for youth in Minnesota1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota invite young women and gender-expansive youthfrom across the state to apply for 24 open positions with the Young Women’s Cabinet. Young women and gender-expansive people between the ages of 16 and 24 are invited to apply. Applications are available through the YWCA St. Paul <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ywcastpaul.org%2Fyouth%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C15770a42d3354e15f53c08dc78f824d1%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638518254391542756%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=GIT7hZj%2F26x48QPXhEYe9MmdZU7i7737rEpFBYDAUwA%3D&amp;reserved=0">website</a> and will be accepted through Friday, June 14.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota <br /></em>The Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota Cabinet is a partnership between the Governor’s Office, the Women’s Foundation, and the YWCA St. Paul. The Cabinet includes young women and gender-expansive youth aged 16-24 with the goal of promoting equitable systems that benefit all, grounded in the belief that when young Black, Indigenous, women of color, and people with disabilities in Minnesota thrive, families and communities thrive.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota <br /></em>The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota is a statewide community foundation investing in innovation and systems change for gender and racial justice. The Foundation envisions a world of opportunity where all women, girls, and gender-expansive people across intersecting identities – and their families – have the power to create and lead safe, prosperous lives. Founded in 1983, it is the first statewide women’s foundation in the country. More at <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Furldefense.proofpoint.com%2Fv2%2Furl%3Fu%3Dhttps-3A__www.wfmn.org_%26d%3DDwMFAg%26c%3DeuGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM%26r%3DuYU7r7Bz6BPabpvDcC2jW2UtP7pqHqfY1TK-wJC-gSA%26m%3DXIP9QC3hzFYZ8b1CAVsGcXCvkbUL0S2-BQIt1PqEzDyy579K2YixVE_YluBX7Sgp%26s%3DOa16lDN-APFyOUE82OlT-tRQLaLQDvu0te3YJexZJVs%26e%3D&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C15770a42d3354e15f53c08dc78f824d1%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638518254391554751%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=hyhVV020eklQvapOeexhpU3aIKn2qAmWWXpFMgj8%2BeA%3D&amp;reserved=0">WFMN.ORG</a> .</p>6249752024-05-20T18:13:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624836" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-19T22:11:27ZLast night, Governor Tim Walz signed the education and children and families package into law. The legislation funds a Summer program to help families purchase healthy food for school-aged children during the summer months, increases the number of pre-k seats in the state, establishes a Child Protection Advisory Council to improve Minnesota’s child protection system, and includes grant funding to expand access to child care in Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Last night, Governor Tim Walz signed the education and children and families package into law. The legislation funds a Summer program to help families purchase healthy food for school-aged children during the summer months, increases the number of pre-k seats in the state, establishes a Child Protection Advisory Council to improve Minnesota’s child protection system, and includes grant funding to expand access to child care in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From summer school meals and literacy programs, to child care and pre-k, I was proud to sign a package that will strengthen resources for children and families across the state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By investing in key programs, this legislation takes us another step closer to making Minnesota the best state for kids.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF5237&amp;b=house&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 115, House File 5237</a> funds the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program, which provides low-income families with school-aged children $40/month per child during the summer months to purchase healthy foods using EBT cards. The bill allocates funding to increase the voluntary prekindergarten program seats to 12,360 in fiscal year 2025. It also invests $37 million to improve literacy skills and compensate teachers for training in structured literacy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additionally, the package allocates funding to upgrade and expand food shelf facilities across Minnesota and appropriates funds to support the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, a step forward in establishing Minnesota as the best state in the nation for children. The legislation also includes funding to address youth homelessness and establish a Child Protection Advisory Council to review the child protection system, enhance accountability, and ensure the system has sufficient capacity and resources. The bill also includes funding for child care improvement grants for local communities to increase the supply of quality child care.</p>6248362024-05-20T03:07:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624835" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-18T22:11:27ZLast night, Governor Tim Walz signed HF 5246, which addresses the impact of U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Tyler v. Hennepin County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last night, Governor Tim Walz signed <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF5246&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">HF 5246</a> , which addresses the impact of U.S. Supreme Court ruling in <em>Tyler v. Hennepin County.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The legislation allocates $109 million for parties impacted by a previous policy in which counties kept excess proceeds from the sale of forfeited land.</p>6248352024-05-20T03:04:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624826" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-17T22:11:27ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed six bills into law, including the Legacy Finance Bill, Omnibus Education Policy Bill, and Elections Policy and Finance Bill. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed six bills into law, including the Legacy Finance Bill, Omnibus Education Policy Bill, and Elections Policy and Finance Bill.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s bill signing included:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF4124&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 106, House File 4124</a> – Legacy Finance Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Legacy Finance Bill allocates funding for the conservation and expansion of Minnesota’s natural resources and outdoor recreational areas. It also supports Minnesota events and activities through the promotion and maintenance of the state’s diverse art and cultural traditions. Additionally, the bill provides a $100,000 grant for the return of the Wizard of Oz ruby slippers to Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Tourism is a big deal for our economy – and this bill will preserve one of our defining attractions,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“In addition to protecting the natural resources and outdoor recreation that drive the economy and draw people to our state, we’re making sure Judy Garland’s ruby slippers remain exactly where they belong: in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF4579&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 107, Senate File 4579</a> – Energy, Utilities, Environment, and Climate Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Energy, Utilities, Environment, and Climate Bill regulates shared-metered utility services in residential buildings.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF4399&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 108, Senate File 4399</a> – Omnibus Human Services Policy Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Omnibus Human Services Policy Bill establishes and modifies laws regarding disability services, aging services, and substance use disorder treatment services. It also modernizes language in the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Services Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF3567&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 109, Senate File 3567</a> – Omnibus Education Policy Bill.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Omnibus Education Policy Bill modifies provisions for prekindergarten through grade 12 education, including changes to ensure inclusive and accurate literacy curriculum, updates training requirements for staff teaching reading skills, prohibits book bans in public and school libraries, and requires mental health instruction.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Public education is a force for good in this country. With this bill, we’re upholding our education system, ensuring our children are fully supported, and preventing harmful book bans,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Books are powerful, they open new worlds and expose us to new perspectives. Protecting access to books means protecting access to the information and knowledge that our kids deserve. If you’re banning books, you’re always on the wrong side of history.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF3852&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 110, Senate File 3852</a> – Omnibus Labor and Industry Policy Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Omnibus Labor and Industry Policy Bill makes policy and technical changes to provisions relating to labor. It modifies construction codes and licensing, labor standards, occupational safety and health regulations, and apprenticeship regulations. It also standardizes the minimum wage by removing lower minimum wage tiers for youth, small employers, and certain seasonal workers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF4772&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 112, House File 4772</a> – Elections Policy and Finance Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Elections Policy and Finance Bill includes the Minnesota Voting Rights Act, policy changes to major political party status, grants opportunities to cities and counties for polling place accessibility, lobbying provisions, reporting requirements for electioneering communication, and redistricting.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Democracy thrives when everyone’s voice is heard. Today, we’re ensuring a strong democracy by prioritizing accessibility and voter protections,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With this bill we are breaking barriers that stand in the way of voting, protecting fair democratic processes, and paving the way for Minnesota to continue to lead the nation in voter turnout.”</strong></p>6248262024-05-17T22:13:39Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624825" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-17T22:03:32ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Electricity, Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports, Board of High Pressure Piping Systems, Board of Pharmacy, Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson, Iron Range Higher Education Committee, Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners, Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority, Minnesota Forest Resources Council, and Rural Health Advisory Committee. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Electricity, Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports, Board of High Pressure Piping Systems, Board of Pharmacy, Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson, Iron Range Higher Education Committee, Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners, Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority, Minnesota Forest Resources Council, and Rural Health Advisory Committee.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Keith Colvard – Bloomington, MN <br /></strong>Board of Electricity <br /> Master Electrician - Contractor <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Michael Hanson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Gudmunson – Shakopee, MN <br /></strong>Board of Electricity <br /> Power Limited Technician who is a Technology System Contractor <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Steve Haiby – Pelican Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Board of Electricity <br /> Electrical Supplier in a Rural Area <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeff Heimerl – South Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of Electricity <br /> Journeyman Electrician <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Travis Thul – Winona, MN <br /></strong>Board of Electricity <br /> Registered Consulting Electrical Engineer <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Desiree Weigel – Andover, MN <br /></strong>Board of Electricity <br /> Electrical Inspector <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Electricity: <br /></em>The Board of Electricity implements the Minnesota Electrical Code to regulate electrical businesses and individual licensees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Electricity can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/210" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Natalie Morland – Chaska, MN <br /></strong>Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports <br /> Registered Nurse in an Assisted Living Facility <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports: <br /></em>The Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports licenses administrators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, conducts studies of nursing home and assisted living administration, approves continuing education programs for administrators, and investigates complaints and allegations of rule violations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/23" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sam Christenson – Rush City, MN <br /></strong>Board of High Pressure Piping Systems <br /> High Pressure Piping Master Pipefitter - Non-Metro <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Steven Plieseis</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patrick McCullough – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of High Pressure Piping Systems <br /> High Pressure Piping Inspector <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Roger Thein – White Bear Lake, MN <br /></strong>Board of High Pressure Piping Systems <br /> High Pressure Piping Journeyworker - Metro <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mark Worms – Saint Anthony, MN <br /></strong>Board of High Pressure Piping Systems <br /> High Pressure Piping Master Pipefitter - Metro <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of High Pressure Piping Systems: <br /></em>The Board of High Pressure Piping Systems adopts rules for Minnesota’s high pressure piping code, provides code interpretation, and adopts rules to regulate high pressure piping licensure registration.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of High Pressure Piping Systems can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/25" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kendra Metz – Moose Lake, MN <br /></strong>Board of Pharmacy <br /> Pharmacist <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Pharmacy: <br /></em>The Board of Pharmacy regulates the pharmaceutical profession in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Pharmacy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/30" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aleesha German – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Youth who is Currently in the Foster Care System or who was Recently in the Foster Care System <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Deddtrease Edwards</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson: <br /></em>The Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson advises and oversees the foster youth ombudsperson and staff.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/305" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Marinucci – Hibbing, MN <br /></strong>Iron Range Higher Education Committee <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Iron Range Higher Education Committee: <br /></em>The Iron Range Higher Education Committee advises the commissioner of Iron Range Resources and the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board on the provision of higher education programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Iron Range Higher Education Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/73" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Essence Blakemore – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee <br /> Youth Member <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Nicholas Jenkins</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gary Charwood – Squaw Lake, MN <br /></strong>Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patrick Faber – Fridley, MN <br /></strong>Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Scott Knight</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Zoraba Ross – Plymouth, MN <br /></strong>Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Michael Goar</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Smith – Plymouth, MN <br /></strong>Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Beau RaRa</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee: <br /></em>The Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee oversees Minnesota’s compliance with the federal Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/74" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Noel Fredericksen – Forest Lake, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners <br /> Chiropractor <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cody Rodewald – Lakeville, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners <br /> Chiropractor <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Nicole Zaret</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners: <br /></em>The Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners regulates the chiropractic profession, including the review and handling of complaints and continuing education programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Board of Chiropractic Examiners can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/100" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marcus Mills – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority <br /> Member with Expertise in Environmental Justice <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Shalini Gupta</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority: <br /></em>The Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority accelerates the deployment of clean energy projects, greenhouse gas emissions reduction projects, and other qualified projects through the strategic deployment of public funds in the form of grants, loans, credit enhancements, and other financing mechanisms.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/329" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kory Cease – Grand Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> County Land Commissioner <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Kilgore – Lino Lakes, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Higher Education and Research Representative <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Rajala – Bigfork, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Private Forest Land Owner <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Kathleen Preece</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patty Thielen – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Department of Natural Resources Representative <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Forest Resources Council: <br /></em>The Minnesota Forest Resources Council develops recommendations for forest resources policies and practices.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Forest Resources Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/88" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Raymond Christensen – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Rural Health Advisory Committee <br /> Representative of Higher Education <br /> Effective: May 22, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Rural Health Advisory Committee: <br /></em>The Rural Health Advisory Committee advises the commissioner of health and other state agencies on rural health issues.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Rural Health Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/138" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6248252024-05-17T22:08:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624470" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-15T20:38:56ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced $6.2 million in new grants to expand child care across the state. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has awarded 21 organizations with Child Care Economic Development Grants – the state’s largest-ever round of funding for this program. The funding is expected to increase child care program capacity by 2,241 slots. Funding expected to create over 2,200 child care slots across the state1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced $6.2 million in new grants to expand child care across the state. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has awarded 21 organizations with Child Care Economic Development Grants – the state’s largest-ever round of funding for this program. The funding is expected to increase child care program capacity by 2,241 slots.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Making Minnesota the best state for children and families starts with child care,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“</strong><strong>Accessible, quality child care is critical not only for strong child development, but also for the economic wellbeing of the families in our state. These grants will increase access to child care and help more Minnesotans enter the workforce, growing our labor force and economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Child care businesses and professionals are essential to our economy – they’re the workforce behind the workforce,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.  <strong>“I’m proud of the historic investments we made in child care last session and our continued efforts to build on these wins. We want to ensure families across the state have access to high quality, affordable child care and that child care businesses have the supports they need to succeed.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED’s Child Care Economic Development Grant program provides funding to communities to invest in new or expanding child care businesses, including facility improvements, worker training, attraction, retention and licensing, and other strategies to reduce the child care shortage. The program is administered by the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/child-care/" target="_blank">Office of Child Care Community Partnerships</a> , a new DEED office to coordinate the efforts of state government, communities, businesses, and non-profit organizations that are working to provide child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwallethub.com%2Fedu%2Fbest-states-for-working-moms%2F3565&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cb60d2d973dc84211065408dc750d0b19%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638513946115958755%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=YHy3wBcTNBCcluDcwbM8Rn3AmmQ%2BvLmYivT6XOvLF9I%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">WalletHub recently ranked</a> Minnesota a top-five state for moms, due in part to high rankings for child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We regularly hear from businesses and communities of all sizes throughout the state about the need for accessible, affordable child care – it’s key to their success and stability because child care removes one barrier parents and guardians of young children face in the workforce,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Through today’s new investments in child care we’re delivering for more families and communities around Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Child Care Economic Development grants are community-driven to provide unique solutions for each community or region,”</strong> said Director of Child Care Community Partnerships Tammy Wickstrom. <strong>“We’re excited to work with our partners around Minnesota to expand child care access to more families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since 2017, DEED has issued more than $6.5 million in Child Care Economic Development grants to 56 local governments and non-profit organizations across the state. DEED will issue a second grant round, also worth $6.2 million, later this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Fifteen of the grants announced today are going to Greater Minnesota, where child care needs are most acute.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Access to quality child care is a fundamental community asset that is essential for the well-being of not just our families, but for the economic health of our region and state,”</strong> said Northland Foundation President Tony Sertich. <strong>“We leveraged our previous DEED grant to support 12 licensed child program start-up and expansion projects including the development and renovation of a new center in Floodwood that will serve 69 children. This resulted in 459 new slots being opened: 81 infant, 90 toddler, 199 preschool and nine school age. We are grateful for the support DEED has given to support the growth of child care availability in Northeast Minnesota and are thrilled with this opportunity to continue our results-driven work with a new round of funding.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Brainerd Family YMCA, a 2022 Child Care Economic Development grantee, used its funding to purchase a 7,500-square-foot building and renovate it into a center licensed to serve 24 infants and 42 toddlers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“At the Y, we are committed to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our ability to develop strong, healthy, and resilient youth is reliant on having access to the space to run programs, including affordable and quality day care. Our community has consistently identified the child care supply as one of the top critical issues that parents and employers face,”</strong> said Shane Riffle, CEO of the Brainerd Family YMCA. <strong>“While not a complete community solution, it is a step forward and highlights a successful model which can be replicated. This would not have been possible without the initial funding from DEED to acquire the footprint.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The following organizations were awarded Child Care Economic Development Grants in this funding round:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Alexandria Community Learning Center, Alexandria, $250,000</li> <li>Austin Community Charitable Fund, Austin, $250,000</li> <li>Centro Tyrone Guzman, Minneapolis, $245,000</li> <li>City of Alexandria, $280,000</li> <li>City of Luverne, $250,000</li> <li>Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County, $250,000</li> <li>Comunidades Latinas Unidades En Servicio (CLUES), St. Paul, $250,000</li> <li>Cook County Public Health and Human Services, Grand Marais, $250,000</li> <li>Glacier Hills Elementary School, Starbuck, $240,000</li> <li>Healthy Community Initiative, Northfield, $500,000</li> <li>Kandiyohi County and City of Willmar Economic Development Center, $500,000</li> <li>Lutheran Social Services, St. Paul, $100,000</li> <li>Northland Foundation, Duluth (serving the Northeast Minnesota region), $400,000</li> <li>Northwest Minnesota Foundation, (serving the Northwest Minnesota region), $400,000</li> <li>Parkers Prairie ISD 547, $100,000</li> <li>Parents in Community Action, Minneapolis (runs Head Start programs in Minneapolis, Brooklyn Center, Richfield, Bloomington and Golden Valley) , $500,000</li> <li>Pine County, $500,000</li> <li>Prairie Five Community Action Council, Montevideo (serves Big Stone, Chippewa, Lac Qui Parle, Swift and Yellow Medicine counties) $380,000</li> <li>Prairie Pines Childcare Center, Fosston, $75,000</li> <li>St. David Center, Minneapolis, $270,000</li> <li>Warroad Community Childcare Center, Warroad, $250,000</li> </ul>6244702024-05-15T20:40:29Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624469" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-15T20:35:54ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the elevation of the Honorable Sarah E. Hennesy to the Minnesota Supreme Court, and the other vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Greta M. Smolnisky. These seats will be chambered in St. Cloud in Stearns County and Moorhead in Clay County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the elevation of the Honorable Sarah E. Hennesy to the Minnesota Supreme Court, and the other vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Greta M. Smolnisky. These seats will be chambered in St. Cloud in Stearns County and Moorhead in Clay County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on June 5, 2024 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in late June.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Seventh Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6244692024-05-15T20:38:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624408" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-15T17:23:50ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed six bipartisan bills into law, including the Transportation Policy Omnibus, Pensions Supplemental Budget, and Department of Human Rights policy bills.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed six bipartisan bills into law, including the Transportation Policy Omnibus, Pensions Supplemental Budget, and Department of Human Rights policy bills.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3800&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 96, House File 3800</a> allows for the establishment of housing cooperatives. The bill also outlines the organization, operation, and powers of the board of directors of cooperatives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3204&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 101, House File 3204</a> makes changes to family law including updating statues related to custody and parenting time law; clarifying the legal standard for prenuptial agreements; and helping ensure parents that utilize assisted reproduction do not need to legally adopt their own child.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF5040&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 102, House File 5040</a>: Pensions Supplemental Budget Bill. This bill makes changes to teacher pensions and retirement systems.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3488&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 103, House File 3488</a> establishes compensation requirements for minors appearing in internet content creation as well as record maintenance and retention requirements for content creators. The bill establishes that if a minor under the age of 14 is featured in monetized content, they must receive 100% of the proceeds of media featuring them.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3436&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 104, House File 3436</a>: Transportation Policy Omnibus Bill. This bill revises J-Turn laws, updates eligibility for Safe Routes to School grants, and updates several provisions in the Greater Minnesota Transit Program. The bill also expands the representatives on the Traffic Safety Advisory Council, allows additional Deputy Registrars in greater Minnesota to become full-service providers, and establishes requirements for roadable aircraft.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF4109&amp;b=house&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 105, House File 4109</a>: This bill clarifies protections within the Minnesota Human Rights Act. This includes ensuring people with episodic disabilities are covered by disability protections under the Human Rights Act and extending protections from credit discrimination to include familial status. This bill also clarifies exemptions for religious organizations.</p>6244082024-05-15T20:11:27Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624295" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-15T05:01:00ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 in honor of peace officers who have been killed or injured in the line of duty. Governor Walz has proclaimed May 15, 2024 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 12-18 as Police Week in the State of Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 in honor of peace officers who have been killed or injured in the line of duty. Governor Walz has proclaimed May 15, 2024 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 12-18 as Police Week in the State of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today we honor the peace officers who gave their lives to protect ours. We thank the more than 10,499 law enforcement officers in Minnesota who serve in 408 law enforcement agencies for their dedication and services to Minnesota communities,”</strong> said Governor Walz.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6242952024-05-15T01:33:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624201" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-14T17:18:43ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced nearly $1 million in grants through the Farm to School and Early Care Grants program to increase access to Minnesota-grown foods. The grants are administered through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA).Over 60 schools and child care centers to receive funding1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced nearly $1 million in grants through the <a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/business-dev-loans-grants/agri-farm-school-grants">Farm to School and Early Care Grants</a> program to increase access to Minnesota-grown foods. The grants are administered through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thanks to our free school meals program, more students than ever are eating breakfast and lunch at school. Now we’re making sure those meals are healthy and made with Minnesota-grown food,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“These grants are a win-win.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Here in Minnesota, school breakfast and lunch aren’t just free, they are also healthy and nutrient packed,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“Through the Farm to School program, we are making it easier for schools to provide meals with Minnesota-grown and-raised ingredients which fuel our students for success.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A total of 48 school districts and 14 early childhood education (ECE) centers around the state received funding this year. This was the first year that early care centers were eligible to apply for this grant program. These grants will increase youth access to Minnesota-grown food and expand market opportunities for Minnesota producers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The MDA thanks these schools and ECE centers for their efforts to offer more locally sourced menu items to their students, helping create connections to our state’s food systems while supporting Minnesota’s farmers and agricultural economy,”</strong> said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Recipient were awarded one of two Farm to School and Early Care Grants:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/f2smini">First Bite Grant</a> : For school districts and ECE centers new to local purchasing and looking to start small.</li> <li><a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/f2sfulltray">Full Tray Grant</a> : For school districts and ECE centers with some Farm to School procurement experience and looking to take on larger projects.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">These grant awards range in size from $2,500 to $30,000 and will support $724,000 in local food purchases by schools and ECE centers. Applicants were also able to apply for additional funding to purchase equipment to support their Farm to School initiatives. A total of $214,555 was awarded for equipment. A full list of recipients and award amounts can be found below.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Funding for this program is available through the MDA’s <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA0MDcuNTYwNzcwMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5tZGEuc3RhdGUubW4udXMvZ3JhbnRzL2FncmkifQ.EcXaO2zyNi071rR-lisSc-1zsndyq9ty4iJBLYT-rj4/s/1262337953/br/129493028919-l">Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) program</a> , which administers grants to farmers, agribusinesses, schools, and more throughout the state of Minnesota. The AGRI Program exists to advance Minnesota’s agricultural and renewable energy sectors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Farm to School Grant Recipients:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amherst H. Wilder Foundation</strong> <br /> St. Paul <br /> First Bite Grant: $5,000 <br /> Equipment Award: $7,050</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>BOLD FFA</strong> <br /> Olivia <br /> First Bite Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Crosslake Community School <br /></strong>Crosslake <br /> Full Tray Grant: $3,393</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dei Spring Academy &amp; Childcare Center <br /></strong>Cold Spring <br /> First Bite Grant: $3,350</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>First Evangelical Lutheran School <br /></strong>Glencoe <br /> Full Tray Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Fond du Lac Reservation <br /></strong>Cloquet <br /> Full Tray Grant: $4,893</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Glacial Hills Elementary School <br /></strong>Starbuck <br /> Full Tray Grant: $2,914.80</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Henning Public Schools <br /></strong>Henning <br /> First Bite Grant: $5,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heritage ESTEM Magnet School <br /></strong>Mendota Heights <br /> First Bite Grant: $5,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Holy Trinity Catholic School <br /></strong>Pierz <br /> Full Tray Grant: $2,803.20</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Holy Trinity Catholic School <br /></strong>South St. Paul <br /> Full Tray Grant: $2,500 <br /> Equipment Award: $1,706.28</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0002, Hill City Public Schools <br /></strong>Hill City <br /> Full Tray Grant: $5,622</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0023, Frazee-Vergas Public Schools <br /></strong>Frazee <br /> Full Tray Grant: $5,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0196, Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan School District <br /></strong>Eagan <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000 <br /> Equipment Award: $25,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0206, Alexandria School District <br /></strong>Glenwood <br /> Full Tray Grant: $27,700 <br /> Equipment Award: $20,011</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0252, Cannon Falls Public Schools <br /></strong>Cannon Falls <br /> Full Tray Grant: $14,000 <br /> Equipment Award: $16,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0270, Hopkins Public Schools <br /></strong>Hopkins <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0281, Robbinsdale Public Schools <br /></strong>New Hope <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000 <br /> Equipment Award: $24,800.50</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0282, St. Anthony-New Brighton Public Schools <br /></strong>Roseville <br /> Full Tray Grant: $25,552</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0284, Wayzata Public Schools <br /></strong>Plymouth <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000<strong><br /></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0423, Hutchinson Public Schools <br /></strong>Hutchinson <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000 <br /> Equipment Award: $15,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0465, Litchfield Public Schools <br /></strong>Litchfield <br /> Full Tray Grant: $29,448 <br /> Equipment Award: $15,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0466, Dassel-Cokato Public Schools <br /></strong>Cokato <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000 <br /> Equipment Award: $15,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0623, Roseville Public Schools <br /></strong>Roseville <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0659, Northfield Public Schools <br /></strong>Northfield <br /> Full Tray Grant: $15,000 <br /> Equipment Award: $25,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0719, Prior Lake Public Schools <br /></strong>Prior Lake <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0726, Becker Public Schools <br /></strong>Becker <br /> Full Tray Grant: $3,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0738, Holdingford Public Schools <br /></strong>Holdingford <br /> Full Tray Grant: $14,720</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0742, St. Cloud School District <br /></strong>Waite Park <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0858, St. Charles Public Schools <br /></strong>St. Charles <br /> Full Tray Grant: $18,226.80</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 0861, Winona Area Public Schools <br /></strong>Winona <br /> Full Tray Grant: $12,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 2134, United South-Central Public Schools <br /></strong>Wells <br /> Full Tray Grant: $15,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 2164, Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton Schools <br /></strong>Dilworth <br /> Full Tray Grant: $13,195</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 2165, Hinckley-Finlayson Public Schools <br /></strong>Hinckley <br /> Full Tray Grant: $10,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 2168, New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva Public Schools <br /></strong>New Richland <br /> Full Tray Grant: $20,020.80 <br /> Equipment Award: $1,984</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 2711, Mesabi East Schools <br /></strong>Aurora <br /> Full Tray Grant: $15,150 <br /> Equipment Award: $12,038.16</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 2769, Morris Area Schools <br /></strong>Morris <br /> Full Tray Grant: $8,600 <br /> Equipment Award: $1,644</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ISD 2904, Tracy Area Schools <br /></strong>Tracy <br /> Full Tray Grant: $10,400 <br /> Equipment Award: $21,990</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kato Public Charter School <br /></strong>Mankato <br /> First Bite Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kid Zone Early Learning Center <br /></strong>Hopkins <br /> Full Tray Grant: $6,259 <br /> Equipment Award: $851.50</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Listos Preschool and Childcare <br /></strong>Rochester <br /> First Bite Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Little B's Learning Center <br /></strong>Barnum <br /> First Bite Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Little Cubs Hangout &amp; Bertha-Hewitt Hangout <br /></strong>Bertha <br /> First Bite Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Metro Learning Center Inc. <br /></strong>Minneapolis <br /> First Bite Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minneapolis Public Schools <br /></strong>Minneapolis <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Murray County Central Schools <br /></strong>Slayton <br /> First Bite Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota Valley Action Council (Mankato Head Start) <br /></strong>Mankato <br /> First Bite Grant: $5,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota Valley Action Council (St. Peter Head Start) <br /></strong>Mankato <br /> First Bite Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota Valley Action Council (Waseca Head Start) <br /></strong>Mankato <br /> First Bite Grant: $3,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>New Ulm Area Catholic Schools <br /></strong>New Ulm <br /> Full Tray Grant: $6,444</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nisse Treehouse LLC <br /></strong>Mabel <br /> Full Tray Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Northwest MN Juvenile Center <br /></strong>Bemidji <br /> Full Tray Grant: $3,625 <br /> Equipment Award: $668.50</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Parkers Prairie School District <br /></strong>Parkers Prairie <br /> First Bite Grant: $5,000 <br /> Equipment Award: $10,310.81</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Reach-Up Inc. <br /></strong>St. Cloud <br /> First Bite Grant: $5,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Riverway Learning Community <br /></strong>Winona <br /> Full Tray Grant: $2,700</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rothsay Public School <br /></strong>Rothsay <br /> First Bite Grant: $5,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>St. Croix Preparatory Academy <br /></strong>Stillwater <br /> Full Tray Grant: $12,914.40</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>St. Mary's Catholic School <br /></strong>Sleepy Eye <br /> First Bite Grant: $5,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>St. Paul Public Schools <br /></strong>St. Paul <br /> Full Tray Grant: $30,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stare Academy <br /></strong>Baxter <br /> First Bite Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Step By Step Montessori <br /></strong>Brooklyn Park <br /> First Bite Grant: $2,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Westwood Early Childhood Center <br /></strong>St. Louis Park <br /> First Bite Grant: $5,000</p>6242012024-05-14T17:24:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624200" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-14T17:09:42ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced over $100 million in state grants will be awarded to organizations serving Minnesotans facing homelessness. The money is supporting a number of services including street outreach, shelter, and harm reduction for drug users.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced over $100 million in state grants will be awarded to organizations serving Minnesotans facing homelessness. The money is supporting a number of services including street outreach, shelter, and harm reduction for drug users.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Human Services awarded four sets of grants to support Minnesotans experiencing homelessness late last year, after a streamlined application process. Governor Walz and the Minnesota Legislature approved the funding during the 2023 session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Funds went to 135 organizations in the Twin Cities metropolitan area and Greater Minnesota, reaching people experiencing homelessness in all 87 counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Housing is one of the most foundational human needs, yet, across the state thousands of people struggle to find and maintain stable housing,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Addressing the issue of homelessness is a top priority, and this funding is a major step in the right direction. The 135 organizations receiving state grants are meeting people where they’re at to get them on their feet. Whether providing hot meals, chemical health assessment and treatment, or shelter space, their services are vital. Together we are making real strides to end homelessness in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Housing is more than a roof over head. It’s health, safety, and a springboard for opportunity, and every Minnesotan deserves a safe place to call home,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“That’s why this funding is so important. Spread between 135 organizations across Minnesota, these grants will ensure that everyone can access the supports they need to find and secure safe, stable housing. Together with DHS we are continuing towards our mission of preventing and ending homelessness.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Each Minnesotan who is homeless has their own unique needs,”</strong> said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. <strong>“Awarding grants to a wide variety of organizations helps ensure services will be there to meet the needs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Funds will support projects including:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Involve MN, Hennepin and Ramsey counties. This funding will support an outreach team delivering hot meals 365 days a year for lunch and dinner to people in encampments and temporary living spaces in the Twin Cities.</li> <li>Mille Lacs Band, Mille Lacs. This grant will support the operation of a Tribal government day shelter in a recently remodeled space to provide access to services like showers, laundry and meals, as well as housing search support, case management for employment, culturally specific services and other resources.</li> <li>Southside Harm Reduction Services, Hennepin and Ramsey counties. The grantees provide harm reduction services via outreach to people experiencing unsheltered homelessness who use drugs, primarily in or near Minneapolis and St. Paul. Services include syringe exchange, naloxone distribution, education, rapid HIV testing and referrals to social services including housing.</li> <li>The StreetWorks Outreach Collaborative, Twin Cities metropolitan area. Administered by Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota in collaboration with several other youth-serving organizations, this program provides street outreach services in locations throughout the Twin Cities. They promote harm reduction by providing safer-use supplies to youth who are using drugs. They also provide opioid overdose prevention and response trainings to services providers and youth in the community.</li> <li>Chum and Human Development Center, Duluth/St. Louis County. The funds will support more street outreach capacity in Duluth with people who are unsheltered on the streets, in the woods or living in encampments. These connections can help ensure their safety and access to services, direct people to mental and/or chemical health assessment and treatment, discuss their involvement with law enforcement and address other issues.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">About 55% of the grant funds will go to services in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, with the remaining 45% supporting Greater Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Learn more about how DHS is addressing homelessness in its <a href="https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/Public/DHS-7003-ENG">Homelessness in Minnesota fact sheet</a> .</p>6242002024-05-14T17:10:54Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624088" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-13T20:54:11ZLieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today joined the higher education community to urge students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Currently, FAFSA completion rates are down 20.5 percent nationally. In Minnesota, completions are down 16 percent from last year, due in part to technical difficulties associated the with new FAFSA form launched in December. The U.S. Department of Education has worked to address all issues with the form, and across the U.S. leaders are encouraging students to finish filing1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today joined the higher education community to urge students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Currently, FAFSA completion rates are down 20.5 percent nationally. In Minnesota, completions are down 16 percent from last year, due in part to technical difficulties associated the with new FAFSA form launched in December. The U.S. Department of Education has worked to address all issues with the form, and across the U.S. leaders are encouraging students to finish filing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“A student’s financial aid package is often the determining factor in whether they enroll,”</strong> Lieutenant Governor Flanagan said <strong>. “In Minnesota, we have made historic investments to better support our students and break down financial barriers to ensure anyone who wants to attend college has that opportunity. To all Minnesotans: the time to apply for financial aid is now.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With this decline in completion rates, the state’s current FAFSA filing rate is 33.3 percent. Increasing FAFSA completion has been a focus for state officials in recent years. In 2021, the State of Minnesota set a goal to increase FAFSA filing by five percentage points every year, with a focus on closing gaps in filing for Black, Indigenous, and other students of color.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over $2.5 billion in financial aid is awarded in Minnesota every year. This includes federal, state, and institutional aid. Over the last few years, landmark new programs have been created to support students. These include the Fostering Independence Grant, which covers the full cost of attendance for Minnesotans who were in the foster care system and the North Star Promise program, which covers tuition and fees for students who earn less than $80,000 a year. But the only way for students to access these funds is by completing the FAFSA, or if they are undocumented Minnesotans, the Minnesota Dream Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is an all hands on deck moment,”</strong> said Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE) Commissioner Dennis Olson. <strong>“Our students and families are not alone in navigating this process. From high school counselors to college financial aid staff to college access groups like College Possible and Achieve Twin Cities, the entire higher education community is scaling up our efforts to help each student though this process.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Joining Lieutenant Governor Flanagan in her call to action was OHE Commissioner Dennis Olson and representatives from Minnesota State, the University of Minnesota, the Minnesota Private College Council, St. Thomas University, Augsburg University, Bethel University, Concordia University-Saint Paul, College Possible, Achieve Twin Cities, and LeadMN.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Flanagan announced that OHE has awarded two $15,000 grants to nonprofits College Possible and Achieve Twin Cities. These groups work directly with high school students in navigating each step of the college-going process. With the grants, both organizations will scale up their efforts over the summer, providing additional one-on-one support to Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">OHE is also partnering the Minnesota Department of Education to get information on the FAFSA and Minnesota Dream Act directly into the hands of high school seniors and their families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Contact information for organizations working to assist Minnesota families in completing their financial aid applications can be found <a href="https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=2638">here</a> .</p>6240882024-05-13T20:55:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-624025" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-13T17:33:46ZGovernor Tim Walz, the U.S. Department of Commerce, state and regional economic development officials and company leaders today announced Polar Semiconductor will invest $525 million to expand its Bloomington manufacturing facility, leveraging $120 million in direct funding as part of the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act and a $75 million investment from the Minnesota Forward Fund, a State of Minnesota initiative to fuel business expansion. The project will receive $75 million from the State of Minnesota and $120 million as part of the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz, the U.S. Department of Commerce, state and regional economic development officials and company leaders today announced Polar Semiconductor will invest $525 million to expand its Bloomington manufacturing facility, leveraging $120 million in direct funding as part of the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act and a $75 million investment from the Minnesota Forward Fund, a State of Minnesota initiative to fuel business expansion.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Polar’s federal funding is the first award in Minnesota from the 2022 U.S. CHIPS and Science Act, a $53 billion initiative by President Biden to grow U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, research and development, and workforce.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s $75 million investment comes from the Minnesota Forward Fund, a new Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) program Governor Walz signed into law last year to invest $400 million in business growth in Minnesota. It also provides matching funds for companies seeking federal resources like CHIPS Act funding. This is the Minnesota Forward Fund’s first award.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a top state for innovation in manufacturing, education, and workforce training, Minnesota has an established reputation as a leader in the growing high-tech economy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We have been consistent and creative in our support for companies like Polar Semiconductor that want to establish and grow their businesses here in Minnesota. We’re grateful to the Commerce Department for its commitment to Minnesota’s future and its partnership with our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota continues to lead the way in business expansion. Through this expansion we are opening doors, bringing people to the state, and working towards our goal of making Minnesota the best state in the nation for kids,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“This investment highlights DEED’s commitment to supporting the growth and operation of businesses in Minnesota, and I am grateful for their work and our strong partnership with the Commerce Department. Together, we are ensuring high-growth, high-demand, good-paying jobs, and building a more prosperous Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thanks to President Biden’s leadership, with this announcement we are making taxpayer dollars go as far as possible to create jobs, secure our supply chains, and bolster manufacturing in Minnesota,”</strong> said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. <strong>“This proposed investment in Polar will crowd in private capital, which will help make Polar a U.S.-based, independent foundry. They will be able to expand their customer base and create a stable domestic supply of critical chips, made in America’s heartland.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are very pleased to announce this historic investment in Minnesota semiconductor manufacturing. Our expanded manufacturing facility will allow us to increase capacity and branch into innovative technologies to serve new customers and markets,”</strong> Surya Iyer, President and COO of Polar Semiconductor, said. <strong>“Polar and its employees are grateful to the U.S. Department of Commerce and the State of Minnesota for their commitment to the future of American semiconductor manufacturing and appreciate the strong collaboration with the CHIPS Program Office, DEED, and the City of Bloomington, Minnesota, throughout this process. Polar is also pleased to welcome a significant equity investment from Niobrara Capital and Prysm Capital, which will allow the Company to become U.S.-owned, and for the continued support of our long-term partners, Sanken Electric and Allegro MicroSystems.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Polar produces high-voltage semiconductors for use in automotive, commercial and industrial applications at its 310,000-square-foot facility in Bloomington, employing 540 workers. The company produces around 20,000 wafer semiconductors per month. Polar’s $525 million expansion will allow the company to expand the facility, which could double its monthly output and lead to 160 new jobs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Expanding the semiconductor sector is a priority for both Minnesota and the U.S. as a whole. More domestic semiconductor manufacturing will help cement U.S. national security by reducing American dependency on foreign producers like China. Semiconductors are also a core component of the supply chain for high-tech industries like computing and clean energy, meaning the sector has strong growth potential in the years ahead.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Minnesota Forward Fund is one of the ways the Walz-Flanagan Administration supports innovative companies like Polar Semiconductor that are helping build Minnesota’s cutting-edge economy,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Minnesota is home to a growing number of semiconductor companies that are creating hundreds of new, high-paying jobs every year. I appreciate the U.S. Commerce Department’s support as we make this innovative industry even stronger.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More than 150 semiconductor manufacturing companies operate in Minnesota, a figure that grew by 13.5% between 2021 and 2023. Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturers employ 10,800 workers in Minnesota with average wages around $85,000 per year, which is 18.2% above the average across all industries. These companies added nearly 1,900 jobs in Minnesota from over the last two years, a massive 21.3% increase – more than four times as fast as the overall economy grew. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Polar Semiconductor is a leader of the Minnesota CHIPS Coalition, formed by the GREATER Minneapolis–Saint Paul Partnership, the economic development partnership for the 15-county region, in late 2022 after the passage of the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fbriefing-room%2Fstatements-releases%2F2022%2F08%2F09%2Ffact-sheet-chips-and-science-act-will-lower-costs-create-jobs-strengthen-supply-chains-and-counter-china%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Ce99e14ff7d7b43697c8b08dc733c57a3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638511950263407795%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=rIwOjPcUcHm5voNKV0vjh29WIrPQZ6X%2FmM37Mn3z%2FZ0%3D&amp;reserved=0">CHIPS and Science Act</a> . Composed of more than 70 organizations, including manufacturers, supply-chain partners, education and training providers, labor organizations and state and local governments, the coalition is determined to reinvigorate the region’s legacy in technology and establish the Midwest’s semiconductor industry as a national leader. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The federal government’s significant investment in Polar Semiconductor is key to building the digital infrastructure in the Greater MSP region to meet the needs of a diversity of industries, including medical device, consumer electronics, automobiles, data centers, and space and military systems, and fuel the nation’s next economy,”</strong> said Peter Frosch, President and CEO of the GREATER MSP Partnership. <strong>“Thanks to dedicated state matching funds through the Minnesota Forward Fund, the region’s semiconductor industry is ready to scale. Federal investments like this one are key to the growth of our regional and state economy, driving technology development and building prosperity for all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Bloomington has always been a place where innovation thrives. Polar Semiconductor’s significant private investment in expanding its facilities, with direct funding from the CHIPS and Science Act and a substantial investment by the State of Minnesota, will boost our local economy and will contribute to the growth and vibrancy of semiconductor manufacturing in Bloomington,”</strong> said Bloomington Mayor Tim Busse. <strong>“We're excited to see the tangible benefits of these investments right here in our city, bringing jobs and new opportunities for our workforce and community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Extensive state and federal support helped secure today’s expansion announcement:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Last April, DEED awarded Polar $4.8 million in funding from the Minnesota Investment Fund and Job Creation Fund to support the company’s expansion. It has also received nearly $415,000 in Minnesota Jobs Skills Partnership awards from DEED to development training programs for semiconductor workers.</li> <li>In June, Secretary Raimondo joined a roundtable in Bloomington with the Minnesota CHIPS Coalition, which includes Polar and is led by GREATER MSP. The roundtable focused on opportunities to grow the semiconductor industry in Minnesota.</li> <li>In September, Governor Walz, Commissioner Varilek, and members of the delegation on the Governor's Business Development Mission to Japan met with executives from Sanken Electric. The discussion focused on the company’s investments in Minnesota and the outlook for high-tech manufacturing in the state.</li> </ul>6240252024-05-13T17:34:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-623949" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-11T20:14:03ZThis weekend, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan celebrated the Governor’s Fishing Opener on Lake Pepin in Lake City. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor each caught a walleye. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[Lake City, MN] – This weekend, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan celebrated the Governor’s Fishing Opener on Lake Pepin in Lake City. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor each caught a walleye.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Friday, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan participated in interviews with local press and outdoors outlets across the state, joined a group of fifth grade students at Ohuta Beach Park to learn about fishing, water quality, and wildlife and presented a Fishing and Water Education Day proclamation, and visited the Department of Natural Resources’ Mussel Lab. Lieutenant Governor Flanagan hosted a women’s fishing event and visited Frontenac State Park. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan also made stops at small businesses in the Lake City area and attended a community celebration.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Saturday, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan joined the opening day launch ceremony before fishing on Lake Pepin. Afterwards, they joined other anglers for a shore lunch. Photos from the weekend’s events can be found on <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720316847639%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Ca6c43993ffe6473243f808dc71e97819%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638510494784429228%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=ntVL8mOqAePkl3X6OG1zp7KZqlvmxC1REpBQ9eUk3nQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">Flickr</a> or you can visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/mediaroom/News%20release%20resources/2024GovernorsFishingOpener/">news room</a> for photos, soundbites and video.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s fishing opener is special. It’s an exciting and important day for thousands of Minnesotans who are ready to kick off the season, and personally one of my favorite days of the year,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I always look forward to highlighting new communities and this one is an easy sell. An exceptional destination for fishing, a great location for tourism and a beautiful place to put down roots, I cannot speak highly enough of this city. Thank you to our hosts and to everyone who celebrated with us, and happy fishing!”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is defined by its natural resources and exceptional outdoor recreation, and this year’s fishing opener was an excellent reminder of all that the state has to offer,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Lake City is a gem, and this year’s fishing opener was extra special, serving as an opportunity to highlight an important message: women currently make up less than 20% of anglers in Minnesota. But we’re ready to change that. Across the state we’re working to increase the number of women involved in fishing and outdoor recreation and this weekend in Lake City was a reminder that outdoor spaces and sports are for everyone. I am so grateful to our hosts and the community for joining us.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Lake City area is a prime example of the diversity of fishing opportunities that Minnesota has to offer. Whether you are a long-time angler, newer to the experience, or just want to give it a try, there are abundant options from a boat, kayak, or shore,”</strong> said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“The Governor’s Fishing Opener is not only a wonderful event that highlights communities and celebrates the great tradition of angling in Minnesota, it’s also an opportunity to encourage more women and youth to take up fishing this season.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota's $4.4 billion fishing industry, and in recent years, it has served as an iconic kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season. Travel and tourism have traditionally generated approximately $16 billion in leisure and hospitality gross sales in Minnesota annually.</p>6239492024-05-11T20:14:41Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-623940" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-10T21:30:21ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointments of Veena Iyer and Jennifer Verdeja as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. Iyer will be replacing the Honorable JaPaul J. Harris and Verdeja will be replacing the Honorable Elena L. Ostby. These seats will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointments of Veena Iyer and Jennifer Verdeja as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. Iyer will be replacing the Honorable JaPaul J. Harris and Verdeja will be replacing the Honorable Elena L. Ostby. These seats will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Veena Iyer to the Ramsey County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her diverse practice background and understanding of the impact that our justice system has on the many communities it serves gives me the confidence that she will be a fair and balanced judge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am also pleased to appoint Jennifer Verdeja,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her decades of trial and courtroom experience, combined with her passion for serving her community, will make her a great addition to the Ramsey County bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Second Judicial District encompasses Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em style=""><strong>About Veena Iyer: <br /></strong></em>Veena Iyer is the executive director of the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota. She was previously a shareholder at Nilan Johnson Lewis and an Equal Justice Works fellow at Legal Aid Chicago. Iyer was also a law clerk for the Honorable Natalie Hudson on the Minnesota Court of Appeals, the Honorable Susan Burke on the Fourth Judicial District, and the Honorable Matthew Kennelly on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Her community involvement includes leadership roles with the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association and Minnesota Women Lawyers. Iyer also serves on the Board of Regents of Augsburg University and the Community Advisory Board of the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank. She received her B.A. from the University of Chicago and J.D. from Harvard Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><em>About</em></strong> <em style=""><strong>Jennifer Verdeja: <br /></strong></em>Jennifer Verdeja is an assistant director of the Trial and Pretrial Justice Division in the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, where she supervises felony adult trial attorneys. She was previously an assistant public defender in the Second Judicial District and a community corrections worker for Ramsey County. Verdeja has served on the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s Human Trafficking Investigators Task Force and the Second District Ethics Committee. Her community involvement includes serving as a judge for the Urban Debate League, a volunteer with the Cretin-Derham Hall Parents’ Association, and a youth coach in St. Paul. She received her B.A. from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6239402024-05-10T21:31:30Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-623772" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-09T20:51:46ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Shawn M. Moynihan. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Shawn M. Moynihan. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christopher Bates:</strong> Christopher Bates is an assistant county attorney in the Civil Division of the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office. He previously served as an assistant city attorney for the City of Minneapolis, handling criminal cases with a focus on domestic violence, and as an assistant county attorney for the McLeod County Attorney’s Office. Bates’s community involvement includes serving on the board of Mental Health Resources. He also volunteers with the Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities and as a mock trial judge with the Minnesota State Bar Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Luis Rangel Morales: </strong>Luis Rangel Morales is a staff attorney and director of community engagement for the Neighborhood Justice Center, where he represents low-income community members facing criminal charges in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties. He has also served as defense counsel for the Ramsey County Veterans Treatment Court and Ramsey County DUI Court. Rangel Morales’s community involvement includes serving as chair of the St. Paul Planning Commission and as vice-chair of St. Paul’s Board of Zoning Appeals. He has also volunteered with organizations helping at-risk youth.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Russell: </strong>Mary Russell is an assistant attorney general at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General, where she handles criminal prosecution and serves as a member of multiple anti-human trafficking task forces. She previously worked as an assistant county attorney at the Dakota County Attorney’s Office and as an assistant county attorney at the Kanabec County Attorney’s Office. Her community involvement includes serving as a member of the Zero Abuse Project Advisory Board for Excellence in Child Exploitation Investigations and as a mock trial judge. She has also volunteered with organizations that assist victims of domestic and sexual abuse.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6237722024-05-09T20:53:00Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-623599" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-08T19:26:20ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed four bills into law. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed four bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3071&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 89, House File 3071</a> requires that Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services simplify the language of the driver’s knowledge examination.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF4661&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 97, House File 4661</a> makes technical and policy changes to improve the worker’s compensation process for businesses and injured workers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF4310&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 99, House File 4310</a> ratifies compensation plans for several state positions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=hf3454&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 100, House File 3454</a> is the veterans and military affairs policy omnibus bill.</p>6235992024-05-08T19:27:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-623441" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-07T20:00:15ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited First Avenue in Minneapolis to sign a bill into law at that will strengthen consumer protections for ticket buyers. The bill reforms the processes related to the sale, advertisement, and resale of tickets for concerts, sports, and cultural events. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited First Avenue in Minneapolis to sign a bill into law at that will strengthen consumer protections for ticket buyers. The bill reforms the processes related to the sale, advertisement, and resale of tickets for concerts, sports, and cultural events. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by First Avenue CEO Dayna Frank, representatives from Minnesota’s independent venues, and the bill authors, Senator Matt Klein and Representative Kelly Moller.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Whether Minnesotans are selling out Target Center to cheer the Timberwolves on in the playoffs or catching a concert or a play downtown, they’re paying too many hidden fees while competing against exploitative third parties,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This law will change that. We are protecting consumers and ensuring that Minnesotans can purchase tickets for their favorite events without having to empty their pockets.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It's no secret that I love live music – from Portugal. The Man to New Kids on the Block to Beyoncé. However, in recent years, enjoying live music has become more and more difficult,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan <strong>. “And, it’s not just music. Whether purchasing tickets for a concert, ball game, or live theater, a lack of transparency in ticket sales, mysterious fees, and hiked prices are making these events less accessible. That’s why I’m so excited for the passage of this bill. For music, sports, and theater fans alike, this bill will ensure Minnesotans can continue to attend their favorite events – without the sticker shock.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=HF1989&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 94 House File 1989</a> creates several reforms related to the sale, advertisement, and resale of tickets. The bill protects consumers and cracks down on resellers who hike prices and sell fraudulent tickets by:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Requiring operators, ticket resellers, and online ticket marketplaces to disclose the total cost of a ticket, including fees and charges.</li> <li>Prohibiting resellers from selling more than one copy of a ticket.</li> <li>Prohibiting resellers from hiring people to stand in line to purchase tickets for resale.</li> <li>Allowing a purchaser harmed by seller or reseller violations to sue.</li> </ul>6234412024-05-07T20:01:53Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-623306" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-06T21:05:56ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan released the following statements today congratulating Christina Bogojevic as she was sworn in as colonel of the Minnesota State Patrol at a pinning ceremony in Saint Paul. She has been with the State Patrol for more than 20 years and has served as second in command since December 2022.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan <a name="x__Hlk155796598" id="x__Hlk155796598" />released the following statements today congratulating Christina Bogojevic as she was sworn in as colonel of the Minnesota State Patrol at a pinning ceremony in Saint Paul. She has been with the State Patrol for more than 20 years and has served as second in command since December 2022.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a name="_Hlk165900014" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>“Col. Bogojevic is a passionate, dedicated leader with a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to the people of Minnesota,”</strong></a> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Through years of service with the Minnesota State Patrol, she has consistently demonstrated deep compassion and an unyielding commitment to keeping our roads and communities safe. I have no doubt that she is the right person for this role. I congratulate Col. Bogojevic and look forward to working with her.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am excited to congratulate Col. Christina Bogojevic as she steps into her new role,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“As the second woman to lead the Minnesota State Patrol, her appointment reminds us that there is a place for everyone in this line of work. With her collaborative nature, deep passion, and strong commitment to keeping our roads safe, Col. Bogojevic will continue to move our state patrol in the right direction and make Minnesota safer for everyone.”</strong></p>6233062024-05-06T21:06:18Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-623148" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-06T18:50:32ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3376&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 92, House File 3376</a> allows the use of digital images as proof of possession for certain passes and licenses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3868&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 93, House File 3868</a> updates Minnesota’s laws on business and commerce to keep up with new technology.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF3204&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 95, Senate File 3204</a> extends the participation term for the Public Employee Insurance Program from two years to four years.</p>6231482024-05-06T18:51:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-623062" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-05T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today has proclaimed May 4 through May 5 as Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. In honor of the firefighters who have been killed in the line of duty, Governor Walz has directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from midnight until sunset on Sunday, May 5.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today has proclaimed May 4 through May 5 as Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. In honor of the firefighters who have been killed in the line of duty, Governor Walz has directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from midnight until sunset on Sunday, May 5.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Each and every day firefighters demonstrate a noble courage, sacrificing their lives to keep our families and communities safe,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This weekend we honor the fallen firefighters who courageously protected our families and neighbors at the expense of their own lives. Their bravery will not be forgotten.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Minnesota fallen firefighters and their families.</p>6230622024-05-05T14:19:38Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-622998" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-03T19:25:25ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Karl Schmidt as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. Schmidt will be replacing the Honorable Michael S. Jesse and will be chambered in Foley in Benton County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Karl Schmidt as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. Schmidt will be replacing the Honorable Michael S. Jesse and will be chambered in Foley in Benton County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a name="_Hlk165633192" style="color: rgb(32, 32, 32);"><strong>“Karl Schmidt will be a great addition to the Seventh Judicial District,”</strong></a> said Governor Walz. <strong>“He has been a steady hand and a leader in Benton County for decades, which gives me the confidence that he will administer justice fairly with the community’s best interest in mind.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I applaud Karl Schmidt’s appointment,” </strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Mr. Schmidt’s commitment to Benton County is clear – both in longtime service to the community and pursuit of equitable outcomes for those involved in the justice system. I look forward to his continued public service on the bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District encompasses Becker, Benton, Clay, Douglas, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Stearns, Todd, and Wadena.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Karl Schmidt: <br /></em>Karl Schmidt is the Benton County attorney. He previously served as a senior assistant Benton County attorney, where he primarily handled felony prosecutions, as well as fugitive and extradition cases. Schmidt also served as an assistant public defender in the Seventh Judicial District and as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Bruce W. Christopherson in the Eighth Judicial District. His community involvement includes volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, and he is a member of the Minnesota County Attorneys Association. He received his B.A. from the University of Minnesota and his J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6229982024-05-03T19:27:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-622995" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-03T19:22:15ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan released the following statements today applauding the Minnesota House for passing three bills that would strengthen gun safety in Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan <a name="x__Hlk155796598" id="x__Hlk155796598" />released the following statements today applauding the Minnesota House for passing three bills that would strengthen gun safety in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a gun-owner, veteran, hunter, and dad, I know that basic gun safety is a critical part of responsible gun ownership. I applaud the House for passing a trio of common sense bills that would make Minnesota safer by making sure guns don’t fall into the wrong hands,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am ready to sign this legislation into law as soon as it reaches my desk.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We can and must make Minnesota schools, homes, and workplaces safer for everyone,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“I’m proud to see legislators pushing for these overdue gun safety bills. As a relatively new hunter, I know that gun safety legislation does not impede Minnesotans’ ability to hunt and use guns responsibly. This legislation will only make Minnesota a safer, healthier place to live, work, and learn. I look forward to seeing these bills reach the Governor’s desk.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If passed, the bills would strengthen safe gun storage rules, require a person to report a lost or stolen firearm, and make straw purchases of firearms a state felony in Minnesota.</p>6229952024-05-03T19:23:24Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-622861" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-02T18:47:50ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Joseph F. Chase and the Honorable Mary C. Leahy. These seats will be chambered in Rochester in Olmsted County and Winona in Winona County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Joseph F. Chase and the Honorable Mary C. Leahy. These seats will be chambered in Rochester in Olmsted County and Winona in Winona County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rebecca Church:</strong> Rebecca Church is the managing attorney of the Third Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Winona, where she supervises attorneys and support staff serving indigent clients in Houston, Wabasha, and Winona counties. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Winona and Mahnomen county attorney’s offices. Church’s community involvement includes serving as the chair of the Juvenile Justice Committee of the Winona County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council and the vice president of the Winona County Bar Association. She also serves as a member of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Councils and Children’s Justice Initiatives for Houston, Wabasha, and Winona counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erin Lindhart Felten:</strong> Erin Lindhart Felten is a referee in the Third Judicial District and is chambered in Olmsted County. She was previously an attorney at Hoversten, Johnson, Beckmann &amp; Hovey LLP. Lindhart Felten’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the MSBA Family Law Section, Olmsted County Bar Association, Mower County Historical Society, Mower County Agricultural Society, Mower County Humane Society, and Friends of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. She also volunteers with the booster program of the Austin Packer basketball and football teams.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dwight Luhmann:</strong> Dwight Luhmann is a solo practitioner and the Preston city attorney, where he practices in the areas of criminal law, family law, estate planning, real estate, probate, and civil litigation. He also serves as the prosecuting attorney for the cities of Rushford and Wykoff. Luhmann previously worked as an attorney for David A. Joerg, P.A. in Preston. His community involvement includes serving as the chair of the Preston Economic Development Authority, the president of the Fillmore County Law Library Board, and the parent attorney representative for the Fillmore County Children’s Justice Initiative. Luhmann is a past board member and president of the Preston Area Community Foundation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tran Nguyen:</strong> Tran Nguyen is the managing attorney of the Third Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Rochester. She was previously the deputy city attorney of the Criminal Division in the Rochester City Attorney’s Office and an assistant public defender in the Third Judicial District. Nguyen’s community involvement includes serving as an adjunct professor for Mitchell Hamline School of Law, working with the Just Deeds Project, and partnering with local Rochester area high school group Youth in Law. She is a former president of the Olmsted County Bar Association and a board member of the Rochester Police Athletic Activities League.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Walters:</strong> Michael Walters is a managing attorney in the Olmsted County Attorney’s Office, where he leads a team of lawyers in child protection, juvenile delinquency, and adult mental health cases. He was previously an assistant public defender in the Third Judicial District. Walters’s community involvement includes serving as the president of the Olmsted County Bar Association and a member of the City of Rochester Planning Commission.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6228612024-05-02T18:48:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-622838" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-05-02T17:11:54ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law designating a portion of Highway 169 as the “Senator David J. Tomassoni Memorial Cross Range Expressway.” Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by family members of Senator Tomassoni to celebrate the bill signing.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law designating a portion of Highway 169 as the “Senator David J. Tomassoni Memorial Cross Range Expressway.” Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by family members of Senator Tomassoni to celebrate the bill signing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Senator David Tomassoni exemplified the spirit of the Iron Range. His humble nature and devotion to improving his community has had an enduring impact,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“When we lost Senator Tomassoni, we lost a dedicated legislator, a champion for the Range, and a powerful advocate for people with ALS. Yet, his legacy lives on. I am honored to dedicate this stretch of highway across the Iron Range to Senator Tomassoni.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From his work funding ALS research to his dedication to the Iron Range, Dave Tomassoni had a significant impact for our state,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Naming this stretch of Highway 169 in his honor is a powerful way to show Minnesota’s appreciation for his legacy of public service.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=SF3881&amp;y=2024&amp;ssn=0&amp;b=senate">Chapter 98, Senate File 3881</a> designates a portion of Highway 169 between Marble and Mountain Iron as "Senator David J. Tomassoni Memorial Cross Range Expressway."</p>6228382024-05-02T17:16:10Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-622554" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-30T20:01:37ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Elizabeth Bentley to an at-large seat on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Bentley will fill the vacancy that will occur upon the elevation of the Honorable Theodora Gaïtas to the Minnesota Supreme Court.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Elizabeth Bentley to an at-large seat on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Bentley will fill the vacancy that will occur upon the elevation of the Honorable Theodora Gaïtas to the Minnesota Supreme Court.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to appoint Elizabeth Bentley to the Minnesota Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her appellate experience at all levels of our state and federal courts will make her a valuable asset to the judiciary. Her work in advancing and promoting Minnesotans’ civil rights through appellate advocacy demonstrates her deep understanding of the law and commitment to improving the common good.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am elated by this appointment,” </strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “ <strong>Throughout her career, Elizabeth Bentley’s focus has always been on pushing the status quo in pursuit of a more fair and just legal system. Her legal brilliance and commitment to this pursuit will make her a remarkable jurist.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am thrilled for the people of Minnesota to gain a judge whose quiet brilliance is matched with a boundless energy to get things done,”</strong> said Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor, associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. <strong>“Elizabeth Bentley, my former law clerk, has an unflinching commitment to service and is extraordinarily well rounded in her exposure to civil, criminal, public, and private trial and appellate work. Best of all, she is an amazing person."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Throughout her career, Elizabeth Bentley has demonstrated her commitment to the rule of law,”</strong> said Senator Amy Klobuchar. <strong> “When she served on my staff, I witnessed firsthand her considerable knowledge, deep understanding of the law, and passion for justice. I congratulate her on her appointment and am confident she will serve the justice system and the people of Minnesota well."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am very excited by the Governor’s appointment,” </strong>said Chief Judge Susan Segal, chief judge of the Minnesota Court of Appeals. <strong> “Professor Bentley’s depth of appellate expertise, paired with her sense of humility and strong work ethic, make her a particularly strong choice for our bench. I also know that she will be ready from day one to roll up her sleeves and will devote her attention to each case, giving full meaning to the ideals of equal justice, fairness, and impartiality.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About</em> <em>Elizabeth Bentley <br /></em>Elizabeth Bentley is the founder and director of the Civil Rights Appellate Clinic and a visiting assistant professor of law at the University of Minnesota Law School. She was previously special counsel to Senator Amy Klobuchar during the confirmation of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson and an attorney in the appellate practice group at Jones Day. Bentley also served as a law clerk to the Honorable Sonia Sotomayor on the U.S. Supreme Court, the Honorable Robert A. Katzmann on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, and the Honorable Jed S. Rakoff on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Her community involvement includes serving on the diversity, equity, and inclusion committee of the Appellate Practice Section Council of the Minnesota State Bar Association and as co-chair of the Justice and Democracy Center Committee, which is a civic education initiative of the Minnesota Federal Bar Association. Bentley received her B.A. from Northwestern University and her J.D. from Harvard Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6225542024-04-30T20:02:52Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-622337" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-29T18:28:59ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Tikki Brown to serve as the first Commissioner of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families when it is established in July 2024.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Tikki Brown to serve as the first Commissioner of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families when it is established in July 2024.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am excited to announce the appointment of Tikki Brown as Commissioner of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Tikki’s work exemplifies our mission of making Minnesota the best state for children. As we continue our work to improve the effectiveness of state services, Tikki brings decades of experience and knowledge that will help ensure state government works for all children and families, and that support is available for those who need it most. I am excited to work with her in establishing this new agency.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Tikki Brown is a highly-qualified leader who has dedicated her career to advancing equity for children and families in the state of Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“In establishing the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, Tikki is the leader we need to ensure that income, race, and ZIP code don’t determine the outcomes for any child in Minnesota. As someone whose family was lifted out of poverty by the public programs that DCYF will deliver, I know just how important these supports are to child outcomes, and I trust that Tikki will continue to reliably deliver these state services and promote equal opportunity for all children.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am deeply honored to be appointed as Commissioner for an agency that has such a deep impact on the lives of so many Minnesotans,”</strong> said Brown. <strong>“From the initial inception of the new Department of Children, Youth, and Families, I have been excited about the opportunity to create better outcomes for Minnesotans. As Commissioner, I look forward to bringing together a new leadership team and staff from multiple agencies, working with community partners and individuals impacted by our programs, to envision an improved future for our children, youth, and families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Tikki Brown <br /></em>Brown serves as the Assistant Commissioner for Children and Family Services with the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). Before her appointment as Assistant Commissioner in 2021, Tikki served as the agency’s Economic Opportunity and Nutrition Assistance Director. She has worked for DHS since graduating college in 2001, holding a variety of roles including Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity, Acting Director for SNAP Employment and Training, and Food and Nutrition Programs Supervisor. Tikki earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tikki Brown will start as Commissioner when the agency is originated by state law on July 1, 2024.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are excited to see the Department of Children, Youth and Families in the hands of such a capable leader with deep experience delivering food, housing, childcare and economic supports to Minnesota children and their families,”</strong> said State Director of Children’s Defense Fund Minnesota Alisha Porter. <strong>“Tikki Brown’s whole child, whole family background will help deliver on the new department’s promise of better coordination across the full spectrum of support our children and families need to thrive, consistent with Children’s Defense Fund Minnesota’s mission and priorities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Tikki has dedicated her career to strengthening the lives of children and families, and her direct, hands-on experience in this field, working within the department of human services’ various programs including community action, will be a valuable benefit to Minnesota as we work to protect the safety and security of the youngest and most vulnerable populations,”</strong> said Executive Director of Minnesota Community Action Partnership Lori Schultz. <strong>“She has formed strong relationships with the state and community partners who contribute to these efforts. Tikki will be able to seamlessly transition into the role of commissioner, and I thank her for agreeing to step into this leadership position.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are in full support of Tikki Brown appointment to serve as Commissioner of this newly developed Department of Children, Youth and Families for the State of Minnesota,”</strong> said Bois Forte Tribal Chair Cathy Chavers. <strong>“Tikki has been working with tribes for many years under the former Department of Health Services. She has always been an advocate for tribes, and we expect that to continue in this new role. We applaud Governor Tim Walz’s appointment of Tikki and look forward to working with her to help make a difference in the lives of children across the state of Minnesota, especially those who need it most. The knowledge and experience Tikki will bring to this position will be very helpful to tribes and the disparities we face.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Governor Walz had a very important pick to make, and I’m thrilled with this news,”</strong> said Hennepin County Commissioner Angela Conley. <strong>“Tikki is the best person slated to take on the Commissioner role in the new department.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is incredibly fortunate to have Commissioner Tikki Brown leading this new chapter for children, youth, and families,”</strong> said Legal Aid attorney Jessica Webster. <strong>“Her commitment to agency excellence is unmatched, but perhaps most important to the families Legal Aid serves, we know she is committed to justice. It’s a hopeful time for this new agency, and we look forward to Commissioner Brown’s leadership and continued partnership.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’ve had the honor of working with Tikki in state service for the last five years,”</strong> said Children’s Cabinet Executive Director and DCYF steering co-chair Erin Bailey. <strong>“She is an incredible partner, always focused on outcomes for each and every child and youth. The Children’s Cabinet looks forward to building on the Governor’s vision for a child-centered government.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We look forward to continued work with Tikki and our DCYF colleagues to help further our mission of ensuring every Minnesota student receives a high-quality education,”</strong> says Willie Jett, Commissioner of Education. <strong>“Our collaborative partnership with DCYF, centering children and families, will benefit young people throughout Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am so proud of Tikki Brown who, over 22 years, has gone from intern to assistant commissioner of Children and Family Services and now commissioner of the Department of Children, Youth and Families,”</strong> said DHS Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. <strong>“She brings a caring and collaborative approach to her work and has been a leader on many issues for children and families, including food security and family preservation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"We are very excited to work with Commissioner Brown in this new role. Our coalition of over 500 childcare centers across Minnesota have spent significant time the past two years getting to know Brown and the team working on setting the Department and we feel confident that this team will continue listening to and working in collaboration with childcare center owners, teachers and parents to make Minnesota the best state to raise a family."</strong> Alexa Howart and JaNaé Bates, Co-Directors of ISAIAH and Kids Count on Us.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Association of Minnesota Counties enthusiastically supports the appointment of Tikki Brown as the first commissioner of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Commissioner Brown is a passionate advocate for Minnesota’s children and families. She has a strong record of working with Minnesota counties to design, implement and deliver programs that have positive impact. We look forward to continuing this work together.”</strong> Julie Ring, Executive Director, Association of Minnesota Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the DCYF</em> <em>Implementation Office <br /></em>The Department of Children, Youth, and Families Implementation Office, housed at Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB), provides administrative and project management, coordination, and capacity for the budget, policy, and administrative planning necessary to transfer programs centered on children and families and associated finances to the new agency. The office includes functions for engagement, human resources, legal analysis, coordination, and project management. Coordination across the affected state agencies is a core function of the office to build an agency with a mission to elevate and center the work done on behalf of children within state government.</p>6223372024-04-29T18:30:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-622182" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-26T21:47:28ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3631&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 88, House File 3631</a> makes technical changes to prior capital investment appropriations to ensure previously funded projects are completed efficiently.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF2774&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0&amp;b=house">Chapter 90, House File 2774</a> makes statutory changes necessary for the Department of Natural Resources to continue transitioning their licensing system to an electronic license system. It provides nation-leading protections for native rough fish, and makes a series of policy and technical updates for the Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and Board of Water and Soil Resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3925&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 91, House File 3925</a> makes technical changes to transfer-on-death deeds, including clarifying statutory language and protecting beneficiaries from insurance-related risks.</p>6221822024-04-26T21:48:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-622181" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-26T21:23:28ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Eden Prairie Schools is among the 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon honorees for leading the way in reducing environmental impact, promoting health, and ensuring high-quality environmental education programming that prepares students with sustainability skills and concepts.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Eden Prairie Schools is among the 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon honorees for leading the way in reducing environmental impact, promoting health, and ensuring high-quality environmental education programming that prepares students with sustainability skills and concepts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am proud to announce the recognition of Eden Prairie Schools as one of the 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“From harnessing clean energy to harvesting locally grown foods, Minnesota schools and students continue to pave the way in addressing climate change. As the state continues to invest in our climate future, the next generation, with their deep commitment to developing sustainable climate solutions, is a driving force in meaningful change. Their impact cannot be understated, and I am grateful for this recognition of their hard work.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Eden Prairie Schools demonstrates what it means to be a good steward of its environment and to build students’ knowledge about sustainable practices. Eden Prairie students also learn about the impact they can make on the environment and in their community,”</strong> said Commissioner Willie Jett. <strong>“I congratulate Eden Prairie Public Schools on this prestigious recognition. Thank you for all your efforts in making Minnesota a better place for your students, your staff, your community—and for us all.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Eden Prairie Schools is among 41 schools, 10 districts, three postsecondary institutions and one early learning center across the country to receive this honor, with Eden Prairie Schools earning the District Sustainability Award.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">About 85% of the energy Eden Prairie Schools uses comes from solar panels, many of which are part rooftop solar arrays on district buildings. The district also recently upgraded its facilities to energy saving technology including LED lighting, occupancy sensors, high-efficiency restrooms and kitchen sinks to preserve water and clean diesel engines in buses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A full service bakery and farm-to-school program is part of a robust plan for environmental health, which includes a focus on mental and emotional health. The district also maintains a focus on sustainability education, weaving sustainability and outdoor education into each student’s school experience.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The honorees were named from a pool of candidates nominated by 24 states.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> The list of all selected schools, districts, colleges, and universities, as well as their nomination packages, can be found on the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvmm0dj30.r.us-west-2.awstrack.me%2FL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fwww2.ed.gov%252Fprograms%252Fgreen-ribbon-schools%252Findex.html%2F1%2F0101018f1578c9f1-cbb23536-45d8-4407-b1c8-19ecb64b9a43-000000%2FVSXDIUx5gNFtHNEHObL3Q-KSJI0%3D372&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C17a3de2807c74036cd7708dc662fb770%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638497602385916673%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Cv47oeQ1SsroxSRntC71Wc8OqNkmUHDEV4%2FRSxtnuZs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" title="U.S. Department of Education website">U.S. Department of Education website</a> along with <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvmm0dj30.r.us-west-2.awstrack.me%2FL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fgreenstrides.org%252F%2F1%2F0101018f1578c9f1-cbb23536-45d8-4407-b1c8-19ecb64b9a43-000000%2F39nvYzxDgnGrvSuOY269r6Tcbag%3D372&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C17a3de2807c74036cd7708dc662fb770%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638497602385926502%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=joKlo42oR81rhuqLDcm4j4%2FiumRmsQ6q3zOGab6nYGk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" title="Green Strides">resources for all school to move toward sustainable practices</a> . A <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvmm0dj30.r.us-west-2.awstrack.me%2FL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fwww2.ed.gov%252Fprograms%252Fgreen-ribbon-schools%252Fperformance.html%2F1%2F0101018f1578c9f1-cbb23536-45d8-4407-b1c8-19ecb64b9a43-000000%2F8mZjhCRiRr6Caa_fwuqTLJENQqk%3D372&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C17a3de2807c74036cd7708dc662fb770%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638497602385933575%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Xln%2F70sDkxJjX5pKXNSajIgoM0snuFSOk4sApA7QWts%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" title="U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools honoree highlights">report with highlights of each of the honorees is also available</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information, visit the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvmm0dj30.r.us-west-2.awstrack.me%2FL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Feducation.mn.gov%252FMDE%252Fdse%252Fstds%252Fsci%252Fgrn%252Findex.htm%2F1%2F0101018f1578c9f1-cbb23536-45d8-4407-b1c8-19ecb64b9a43-000000%2FZuukgayXYESCdNglu_Kiai22HDs%3D372&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C17a3de2807c74036cd7708dc662fb770%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638497602385939272%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=JG5fXiSd1yj7VOMhXe10KT9NG5ozGqg3QYX8Lzo7o1U%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" title="Green Ribbon Schools">Minnesota Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools webpage</a> or the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvmm0dj30.r.us-west-2.awstrack.me%2FL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fwww2.ed.gov%252Fprograms%252Fgreen-ribbon-schools%252Findex.html%2F2%2F0101018f1578c9f1-cbb23536-45d8-4407-b1c8-19ecb64b9a43-000000%2FnJrsfm8BAcwxnRoUcc6FOFSSbnI%3D372&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C17a3de2807c74036cd7708dc662fb770%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638497602385945422%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=VvbhVIYw5%2BJhrv3sspkuQ68nNHmTWMNHCDnU%2B37KgyY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" title="Green Ribbon Schools">U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools website</a> .</p>6221812024-04-26T21:24:54Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-622180" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-26T21:17:58ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Optometry, Cannabis Advisory Council, Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250, and Minnesota Zoological Board.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Optometry, Cannabis Advisory Council, Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250, and Minnesota Zoological Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>George Bruehl – Stillwater, MN <br /></strong>Board of Optometry <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Shari Koll</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tina McCarty – Medina, MN <br /></strong>Board of Optometry <br /> Optometrist <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Optometry: <br /></em>The Board of Optometry licenses optometrists, adopts rules, and investigates complaints.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Optometry can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/28" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeremy Drucker – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Cannabis Advisory Council <br /> Patient advocate with experience in the mental health system or substance use disorder treatment program <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eric King – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Cannabis Advisory Council <br /> Expert in economic development strategies for under-resourced communities <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jamal Knight – Golden Valley, MN <br /></strong>Cannabis Advisory Council <br /> Expert in minority business ownership <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carol Moss – Edina, MN <br /></strong>Cannabis Advisory Council <br /> Expert in women-owned businesses <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Diana Tastad-Damer – South Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Cannabis Advisory Council <br /> Expert representing the interests of cannabis workers <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dana Thompson – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Cannabis Advisory Council <br /> Expert in minority business development <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Cannabis Advisory Council: <br /></em>The Cannabis Advisory Council reviews national cannabis policy, examines the effectiveness of state cannabis policy, reviews developments in the cannabis industry and hemp consumer industry, reviews developments in the study of cannabis flower and other items, takes public testimony, and makes recommendations to the Office of Cannabis Management.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Cannabis Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/332" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Francisco Gonzalez – Cottage Grove, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Molly Huber – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elliot James – Morris, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Briana Joyner – Farmington, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Co-Chair <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeffery Kolnick – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carla Manzoni – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Wendy Peterson-Biorn – Rockford, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Emily Thabes – Bagley, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bill Von Bank – Prior Lake, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Committee on Minnesota America 250 <br /> Co-Chair <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250: <br /></em>The Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250 coordinates Minnesota America 250 activities to ensure that all Minnesotans have opportunities to learn about our complex and inspiring past.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Committee on Minnesota America 250 can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/354" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rebecca Crooks-Stratton – Prior Lake, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Zoological Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Angela Dean – Rosemount, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Zoological Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Charlene Briner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Randall Knutson – Mankato, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Zoological Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: May 1, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Robert Marlotte</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Zoological Board: <br /></em>The Minnesota Zoological Board supervises and controls the Minnesota Zoological Garden.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Zoological Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/121" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6221802024-04-26T21:24:40Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-622009" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-25T21:16:46ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced grants to dozens of school districts to improve traffic safety near schools. The Minnesota Department of Transportation has awarded $1.4 million for communities, school districts, and organizations across Minnesota to support the Safe Routes to School program. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced grants to dozens of school districts to improve traffic safety near schools. The Minnesota Department of Transportation has awarded $1.4 million for communities, school districts, and organizations across Minnesota to support the Safe Routes to School program. The list of 2024 grant recipients is below.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Parents should be able to send their kids off to school knowing they will arrive safe and sound,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By improving safety and promoting active modes of transportation for students, this program supports safe and healthy kids in communities across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Safe Routes to School is an international program to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion around schools. The program makes it safer and easier for students to walk, roll, and bike to school, with an added benefit of increasing physical activity and student health.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thanks to this funding, students across the state can learn how to do these lifelong, foundational activities in a safer setting, and embrace active modes of transportation,”</strong> said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The $1.4 million in grants is going towards planning and projects over the next year (July 2024 to July 2025). An additional $946,758 million will cover the cost of school district coordinator funding for qualifying districts for 2025-2027.</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>School District Coordinator Funding</strong> covers costs over three years for a school district to hire an SRTS coordinator to do an SRTS plan across numerous schools, maintain a SRTS Committee, and address policy or systems changes at the district level. <em>Funding covers July 2024 to July 2027.</em></li> <li><strong>Planning assistance</strong> help communities convene a team, understand key issues, prioritize strategies and identify solutions that fit their local need. <em>Funding covers July 2024-25.</em></li> <li><strong>Boost grants</strong>enhanceexisting local programs, such as funding for bike fleet with a trailer to teach children how to ride, and funding for bike parking. <em>Funding covers July 2024-25.</em></li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">These grants are funded with state and federal Safe Routes to School dollars. Since 2005, MnDOT has awarded more than $60 million in federal and state funds to communities to support Safe Routes to School. Most of the funding was awarded for infrastructure projects. The remainder was allocated for programs and planning that promote walkable and bikeable communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information on Safe Routes to School is available at <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mndot.gov%2Fsaferoutes&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Ced4bddcb2bb94d4b272f08dc6539cf96%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638496546215106282%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=gsXOwMGedEGNRg1V3XWZlYY8hVO2P%2Fk4m8qGzDm38us%3D&amp;reserved=0">www.mndot.gov/saferoutes</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Safe Routes to School 2024 Awards:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>SRTS School District Coordinator - $473,379 (for three years, each year from July 2024 to July 2027)</strong></p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Saint Paul Public Schools</li> <li>Richfield Public Schools</li> <li>Brooklyn Center Community Schools</li> <li>Rochester Public Schools</li> <li>Duluth Community Education, ISD 709</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Boost Grants funding amount - $378,441 (for July 2024 to July 2025)</strong></p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) - Hmong International Academy (HIA)</li> <li>Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) Bruce Vento Elementary – Metro Walking School Bus pilot with goal to replicate across district</li> <li>Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) - bike fleet (second for district)</li> <li>Lyndale Elementary Parent Teacher Organizations - Metro Walking School Bus, Bike Train, education and outreach materials</li> <li>Richfield Public Schools - “Trauma Informed Approach” for SRTS encouragement</li> <li>Circle of Life Academy - Bike fleet</li> <li>Pedal Power MN - Bike fleet</li> <li>Voyageurs Expeditionary School - Bike fleet</li> <li>Rochester Public Schools - Pump track</li> <li>St. Anthony - New Brighton Schools, ISD 282 - Bike racks</li> <li>Highland Elementary School, Crookston - Crossing guard pilot</li> <li>Students Achieve Integrative Learning (SAIL) - Bike fleet</li> <li>Lykke Communities - Project Bike Tech (bike maintenance curriculum for community without a bike shop)</li> <li>Alexandria Public Schools - Crossing guard gear, bike racks, traffic garden</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Planning assistance Funding amount - $581,400 (for July 2024 to July 2025)</strong></p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>City of Lamberton</li> <li>City of Browns Valley</li> <li>William Kelley School, Lake Superior School District ISD 381</li> <li>City of Laporte</li> <li>Red Lake Falls</li> <li>Grygla Public Schools</li> <li>Chokio-Alberta Public School</li> <li>City of Pine City</li> <li>Canby Public Schools</li> <li>Frost Lake Elementary, St. Paul Public Schools</li> <li>Dayton’s Bluff Achievement Plus Elementary, St. Paul Public Schools</li> <li>Lyndale Elementary, Minneapolis Public Schools</li> <li>Richfield Public Schools</li> <li>City of Rochester</li> <li>City of New Brighton</li> <li>Hastings Public Schools</li> </ul>6220092024-04-25T21:18:09Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-621899" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-25T01:13:56ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the elevation of the Honorable JaPaul J. Harris to the Minnesota Court of Appeals, and the other vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Elena L. Ostby. These seats will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the elevation of the Honorable JaPaul J. Harris to the Minnesota Court of Appeals, and the other vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Elena L. Ostby. These seats will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Bierwerth: </strong>Jessica Bierwerth is an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she handles adult criminal appeals and civil commitments. She previously handled child protection and adult criminal prosecution matters. Bierwerth’s community involvement includes serving as chair of the board of directors of Merrick Community Service on St. Paul’s Eastside. She previously volunteered with the Junior League of St. Paul, Minnesota Women Lawyers, and as a high school mock trial judge.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stacy Deery Stennes:</strong> Stacy Deery Stennes is a partner at Conlin Law Firm, LLC, where she represents people who have been injured by negligence, medical malpractice, and defective products. Her community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota State Bar Association Assembly, coaching high school mock trial, mentoring law students and new lawyers, and volunteering with Children’s Law Center and Open Arms Minnesota. Deery Stennes’s community involvement has included serving as the former president of the Minnesota Association for Justice and a founding member of their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity committee. She is also a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Veena Iyer:</strong> Veena Iyer is the executive director of the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota. She was previously a shareholder at Nilan Johnson Lewis and an Equal Justice Works fellow at Legal Aid Chicago. Iyer was also a law clerk for the Honorable Natalie Hudson on the Minnesota Court of Appeals, the Honorable Susan Burke on the Fourth Judicial District, and the Honorable Matthew Kennelly on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Her community involvement includes leadership roles with the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association and Minnesota Women Lawyers. Iyer also serves on the Board of Regents of Augsburg University and the Community Advisory Board of the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Verdeja:</strong> Jennifer Verdeja is an assistant director of the Trial and Pretrial Justice Division in the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, where she supervises felony adult trial attorneys. She was previously an assistant public defender in the Second Judicial District and a community corrections worker for Ramsey County. Verdeja has served on the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s Human Trafficking Investigators Task Force and the Second District Ethics Committee. Her community involvement includes serving as a judge for the Urban Debate League, a volunteer with the Cretin-Derham Hall Parents’ Association, and a youth coach in St. Paul.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Devona Wells:</strong> Devona Wells is an assistant county attorney in the Civil Division of the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, where she litigates complex civil cases and is general counsel to the county’s public health and emergency management departments. She was previously an attorney at Lockridge Grindal Nauen PLLP and a law clerk for the Honorable Natalie Hudson on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Wells’s community involvement includes serving on the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the Minnesota Rules of Civil Procedure, as vice president of the Mississippi Market Co-op board of directors in St. Paul, and as a volunteer for the Reader/Writer Program. She has also volunteered as an attorney for The Advocates for Human Rights and Volunteer Lawyers Network.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6218992024-04-25T01:15:53Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-621357" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-23T14:55:36ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced Minnesota has received $62 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for solar projects that will help families save on energy costs. The Solar for All grant will support a variety of solar programs serving low-income and disadvantaged communities.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced Minnesota has received $62 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for solar projects that will help families save on energy costs. The Solar for All grant will support a variety of solar programs serving low-income and disadvantaged communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We can tackle climate change while saving families money. These grants are a great example of how we can make that happen,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota’s health, wellbeing, and economic future depend on us taking climate seriously. This grant is a major step in the right direction as we continue to create clean energy jobs and move toward 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Solar for All</strong><strong>grant</strong> <strong>will save Minnesotans money, reduce energy costs, and reduce pollution from carbon emissions,”</strong> said Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold. <strong>“</strong><strong>This grant is one of the many ways we are leveraging federal funds to invest in clean energy for healthier, safer homes for families and</strong><strong>communities across Minnesota, especially low-income households and communities</strong><strong>most affected</strong><strong>by our changing climate</strong> <strong>.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s grant is one of 60 announced by the EPA as part of the $7 billion in Solar for All grants across the country. The EPA estimates the solar energy initiatives will save $8 billion in energy costs for an estimated 900,000 households.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With this announcement, the Commerce Department has been awarded over $800 million for clean energy and climate resilience funds since the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act were signed into law in 2021 and 2022.</p>6213572024-04-23T14:57:10Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-621124" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-22T19:12:10ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointments of Theodora Gaïtas and Sarah Hennesy as associate justices on the Minnesota Supreme Court. Gaïtas will be replacing the Honorable Margaret H. Chutich and Hennesy will be replacing the Honorable G. Barry Anderson.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointments of Theodora Gaïtas and Sarah Hennesy as associate justices on the Minnesota Supreme Court. Gaïtas will be replacing the Honorable Margaret H. Chutich and Hennesy will be replacing the Honorable G. Barry Anderson.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Judge Gaïtas to the Minnesota Supreme Court,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She is a remarkable jurist who has served at all levels of our judiciary. Her understanding of the complexities of our judicial system will make her an excellent addition to the Minnesota Supreme Court.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Judge Gaïtas will be an extraordinary justice who will bring a wealth of life and legal experience to our state’s highest court,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“As a longtime appellate public defender, she will never lose sight of the people behind every decision of the justice system.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve the Minnesota Supreme Court, and I thank Governor Walz and his team for their trust in me</strong> ,” said Judge Theodora Gaïtas of the Minnesota Court of Appeals. <strong>“As an associate justice, I will strive to apply the law fairly and justly for all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As Chief Justice, I am pleased to welcome both Chief Judge Sarah Hennesy and Judge Theodora Gaïtas to the Minnesota Supreme Court,”</strong> said Chief Justice Natalie Hudson of the Minnesota Supreme Court. <strong> “Both are experienced, well-respected jurists who bring exceptional intellectual gifts and a deep commitment to serving the people of Minnesota. This is a great day for Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am delighted to learn that Judge Gaïtas has been selected for our Supreme Court,”</strong>  said Cathryn Middlebrook of the Office of the Minnesota Appellate Public Defender. <strong> “I have always been impressed by the complete person that Judge Gaïtas is. Her experience, deep knowledge of the law, and her reasoned and compassionate commitment to justice bring an essential perspective to the court and to the State of Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Judge Gaïtas is an outstanding choice to serve as a member of our Supreme Court,”</strong> said Chief Judge Susan Segal of the Minnesota Court of Appeals. <strong> “She brings a depth of knowledge from her years in practice before joining the bench and her service on both the district court and the Court of Appeals. Judge Gaïtas has been a talented and valued colleague on the Court of Appeals, and I know that she has the wisdom, judgment, and commitment to equal justice and the rule of law that will make her an extraordinary justice.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><em>About Theodora Gaïtas: </em></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Theodora Gaïtas is a judge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. She previously served as a judge in the Fourth Judicial District, where she presided over a felony caseload in the criminal division and as co-chair of the Domestic Violence Steering Committee. Gaïtas is co-chair of the Tribal Court State Court Forum, a committee that promotes collaboration between tribal courts and state courts in Minnesota, and co-chair of the Court of Appeals’ Equal Justice Committee and law clerk recruiting committee. Gaïtas’s community involvement includes presenting at legal education events, serving as a moot court judge, and volunteering with Meals on Wheels. She earned her B.A. from the University of Minnesota and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my privilege to appoint Chief Judge Sarah Hennesy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Not only is she a brilliant legal mind with extensive judicial experience, but she is a leader who knows how to move the needle towards justice.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am thrilled with Chief Judge Hennesy’s appointment,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Her greater Minnesota perspective, combined with her passion for service and a deep connection to the people she serves, will make her an exceptional justice on the Supreme Court. I look forward to seeing her thrive in her new role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am profoundly honored to be selected to serve as an associate justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court,”</strong> said Chief Judge Sarah Hennesy of the Seventh Judicial District.  <strong>“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the Governor and his team for entrusting me with this immense responsibility. As a justice of this Court, I will work collaboratively with my colleagues to interpret the law faithfully, uphold the Constitution, and ensure that justice is accessible to all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m elated that Chief Judge Sarah Hennesy will be joining the Supreme Court,”</strong> said Justice Margaret Chutich of the Minnesota Supreme Court <strong>. “She is fair, experienced, compassionate, and respectful of every person who appears before her. It’s a great day for the court and for Minnesota!”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Humble, wise, kind, and talented is how I would describe Sarah,”</strong> said Justice Anne McKeig of the Minnesota Supreme Court. <strong>“Her leadership experience, along with her district court street smarts, will serve the court well. I am excited to have her join the court.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><em>About</em></strong> <strong><em>Sarah Hennesy:</em></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sarah Hennesy is the chief judge of the Seventh Judicial District and is chambered in St. Cloud. She previously practiced law in both appellate and trial courts as an appellate public defender in Iowa, as a criminal defense attorney in Washington, D.C. and Virginia, and as a staff attorney at Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid in St. Cloud. Hennesy also serves as chair of the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the General Rules of Practice. Her community involvement includes speaking at Minnesota Women Lawyers Association and other legal organization events, volunteering as a judge and coach for mock trial teams and working with local schools to help students learn about the judiciary. She earned her B.A. from Central College and her J.D. from Drake Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6211242024-04-22T12:16:33Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-621110" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-19T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Clean Water Council, Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission, Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Committee, Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, Rural Health Advisory Committee, State Rehabilitation Council, and the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Clean Water Council, Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission, Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Committee, Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, Rural Health Advisory Committee, State Rehabilitation Council, and the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Trista Martinson – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">County Government Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Victoria Reinhardt</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Clean Water Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Clean Water Council advises on the administration and implementation of the Clean Water Legacy Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Clean Water Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Timothy Engrav – Britt, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 1 Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Foley – Saint Cloud, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At-large Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Peg Furshong – Sacred Heart, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 3 Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Reid Huttunen – East Grand Forks, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 2 Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tom Schmitz – New Ulm, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 5 Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jonathan Wolf – Saint Cloud, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 4 Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission conducts system planning and designates regionally significant parks and trails in Greater Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/203" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Andrews – Brainerd, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Rodney Hanson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mira Berndt – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Youth Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kevin Nguyen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaliyah Lussier – Red Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Youth Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Chyenne Boyce</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Mayer – Eagan, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jerald Moore – Eagan, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Sarah Davis</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee oversees Minnesota’s compliance with the federal Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee can be found on the  <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/74" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Shaw – Apple Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Center for Independent Living Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Chanell Calhoun</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council provides consumer-responsive, consumer-driven advice to the state for the planning, implementation, and evaluation of activities carried out under the federal Assistive Technology Act grant.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/85" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a>.</u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katie McDermott – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities works to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports and services to achieve increased independence, productivity, self-determination, integration, and inclusion.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/109" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Quennel Cooper – Eden Prairie, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Principal</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jessica Cook</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rochelle Dyer – Saint Cloud, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Teacher</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Lucy Payne</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board licenses teachers, establishes and maintains teacher licensure standards and requirements, establishes and enforces the Teacher Code of Ethics, approves and oversees teacher preparation providers and programs, and administers grants.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board can be found on the <u><a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/234" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a></u>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ashley Berg – Ogilvie, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Representative of a Local Public Health Agency or Community Health Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tashina Branchaud – Red Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member of a Tribal Nation</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Coleman – Saint James, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Advanced Practice Professional</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Andrew Johnson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Crowley – Kellogg, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hospital Representative Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sagar Dugani – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Trevor Coons</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scharazard Gray – International Falls, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Health Professional or Advocate with Experience Working with People with Mental Illness</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brenda Mehr – Aitkin, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Allied Dental Personnel</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Navarro – Faribault, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Ann Bussey</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Holly Rien – Paynesville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">An Individual with Experience in Economic Development, or an Employer Working Outside the Seven-County Metropolitan Area</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amanda Schermerhorn – Detroit Lakes, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer who is an Advocate for Persons who are Developmentally Disabled</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jessica Cook</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Penny Solberg – Spring Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Long-term Health Care Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kyle Hedlund</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Keith Stelter – Saint Peter, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Physician Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Stroschein – Frazee, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Representative of a Community Organization that Works with Individuals Experiencing Health Disparities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 3, 2028</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Rural Health Advisory Committee:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Rural Health Advisory Committee advises the Commissioner of Health and other state agencies on rural health issues.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Rural Health Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/138">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nick Holzthum – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Rehabilitation Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Current or Former Recipient of VR Services</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Delawoe Bahtuoh</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Rehabilitation Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Rehabilitation Council is responsible for advising state government on the performance of Minnesota's Vocational Rehabilitation programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/150">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Corbbmacc O'Connor – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Industry Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 24, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind advises the commissioner of Employment and Economic Development about programs for the blind and performs other functions as provided by law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/151">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website</a>.</p>6211102024-04-19T22:49:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-620868" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-17T20:18:06ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced nearly $20 million in grants to build the state’s special education workforce. The Minnesota Department of Education has awarded 25 Minnesota school districts, charter schools, and cooperatives with Special Education Pipeline grants to increase the number of special education teachers across the state.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced nearly $20 million in grants to build the state’s special education workforce. The Minnesota Department of Education has awarded 25 Minnesota school districts, charter schools, and cooperatives with Special Education Pipeline grants to increase the number of special education teachers across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>With this funding, educators and schools will be able to help more students get the resources they need to succeed,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“This is a big step on our path to building our education workforce and making Minnesota the best state for kids.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m proud of the work Minnesota is doing to make sure every student and educator has the resources they need,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Special education teachers play a critical role in our schools. With these grants, we can ensure that special education professionals and students can thrive in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The grants will increase the number of special education teachers licensed at the Tier 3 or Tier 4 levels. Fifteen of the grants, totaling about $13 million were awarded in Greater Minnesota, with 10 grants totaling about $7 million awarded in the Twin Cities Metro Area. The funds will be used to benefit 150 districts, charter schools, and cooperatives that are working with the awardees as joint grant recipients.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With a teacher shortage especially in special education, our schools and districts need support to ensure we are providing a high-quality education to all students,”</strong> said Commissioner Willie Jett. <strong>“We are working to create the best education workforce in the nation, and this program will help our schools and districts to prepare and recruit special education teachers and address the shortages now being experienced by districts and schools.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The funding will be used by districts, charter schools, and cooperatives to support employees who are Tier 1 or Tier 2 licensed teachers and paraprofessionals or other unlicensed staff who have demonstrated a willingness to be a special education teacher after completing the program. The districts, charter schools, and cooperatives will use the funding to provide tuition assistance or stipends, for participant recruitment, and for supports for participants including mentoring, licensure test preparation, and technology support.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz signed these grants into law last spring as part of the Education Bill. Another $10 million in these grants will be awarded this summer.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Education established the Educator Workforce and Development Center to create more programs to support districts, schools, communities, and Tribal Nations in their work to recruit, diversify, develop, and retain educators in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional grants supporting the teaching workforce are focused on:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Expanding teacher mentorship programs</li> <li>Supporting principal leadership</li> <li>Encouraging teachers of color and American Indian teachers from out of state to take teaching positions in Minnesota</li> <li>Preparing American Indian people to become teachers and providing additional education for American Indian teachers</li> <li>Supporting teacher residency and apprenticeship programs</li> </ul>6208682024-04-17T20:19:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-620862" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-17T19:53:54ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law clarifying jurisdictions allowed in trust-related cases.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law clarifying jurisdictions allowed in trust-related cases.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3589&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 87, House File 3589</a> addresses the different jurisdictions that courts have in trust-related cases. The bill clarifies that <em>in rem</em> jurisdiction is still allowed in trust-related cases.</p>6208622024-04-17T19:55:16Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-620783" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-17T15:56:30ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Como Park Pavilion in Saint Paul to highlight the need for legislation to curb copper wire theft. Governor Walz and Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter surveyed streetlights damaged by copper wire theft. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Como Park Pavilion in Saint Paul to highlight the need for legislation to curb copper wire theft. Governor Walz and Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter surveyed streetlights damaged by copper wire theft. Photos from the event are linked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720316286428%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Ccc265d277e0d4806c37b08dc5ef5ad58%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638489657251215492%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=udroxIQ9M96RDl2bP9iGlhO%2FbfGLdZt8L0wQsxXzhW0%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Copper wire theft is damaging to our safety, our infrastructure, and</strong> <strong>local government budgets,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“</strong><strong>I’m grateful for the partnership with St. Paul to come up with a plan to address the crime head-on. We know that targeting illegal sales is an approach that works – since passing legislation aimed at catalytic converter theft, we’ve seen theft of vehicle parts decline by 80 percent.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz supports legislation that will help end copper wire theft and shut illegal sellers out of the market.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last year, Governor Walz signed a bill to crack down on <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/569987">catalytic converter theft</a>. Since the law took effect in August, Minnesota has seen a sharp decrease in those crimes.</p>6207832024-04-17T15:59:44Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-620515" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-15T20:33:08ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF3377&amp;b=house&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 83, House File 3377</a> appropriates $79 million from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) for conservation and natural resource projects across Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/text.php?number=HF3437&amp;type=bill&amp;version=1&amp;session=ls93&amp;session_year=2024&amp;session_number=0">Chapter 84, House File 3437</a> designates the bridge over U.S. Highway 169 in Plymouth as the Michael Gau Memorial Bridge. Gau, a 23-year veteran of the Belle Plaine Fire Department, was working for MnDOT when he was fatally struck at the bridge’s construction site.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF4483&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 85, House File 4483</a> makes technical corrections to laws and statutes to correct redundant, obsolete, erroneous, or conflicting provisions.</p>6205152024-04-15T20:34:22Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-620227" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-12T15:57:39ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota secured $16 million in federal funding to improve safety on Highway 11 near Loman and I-94 between Moorhead and Alexandria. The funding comes from President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota secured $16 million in federal funding to improve safety on Highway 11 near Loman and I-94 between Moorhead and Alexandria. The funding comes from President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This funding will help us address critical repair and maintenance needs on our highways and improve safety for all Minnesotans who rely on them,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Once again, President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is delivering for Minnesotans and improving our infrastructure.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today’s announcement is great news for all Minnesotans. The federal funds will assist us in continuing with our goal of finding innovative ways to improve safety for all Minnesotans,”</strong> <a name="x__heading=h.30j0zll" />said Minnesota Department of Transportation Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. <strong>“Recognizing the impact climate change has on transportation infrastructure is critical to address current and future resiliency needs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MnDOT will receive $2.5 million to address two critical slope failures that threaten to close portions of Highway 11 along the Rainy River, which is a critical regional lifeline. Without this project, MnDOT would have needed to close the road to all vehicles, including emergency services, resulting in a 126-mile detour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MnDOT will also receive $13.7 million to install 24 snow fences along I-94 from Moorhead to Alexandria. This snow fence program is an innovative adaptation to Minnesota’s winter weather, with the snow fences stopping much of the snow from blowing on to the roadway. The project will mitigate the worst snow traps along the I-94 corridor, improving safety, reducing wintertime maintenance needs, and improving reliability of the heavily traveled and economically vital corridor.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The grants come from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-Saving Transportation PROTECT) program, which is part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed by the United States Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2021.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information can be found on the Federal Highway Administration’s <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fhwa.dot.gov%2Fenvironment%2Fprotect%2Fdiscretionary%2Fgrant_recipients%2F%3F_gl%3D1*qezy0h*_ga*MTcwNjM4NjY4Ni4xNzEwODc3Mjc2*_ga_VW1SFWJKBB*MTcxMjg1MDM4OS4xOC4xLjE3MTI4NTAzOTYuMC4wLjA.&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C4af389e7f49f432bc92908dc5b0615f4%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638485328932469563%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=1P1zbEQ%2B45obVB1mPE3z6jnzk0zdKcRr1%2BAHA2uLT5g%3D&amp;reserved=0">website</a> .</p>6202272024-04-12T15:59:25Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-620226" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-11T19:52:36ZGovernor Tim Walz released the following statement today congratulating Interim Col. Christina Bogojevic on her appointment as colonel of the Minnesota State Patrol. Bogojevic has been with the State Patrol for more than 20 years and has served as second in command since December 2022.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz <a name="x__Hlk155796598" id="x__Hlk155796598" />released the following statement today congratulating Interim Col. Christina Bogojevic on her appointment as colonel of the Minnesota State Patrol. Bogojevic has been with the State Patrol for more than 20 years and has served as second in command since December 2022.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I applaud the appointment of Interim Col. Bogojevic as the new colonel of the State Patrol. With over 20 years of experience serving Minnesotans, she brings strong leadership, compassion, and a dedication to law enforcement into this role,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful for her continued service and leadership with the State Patrol and look forward to working together to keep Minnesota’s roads and communities safe.”</strong></p>6202262024-04-12T15:58:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-620069" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-10T19:52:36ZGovernor Tim Walz today urged Minnesotans to file for the Child Tax Credit before Tax Day on Monday, April 15. He was joined by volunteer tax preparers and a mother of four who received the Child Tax Credit this year. Over 360,000 children have already benefitted from the credit, with families receiving an average credit of $2508.Over 360,000 children have already benefited, with families receiving an average credit of $25081055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz <a name="x__Hlk155796598" id="x__Hlk155796598" />today urged Minnesotans to file for the Child Tax Credit before Tax Day on Monday, April 15. He was joined by volunteer tax preparers and a mother of four who received the Child Tax Credit this year. Over 360,000 children have already benefitted from the credit, with families receiving an average credit of $2508.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our nation-leading Child Tax Credit puts thousands of dollars back in the pockets of working families to help put food on the table, pay for child care, and afford unexpected medical bills,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I urge all Minnesotans to file their taxes before April 15, so they can claim the benefits available to them. This is one of the ways we’re taking a weight off families’ shoulders and making it easier for parents to raise happy, healthy kids.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans can claim the Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child by filing a 2023 individual income tax return. Most taxpayers who are eligible to claim the new Child Tax Credit are also eligible for free tax preparation assistance. Learn more about income requirements and qualifications on the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit">Child Tax Credit webpage</a> . </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over 170 sites offering free tax preparation assistance are now open to help those filing income tax and property tax refund returns. Sites are staffed by certified volunteers and offer in-person and virtual options with most open through April 15.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>About free tax preparation sites <br /></strong>Last year, the VITA and AARP TCE programs prepared almost 49,000 federal tax returns, more than 49,000 Minnesota income tax returns, and nearly 38,000 property tax refund returns for Minnesota taxpayers. All those returns provided over $96 million in federal, state income, and property tax refunds.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Free tax preparation criteria <br /></strong>Minnesotans can get help at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site if any of the following apply:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>You are age 60 or older.</li> <li>You are a person with a disability.</li> <li>You speak limited or no English.</li> <li>Your annual income is less than $64,000.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> The AARP Tax-Aide program offers free tax preparation for all Minnesotans, particularly those age 50 or older. Unlike VITA sites, AARP Tax-Aide sites do not have income restrictions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans can <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/free-tax-preparation-sites" target="_blank">search for a site</a> on the department’s website using their search feature and interactive map. Visit the Department of Revenue website for a list of <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/2022-12/what%20to%20bring%20english.pdf" target="_blank">suggested items to bring to a tax preparation site</a> , including a photo ID, W-2 information, banking information for direct deposit, and other applicable items.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Free electronic filing is also available for Minnesotans with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $79,000 or less. To see if you are eligible for free electronic filing, see the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/electronic-filing-software-individuals" target="_blank">Electronic Filing Software for Individuals</a> page on the department’s website.</p>6200692024-04-10T19:54:13Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-619936" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-09T21:16:06ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointments of Matti Adam and Seamus Duffy as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. Adam will be replacing the Honorable Shari R. Schluchter and Duffy will be replacing the Honorable Darlene Rivera Spalla. These seats will be chambered in Bemidji in Beltrami County and Mahnomen in Mahnomen County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointments of Matti Adam and Seamus Duffy as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. Adam will be replacing the Honorable Shari R. Schluchter and Duffy will be replacing the Honorable Darlene Rivera Spalla. These seats will be chambered in Bemidji in Beltrami County and Mahnomen in Mahnomen County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am proud to appoint Matti Adam to the Ninth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her years of service as a public servant and her dedication to the people of northwestern Minnesota will make her an excellent addition to the bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am also honored to appoint Seamus Duffy,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“His diverse experience dealing with criminal, family, and juvenile law, as well as his dedication to public service, makes him well-suited for the Mahnomen County bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District encompasses Aitkin, Beltrami, Cass, Clearwater, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Kittson, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em style=""><strong>About Matti Adam: <br /></strong></em>Matti Adam is the county attorney in the Itasca County Attorney’s Office, where she is the county’s chief prosecutor and legal advisor. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Itasca County Attorney’s Office and a law clerk for the Honorable Fred Karasov and the Honorable Peter Cahill in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Adam’s community involvement includes serving as the co-chair of the Minnesota County Attorney’s Association Indian Law Committee and as a board member of the Grand Rapids Area Library Foundation. She earned her B.A. from Bemidji State University and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em style=""><strong>About Seamus Duffy: <br /></strong></em>Seamus Duffy is the county attorney in the Pennington County Attorney’s Office. He was previously an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District and an attorney at Duffy Law Office. Duffy’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Pennington County DWI Court and a lecturer at Northland Community and Technical College. His community involvement also includes volunteering with the Thief River Falls Amateur Hockey Association and the Thief River Falls Archery Club. He earned his B.S. and J.D. from the University of North Dakota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6199362024-04-09T22:04:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-619794" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-08T21:08:59ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law modifying the effective date of the net operating loss provision that passed in 2023. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law modifying the effective date of the net operating loss provision that passed in 2023.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF3769&amp;b=house&amp;y=2024&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 82, House File 3769</a> adjusts the timeline of the 2023 tax bill provision that reduced the corporate net operating loss deduction limit. This bill will save Minnesota businesses $14.8 million during the current tax year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The fix makes these changes effective in tax year 2024 instead of tax year 2023.</p>6197942024-04-08T21:10:04Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-619787" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-08T20:13:47ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Michael S. Jesse. The seat will be chambered in Foley in Benton County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Michael S. Jesse. The seat will be chambered in Foley in Benton County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Chantry</strong>: Amy Chantry serves as a judicial referee in the Tenth Judicial District, where she presides over housing, harassment, domestic violence, minor criminal, and minor civil matters. She previously served as a legal and policy advisor at the Minnesota Department of Health. Chantry’s community involvement includes volunteering as a high school mock trial judge and for various student activities at the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karl Schmidt</strong>: Karl Schmidt is the county attorney in the Benton County Attorney’s Office. He previously served as a senior assistant county attorney in that office, where he primarily handled felony prosecutions, as well as fugitive and extradition cases. He previously was an assistant public defender in the Seventh Judicial District and a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Bruce W. Christopherson in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. Schmidt’s community involvement includes volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, and he is a member of the Minnesota County Attorneys Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Victoria Willis-Gutnik</strong>: Victoria Willis-Gutnik is an assistant county attorney in the Stearns County Attorney’s Office in the Domestic Violence Unit, where she handles intimate partner violence and human trafficking related crimes. She previously was a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Sarah E. Hennesy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. Willis-Gutnik is a member of the Stearns Benton Bar Association, the Minnesota County Attorneys Association, and the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6197872024-04-08T20:19:05Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-619659" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-05T19:20:29ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed Emergency Executive Order 24-03 to provide regulatory relief for septic system service companies. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed Emergency Executive Order 24-03 to provide regulatory relief for septic system service companies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Order 24-03 exempts septic tank trucks from seasonal load restrictions on Minnesota roads. The lack of snow cover, an influx of owners returning to their seasonal property earlier than normal, and recent freezing conditions have led to an increase in the need for emergency pumping services, especially for the northern half of the state. Septic service companies have been receiving a high volume of calls from homeowners in need of emergency pumping services and lifting these restrictions will allow them to meet the increased demand.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This executive order is effective immediately.</p>6196592024-04-05T19:21:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-616672" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-03T20:01:34ZToday, Governor Tim Walz visited a Minneapolis Veterans Home to highlight his infrastructure plan. This comes after he visited a State Patrol office on Monday to discuss the need for a new State Patrol headquarters. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz visited a Minneapolis Veterans Home to highlight his infrastructure plan. This comes after he visited a State Patrol office on Monday to discuss the need for a new State Patrol headquarters.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minneapolis Veterans Home is one of 12 homes comprised of over six dozen buildings, many of which require upgrades. The Governor’s bonding proposal calls for $12.8 million in general asset preservation and $16 million for remodeling.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The men and women who serve our country deserve the best care our state can provide,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This project is an important part of our ambitious effort to invest in infrastructure across our state – from clean water, to safe streets, to the facilities that serve our veterans and State Patrol.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to the Minneapolis Veterans Homes, The Governor’s bonding recommendations includes $22.5 million to update Minnesota’s State Patrol Headquarters. The State Patrol is currently spread across six locations in multiple counties, and facilities lack adequate evidence storage, secure areas, and basic space and equipment.</p>6166722024-04-03T20:08:24Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-616668" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-03T19:58:14ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Laura Wade as the Executive Director of the Gambling Control Board, effective Monday, April 15, 2024. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Laura Wade as the Executive Director of the Gambling Control Board, effective Monday, April 15, 2024.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Laura Wade as Executive Director of the Gambling Control Board,”</strong> said Governor Walz. “ <strong>Laura brings extensive experience in the charitable gambling industry. Under her leadership, I am confident that Minnesota’s lawful gambling industry will continue to operate with the highest level of integrity while addressing charitable and community needs across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Throughout her career, Laura Wade has gained extensive experience with the Gambling Control Board and has contributed greatly to ensuring the integrity of lawful charitable gambling in Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“We are excited to appoint Laura as Executive Director of the Gambling Control Board and look forward to working with her to ensure charitable gambling remains successful and helps bridge gaps to meet community needs across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to be appointed as the Executive Director of the Minnesota Gambling Control Board,</strong> <strong>”</strong>said Wade. <strong>“I look forward to working with the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, agency staff, stakeholders, and our legislative partners to support nonprofits’ fundraising efforts and to ensure the integrity of charitable gambling through effective regulation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Laura Wade <br /></em>Laura is an Executive Budget Officer for Economic Development with Minnesota Management and Budget, a role she has been in since March 2023. Prior to joining MMB, Laura was with the Gambling Control Board for 11 years, holding various roles including Lawful Gambling Regulator, Executive Assistant, and Business Manager. From September 2021 to August 2022, Laura served as Interim Executive Director of the Gambling Control Board. Before joining the Gambling Control Board, Laura worked as a Surveillance Specialist with Mystic Lake Casino. She holds a M.P.A. from Hamline University and a B.A. from Augsburg University.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the</em> <em>Gambling Control Board <br /></em>The Gambling Control Board regulates the lawful gambling industry to ensure the integrity of operations and provide for the lawful use of net profits. The board licenses organizations, distributors, and manufacturers of gambling equipment; registers gambling equipment; collects license fees and inspects records; and conducts hearings.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information about Gambling Control Board can be found at <a href="https://mn.gov/gcb/" target="_blank">https://mn.gov/gcb/</a>.</p>6166682024-04-03T20:03:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-616612" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-03T17:21:54ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the State of Minnesota has submitted three proposals for funding through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program. The program, created through the Inflation Reduction Act, will distribute $4.6 billion in competitive grants for states, local governments, and Tribes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful air pollution. EPA investments would reduce pollution in transportation, housing, and food sectors1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the State of Minnesota has submitted three proposals for funding through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.epa.gov%2Finflation-reduction-act%2Fclimate-pollution-reduction-grants&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cf8c5215f3bc3430a548508dc540195a1%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638477613001524620%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=iGiE3U2A65Vkdfa1JdC1msxCO31FBdMyH6HIyhjnYcM%3D&amp;reserved=0">Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program.</a> The program, created through the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fcleanenergy%2Finflation-reduction-act-guidebook%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cf8c5215f3bc3430a548508dc540195a1%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638477613001534525%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=osLInxxqc0%2BbmkXTdpkDiFPnrViLJWLmEgwZBcuyVng%3D&amp;reserved=0">Inflation Reduction Act</a> , will distribute $4.6 billion in competitive grants for states, local governments, and Tribes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful air pollution.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Acting on climate change is critical not only to protect our lakes, rivers, and great outdoors, but also for Minnesotans’ health and economic future,” </strong> said Governor Walz.  <strong>“This funding will reduce climate pollution, lower energy bills, create jobs, improve our health and air quality, reduce hunger, and ultimately ensure Minnesota remains a great place to raise a family for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s applications for this federal grant funding were developed with extensive engagement among state agencies, cities, counties, Tribes, businesses, residents, and nonprofit organizations. Minnesotans contributed over 350 project ideas that provided the foundation for the initiatives included in these plans. <br /> <br /> The result is three ambitious proposals, each laying the groundwork for necessary, transformative change in Minnesota’s transportation, housing, and food sectors to reduce climate pollution while empowering communities across our state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <strong>REACH Homes Minnesota</strong> proposal, submitted by a coalition of Tribes, local governments, and the state, will center the values of <strong>resilience, equity, affordability, carbon-Free, and health</strong> as we connect Minnesotans with climate-friendly housing. The project seeks <strong>$385 million</strong> to slash climate pollution from Minnesota’s residential buildings, one of two sectors where greenhouse gases are rising in the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <strong>Minnesota Climate-Smart Food Systems</strong>proposal will empower growers, processors, partners, and local communities to build a food system that reduces waste and climate pollution while nourishing Minnesotans statewide. The project seeks <strong>$200 million</strong> to implement a wide range of improvements to Minnesota’s food system including climate-smart farming practices, electrifying vehicles that transport food, and scaling up food waste prevention programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <strong>Developing Regional Infrastructure for Vehicle Electrification (DRIVE) Midwest</strong> proposal is seeking <strong>$39 million</strong> to connect Midwestern states through an electric truck charging network for the heavy-duty vehicles we use to transport goods across state lines. The Minnesota Department of Transportation submitted this application in collaboration with peer agencies in Wisconsin and Michigan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://climate.state.mn.us/minnesota-applies-federal-funding-take-transformative-climate-action">Learn more about Minnesota’s CPRG proposals.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Transportation remains Minnesota’s <a href="https://www.pca.state.mn.us/air-water-land-climate/climate-change-trends-and-data">largest source of climate pollution</a> , accounting for approximately 25% of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions. The agriculture, forestry, and land use sector is Minnesota’s second-largest source of greenhouse gases, with emission rates remaining stagnant in recent years. Climate pollution from Minnesota’s homes and apartment buildings has increased 14% over the past 15 years, one of two sectors where emissions are rising in the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2022 Minnesota launched <a href="https://climate.state.mn.us/minnesotas-climate-action-framework">the Climate Action Framework</a> , which sets new goals to reduce climate pollution 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across the state by 2050. In 2023, the Walz-Flanagan administration <a href="https://mn.gov/commerce/news/?id=17-580359">passed the most ambitious climate agenda in the country,</a> including a policy to power the state with carbon-free electricity by 2040 and close to $1 billion worth of investments in climate-related programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The EPA will review applications over the coming months. Awardees are expected to be announced by July 2024.</p>6166122024-04-03T20:08:31Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-616497" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-02T19:27:33ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Jane Maschka as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Maschka will be replacing the Honorable James A. Moore and will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Jane Maschka as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Maschka will be replacing the Honorable James A. Moore and will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Jane Maschka to the Fourth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her extensive background handling complex civil litigation matters, combined with her dedication to serving her community, will make her a great addition to the bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jane Maschka is a proven leader who has excelled at every level of the legal profession,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“She is a brilliant lawyer whose unique skill set will allow her to hit the ground running and tackle the variety of cases and challenges faced by our judiciary.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District encompasses Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><em>About Jane Maschka:</em></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jane Maschka is a partner at Faegre Drinker Biddle &amp; Reath LLP, where she leads the firm’s financial litigation team and represents clients in complex matters involving fraud and insolvency. She was previously a law clerk for the Honorable R. Lanier Anderson III on the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals and an associate attorney at WilmerHale in Washington, D.C. Maschka’s community involvement includes serving on the board of Youthlink, volunteering as a graduation coach for AchieveMSP, and serving as a mock trial judge. Her community involvement has also included providing pro bono representation for the Tubman Safety Project and volunteering with Hennepin County’s Legal Access Point Clinic. She earned her B.A. from the University of Virginia and her J.D. from Harvard Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6164972024-04-02T19:29:01Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-616403" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-04-01T19:44:56ZEarlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Minnesota Supreme Court. The merit selection panel includes leadership in his administration, the chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection, and the at-large members of the commission. The panel announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill the upcoming vacancies on the Minnesota Supreme Court.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Earlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Minnesota Supreme Court. The merit selection panel includes leadership in his administration, the chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection, and the at-large members of the commission.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The panel announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill the upcoming vacancies on the Minnesota Supreme Court. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable G. Barry Anderson and the Honorable Margaret H. Chutich, who serve as associate justices on the Minnesota Supreme Court.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Beane:</strong> Lisa Beane is a senior associate general counsel in the University of Minnesota's Office of the General Counsel. She previously was an associate in the Minneapolis office of Jones Day and at Robins Kaplan LLP. Beane also previously served as a law clerk to the Honorable Wilhelmina M. Wright on the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota and Minnesota Supreme Court. Her community involvement includes serving on the boards of the Minnesota Lavender Bar Association and the Minnesota Women Lawyers Foundation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Bentley: </strong>Elizabeth Bentley is the founder and director of the Civil Rights Appellate Clinic and a visiting assistant professor of law at the University of Minnesota Law School. She was previously special counsel to Senator Amy Klobuchar during the confirmation of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson and an attorney in the appellate practice group at Jones Day. Bentley also served as a law clerk to the Honorable Sonia Sotomayor on the U.S. Supreme Court, the Honorable Robert A. Katzmann on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, and the Honorable Jed S. Rakoff on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Her community involvement includes serving on the diversity, equity, and inclusion committee of the Appellate Practice Section Council of the Minnesota State Bar Association and as co-chair of the Justice and Democracy Center Committee, which is a civic education initiative of the Minnesota Federal Bar Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Keala Ede:</strong> Keala Ede is a judge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. He previously served as a judge in the Fourth Judicial District, an assistant federal defender in the Office of the Federal Defender in Minneapolis, an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General's Office, and a law clerk to the Honorable Steven H. Levinson on the Hawai'i Supreme Court. Ede’s community involvement includes providing meal delivery for the Wilder Foundation's Meals on Wheels and volunteering as a youth sports official. He also serves on the Minnesota American Indian Bar Association's Scholarship Committee, the Minnesota Court of Appeals Equal Justice Committee, and the board of directors for the Division of Indian Work.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Theodora Gaïtas:</strong> Theodora Gaïtas is a judge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. She previously served as a judge in the Fourth Judicial District, where she presided over a felony caseload in the criminal division and as co-chair of the Domestic Violence Steering Committee. Gaïtas is co-chair of the Tribal Court State Court Forum, a committee that promotes collaboration between tribal courts and state courts in Minnesota, and co-chair of the Court of Appeals’ Equal Justice Committee and law clerk recruiting committee. Gaïtas’s community involvement includes presenting at legal education events, serving as a moot court judge, and volunteering with Meals on Wheels.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Hennesy:</strong> Sarah Hennesy is the chief judge of the Seventh Judicial District and is chambered in St. Cloud. She previously practiced law in both appellate and trial courts as an appellate public defender in Iowa, as a criminal defense attorney in Washington, D.C. and Virginia, and as a staff attorney at Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid in St. Cloud. Hennesy also serves as chair of the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the General Rules of Practice. Her community involvement includes speaking at Minnesota Women Lawyers Association and other legal organization events, volunteering as a judge and coach for mock trial teams, and working with local schools to help students learn about the judiciary.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Liz Kramer:</strong> Liz Kramer is the solicitor general for the State of Minnesota, where she defends the constitutionality of state laws and represents Minnesota in state and federal appellate courts. She was previously a partner at Stinson LLP, where she practiced complex commercial litigation, and a law clerk to the Honorable Helen M. Meyer on the Minnesota Supreme Court. Kramer’s community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee for the Rules on Civil Appellate Procedure and the boards of the Minnesota State Fair Foundation and Minnesota Supreme Court Historical Society. Kramer’s community involvement has also included serving on the Appellate Practice Section Council of the Minnesota State Bar Association and helping found the Appeals Self-Help Clinic for self-represented parties in appeals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6164032024-04-01T20:02:48Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-616197" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-29T20:00:31Z Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports, Board of Occupational Therapy Practice, Board of School Administrators, Clean Water Council, Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council, Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, Minnesota State Arts Board, Public Employee’s Retirement Association, State Rehabilitation Council, and State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports, Board of Occupational Therapy Practice, Board of School Administrators, Clean Water Council, Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council, Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, Minnesota State Arts Board, Public Employee’s Retirement Association, State Rehabilitation Council, and State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Steven Chies – Coon Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports <br /> Manager or Owner of a Proprietary Nursing Home or Assisted Living Facility <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deb Stock – Maple Grove, MN <br /></strong>Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports: <br /></em>The Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports licenses administrators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, conducts studies of nursing home and assisted living administration, approves continuing education programs for administrators, and investigates complaints and allegations of rule violations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Executives for Long-Term Services and Supports can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/23" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Donna Coughlin – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Board of Occupational Therapy Practice <br /> Occupational Therapy Assistant <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chad Kinart – Maple Grove, MN <br /></strong>Board of Occupational Therapy Practice <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Gregg Schaeppi</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Smith – Ham Lake, MN <br /></strong>Board of Occupational Therapy Practice <br /> Occupational Therapist <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice: <br /></em>The Board of Occupational Therapy Practice protects the public through effective licensure and enforcement of the statutes and rules governing the practice of occupational therapy to ensure a reasonable standard of competent and ethical practice.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/235" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Le – Robbinsdale, MN <br /></strong>Board of School Administrators <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Louise Sundin</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Melissa Schaller – White Bear Lake, MN <br /></strong>Board of School Administrators <br /> Special Education Director Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of School Administrators: <br /></em>The Board of School Administrators licenses school administrators across the state of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of School Administrators can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/34" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Steven Besser – Litchfield, MN <br /></strong>Clean Water Council <br /> Statewide Fishing Organization Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Biske – Lino Lakes, MN <br /></strong>Clean Water Council <br /> Environmental Organization Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Brainerd – Mahtomedi, MN <br /></strong>Clean Water Council <br /> City Government Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelly Gribauval-Hite – Pine City, MN <br /></strong>Clean Water Council <br /> Business Organization Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Peter Schwagerl – Browns Valley, MN <br /></strong>Clean Water Council <br /> Farm Organization Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marcie Weinandt – Mounds View, MN <br /></strong>Clean Water Council <br /> Watershed District Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Clean Water Council: <br /></em>The Clean Water Council advises on the administration and implementation of the Clean Water Legacy Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Clean Water Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Suzanne Baird – Prior Lake, MN <br /></strong>Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Ashley Peters</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council: <br /></em>The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council makes recommendations to the legislature on appropriations of money from the outdoor heritage fund that directly relate to the restoration, protection, and enhancement of wetlands, prairies, forests, and habitats for fish, game, and wildlife.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/145" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jenny Arndt – Waseca, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities <br /> Parent Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christine McVey – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities <br /> State Agency Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Santema – Milaca, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities <br /> Parent Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities: <br /></em>The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities works to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports and services to achieve increased independence, productivity, self-determination, integration, and inclusion.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/109" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carol Bruess – Saint Joseph, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota State Arts Board <br /> Congressional District 6 Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Anthony Gardner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Charron – Winona, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota State Arts Board <br /> Congressional District 1 Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anthony Gardner – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota State Arts Board <br /> Congressional District 3 Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Nichole Mitchell</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Philip McKenzie – Thief River Falls, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota State Arts Board <br /> Congressional District 7 Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jose Michel – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota State Arts Board <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota State Arts Board: <br /></em>The Minnesota State Arts Board encourages the creation, performance, and appreciation of the arts in the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota State Arts Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/117" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Thornberg – East Bethel, MN <br /></strong>Public Employees Retirement Association <br /> Retired Annuitant <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 31, 2028 <br /> Reappointment <br /> <em><br /></em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Public Employees Retirement Association: <br /></em>The Public Employees Retirement Association provides retirement, survivor, and disability benefits for public employees of county and local government.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Public Employees Retirement Association can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/117" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Connie Berg – Red Lake, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council <br /> American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Project Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anne Robertson – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Client Assistance Project Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>James Ross – Red Wing, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Business, Industry, and Labor Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Tyler Sadek</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Rehabilitation Council: <br /></em>The State Rehabilitation Council is responsible for advising state government on the performance of Minnesota's Vocational Rehabilitation programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/150" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Connie Berg – Red Lake, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind <br /> American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Project Representative <br /> Effective: April 3, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Gloria Lafriniere</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind: <br /></em>The State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind advises the commissioner of Employment and Economic Development about programs of State Services for the blind and performs other functions as provided in State and Federal statute.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/151" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6161972024-03-29T20:06:05Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-615926" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-28T19:14:09ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Elena L. Ostby. This seat will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Elena L. Ostby. This seat will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on April 4 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . <strong>The commission is currently reviewing applications for another vacancy in the Second Judicial District related to the elevation of the Honorable JaPaul J. Harris to the Court of Appeals. Applicants who applied for that vacancy will be considered for this opening and do not need to submit a new application.</strong> The commission expects to hold interviews for both vacancies in mid-April.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Second Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at  <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> <u>.</u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6159262024-03-28T19:16:06Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-615726" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-27T19:53:26ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Shawn M. Moynihan. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Shawn M. Moynihan. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on April 17 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter. The commission expects to hold interviews in early May.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the First Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at  <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6157262024-03-27T19:55:05Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-615613" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-27T01:14:45ZGovernor Tim Walz’s State of the State Address as prepared. Language is subject to change.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thank you and good evening – let’s hear it again for the Owatonna High School choir!</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Madam Speaker and Members of the Minnesota House of Representatives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Madam Majority Leader and Members of the Minnesota Senate.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Madam Chief Justice, Distinguished Members of the Minnesota Supreme Court, and Chief Judge Segal.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">My fellow Constitutional Officers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Members of my Staff, Cabinet, and Administration.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Dayton, and Mrs. Ana Dayton.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Distinguished Tribal Leaders.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Members of the Minnesota National Guard.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chaplain Mark Patrick.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Superintendent Elstad, Principal Kath, the staff and faculty at Owatonna High School, and especially the students.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and Minnesota’s Second Gentleman, Tom Weber.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s First Lady, Gwen Walz.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Honored Guests, and my fellow Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Maybe it’s the smell of a freshly-sharpened pencil.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Maybe it’s the sight of the desks lined up perfectly in rows.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Maybe it’s the sound of nervous, youthful chatter filling the hallways.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But whatever it is, if you’re a teacher, nothing – <em>nothing</em> – beats the first day of school.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Take it from me and Gwen. For many years of our lives, we celebrated New Year’s Day not in January, but in the early fall, when the doors opened and the kids came back from summer break. The first day of school is all about hope, and opportunity, and <em>possibility</em>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That’s never been more true than it was here in Owatonna last fall, when the doors opened on this beautiful new building – a 317,000-square foot, state-of-the-art symbol of this community’s commitment to its children.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">When you walk through the doors for the first time as a student, the whole world opens up for you. The classrooms here are gorgeous, full of natural light and modern technology. And as you explore, you’ll find not just wood, metal, and engine shops, but next-generation hydroponics equipment, a nursing lab, a full commercial kitchen, and so much more.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This building is a factory, and what it manufactures are <em>futures</em>. You see, the curb appeal is undeniable. But this building wasn’t designed with the <em>first</em> day of school in mind, but rather the <em>last</em> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">When students walk out of here for the last time as graduating seniors, they’ll each have a ticket in their pocket – a ticket to a good-paying career they can feel excited about pursuing. They’ll go on to become construction managers and firefighters, farmers, welders, and cardiac surgeons. And not only will they have the <em>foundation</em> to pursue any life they can dream of, many will have advanced <em>credentials</em> to give them a leg up on the journey.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Think about how many young people will walk out those doors each spring, full of passion and purpose, ready to make a contribution to this community and to the world, ready to work and build and grow, ready to make the state of our state even stronger than it is today.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I came to Owatonna tonight to celebrate this magnificent school and discuss the work we’re doing to improve the lives of children across Minnesota. But I also want people to remember just how many things had to go right for this vision to become reality.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Everybody in town knows the backstory: The old high school, while beautiful, was a hundred years old, and people in the community had been talking about replacing it for decades. But it wasn’t until a few years ago that leaders in the public and private sectors came together and decided it was time to stop talking and start building.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Federated Insurance – a cornerstone of Owatonna since the early 20 ^th century – pledged a major investment, not just for the good of their community, but for the good of their future workforce. Other companies joined in, offering not just money but equipment and expertise.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owatonna voters overwhelmingly approved a bonding referendum. And, finally, this community was ready to take the plunge and actually get some shovels in the ground.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That small window of opportunity – that brief moment when the stars aligned – produced a community institution that will stand for decades and serve thousands and thousands of kids.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">You know, most of the time, politics is incremental, frustrating, sometimes gridlocked altogether.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But every once in a while, you get an opportunity to make a whole lot of progress in a short amount of time. It happened here in Owatonna in 2019. And, after half a century of waiting and working, it happened in Saint Paul in 2023.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I couldn’t be more proud of the work we’ve done in our window of opportunity to improve education inside the walls of this school, and in every school across the state:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve given our children a brighter future by making the largest investment in public education in our state’s history.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve increased teacher pay and doubled down on our efforts to recruit teachers from more diverse backgrounds.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve expanded access to mental health resources, social workers, nurses, and chemical dependency counselors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve invested in making sure every student can read at their grade level.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve expanded special education and career and technical education – as part of our commitment to making sure every Minnesota student receives a world-class education, regardless of where they live or where they go to school.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’re working to make Minnesota the best state in the country for a kid to grow up. And our work extends far past the classroom.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve expanded access to pre-k and affordable child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve made a billion-dollar investment in affordable housing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve established free public college tuition for low-income families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve made it easier to balance career and family by making paid family and medical leave the law of the land.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve made Minnesota a more welcoming place for all by outlawing conversion therapy for LGBTQ youth and putting in place new protections for trans Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve invested hundreds of millions to bring competitive, high-paying jobs to Minnesota and expand our economy with an eye towards the green energy jobs of the future.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve expanded the right to organize – because Minnesota will <em>always</em> be a labor state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve lived up to our responsibility to our elders by cutting taxes for seniors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve invested $300 million in public safety aid for communities across the state to fight crime and improve emergency services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve struck a blow against climate change by putting Minnesota on a pathway to 100 percent clean energy by the year 2040.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve expanded voting rights and made it easier for people to vote. Thanks to the leadership of Secretary Simon.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve announced plans to stop medical debt from ruining people’s credit – and cut the interest rate on that debt to zero. Thanks to the leadership of Attorney General Ellison.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And we’ve put food on the table for struggling families by passing a new child tax credit that is estimated to cut child poverty in Minnesota by a third.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Speaking of putting food on the table, we’re already seeing real results from our groundbreaking commitment to providing free school breakfast and lunch for every child in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The data shows that 30 percent more kids are eating breakfast, and 11 percent more eating lunch, than before – illustrating the scope of the problem we’re working to solve. All those kids were going without before, and now they can focus on their studies with full stomachs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And yet, for some reason, some politicians, especially from other states, roll their eyes when we talk about the importance of feeding and educating our children. They say it’s not the role of government to make sure kids can eat and learn. Instead, they’re spending their time and energy and political capital picking fights with beer companies and librarians.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Look, speaking on behalf of Minnesota to the leaders of other states, we’re happy to take your jobs, and your private-sector investment dollars, and your brilliant young people. But we’re not going to take your radical ideas.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That’s especially true when it comes to interfering with people’s families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A bunch of judges down in Alabama recently ruled that a frozen embryo holds the same legal status as a human being. And, as a direct result, fertility clinics across the state closed their doors, leaving women and men who are desperate to start or grow their families with nowhere to turn.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Let me say something personal here: Even if you’ve never gone through the hell of infertility, someone you know has. When Gwen and I were having trouble getting pregnant, the anxiety and frustration blotted out the sun. All we wanted was something that seemed to come so easy for others: the chance to bring new life into the world. What those judges did was a direct attack on my family. My children. Gwen and I will not forget it. We will not forgive it. And neither will thousands of other moms and dads across this state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">When <em>Roe v. Wade</em> was overturned in 2022, the door was wide open for this kind of attack on families. Now the attack is here. And it’s up to us to stop it.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That’s why, here in Minnesota, we took action after <em>Roe v. Wade</em> fell, writing protections for reproductive freedom into our state laws, and making sure that people – not politicians – can make their own reproductive choices. And that includes IVF.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">So let me make this clear: As long as I’m Governor, IVF will continue to offer a lifeline of hope for Minnesota families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Meanwhile, we’re going to keep building.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Building families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Building communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Building more roads and bridges, more career pathways, and more schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Building more opportunities for our kids, and their kids, and for generations to come.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Part of that work includes following up on the good work this legislature has already done. Things like building a new state agency focused on children, youth, and families and implementing programs like paid leave or legalized adult-use cannabis require an enormous amount of work. And I want to take a moment tonight to thank all the state employees who are working around the clock to serve Minnesotans and make this Legislature’s vision a reality.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And part of the work includes building a foundation for more success. Just recently, we reached agreement on our next set of budget targets – and I want to thank our legislative leaders for their cooperation and dedication as we worked together on that.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Meanwhile, earlier this winter, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan and I announced a major new infrastructure plan – an ambitious effort to invest in the things that make our communities strong: clean water and safe streets and affordable housing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Our plan invests in making sure every community has safe streets. Violent crime declined in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and across the state last year. Still, we take public safety seriously, and we’re putting real funding behind that commitment, including expanding capacity for the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and planning for a new Minnesota State Patrol headquarters.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Our plan also invests in making sure every Minnesotan has a safe and affordable place to call home. We’re backing the development of multifamily housing so that seniors, families, and anyone facing homelessness can find a place to be. And we want to update the Minneapolis Veterans Home to better serve those who have served us.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Our plan invests in making sure every family has clean water to drink. We want to invest in grants and low-interest loans to replace lead pipes and remove so-called “forever chemicals” from our drinking water.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And we want to invest in making sure every building owned by Minnesota taxpayers is in good repair. Buildings like the ones at Minnesota State and the U are in desperate need of renovation, and our infrastructure plan has funding to make it happen – and it will happen with <em>union</em> labor.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">These initiatives will make an enormous difference in the real lives of real people across our state. There’s no reason we can’t get them done this session. And there’s no reason both parties can’t be <em>part</em> of getting it done this session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I know we won’t agree on everything. But safe streets? Clean water? Affordable housing? Surely we can agree on <em>that</em>. So join me – and not just at the ribbon-cutting, but in the work to get it done.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">There’s one more thing I want to talk about.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I walked around the halls of this school before I got up here in the auditorium to talk to you tonight. And I tried to put myself in the shoes of the kids who walk these halls every day.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I want those kids to feel hopeful.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I want those kids to feel inspired.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I want those kids to feel cared for.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But the one thing I never want those kids to feel – the one thing no kid should feel in any school in our state – is afraid.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">High school students should be worried about pop quizzes and prom dates – not mass shootings. And that’s why, as Governor, I’ve made it a point to take on the NRA.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last year, we implemented red flag laws and strengthened background checks. And by doing so, make no mistake: We kept guns out of the wrong hands. We saved lives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tonight, I’m urging the legislature to join me in making our schools – and our communities – a little bit safer still by strengthening requirements for safe storage of firearms, reporting lost and stolen guns, and increasing criminal penalties for straw purchasers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This is a dangerous world. We were reminded of that this year when three of our bravest first responders lost their lives at the hands of a man with a gun he shouldn’t have had. We know that we can’t legislate against every act of violence but surely we can do more.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Asking our neighbors to keep their guns stored safely, and to report to law enforcement when their guns are lost or stolen, is a simple step that could save lives. And it’s high time we took that step here in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Look: If Minnesotans want to look at our record of accomplishment and keep sending us to Saint Paul, well, I wouldn’t mind that one bit. We’ve got lots more work to do, and as long as we have this window of opportunity, we’ll keep on making as much progress as we can.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But I know that public service is not a permanent privilege for any one party – nor, for that matter, any one person.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">No matter which party we belong to or how long we’ve been in office, each of us had a first day on the job. And it probably felt a lot like the first day of school. The nerves. The excitement. Figuring out where the bathrooms are and who you’re going to sit with at lunch.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Well, the truth is, each of us is going to have a last day in office, too. We’ll leave a little older – maybe a lot older, maybe a little grayer, hopefully wiser. And when we walk out the doors at the Capitol in Saint Paul for the last time, we’ll have the opportunity to ask ourselves: What kind of future have we built – not for us, but for our kids, and for the state we love?</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I don’t know how long this window of opportunity will stay open for us. But I can commit to you that I will do everything in my power to make sure we keep picking the fights that matter and building things that last.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A generation from now, nobody will remember what silly fight was getting politicians in the news back in 2024. But the things <em>we’re</em> fighting for will still stand. Better schools like this one. Cleaner water and safer streets. Better-paying jobs and more prosperous businesses. A state that invests in our children and our future.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That’s what it means to build. That’s what it means to grow. And that’s what I think it means to lead.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tonight, I’m proud to report that the state of our state is strong, Minnesota – because the <em>kids</em> of our state are better equipped to thrive.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And if you ever doubt that, just come on down to Owatonna. Take a walk through these halls. And join me in dreaming on the futures that will be built right here.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thank you, God bless you, and God bless the great state of Minnesota!</p>6156132024-03-27T13:19:53Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-615392" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-25T23:07:08ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law amending education budget appropriations enacted during the 2023 legislative session. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law amending education budget appropriations enacted during the 2023 legislative session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=HF4518&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 81, House File 4518</a> reallocates the education funding passed last year according to the February forecast.</p>6153922024-03-25T23:08:06Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-615380" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-25T20:25:04ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Shari R. Schluchter, and the other vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Darlene Rivera Spalla. These seats will be chambered in Bemidji in Beltrami County and Mahnomen in Mahnomen County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. One of the vacancies occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Shari R. Schluchter, and the other vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Darlene Rivera Spalla. These seats will be chambered in Bemidji in Beltrami County and Mahnomen in Mahnomen County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matti Adam:</strong> Matti Adam is the county attorney in the Itasca County Attorney’s Office, where she is the county’s chief prosecutor and legal advisor. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Itasca County Attorney’s Office and a law clerk for the Honorable Fred Karasov and the Honorable Peter Cahill in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Adam’s community involvement includes serving as the co-chair of the Minnesota County Attorney’s Association Indian Law Committee and as a board member of the Grand Rapids Area Library Foundation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Seamus Duffy</strong>: Seamus Duffy is the county attorney in the Pennington County Attorney’s Office. He was previously an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District and an attorney at Duffy Law Office. Duffy’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Pennington County DWI Court and a lecturer at Northland Community and Technical College. His community involvement also includes volunteering with the Thief River Falls Amateur Hockey Association and the Thief River Falls Archery Club.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tom </strong><strong>Kuesel: </strong>Tom Kuesel is a solo practitioner at Tom Kuesel, P.A., where his practice focuses on criminal defense and personal injury matters. He was previously an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District and a law clerk for several judges in the Eighth Judicial District in Willmar. Kuesel’s community involvement includes serving on the board of the Northwest Indian Community Development Center and volunteering as an assistant coach with the Bemidji High School Mock Trial Team. His community involvement has also included serving as chair of Bemidji’s Hockey Day Minnesota 2019 Local Organizing Committee.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kathryn Lorsbach:</strong> Kathryn Lorsbach is the county attorney in the Clearwater County Attorney’s Office, where she handles a broad range of criminal and civil matters. She was previously an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District and a law clerk for the Honorable Jonathan Jasper in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. Lorsbach’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Clearwater County DUI Treatment Court, the Clearwater Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative, and the Anishinaabe Sexual Assault Response Team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Symon Schindler-Syme:</strong> Symon Schindler-Syme is an assistant county attorney in the Beltrami County Attorney’s Office, where he handles criminal and appellate cases. He was previously an assistant public defender in the Ninth Judicial District. Schindler-Syme’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society and the Great River Animal Rescue Shelter.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6153802024-03-25T20:28:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-615233" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-22T21:52:33ZGovernor Tim Walz, Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy, and House Speaker Melissa Hortman today announced that they have reached a budget framework agreement. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz, Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy, and House Speaker Melissa Hortman today announced that they have reached a budget framework agreement. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is a responsible, thoughtful agreement that maintains a balanced budget while funding our state’s most urgent needs for critical infrastructure, public safety, and emergency services,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Last year we made historic investments and passed sweeping progressive legislation, and this year we’re focused on doing the hard work of putting that legislation into action.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“DFLers are rightfully proud of the transformational budget we put in place last year, one that ended gridlock and made long overdue progress in areas like education, childcare, housing, and public safety,”</strong> said Majority Leader Murphy. <strong>“As the investments we made begin to take hold, these supplemental budget targets will protect that work, meet Minnesotans’ urgent needs, and shape what comes next in our work to support Minnesota’s families, workers, consumers, and communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Last year’s budget made historic investments in the areas Minnesotans across the state value and care about most like education, health care, and economic security,”</strong> said Speaker Hortman. <strong>“While this is not a budget session, our supplemental budget agreement makes needed short-term investments, builds on the work done last session, and maintains the state’s fiscal stability. DFLers will continue working to build a Minnesota that works better for everyone, where every Minnesotan has the opportunity to succeed and build a better life.”</strong></p>6152332024-03-22T21:54:04Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-615075" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-21T22:20:11ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed two bills into law that will transfer programs from the Department of Human Services to new state agencies. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed two bills into law that will transfer programs from the Department of Human Services to new state agencies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF3646&amp;b=house&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 80, House File 3646</a> codifies the Department of Children, Youth, and Families into statute. This will direct programs currently run by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Education, and Public Safety to come together to improve the effectiveness of services for children and families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF3987&amp;b=house&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 79, House File 3987</a> transfers duties from Department of Human Services to Department of Direct Care and Treatment. This transfer will improve the agency’s ability to oversee and manage health care sites across the state.</p>6150752024-03-21T22:24:17Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-615074" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-21T22:07:59ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today visited a school in St. Paul to highlight legislative efforts to prevent books bans based on ideology. With more than 1,400 instances of books banned in the first half of the 2022-23 school year across the nation, this proposed legislation would ensure such restrictions don’t happen in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today visited a school in St. Paul to highlight legislative efforts to prevent books bans based on ideology. With more than <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpen.org%2Freport%2Fbanned-in-the-usa-state-laws-supercharge-book-suppression-in-schools%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C0e6375d24af049806f6208dc49ed4d26%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638466530798063955%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=IajrfwqjnIST3VsF6NRVd188ypcjlVN8NlFIvTbOos0%3D&amp;reserved=0">1,400</a> instances of books banned in the first half of the 2022-23 school year across the nation, this proposed legislation would ensure such restrictions don’t happen in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our commitment to making Minnesota the best state in the nation for children means increasing access to books, not censoring them,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Taking books away from kids and schools does not protect our children – it erases many of the stories and voices that do. This legislation will ensure books remain accessible to teach, and all children continue to have the opportunity to read freely.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are committed to investing in education, our future, and children across the state. Banning books does not align with this commitment,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “ <strong>As books disappear from our shelves, so do the stories of those who have fought the hardest to get there. The select removal of voices is not serving our children. This legislation will protect the access to information and knowledge that our kids deserve.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF3567&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">SF3567</a> would prohibit book bans in public and school libraries based on content or ideological objections. Additionally, it would require the book and material collection decisions of a library to be made or overseen by a licensed library media specialist, an individual with a master’s degree in library sciences or library and information sciences, or a professional librarian or person with extensive library collection management experience.</p>6150742024-03-21T22:09:19Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-615072" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-21T22:03:11ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Joseph F. Chase and the Honorable Mary C. Leahy. These seats will be chambered in Rochester in Olmsted County and Winona in Winona County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Third Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Joseph F. Chase and the Honorable Mary C. Leahy. These seats will be chambered in Rochester in Olmsted County and Winona in Winona County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on Thursday, April 11, 2024 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter. The commission expects to hold interviews in late April.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Third Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit our website: <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/</a> <em> </em> </p>6150722024-03-21T22:05:05Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-615115" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-20T22:20:11ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) received the Abraham Lincoln Pillars of Excellence Award from the U.S. Department of Veterans for their work to end veterans homelessness. Additionally, four Minnesota veterans homes received a national customer experience award for the sixth year in a row. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) received the Abraham Lincoln Pillars of Excellence Award from the U.S. Department of Veterans for their work to end veterans homelessness. Additionally, four Minnesota veterans homes received a national <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpinnacleqi.com%2Fawards%2Fabout&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cb7d5d36d16154c19a10e08dc491c0378%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638465631881127619%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9Jo%2BCWkAjVNf7MZBdiKwwr%2BRzU28ariGc3aQI5j6Dc0%3D&amp;reserved=0">customer experience award</a> for the sixth year in a row.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is on track to become the fourth state to end veterans homelessness, and we’re using a nation-leading outreach program to reach that goal,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m proud of our team at MDVA who are dedicated to connecting veterans to their critical benefits. This recognition reflects Minnesota’s commitment to providing the best services and care for our veterans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Abraham Lincoln Pillars of Excellence Award <br /></em>MDVA Commissioner Brad Lindsay accepted the award from Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough for “Innovation in Eliminating Veteran Homelessness.” MDVA has won five Pillars of Excellence Awards in recent years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MDVA’s SOAR program collaborates with key organizations and community groups to provide Minnesota’s homeless and at-risk veterans with expanded access to Social Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. SOAR stands for SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The SOAR program has established itself to be one of the most important homelessness prevention strategies in Minnesota’s drive to be the fourth state in the nation to effectively eliminate Veteran homelessness,”</strong> says Lindsay. <strong>“I’m proud that this team’s dedication and focus on building relationships is being recognized by the VA.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Abraham Lincoln Pillars of Excellence Award was established in 2012 by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to recognize best practices from the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA) members that have developed effective programs to address the current five top-line issues: customer experience with VA benefits and services, eliminating the claims and appeals backlog, eliminating veterans homelessness, delivery of services to Tribal governments serving Native American veterans, suicide awareness and prevention and innovative state programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Pinnacle Quality Insight Award <br /></em>For the sixth year in a row, four Minnesota veterans homes received <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpinnacleqi.com%2Fawards%2Fabout&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cb7d5d36d16154c19a10e08dc491c0378%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638465631881136317%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=IyV%2FBagm3nexSAnEHzBmHT6l7Wn1ymVDhG1LfPKyJpg%3D&amp;reserved=0">Pinnacle Quality Insight’s Customer Experience Award</a> ^.in the Skilled Nursing Facility category. The four skilled facilities are in Fergus Falls, Luverne, Minneapolis and Silver Bay.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Pinnacle Quality Insight is a customer satisfaction measurement firm with more than two decades of experience in post-acute health care. Pinnacle conducts more than 150,000 phone surveys each year and works with more than 2,700 care providers across the United States. Only those providers that are in the 85th percentile or higher receive this recognition.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over the past year, Pinnacle interviewed both veterans homes’ residents and their families on several areas including: activities, admission process, cleanliness, dignity and respect, nursing care, overall customer experience, professional therapy services, and safety and security. The results are compared to others in the industry and the Minnesota Veterans Homes have been identified as “best in class.”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Pinnacle survey results represent the overall quality our Homes provide to our Residents by our staff,”</strong> said Eric Meittunen, deputy commissioner of veterans healthcare. <strong>“We are very proud of the level of care that is provided and appreciate the work of all employees to provide this experience to Residents and families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">By qualifying for the Pinnacle Customer Experience Award, the Minnesota Veterans Homes have satisfied the rigorous demand of scoring in the top 15% of the nation across a 12-month average.</p>6151152024-03-22T15:24:51Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-614773" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-19T21:40:26ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the recipients of nearly $20 million in grants to grow Minnesota’s workforce through the Drive for Five Workforce initiative, a new effort to prepare more Minnesotans for high-demand jobs in five occupational categories: technology, the trades, caring professions, manufacturing, and education. Funding will train and place 1,200 Minnesotans over the next 15 months; benefit 3,000 businesses1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the recipients of nearly $20 million in grants to grow Minnesota’s workforce through the Drive for Five Workforce initiative, a new effort to prepare more Minnesotans for high-demand jobs in five occupational categories: technology, the trades, caring professions, manufacturing, and education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re partnering with organizations across the state to expand job training programs and grow the workforce for the future,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By investing in career training, we’re helping businesses find the skilled workers they need while helping Minnesotans find fulfilling careers and earn family-sustaining wages. This is good for our workers, our businesses, and our economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) Drive for Five program provides grants to workforce training and business organizations. The grant recipients will train and place an estimated 1,200 Minnesotans over the next 15 months in high-demand jobs, benefiting an estimated 3,000 Minnesota businesses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today is a big day for Minnesota workers and Minnesota employers. The grantees announced today will engage together in a holistic approach that will closely align training with sector skills needs – while targeting family-sustaining, high-demand, career-path employment,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“The breadth of the initiative’s geographic and industry reach, coupled with the depth of experience and the dedication of our partners, will provide program participants throughout the state with life-changing opportunities and help Minnesota employers hire the skilled employees they need now. It’s one of the ways DEED is delivering for Minnesota’s workers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The industries selected to be part of Drive for Five are projected to be high-growth in the years ahead and provide family-sustaining wages for workers, defined as having a median hourly wage at or above $19.46. Drive for Five will benefit Minnesotans who want to join the labor force in these in-demand fields and who need training and employment assistance. It will benefit Minnesota’s economy by preparing people for in-demand careers and meeting the needs of employers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re excited to announce this great slate of Drive for Five grantees. I’m looking forward to the work we’ll do together over the coming years”</strong> said DEED Deputy Commissioner for Workforce Development Marc Majors. “ <strong>Workforce training institutions that receive Drive for Five funding will launch or expand job training programs in high-growth industries that will lead to moving Minnesotans into family sustainable wage careers in caring professions, education, manufacturing, technology, and the trades.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Drive for Five initiative is part of a slate of historic workforce development investments at DEED. The state is investing more than $216 million in DEED’s Employment and Training Programs through June 30, 2025, including $20 million for Drive for Five and $50 million to support workforce development in historically overlooked communities through the Targeted Populations Workforce Development Programs initiative. This significant investment will help Minnesota address its ongoing tight labor market as well as achieve a more equitable economy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Drive for Five Workforce Training Grantees</em><em>, Sectors, and Regions Served:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>African Community Services <br /></strong>$325,000 <br /> Caring Professions, Technology <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alexandria Technical &amp; Community College <br /></strong>$750,000 <br /> Technology, Trades <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anoka County Job Training Center <br /></strong>$400,000 <br /> Caring Professions <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Augsburg University <br /></strong>$240,000 <br /> Education <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bemidji State University/MN State Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence <br /></strong>$750,000 <br /> Manufacturing <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Black Men Teach <br /></strong>$200,000 <br /> Education <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Career Solutions <br /></strong>$700,000 <br /> Manufacturing <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Center for African Immigrant and Refugee Organization <br /></strong>$400,000 <br /> Caring Professions <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>City of Duluth Workforce Development <br /></strong>$390,000 <br /> Education, Trades <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Faribault Public Schools <br /></strong>$300,000 <br /> Caring Professions, Education <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hennepin Technical College <br /></strong>$250,000 <br /> Manufacturing <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>HIRED <br /></strong>$500,000 <br /> Manufacturing <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Intermediate School District 917 <br /></strong>$550,000 <br /> Education <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karen Organization of Minnesota <br /></strong>$500,000 <br /> Trades <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lutheran Social Services <br /></strong>$750,000 <br /> Education <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnpoly <br /></strong>$740,000 <br /> Manufacturing <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>North Memorial Health Care <br /></strong>$740,000 <br /> Caring Professions <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Otter Tail County <br /></strong>$250,000 <br /> Caring Professions, Manufacturing, Trades <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pine Tech <br /></strong>$725,000 <br /> Caring Professions, Manufacturing <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Project for Pride in Living <br /></strong>$300,000 <br /> Caring Professions, Technology <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Regents of the University of Minnesota <br /></strong>$740,000 <br /> Caring Professions <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rural Minnesota CEP <br /></strong>$750,000 <br /> Caring Professions, Manufacturing, Technology, Trades <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Southwest Metro Intermediate District #288 <br /></strong>$750,000 <br /> Caring Professions, Education, Technology, Trades <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council <br /></strong>$600,000 <br /> Caring Professions, Education, Manufacturing, Technology, Trades <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Drive for Five Job Placement and Diversity, Inclusion, &amp; Retention Grantees</em> <em>and Regions Served:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chinese American Chamber of Commerce <br /></strong>$300,000 <br /> Job Placement, Diversity Inclusion &amp; Retention services <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce <br /></strong>$145,000 <br /> Diversity, Inclusion &amp; Retention Services <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce <br /></strong>$190,000 <br /> Diversity, Inclusion &amp; Retention Services <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Greater Mankato Growth <br /></strong>$155,000 <br /> Job Placement, Diversity Inclusion &amp; Retention services <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Latino Chamber of Commerce <br /></strong>$300,000 <br /> Job Placement, Diversity Inclusion &amp; Retention services <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marshall Chamber of Commerce <br /></strong>$145,000 <br /> Job Placement, Diversity Inclusion &amp; Retention services <br /> Greater MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association <br /></strong>$800,000 <br /> Job Placement, Diversity Inclusion &amp; Retention services <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota Technology Association <br /></strong>$285,000 <br /> Job Placement <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shakopee Area Chamber of Commerce <br /></strong>$450,000 <br /> Job Placement, Diversity Inclusion &amp; Retention services <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>St. Paul Area Chamber <br /></strong>$800,000 <br /> Job Placement, Diversity Inclusion &amp; Retention services <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Twin Cities North Chamber of Commerce <br /></strong>$30,000 <br /> Job Placement, Diversity Inclusion &amp; Retention services <br /> Twin Cities Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Find out more about projected demand, as well as median wages and educational requirements for all the Drive for Five occupations in the article <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/publications/trends/september-2023/drive-for-5.jsp">Minnesota’s Drive For 5 Initiative</a> from DEED’s Labor Market Information Office and the Governor’s Workforce Development Board.</p>6147732024-03-19T21:44:51Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-614532" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-18T21:26:42ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released a one-page supplemental budget proposal. The budget addresses pressing statewide needs, including rural emergency medical services, water quality, and child welfare. Budget addresses rural Emergency Medical Services shortage 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released a one-page supplemental budget proposal. The budget addresses pressing statewide needs, including rural emergency medical services, water quality, and child welfare.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Last year, we took historic steps to make Minnesota the best state in the nation for families. This year, we’re focused on putting that work into action while maintaining a responsible, balanced budget,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“From rural ambulance services to water quality infrastructure, we are addressing some of our most pressing statewide needs and delivering on core government services.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This supplemental budget invests in the core services that ensure Minnesotans can live safer, healthier, better lives. That includes continuing to build on our historic investments in child care,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.<strong>“By strengthening our child welfare system and adding pre-kindergarten seats, we’re making smart investments that will make Minnesota the best state for kids and families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Public Safety and Emergency Services <br /></em>The 2024 supplemental budget includes $16 million to support ambulance services in Greater Minnesota, which have faced severe funding and personnel shortfalls. The budget also provides grants to organizations that serve victims of crime, in addition to funding services to prevent recidivism and overdoses for people who are released from prisons and jails.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Child Care and Child Protection <br /></em>The 2024 supplemental budget makes investments in child protection, including funding to improve and modernize the state’s child welfare and social services reporting system so child welfare workers have more time to spend with children and families. In addition to child protection funding, the supplemental budget provides an additional 2,200 voluntary pre-K seats to prepare children for success and enhance their pre-reading, pre-math, language, and social skills.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Water Quality and Infrastructure <br /></em>The 2024 supplemental budget provides funding for in-home water treatment, well replacement, and other services for contaminated wells. The supplemental budget also acts as a state match for federal Climate Pollution Reduction Grant that Minnesota is applying for in a competitive process. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s budget includes a $989 million infrastructure plan that focuses on safe drinking water, transportation, housing, and critical state infrastructure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More details on the $226 million supplemental budget are <a href="https://mn.gov/mmb/budget/current-budget/governors-budget-recommendations/" target="_blank">available online</a> .</p>6145322024-03-18T21:30:10Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-614292" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-15T21:12:03ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Veterinary Medicine, Governor’s Council on Freight Rail, Occupational Safety and Health Review Board, State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind, and Technology Advisory Council. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Veterinary Medicine, Governor’s Council on Freight Rail, Occupational Safety and Health Review Board, State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind, and Technology Advisory Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jody Grote – Richfield, MN <br /></strong>Board of Veterinary Medicine <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: March 20, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kathleen Jost – Morris, MN <br /></strong>Board of Veterinary Medicine <br /> Veterinarian Member <br /> Effective: March 20, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Christopher Powers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Veterinary Medicine: <br /></em>The Board of Veterinary Medicine licenses and regulates veterinarians, registers veterinary corporations, and investigates complaints against veterinarians and unlicensed persons practicing veterinary medicine.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Veterinary Medicine can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/103" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicholas Katich – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Freight Rail <br /> Member Representing Labor Unions <br /> Effective: March 20, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joel Mueller – Mankato, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Freight Rail <br /> Member Representing Labor Unions <br /> Effective: March 20, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Council on Freight Rail: <br /></em>The Governor’s Council on Freight Rail creates recommendations for actions needed to improve freight rail operations in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Council on Freight Rail can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/300" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Sogla – Andover, MN <br /></strong>Occupational Safety and Health Review Board <br /> Labor Member <br /> Effective: March 20, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Occupational Safety and Health Review Board: <br /></em>The Occupational Safety and Health Review Board reviews and decides appeals from final decisions and orders of the commissioner, including decisions issued by administrative law judges, petitions to vacate final orders of the commissioner, and with the agreement of the parties, may review and decide petitions for decisions based on stipulated facts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Occupational Safety and Health Review Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/125" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeff Mihelich – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind <br /> Representative of American Council of the Blind <br /> Effective: March 20, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Catalina Martinez</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patrick Vellia – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind <br /> Deaf-Blind Community Representative <br /> Effective: March 20, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Trevor Turner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind: <br /></em>The State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind advises the commissioner of Employment and Economic Development about programs of State Services for the blind and performs other functions as provided in State and Federal statute.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/151" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rick King – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Technology Advisory Council <br /> Chair <br /> Effective: March 20, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Technology Advisory Council: <br /></em>The Technology Advisory Council is made up of experts on development and implementation of IT in private and public institutions. The council provides advice on how to update and maintain the State's IT systems to ensure that Minnesota residents and businesses who interact with the state receive the best possible service and advises on the most efficient use of taxpayer dollars invested in IT projects, while keeping government data secure and protecting the State against cybersecurity threats.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Technology Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/187" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6142922024-03-15T21:15:48Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-614156" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-15T14:58:02ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota’s roads were ranked the best in the nation by a Consumer Affairs analysis. Minnesota’s ranking is based on the most recent available data from the U.S. Department of Transportation on road safety and quality, miles traveled, and spending on road improvements. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota’s roads were ranked the best in the nation by a <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.consumeraffairs.com%2Fautomotive%2Fus-road-conditions.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C236adcd5cf0a49a8de4108dc44f84774%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638461080413622669%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=XCREqrLKa56UDkmHdpIbetmP%2FVFmyY7eAvBWRxZccko%3D&amp;reserved=0">Consumer Affairs</a> analysis. Minnesota’s ranking is based on the most recent available data from the U.S. Department of Transportation on road safety and quality, miles traveled, and spending on road improvements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This achievement didn’t happen by accident – it reflects our yearslong commitment to improving the safety and quality of our roads,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“In Minnesota, we take pride in maintaining the infrastructure that builds strong communities, creates jobs, and drives economic growth.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last year, Governor Walz signed a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579789">$2.6 billion infrastructure bill</a> into law, the largest infrastructure bill in state history. In 2020, he signed a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/450726">$1.9 billion investment</a> in the state’s infrastructure into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This ranking comes as Minnesota was recently named the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/586648">top state</a> for health care, a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/584394">top-five state</a> for business, and a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/586048">top-five</a> state to live and work.</p>6141562024-03-15T15:00:08Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-614121" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-15T03:10:35ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bipartisan bill into law that provides comprehensive guidance for school resource officers. The bill directs funding for school resource officer training, establishes clear duties for school resource officers, and requires the POST Board to develop a model policy. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bipartisan bill into law that provides comprehensive guidance for school resource officers. The bill directs funding for school resource officer training, establishes clear duties for school resource officers, and requires the POST Board to develop a model policy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Every child deserves a world-class education and a learning environment that is safe, supportive, and healthy. As integral members of their school community, school resource officers serve students and teachers day in and day out. This bill provides comprehensive guidance and clarity, allowing school resource officers to continue to do their jobs effectively,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful to legislators, school leaders, education advocates, youth voices, and law enforcement for working together to get this done and ensure we’re keeping our kids safe.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chapter 78, <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3489&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">House File 3489</a> includes:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Direct funding for the Minnesota Department of Public Safety School Safety Center to conduct free training for school resource officers</li> <li>Specifies duties for school resource officers focused on fostering a positive school climate</li> <li>Requires the POST Board to develop a new SRO model policy</li> <li>Provides statutory clarity for law enforcement</li> </ul>6141212024-03-15T03:12:38Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-614120" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-15T03:07:04ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Meta will build an $800 million, 715,000-square-foot data center in Rosemount, supporting approximately 100 operational jobs and at least 1,000 skilled trade jobs at peak construction. The $800 million project is expected to support hundreds of jobs and bring new renewable energy to the grid1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Meta will build an $800 million, 715,000-square-foot data center in Rosemount, supporting approximately 100 operational jobs and at least 1,000 skilled trade jobs at peak construction.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is excited to welcome Meta to Rosemount – a win for our state that will bring dozens of jobs and invigorate the local economy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Today’s announcement is a testament to our commitment to making Minnesota a top state for business, innovation, and investment in our workforce.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are extremely happy to make Minnesota and Rosemount our new home. We are committed to playing a positive role here and investing in the community's long-term vitality,”</strong> said Brad Davis, director of data center community and economic development at Meta. <strong>“Rosemount stood out as an outstanding location for our newest data center thanks to its great access to infrastructure, deep pool of talent, and amazing community partners. Our thanks go to all of our partners that have helped get us here.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This $800 million investment will undoubtedly shape the future of our city and bring about positive change and opportunities to our community. Beyond Meta’s investment, its commitment to our schools, nonprofits, and STEM education programs will undoubtedly make</strong> <strong>a great impact,”</strong>said Rosemount Mayor Jeff Weisensel. <strong>“As we welcome Meta to Rosemount, let us embrace this opportunity for progress, innovation, and community enrichment.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Located on a 280-acre parcel of land in UMore Park, the project will contribute millions in tax revenue through local property taxes, fees, and other indirect revenue streams. Like all of Meta's data centers, the Rosemount Data Center will be supported by 100% renewable energy, and Meta will work with partners to add new renewable energy resources to the grid. The campus will also achieve LEED Gold certification after commencing operations in 2026.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The new facility will be Meta’s 19th data center in the U.S. and 23rd in the world. Once operational, the Rosemount Data Center will be optimized for Meta’s AI workloads as part of the highly-advanced infrastructure that helps bring Meta’s technologies, including Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads, to life.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Meta’s decision to invest in Rosemount illustrates the story we’re sharing with businesses everywhere</strong> <strong>: we have world-class infrastructure, a tech-savvy workforce and an innovative and creative spirit that makes Minnesota the perfect place to do business,”</strong> said Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Matt Varilek. “ <strong>We are excited to welcome Meta to Minnesota, and to continue encouraging companies everywhere to join us here.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a leader in the energy transition, we share Meta’s commitment to clean energy,”</strong> said Ryan Long, president of Xcel Energy–Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. <strong>“We are excited to work with Meta to bring energy upgrades to UMore Park, including new transmission lines, that will provide the reliable energy supply needed to power this data center.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are proud to partner with Meta as they build a next-generation data center in our region,”</strong> said Peter Frosch, president and CEO of GREATER MSP. <strong>“This facility is part of the cutting-edge industries we’re creating in the Greater MSP region that will power the AI tools we need for problem-solving in med tech, regenerative agriculture, sustainable aviation fuel and others. With this and other soon-to-be announced investments, we are on the path to recapturing Minnesota’s national leadership in advanced technology.”</strong></p>6141202024-03-15T03:09:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-613989" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-13T21:57:27ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bipartisan bill into law that clarifies state statute around licensed midwives’ ability to obtain medications they use within the scope of their practice. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bipartisan bill into law that clarifies state statute around licensed midwives’ ability to obtain medications they use within the scope of their practice.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF3546&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2024">Chapter 77, Senate File 3546</a> clarifies existing statute to state that licensed traditional midwives may obtain and possess medications within the scope of their practice.</p>6139892024-03-13T21:58:45Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-613839" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-12T22:23:04ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Viet-Hanh Winchell as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. Winchell will be replacing the Honorable Richard C. Ilkka and will be chambered in Stillwater in Washington County 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Viet-Hanh Winchell as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. Winchell will be replacing the Honorable Richard C. Ilkka and will be chambered in Stillwater in Washington County</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my pleasure to appoint Viet-Hanh Winchell to the Washington County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She is a talented litigator whose broad life experiences and commitment to building connections in her community will make her a wonderful addition to the Tenth Judicial District.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Viet-Hanh Winchell’s commitment to public service and dedication to working towards fair and just outcomes for all will make her a great judge,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “ <strong>I look forward to seeing her thrive in her new role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District encompasses Anoka, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Pine, Sherburne, Washington, and Wright counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Viet-Hanh Winchell is a solo practitioner at United Rivers Law Firm PLLC, where she represents clients in a broad range of criminal and civil matters. She also serves as court appointed counsel for parents in child protection cases and as a neutral in alternative dispute resolution matters. Winchell was previously a shareholder at Galowitz Olson, PLLC. Her community involvement includes volunteering with the Stonebridge Elementary Parent Teacher Association, providing pro bono legal services and serving on the advisory board of the Tubman Safety Project, and serving as a member on the Washington County Children’s Justice Initiative. Winchell also serves as a member and MSBA alternative representative for the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association, and she is the former president of the Washington County Bar Association. She also served as a member of the Commission on Judicial Selection. Winchell received her B.A. from the University of Minnesota and her J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The selection of Viet-Hanh Winchell marks Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan’s 100th appointment to the Minnesota Judicial Branch since taking office in 2019.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I could not be prouder of the work that we have done to build a bench that is full of highly qualified jurists who are committed to following the rule of law,”</strong> said Governor Walz<strong>. “The Commission on Judicial Selection has been instrumental in this work, and I thank them for helping make our judiciary the strongest it has ever been</strong>.”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When we first took office, we committed ourselves to appointing judges who would reflect Minnesota’s full diversity,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am pleased to say that we are delivering on that commitment, and our Judicial Branch now looks more like the communities it serves than ever before.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6138392024-03-12T22:25:48Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-613447" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-08T20:56:08ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending four candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable James A. Moore. This seat will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending four candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable James A. Moore. This seat will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>LeeAnn Bell:</strong> LeeAnn Bell is senior litigation counsel for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, where she prosecutes a variety of felonies in the criminal division, including violent crimes, national security matters, drug trafficking, and civil rights violations. She also serves as the district’s training officer, overseeing the office’s training program. Bell was previously an associate attorney at Halleland, Lewis, Nilan and Johnson, where she practiced complex commercial litigation. Her community involvement includes serving as a volunteer for the U.S. District Court’s Open Doors Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Emily Froehle</strong>: Emily Froehle is an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she handles criminal prosecution. She was previously an assistant public defender in Hennepin County and a law clerk for the Honorable Gina M. Brandt and the Honorable Mark S. Wernick in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. She is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association’s Access to Justice Committee and the Hennepin County Bar Association Bar Memorial Committee. Her community involvement includes serving as a volunteer at Cornerstone.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Johnston</strong><strong>:</strong>Elizabeth Johnston<strong> </strong>is a manager and assistant attorney general at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General, where she leads a division representing the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. She previously represented state agencies including the Departments of Labor and Industry and Health. Johnston was an assistant county attorney in Hennepin County in the child protection, criminal appeals, and criminal trials divisions. She was also a law clerk to the Honorable John R. Tunheim on the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota. Her community involvement includes volunteering with First Nations Kitchen and her children’s schools and swim team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jane Maschka</strong>: Jane Maschka is a partner at Faegre Drinker Biddle &amp; Reath LLP, where she leads the firm’s financial litigation team and represents clients in complex matters involving fraud and insolvency. She was previously a law clerk for the Honorable R. Lanier Anderson III on the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals and an associate attorney at WilmerHale in Washington, D.C. Maschka’s community involvement includes serving on the board of Youthlink, volunteering as a graduation coach for AchieveMSP, and serving as a mock trial judge. Her community involvement has also included providing pro bono representation for the Tubman Safety Project and volunteering with Hennepin County’s Legal Access Point Clinic.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6134472024-03-08T20:58:40Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-613381" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-08T17:45:49ZDuring National School Breakfast Week, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that nearly 4.3 million more breakfasts and 4.5 million more lunches were served to students last fall by the free school meals program than in the same period in 2022. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – During National School Breakfast Week, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that nearly 4.3 million more breakfasts and 4.5 million more lunches were served to students last fall by the free school meals program than in the same period in 2022. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by USDA Food and Nutrition Service Administrator Cindy Long to make the announcement and serve breakfast to students at Fridley Middle School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The data is clear: more students are eating breakfast and lunch at school, ensuring they have the food they need to succeed and helping families save money on their grocery bills,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This investment is a win for our kids, our families, and the long-term success of our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m proud that more students than ever are eating school breakfast thanks to our free school meals program,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“For growing kids, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. In Minnesota, our students are getting the food they need to fuel their busy days, no questions asked and at no cost to families. This is how we’re making Minnesota the best state for kids.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">According to the Minnesota Department of Education, the number of school breakfasts served between September-November last fall increased by 4.3 million meals compared to the same time period in 2022, for a 37% increase. The number of school lunches served to students last fall increased by 4.5 million meals compared to the previous school year, for a 15% increase.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Free School Meals program, passed in the 2023 legislative session, is a state-funded program that provides reimbursement to schools for meals served to students who do not qualify for free or reduced-price meals, so all students receive meals at no cost. School districts, charter schools, nonpublic schools, and other participants approved for the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program may participate in the Free School Meals program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Schools have up to 60 days to report their monthly meal counts for reimbursement.</p>6133812024-03-08T17:47:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-612215" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-07T18:36:44ZAs Minnesota continues to face record-high winter temperatures, Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has unlocked federal funding for small businesses impacted by this winter’s historic drought conditions. Amid the warmest winter on record, federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available because of ongoing federal drought declarations affecting 81 Minnesota counties.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – As Minnesota continues to face record-high winter temperatures, Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has unlocked federal funding for small businesses impacted by this winter’s historic drought conditions. Amid the warmest winter on record, federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available because of ongoing federal drought declarations affecting 81 Minnesota counties. Governor Walz urges small business owners to apply for assistance as soon as possible.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From skiing and snowshoeing to winter festivals, snowy winters are part of our way of life in Minnesota. The low precipitation we’ve experienced this winter has had a real economic impact on small businesses that rely on snow and winter tourism to grow and survive,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I encourage all impacted business owners to apply for assistance as soon as possible.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">From December to February, Minnesota experienced the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cbsnews.com%2Fminnesota%2Fnews%2Fwarmest-winter-minnesota-weather-record-hottest-climate-change%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C480e89f8416d4ce95ee408dc3ed4ef38%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638454331488677025%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=T61SzBOjqYV3630C6hO%2FiDTAbtISZ5GeJOB6WqoDqGg%3D&amp;reserved=0">warmest meteorological winter</a> on record. Through February 29th, there has only been 14.3” of snow in the Twin Cities, the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.weather.gov%2Fmedia%2Fmpx%2FClimate%2FWhat%2520Winter%2520MSP.pdf&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C480e89f8416d4ce95ee408dc3ed4ef38%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638454331488686404%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=SICxjMeu6HIV4IUqhDdgH5VsxvjA%2F3mYwA8gn3GEGW4%3D&amp;reserved=0">second-lowest season total</a> on record. In Duluth, only 15.7” snow has fallen, with an average snow depth of 1.8” – both among the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FNWSduluth%2Fstatus%2F1763521431395278860&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C480e89f8416d4ce95ee408dc3ed4ef38%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638454331488693255%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=8J%2BUx%2BkreKJibAt%2Bg4oPwut0i3clngf3i8VK0WcTXxs%3D&amp;reserved=0">five lowest measures</a> on record. This lack of precipitation has exacerbated an ongoing drought. Eighty one counties in Minnesota are currently covered by U.S. Department of Agriculture disaster declarations for drought.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Impacted businesses in counties with a drought declaration can apply for the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) through the Small Business Administration (SBA). The loans are designed to help businesses get through emergency situations that have impacted their economic well-being. Under the EIDL program, businesses can borrow up to $2 million to cover their actual losses. Businesses pay no interest on the loan for the first year and a maximum rate of four percent for the rest of the loan period. In order to take advantage of the program, businesses must apply by the application deadline for their county, listed below.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">There are 81 counties in Minnesota covered by 13 disaster declarations. Business owners can learn more about eligibility, find an application, and learn more about application deadlines for their county at the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sba.gov%2Ffunding-programs%2Fdisaster-assistance&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C480e89f8416d4ce95ee408dc3ed4ef38%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638454331488699063%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=FUNARftr0V4qZCto8K9zzJKai7xtgTncT8emommpEwk%3D&amp;reserved=0">SBA’s disaster assistance page</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Businesses impacted by a lack of precipitation will enter their county’s name and see a list of all open disasters for their county. They should pick one where the incident includes “drought.”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Submit applications and find additional disaster assistance information at <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flending.sba.gov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C480e89f8416d4ce95ee408dc3ed4ef38%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638454331488704605%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=lnDgMAJmRNX7Xx%2FO3ppavv1tc9aATo%2BfPj2JUJmWzkw%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://lending.sba.gov</a> . Applicants may also contact Minnesota’s <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/help/sbdc/overview/">Small Business Development Centers</a> and SBA’s Customer Service Center at <a href="mailto:disastercustomerservice@sba.gov">disastercustomerservice@sba.gov</a> . You can also call 800-659-2955 from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. CT Monday through Friday. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.</p>6122152024-03-07T18:38:00Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-611711" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-03-05T20:14:57ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced over $50 million in grants to expand broadband access to an estimated 8,900 homes and businesses throughout Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced over $50 million in grants to expand broadband access to an estimated 8,900 homes and businesses throughout Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re investing in broadband infrastructure statewide to help thousands of Minnesotans connect to jobs, education, healthcare, and their communities,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Helping more Minnesotans get online at high speeds is one of the ways we’re making Minnesota the best state for families, workers, and businesses.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Twenty four broadband expansion projects will receive grants from the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) Office of Broadband Development, helping deploy new broadband infrastructure around Minnesota. Using the grant funding, providers plan to expand high-speed broadband – offering speeds of at least 100 megabits per second (Mbps) download and 20 Mbps upload – in 25 counties across Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Grant awards by project can be found below and on DEED's <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/broadband/grant-program/">website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Multiple rounds of historic grant funding have dramatically improved high-speed broadband access for thousands of Minnesotans,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Broadband is a significant equity issue, and as a Greater Minnesota resident in rural Benton County, I hear firsthand from local businesses, students and neighbors about the impact broadband access has on their lives and livelihoods.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The grants come from <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/broadband/grant-program/" target="_blank">two DEED programs</a> :</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$33.3 million from DEED’s flagship Border-to-Border Broadband Program,through which broadband provider grantees are reimbursed for up to half the eligible cost of deploying broadband infrastructure, with funding for a single project capped at $10 million.</li> <li>$19.7 million from the Low Population Density Program, which offers grants to providers building broadband service to areas of Minnesota with particularly low population densities and high broadband deployment costs. The grants can be worth up to $10 million and cover up to 75% the total cost of a project.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED will open another $50 million grant round for broadband infrastructure development later this month.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Broadband is an essential resource that not only helps Minnesota communities attract new business and help existing ones grow and thrive, but also gain and retain the workforce that supports business and community vitality,”</strong> said DEED Deputy Commissioner for Economic Development Kevin McKinnon. <strong>“Broadband use across nearly all industries and sectors – from high-tech manufacturing to agriculture – continues to grow, and a robust infrastructure gives our state a competitive economic edge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As the Office of Broadband Development enters its 10th year, I'm inspired by – and grateful for – our ongoing partnership with broadband providers as we work together to deploy reliable, high-speed broadband to the Minnesotans who need it,”</strong> said DEED Office of Broadband Development Executive Director Bree Maki. <strong>“Congratulations to today’s grantees and thank you for your commitment to Minnesota’s communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>The Minnesota Telecom Alliance (MTA) is very excited about this latest grant round award,”</strong>said Brent Christensen, president and CEO of the Minnesota Telecom Alliance. <strong>“MTA members have an established track record, since the beginning of the program, of leveraging Border-to-Border Broadband Grant dollars to further the deployment of quality high-speed internet service to all corners of our State. We share the State’s goal of deploying quality broadband to all Minnesotans and applaud the foresight of the Governor and Legislature for securing the funds to keep this program moving forward.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Minnesota Cable's member companies are committed to delivering essential high-speed broadband connections in every corner of our state,"</strong> said Melissa Wolf, executive director of MN Cable. " <strong>My members are proud to partner with the State of Minnesota’s Office of Broadband Development and local communities to help close the digital divide by bringing reliable and affordable broadband into the most difficult areas to serve."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Today’s grant announcement is one of several initiatives underway to expand broadband access in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over the last ten years, DEED has provided nearly $350 million in Border-to-Border or Low Population Densitygrants, providing broadband access to nearly 112,000 homes and businesses. In addition to these programs, DEED is implementing the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/broadband/extension/" target="_blank">Line Extension Program</a> , which expands broadband service to individual homes and businesses that lack it. So far, that program will connect 840 customers to broadband through partnerships with 20 broadband providers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED will also manage $652 million in federal <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/583127" target="_blank">Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (or BEAD) Program</a> funding to expand broadband to the most unserved and underserved Minnesotans. DEED also recently finalized the state’s draft <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/broadband/adoption/" target="_blank">Digital Opportunity Plan</a> , detailing how Minnesota proposes to reduce gaps in broadband access, digital technology ownership and digital skills using an upcoming grant from the federal government.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>List of Border-to-Border Grantees by County:</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anoka, Chisago</strong> <br /> Midco <br /> $801,700</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Blue Earth, Faribault</strong> <br /> Easton Telephone Company <br /> $435,838</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brown, Cottonwood</strong> <br /> Hanson Communications <br /> $395,138</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chippewa, Renville</strong> <br /> Hanson Communications <br /> $2,081,494</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Clay</strong> <br /> Red River Communications <br /> $970,411</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Douglas</strong> <br /> Gardonville Cooperative Telephone <br /> $223,521</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Fillmore</strong> <br /> Mediacom LLC <br /> $33,863</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Isanti</strong> <br /> East Central Energy <br /> $4,885,809</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kandiyohi</strong> <br /> Federated Telephone Cooperative <br /> $8,202,000 <br /> Meeker Cooperative Light &amp; Power Association <br /> $590,709</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mahnomen</strong> <br /> Arvig <br /> $326,111</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mower</strong> <br /> Spectrum Mid-America, LLC <br /> $414,699</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pine, Aitkin</strong> <br /> Savage Communications Inc <br /> $3,563,817</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>St. Louis</strong> <br /> Consolidated Telephone Company <br /> $2,292,790 <br /> Mediacom LLC <br /> $961,102</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stearns</strong> <br /> Albany Mutual Telephone Association <br /> $7,123,175 <br /> <br /> <strong>Total:</strong> $33,302,177</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>List of Low Population Density Grantees by County</strong>:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Goodhue</strong> <br /> Nuvera Communications, Inc <br /> $1,884,429</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kittson</strong> <br /> Wikstrom Telephone Company <br /> $3,066,630</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Morrison</strong> <br /> Upsala Cooperative Telephone Assoc. dba Sytek <br /> $3,689,967</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mower</strong> <br /> Arvig <br /> $3,129,412</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pipestone</strong> <br /> Woodstock Telephone Company <br /> $1,612,932</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Polk</strong> <br /> Garden Valley Telephone Company <br /> $1,050,465</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stearns</strong> <br /> Arvig <br /> $910,537</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Waseca</strong> <br /> Bevcomm Inc <br /> $4,385,444</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Total:</strong> $19,729,816</p>6117112024-03-05T20:16:44Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-611548" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-29T20:35:00ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the elevation of the Honorable JaPaul J. Harris to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. This seat will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the elevation of the Honorable JaPaul J. Harris to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. This seat will be chambered in St. Paul in Ramsey County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for a fair, experienced, and civic-minded individual to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on March 21 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-April.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Second Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor at  <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> <u>.</u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6115482024-02-29T20:36:35Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-611542" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-29T20:31:56ZLieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today highlighted the Housing Stability Act, legislation that builds on historic investments in housing and ensures Minnesotans are not denied housing because they receive rental assistance.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today highlighted the Housing Stability Act, legislation that builds on historic investments in housing and ensures Minnesotans are not denied housing because they receive rental assistance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This bill makes clear that landlords who choose not to accept renters based on their use of housing vouchers are breaking the law,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Housing vouchers provided me with a safe place to live as a child, and we know that housing stability is the foundation of educational growth, stable employment, health, and safety. That’s why every Minnesotan deserves access to stable housing without discrimination.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Housing Stability Act clarifies the state’s civil rights law to ensure that landlords cannot refuse to rent to or otherwise discriminate against someone because they receive and use rental assistance to pay their rent.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In 1973, Minnesota legislators decided it is a violation of the Minnesota Human Rights Act for a landlord to discriminate against someone because they pay their rent with rental assistance. For over 50 years, our Department has enforced that law,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Human Rights Commissioner Rebecca Lucero. <strong>“In 2010, a Court of Appeals case misapplied the Minnesota Human Rights Act with regards to housing vouchers – now is the time for legislatures to fix the law and get this right.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Getting help to afford housing shouldn’t disqualify you from renting the place you want to live, but that is happening too often,”</strong> said Director of the Metropolitan Council’s Housing Redevelopment Authority (Metro HRA) Terri Smith. <strong>“This bill ensures that families who receive housing vouchers can find a place to call home and have an opportunity to live near better jobs, high performing schools for their children and begin to thrive in other areas of their lives.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">According to the Metro HRA, 46% of housing voucher recipients in Anoka, Carver, and suburban Hennepin and Ramsey counties return their vouchers for multiple reasons, including not being able to find a landlord who accepts housing vouchers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Providing long-term rental assistance is a win-win situation for the renter and the property owner. The renter has stability in their housing, and the owner receives a guaranteed payment</strong> ,” said Minnesota Housing Commissioner Jennifer Ho. <strong>“Last year the state legislature created approximately 5,000 more vouchers. Now is the time to make sure properties accept eligible applicants and don’t discriminate based on source of income.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2023, Governor Tim Walz signed into law the largest single investment in housing in state history. The $1.3 billion investment includes an estimated $124 million in rental assistance for Minnesotans. With these funds, Minnesota is anticipated to help about 5,000 community members and their families pay for their rent through housing vouchers.</p>6115422024-02-29T20:33:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610909" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-28T02:25:21ZGovernor Tim Walz and Explore Minnesota today launched Star of the North, a new multi-platform campaign aimed at attracting visitors from around the world and recruiting top talent to Minnesota1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Explore Minnesota today launched Star of the North, a new multi-platform campaign aimed at attracting visitors from around the world and recruiting top talent to Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a top state for quality of life, health care, and business, we’re investing in a tourism and talent attraction campaign to promote Minnesota on a global stage,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re also aiming to attract skilled workers to support our nation-leading health care, manufacturing, and technology sectors. Whether you’re visiting as a tourist, searching for a job, or looking to relocate, there are opportunities for everyone in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s got a lot going for it – we’re expanding economic opportunity, driving workforce development, and investing in our kids and families,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“From Greater Minnesota to the Twin Cities, we’re ready to welcome anyone who wants to see what we’re all about here in the North.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The complementing tourism and talent attraction campaigns are the first of a kind for Explore Minnesota, promoting Minnesota in more places, and to more people, than the state has had capacity to reach in the past.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota state legislature approved an increase of $3.84 million to Explore Minnesota during the 2023 session, and the state will invest $22 million in one-time funding over the next two years for an aggressive livability recruitment campaign. This new campaign will include national advertisements targeting workers in technology, health and wellness, education, and high-tech manufacturing. In total, this is a $25 million dollar investment to promote the state not only as a top tourist destination, but also a top place to live.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With the Star of the North campaign, we are promoting Minnesota’s many offerings to more national and international travelers and future residents than ever before,”</strong> said Explore Minnesota Executive Director Lauren Bennett McGinty. <strong>“Minnesota ranks as one of the healthiest and most livable states in the nation with growing opportunities for job seekers and business owners. With uniquely green urban areas, sparkling lakes, cultural richness, and recreational opportunities, our state has unparalleled experiences for individuals and families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Star of the North campaign builds on the Minnesota story, with the state continuing to place at the top of “Must Experience” travel lists and one of the strongest labor markets continuing to outpace the nation in job growth. From October to November 2023, the state added 9,500 jobs between October and November of 2023, marking the fifth consecutive month of growth, according to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s economy is built on industry-leading companies, thriving small business, high innovation rates, an educated skilled workforce, and a diverse base of industries where there’s room for everyone to thrive. Ranking near the top of all factors important to business and livability, <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/584394">CNBC</a> recently named Minnesota a top-five state for business. According to a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/559353">Wallethub</a> study, the state is a top place to raise a family, making it one of the best places to travel and live long-term.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The new ads will run in 22 states, Washington, D.C., and Canada.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The talent attraction ads will run in:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY (MA-NY-VT)</li> <li>Austin, TX</li> <li>Baltimore, MD</li> <li>Bend, OR</li> <li>Boston, MA (MA-NH-VT)</li> <li>Butte-Bozeman, MT</li> <li>Cheyenne-Scottsbluff, WY (NE-WY)</li> <li>Columbus, OH</li> <li>Denver, CO (CO-NE-WY)</li> <li>Eureka, CA</li> <li>Fort Wayne, IN (IN-OH)</li> <li>Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek, MI</li> <li>Green Bay-Appleton, WI (MI-WI)</li> <li>Hartford-New Haven, CT</li> <li>Kansas City, MO/KS</li> <li>Lafayette, IN</li> <li>Lima, OH</li> <li>Madison, WI</li> <li>Missoula, MT</li> <li>Rockford, IL</li> <li>San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose, CA</li> <li>Santa Barbara-Sanmar, CA</li> <li>Seattle-Tacoma, WA</li> <li>South Bend-Elkhart, IN (IN-MI)</li> <li>Springfield-Holyoke, MA</li> <li>Washington, DC (DC-MD-PA-VA-WV)</li> <li>Zanesville, OH (IN-MI)</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The tourism ads will run in:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Minnesota</li> <li>Iowa</li> <li>Wisconsin</li> <li>Illinois</li> <li>Indiana</li> <li>Ohio</li> <li>Michigan</li> <li>Missouri</li> <li>Nebraska</li> <li>South Dakota</li> <li>North Dakota</li> <li>Montana</li> <li>Wyoming</li> <li>Utah</li> <li>Colorado</li> <li>Winnipeg, Canada</li> <li>Thunder Bay, Canada</li> <li>Dallas, TX</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To view the Star of the North campaign ads and for more information on the campaign, visit <a href="http://www.exploreminnesota.com/"><em>www.exploreminnesota.com</em></a> <em>and</em><a href="http://www.exploreminnesota.com/live"><em>www.exploreminnesota.com/live</em></a> <em>.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>About Explore Minnesota:</strong> Explore Minnesota is the statewide tourism promotion agency for the state of Minnesota. Tourism is a key sector of Minnesota's economy, annually generating $16.6 billion in leisure and hospitality sales and employing nearly 275,000 workers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Explore Minnesota is dedicated to growing the state’s economy through the promotion of tourism, livability, talent attraction and business development. Through innovative marketing, industry partnerships, and unique storytelling, <a href="https://www.exploreminnesota.com/">Explore Minnesota</a> highlights the vitality and diversity of traveling to and living in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>About Explore Minnesota for Business:</strong> Explore Minnesota for Businessis a division of the state’s tourism and marketing office. The division has launched a new campaign aimed at recruiting top talent from across the United States to live and work in Minnesota. By leveraging public and private partnerships, Explore Minnesota for Business works to highlight the vitality, diversity, overall livability and economic opportunity of Minnesota.</p>6109092024-02-28T02:27:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610754" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-26T18:58:27ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill that will adjust standard deduction amounts for tax year 2023. Chapter 76, House File 2757 corrects previous legislation that inadvertently used the 2019 standard deduction amounts instead of the 2023 amounts. The bill ensures that taxpayers will receive standard deductions this filing season that correctly address the inflation that has occurred since 2019.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill that will adjust standard deduction amounts for tax year 2023. <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=HF2757&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 76, House File 2757</a> corrects previous legislation that inadvertently used the 2019 standard deduction amounts instead of the 2023 amounts. The bill ensures that taxpayers will receive standard deductions this filing season that correctly address the inflation that has occurred since 2019.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Under this bill, the standard deduction amount for 2023 will be adjusted to $27,650 for married joint or surviving spouse filers, $20,800 for head of household filers, and $13,825 for all other filers.</p>6107542024-02-26T19:00:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610636" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-23T22:13:01ZGovernor Tim Walz today applauded the federal government’s approval of his request to allow year-round sales of E15, beginning in 2025. This decision applies to eight Midwestern states, including Minnesota. The Governor will continue to push for an E15 waiver for 2024 and urges Congress to take action and pass legislation that would fix the issue nationally.Governor Walz has worked on promotion of biofuels and E15 since his time in Congress1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today applauded the federal government’s approval of his request to allow year-round sales of E15, beginning in 2025. This decision applies to eight Midwestern states, including Minnesota. The Governor will continue to push for an E15 waiver for 2024 and urges Congress to take action and pass legislation that would fix the issue nationally.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Providing year-round sales of E15 is the permanent solution that was needed to provide long-term economic relief and certainty in the fuel market. This action means lower emissions and lower-cost choices for drivers,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful for the Biden Administration’s shared commitment to increasing consumer access to our nation’s homegrown biofuels – and we will continue to urge the White House to grant a waiver for 2024.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In April 2022, <a href="file:///C:/Users/EU01208254/OneDrive%20-%20State%20of%20Minnesota%20-%20MN365/Desktop/Governors%20Letter%20to%20EPA%20on%20RVP%20Waiver%204.28.22.pdf" style="font-family: Verdana;">Governor Walz wrote to EPA Administrator Reagan</a>, requesting a permanent solution allowing the year-round sale of E15.</p>6106362024-02-23T22:14:54Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610614" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-23T20:51:58ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Animal Health, Board of Dentistry, Board of Psychology, and Explore Minnesota Tourism Council.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Animal Health, Board of Dentistry, Board of Psychology, and Explore Minnesota Tourism Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Peggy Anne Hawkins – Northfield, MN  <br /></strong>Board of Animal Health <br /> Licensed Veterinarian <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Animal Health: <br /></em>The Board of Animal Health carries out disease control programs for livestock and poultry by inspecting and testing animals for diseases specified by control and eradication programs and maintains surveillance for specific diseases deemed to be catastrophic or adversely affecting the state’s livestock or human health.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Animal Health can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/17" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Samuel Ankrah – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong>Board of Dentistry <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Ruth Dahl</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ashley Johnson – Brooklyn Park, MN <br /></strong>Board of Dentistry <br /> Dentist <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Dentistry: <br /></em>The Board of Dentistry examines, licenses, and regulates dentists, dental therapists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants and enforces the Minnesota Dental Practices Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Dentistry can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/21" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pamela Freske – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Psychology <br /> Master's Degree Licensed Psychologist <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Jack Rusinoff</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daniel Hurley – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of Psychology <br /> Doctoral Training Program Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Robin McLeod</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sonal Markanda – Shakopee, MN <br /></strong>Board of Psychology <br /> Doctoral Level Licensed Psychologist <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Psychology: <br /></em>The Board of Psychology examines and licenses qualified individuals, establishes license fees, creates and enforces ethical requirements, establishes and approves continuing education programs, educates the public, and facilitates consumer complaints.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Psychology can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/33" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bob Bierscheid – Roseville, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Trails or Trail Association Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ashlee Ciora – Medina, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Golf Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Stephen Dowling</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Justin Graddy – Northfield, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Travel Media Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Cynthya Porter</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Edward Hoffman – Winona, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Southern Minnesota Tourism Region <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marianna Khauv – Monticello, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Lodging Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Larsen – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Tour Operator <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laura Mullen – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Craft Beverage Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mike Schwieters – Crosslake, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Resorts Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Tracy Boldt</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate Setley – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Convention Facility Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Alison Fogarty</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Colleen Smith – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Tourism Business Owners Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sara Soli – Ham Lake, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Sports Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cheyanne St. John – Morton, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Tribal Nations Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laurie Staiger – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Chamber of Commerce Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Maureen Scallen Failor</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heidi Swank – Mendota Heights, MN <br /></strong>Explore Minnesota Tourism Council <br /> Arts and Culture Representative <br /> Effective: February 28, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council: <br /></em>The Explore Minnesota Tourism Council serves the broader interests of tourism in Minnesota by promoting activities that support, maintain, and expand the state's domestic and international travel market.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/60" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6106142024-02-23T22:11:39Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610613" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-23T20:43:16ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The new application deadline is 4:00 pm on March 1, 2024. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-March. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The new application deadline is 4:00 pm on March 1, 2024. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-March.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Please refer to the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/608601" target="_blank">original vacancy announcement</a> issued on February 1, 2024:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Darlene Rivera Spalla and the Honorable Shari R. Schluchter. These seats will be chambered in Mahnomen in Mahnomen County and Bemidji in Beltrami County.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> .</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6106132024-02-23T20:45:27Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610598" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-23T19:25:23ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that Minnesota families have claimed $231 million through the new Child Tax Credit, benefitting 183,000 children. Families have qualified for an average credit of $1,322. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan have visited sites in Alexandria, Duluth, and Saint Paul offering free tax preparation assistance and will continue traveling the state to encourage Minnesotans to file for the new Child Tax Credit.Walz, Flanagan have been traveling across the state to encourage Minnesotans to file for the credit1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan <a name="x__Hlk155796598" id="x__Hlk155796598" />today announced that Minnesota families have claimed $231 million through the new Child Tax Credit, benefitting 183,000 children. Families have qualified for an average credit of $1,322. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan have visited sites in Alexandria, Duluth, and Saint Paul offering free tax preparation assistance and will continue traveling the state to encourage Minnesotans to file for the new Child Tax Credit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The tax credit of up to $1,750 per child is estimated to cut child poverty by up to one third in Minnesota. Nearly 300,000 households, including 513,000 children, are estimated to qualify for the credit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are seeing the benefits of investing in kids and families in real time as middle class Minnesotans across the state receive thousands of dollars to help cover life’s expenses,”</strong> said Governor Walz <strong>. “Our Child Tax Credit is helping families and children right now, while also making an investment that will pay off for generations.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am so excited to see the numbers grow as more and more families take advantage of the Child Tax Credit. We have committed to making Minnesota the best state in the country to raise a family and this credit is helping us do just that,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Life happens, and</strong> <strong>whether it’s paying for child care, covering an emergency medical bill, or putting food on the table, we want to help Minnesotans land on their feet. That means ensuring 100 percent of eligible families access these dollars. We will continue working with our community partners to spread the word and help lower costs for Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans can now claim the Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child, with no limit on the number of children claimed. You must file a 2023 individual income tax return in order to claim the credit. Most taxpayers who are eligible to claim the new Child Tax Credit are also eligible for free tax preparation assistance. Learn more about income requirements and qualifications on the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit">Child Tax Credit webpage</a> . </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over 170 sites offering free tax preparation assistance are now open to help those filing income tax and property tax refund returns. Sites are staffed by certified volunteers and offer in-person and virtual options with most being open through April 15. To recognize volunteers for their service to their communities, Governor Walz also proclaimed February as Volunteer Tax Preparer Appreciation Month.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>About free tax preparation sites</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last year, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and AARP programs prepared almost 49,000 federal tax returns, more than 49,000 Minnesota income tax returns, and nearly 38,000 property tax refund returns for Minnesota taxpayers. All those returns provided over $96 million in federal, state income, and property tax refunds.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Free tax preparation criteria <br /></strong>Minnesotans can get help at a VITA site if any of the following apply:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>You are age 60 or older.</li> <li>You are a person with a disability.</li> <li>You speak limited or no English.</li> <li>Your annual income is less than $64,000.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The AARP Tax-Aide program offers free tax preparation for all Minnesotans, particularly those age 50 or older. Unlike VITA sites, AARP Tax-Aide sites do not have income restrictions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans can <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/free-tax-preparation-sites" target="_blank">search for a site</a> on the department’s website using their search feature and interactive map. Visit the Department of Revenue website for a list of <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/2022-12/what%20to%20bring%20english.pdf" target="_blank">suggested items to bring to a tax preparation site</a> , including a photo ID, W-2 information, banking information for direct deposit, and other applicable items.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Free electronic filing is also available for Minnesotans with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $79,000 or less. To see if you are eligible for free electronic filing, see the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/electronic-filing-software-individuals" target="_blank">Electronic Filing Software for Individuals</a> page on the department’s website.</p>6105982024-02-23T19:27:09Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610487" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-22T21:11:45ZToday, Governor Tim Walz co-chaired the Council of Governors meeting in Washington, D.C. The meeting focused on the progress made on issues of cybersecurity, emergency management and disaster response, issues impacting the Air and Army National Guard, workforce matters, and strategic defense budget trends.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, Governor Tim Walz co-chaired the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nga.org%2Fcog%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cf846e05e407d4c0f581208dc33e8ad07%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638442321673523991%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=RQChReIX5cJx6kvMr8M6ya9vyirWk%2BQss3bacscGrV4%3D&amp;reserved=0">Council of Governors</a> meeting in Washington, D.C. The meeting focused on the progress made on issues of cybersecurity, emergency management and disaster response, issues impacting the Air and Army National Guard, workforce matters, and strategic defense budget trends.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It was an honor to convene the bipartisan Council of Governors meeting today and discuss how we can work together to advance our common interests in homeland security and emergency management,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with my fellow governors and leaders across the federal government to advance the safety and security of each of our states.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The President’s bipartisan Council of Governors was required by the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008, and established by Presidential executive order in January 2010, as a forum for governors to exchange views, information, or advice with the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of Homeland Security, and the White House Homeland Security Council on matters involving the National Guard, homeland defense, civil support, and other matters of mutual interest pertaining to National Guard, homeland defense, and civil support activities. Governor Walz, a 24-year veteran of the Army National Guard, was appointed by the President in 2021 to lead the council along with co-chair Vermont Governor Phil Scott. Walz was first appointed to the council in 2019.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 28th plenary meeting was attended by leaders across the federal government: the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Deputy Secretary of Defense, the Assistant Secretary for Homeland Defense and Hemispheric Affairs, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, the Commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command and United States Northern Command General, the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Executive Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the Deputy Commandant of Operations for the Coast Guard, the President’s Deputy Homeland Security Advisor, and the Assistant to the President and Director of Intergovernmental Affairs.</p>6104872024-02-23T15:14:45Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610486" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-22T21:08:04ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Michael S. Jesse. This seat will be chambered in Foley in Benton County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Michael S. Jesse. This seat will be chambered in Foley in Benton County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on March 14, 2024 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter. The commission expects to hold interviews in early April.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Seventh Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6104862024-02-22T21:10:44Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610317" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-21T19:51:15ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of James Rowader as executive director of the Cannabis Expungement Board. Rowader will start as executive director on March 25. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of James Rowader as executive director of the Cannabis Expungement Board. Rowader will start as executive director on March 25.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m proud to appoint James Rowader as executive director of the Cannabis Expungement Board,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The board will play a critical role in addressing and reducing disparities in our criminal justice system. Rowader has demonstrated leadership and legal talent across public, private, and nonprofit sectors, and I’m confident in his ability to lead this work.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m excited that James Rowader will lead the state’s work to expunge cannabis convictions,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“With his leadership, we will work to bring justice to Minnesotans and eliminate disparities that have carried on for far too long.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored and humbled to be appointed by Governor Walz as the Executive Director of the Cannabis Expungement Board,”</strong> said James Rowader.<strong>“</strong> <strong>Throughout my career, I have been focused on supporting efforts to reduce and eliminate racial and ethnic disparities in the employment space and criminal justice system. I am truly excited to apply my leadership experiences and continue to do meaningful and impactful work to address these disparities as the inaugural leader of this important organization dedicated to the review of cannabis felonies for expungement or resentencing. I am thankful to the Governor for this unique and important opportunity.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About James Rowader <br /></em> James Rowader is the director of people and culture for the American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota (ACLU-MN). He previously served as the city attorney for the City of Minneapolis. Prior to public service, Rowader spent the bulk of his career with Target Corporation, rising to vice president and general counsel for employee and labor relations. Rowader has served on the boards of the Minnesota Justice Research Center, Minnesota Hispanic Bar Association, ACLU-MN, and the Minnesota United Soccer Association. He earned his B.A. from the University of Illinois and J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Cannabis Expungement Board</em> <br /> The Cannabis Expungement Board was created to review eligible felony and misdemeanor-level cannabis-related conviction or stay of adjudication records and determine eligibility for expungement or resentencing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information about Cannabis Expungement Board can be found <a href="https://mn.gov/ceb/">here</a> .</p>6103172024-02-21T19:54:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610199" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-20T22:00:02ZOn Tuesday, February 20, 2024, Governor Tim Walz visited students at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minnesota to recognize Career and Technical Education Month. Photos from the visit can be found here. Last week, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan visited Minneapolis Technical and Community College to also celebrate the month and highlight the demand for technical careers in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – On Tuesday, February 20, 2024, Governor Tim Walz visited students at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minnesota to recognize Career and Technical Education Month. Photos from the visit can be found here. Last week, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan visited Minneapolis Technical and Community College to also celebrate the month and highlight the demand for technical careers in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our community and technical colleges are the foundation of Minnesota’s economic future,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m proud to celebrate the sophisticated job training and incredible education happening at campuses across Minnesota and thank the educators who are dedicated to empowering students to enter into high-demand, good-paying careers in rapidly growing industries like manufacturing.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Whether it’s repairing HVAC systems, welding, or preparing for a career in the culinary industry, career and technical education is crucial to providing opportunities for every Minnesotan to thrive,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am grateful for all the technical and community colleges who are helping fill the gaps in our workforce and providing every student with an exciting, individualized pathway to success.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last year, Governor Walz signed into law the <a href="https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/sPages/northstarpromise.cfm">North Star Promise Scholarship Program</a> to create tuition and fee-free pathway to higher education for eligible Minnesota residents at Minnesota State colleges and universities. This scholarship serves as a “last-dollar” program by covering the balance of tuition and fees remaining after other scholarships, grants, stipends, and waivers for families with a household income below $80,000. This program will impact 15,000 to 20,000 students in the 2024-25 academic year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additionally, last fall, Governor Walz signed an <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/597989">executive order</a> eliminating college degree requirements for over 75% of state government jobs. The executive order opens job opportunities for more people and makes it easier for people in Minnesota to choose state service.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In October, Governor Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) launched the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/596116">Drive for 5 Workforce Initiative</a> , a major new effort to prepare more Minnesotans for high-demand jobs in five occupational categories: technology, the trades, caring professions, manufacturing, and education. The Drive for 5 initiative is part of a slate of historic workforce development investments Governor Walz secured during the last legislative session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz also allocated more than $216.5 million for DEED’s Employment and Training Programs over the next two years, including $20 million for Drive for 5 and $50 million to support workforce development in historically overlooked communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s economy added more than 50,000 jobs over the past year, and more than 185,000 jobs remain open in Minnesota as employers try to find enough workers to fill these vacancies. Job demand over the past two years was at or near record highs in every region of the state and in most industries, with many openings providing opportunities for career growth and family-sustaining wages.</p>6101992024-02-20T22:01:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610106" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-19T00:57:43ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota starting sunrise on Monday, February 19, 2024, to honor the lives of two police officers and a firefighter/paramedic who lost their lives in the line of duty. Burnsville Police Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, and Burnsville Firefighter/Paramedic Adam Finseth were among the team who responded to reports of a domestic situation reported in the early morning of February 18. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota starting sunrise on Monday, February 19, 2024, to honor the lives of two police officers and a firefighter/paramedic who lost their lives in the line of duty. Burnsville Police Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, and Burnsville Firefighter/Paramedic Adam Finseth were among the team who responded to reports of a domestic situation reported in the early morning of February 18.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We must never take for granted the bravery and sacrifices our first responders make each and every day,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“It is with deepest gratitude that the State of Minnesota recognizes Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, and Firefighter Adam Finseth for their dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, their fellow Minnesotans. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends, and community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6101062024-02-19T00:59:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610099" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-18T17:04:59ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released statements following news that two police officers and a firefighter lost their lives, and other officers were injured, responding to a call in Burnsville today.1055<p style="text-align: left;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released statements following news that two police officers and a firefighter lost their lives, and other officers were injured, responding to a call in Burnsville today.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Statement from Governor Walz:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We received horrific news from Burnsville this morning. While responding to a call of a family in danger, two police officers and one firefighter lost their lives, and other officers were injured.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We must never take for granted the bravery and sacrifices our first responders make each and every day. Today, the families of these public servants received the call they knew was possible but hoped would never come. My heart is with those grieving families – the State of Minnesota stands ready to support in any way we can. This is a tragic loss for our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our Department of Public Safety is coordinating with local law enforcement to conduct an investigation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Statement from Lieutenant Governor Flanagan:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“There are no words to describe a loss of this magnitude to our Burnsville and first responder community,”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The tragedies that unfolded this morning are every family’s worst nightmare, yet our first responders stay selflessly committed to keeping Minnesotans safe every day. I am immensely grateful for the sacrifices and service of our police officers, firefighters, and medics, and my heart is heavy with grief for the three heroes we lost today.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz will order flags at half staff beginning tomorrow, Monday, February 19 at sunrise.</p>6100992024-02-18T17:08:00Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610071" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-16T19:58:19ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Cannabis Expungement Board, Destination Medical Center Corporation, Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council, Psychedelic Medicine Task Force, and State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Cannabis Expungement Board, Destination Medical Center Corporation, Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council, Psychedelic Medicine Task Force, and State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amanda Brodhag – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong> Cannabis Expungement Board <br /> Public Defender Member <br /> Effective: February 21, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rebecca St. George – Duluth, MN <br /></strong> Cannabis Expungement Board <br /> Public Member with Relevant Experience as an Advocate for Victims’ Rights <br /> Effective: February 21, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Cannabis Expungement Board: <br /></em> The Cannabis Expungement Board determines whether a person’s cannabis conviction should be vacated, charges dismissed, and records expunged, or whether the person should be resentenced to a lesser offense.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Cannabis Expungement Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/325" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>R.T. Rybak – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong> Destination Medical Center Corporation <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 21, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pamela Wheelock – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong> Destination Medical Center Corporation <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 21, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Destination Medical Center Corporation: <br /></em> The Destination Medical Center Corporation implements a master development plan to promote and provide for establishing Rochester as a world destination medical center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Destination Medical Center Corporation can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/204" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy McNally – Edina, MN <br /></strong> Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Oncologist Not Employed by, Under Contract with, or Otherwise Affiliated with a Hospital <br /> Effective: February 21, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joe Sellwood – Mahtomedi, MN <br /></strong> Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Generic Drug Manufacturers <br /> Effective: February 21, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council: <br /></em> The Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council advises the Prescription Drug Affordability Board on drug cost issues.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/351" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Donovan Sather – Bemidji, MN <br /></strong> Psychedelic Medicine Task Force <br /> Member Representing the Ojibwe Tribes <br /> Effective: February 21, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Psychedelic Medicine Task Force: <br /></em> The Psychedelic Medicine Task Force advises the legislature on the legal, medical, and policy issues associated with the legalization of psychedelic medicine, including 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), psilocybin, and LSD.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Psychedelic Medicine Task Force can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/312" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alfreda Daniels – Brooklyn Center, MN <br /></strong> State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: February 21, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Molly Jannetta – Duluth, MN <br /></strong> State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: February 21, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense: <br /></em> The State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense approves and recommends a budget to the legislature and establishes procedures for distribution of state funding to the board, the Office of State Public Defender, the judicial district public defenders, and the public defense corporations. It also appoints the state public defender and each judicial district’s chief public defender.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6100712024-02-16T20:06:07Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610070" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-16T19:45:36ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Richard C. Ilkka. This seat will be chambered in Stillwater in Washington County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Richard C. Ilkka. This seat will be chambered in Stillwater in Washington County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tricia Loehr:</strong> Tricia Loehr is an assistant county attorney in the Washington County Attorney’s Office, where she handles juvenile delinquency and child protection matters. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office and a law clerk for the Honorable Edward Lynch in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. She is the chair of Washington County Attorney’s Office diversity, equity, and inclusion work group and leads the Washington County multidisciplinary team for sexually trafficked and exploited individuals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heather Pipenhagen:</strong> Heather Pipenhagen is an assistant county attorney in the Dakota County Attorney’s Office, where she handles criminal appeals and civil commitment matters. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Washington County Attorney’s Office and a law clerk to the Honorable Herbert Lefler in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Her community involvement includes serving as a member of the Scandia City Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Viet-Hanh Winchell:</strong> Viet-Hanh Winchell is a solo practitioner at United Rivers Law Firm PLLC, where she represents clients in a broad range of criminal and civil matters. She also serves as court appointed counsel for parents in child protection cases and as a neutral in alternative dispute resolution matters. Winchell was previously a shareholder at Galowitz Olson, PLLC. Her community involvement includes volunteering with the Stonebridge Elementary Parent Teacher Association, providing pro bono legal services and serving on the advisory board of the Tubman Safety Project, and serving as a member on the Washington County Children’s Justice Initiative. Winchell also serves as a member and MSBA alternative representative for the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association, and she is the former president of the Washington County Bar Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6100702024-02-16T19:48:23Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-610017" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-16T16:28:53ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the newly-opened Bemidji Veterans Home admitted its first resident – a Minnesota veteran who signed up for the Air Force when he was 19 years old and served for more than two decades. The Bemidji Veterans Home marks the third opening of three new homes across the state in the last six weeks. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] - Governor Tim Walz today announced that the newly-opened Bemidji Veterans Home admitted its first resident – a Minnesota veteran who signed up for the Air Force when he was 19 years old and served for more than two decades. The Bemidji Veterans Home marks the third opening of three new homes across the state in the last six weeks. Preston and Montevideo also saw the opening of new homes in their communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are excited to announce the opening of Minnesota’s newest veterans home in Bemidji. This opening highlights the work being done to continue the expansion of services and increase the quality of life for our veterans,”</strong> said Governor Walz <strong>. “Providing our highest support for those who have sacrificed for our state and country is a priority and the opening of this facility represents another step in ensuring our veterans have a safe and stable place to call home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“MDVA is honored to open this third of three new veterans homes across the state in the last six weeks,”</strong> said MDVA Commissioner Brad Lindsay. <strong>“As our 294,000 Minnesota veterans age, it is more important than ever that we can care for them in their final years.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Resort owner, dancer, karaoke singer and world-traveler Jim Larson – who retired from the military in 1974 – turns 90 in May. He is the very first Resident admitted to the Bemidji Veterans Home. Larson had worked on farms before he volunteered for service in the 1950s.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Larson expressed excitement for his move. <strong>“No one likes to leave their home,”</strong> Larson said. <strong>“But there are times when you have to move forward. I feel like I’m one of the luckiest people alive. I’ve visited a lot of people in nursing homes. This place is more like home. The people here treat you like family.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The home came to fruition after more than a decade of local advocacy and planning and two years of construction.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">During the next few weeks, the home will continue to admit new residents, up to a total of 24. The home must then successfully complete a recognition survey from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (Federal VA). The survey is expected to take place later this spring.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Once that federal VA survey is completed, the home will continue to admit additional residents and hire the remaining staff required to care for a full facility. The home will also be pursuing its certification with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in the first year of operation. Minnesota Veterans Homes are surveyed by both the Minnesota Department of Health on behalf of CMS and the federal VA. Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) leaders look forward to achieving certification from these regulatory agencies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">While the Bemidji Veterans Home has hired most staff needed for the first month of operation, additional employees will be needed as more residents are admitted. To learn about employment opportunities, visit <a href="https://mn.gov/mdva/about/work-for-mdva/">MinnesotaVeteran.org/Careers</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Groundbreaking for the Bemidji Veterans Home took place in August 2021 for the 72-bed skilled nursing facility located at 920 Anne Street N.W <em>.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To be accepted for admission, residents must be:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Discharged under honorable conditions from any branch of the U.S. armed forces and a current resident of Minnesota, who served 181 consecutive days on active duty, unless discharged earlier because of disability incurred in the line of duty.</li> <li>The spouse of an eligible veteran who is at least 55 years old and meets residency requirements.</li> <li>Able to demonstrate a medical or clinical need for skilled nursing care.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information, visit the MDVA website at <a href="https://mn.gov/mdva/homes/futurehomes/">MinnesotaVeteran.org/Homes</a> .</p>6100172024-02-16T16:33:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-609875" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-14T17:11:57ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released statements congratulating Minnesota State Patrol Col. Matt Langer on an outstanding career and wishing him well in his next role. After serving the Minnesota State Patrol for nearly 25 years, Col. Matt Langer announced today he is leaving the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to take a new role as Director of Global Policing with the International Association of Chiefs of Police.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released statements congratulating Minnesota State Patrol Col. Matt Langer on an outstanding career and wishing him well in his next role. After serving the Minnesota State Patrol for nearly 25 years, Col. Matt Langer announced today he is leaving the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to take a new role as Director of Global Policing with the International Association of Chiefs of Police.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Col. Matt Langer’s dedication, compassion, and commitment to Minnesotans will leave a lasting impact on our state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“He has been my first phone call during incredible challenges, and has been by our side to celebrate major accomplishments, including passage of the hands-free bill and making Minnesota’s roads among the safest in the country. I wish him the very best of luck and am excited to follow his successes in this new role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is undoubtably a safer, better state because of Col. Matt Langer,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Col. Langer leads with grace, compassion, and kindness, all while prioritizing the wellbeing of Minnesotans and duties of the State Patrol. I will forever be grateful for his dedication to our state and the permanent, positive impact he has made on millions of lives. I know Col. Langer will continue to succeed in his career and wish him the very best.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Col. Langer began his career with the State Patrol in 1999, where he developed an appreciation for the organization and discovered a passion for traffic safety. He worked his way through the ranks and has been the State Patrol’s chief for the past 10 years.</p>6098752024-02-14T17:15:31Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-609797" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-13T21:40:45Z Governor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in the Minnesota House of Representatives for House District 27B in Anoka, Isanti, Mille Lacs, and Sherburne Counties after the resignation of State Representative Kurt Daudt. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in the Minnesota House of Representatives for House District 27B in Anoka, Isanti, Mille Lacs, and Sherburne Counties after the resignation of State Representative Kurt Daudt. A special election to fill the vacancy will be held on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. A special primary, if necessary, will be held on Thursday, February 29, 2024. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions for District 27B must be filed with the Secretary of State or the county auditor of Anoka, Isanti, Mille Lacs, and Sherburne Counties from Wednesday, February 14, 2024, until 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 15, 2024.</p>6097972024-02-13T21:42:01Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-609514" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-09T22:27:40ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Food Safety and Defense Task Force, Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council, and Technology Advisory Council. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Food Safety and Defense Task Force, Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council, and Technology Advisory Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Derick Davis – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong>Food Safety and Defense Task Force <br /> Cybersecurity Representative <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Luke Meier – Mayer, MN <br /></strong>Food Safety and Defense Task Force <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Michelle Rossman</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erin Mertz – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Food Safety and Defense Task Force <br /> Minnesota-based Manufacturer of Microbial Detection Equipment <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2027 <br /> Replacing: John Hilgren</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Food Safety and Defense Task Force: <br /></em>The Food Safety and Defense Task Force advises the commissioner of agriculture and the legislature on food issues and food safety.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Food Safety and Defense Task Force can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/61" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heather Anderson – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Health Care Providers <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Galen Benshoof – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Government Employee Benefit Plans <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rae Blaylark – Robbinsdale, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Rare Disease Advisory Council Member <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kevin Brown – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Small Employers <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joel Farley – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Health Services Clinical Researcher Member <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stefan Gildemeister – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing the Commissioner of Health, with Expertise in Health Economics <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Randall Hanna – Eagan, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Health Plan Companies <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hubert Humphrey – Plymouth, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Pharmaceutical Wholesalers <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Intermill – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Patients and Health Care Consumers <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dirk Killelea – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Health Care Providers <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Miller – Prior Lake, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Patients and Health Care Consumers <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Josh Ney – St. Louis Park, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Pharmaceutical Manufacturers <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaron Sapp – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Pharmacologist Member <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hannah Thompson – Prior Lake, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Pharmacy Benefit Managers <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eric Tichy – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Pharmaceutical Distributors <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gary Wertish – Renville, MN <br /></strong>Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council <br /> Member Representing Large Employers <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council: <br /></em>The Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council advises the Prescription Drug Affordability Board on drug cost issues.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Prescription Drug Affordability Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/351" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shireen Gandhi – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Technology Advisory Council <br /> State Agency Business Planning Member <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rick King – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Technology Advisory Council <br /> Private Business Representative <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Timothy Lynaugh – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Technology Advisory Council <br /> State Agency Business Planning Member <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katie Smith – Little Canada, MN <br /></strong>Technology Advisory Council <br /> State Agency Business Planning Member <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Axelina Swenson – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Technology Advisory Council <br /> Representative of a Union Representing State IT Employees <br /> Effective: February 14, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Kassie Church</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Technology Advisory Council: <br /></em>The Technology Advisory Council advises the state on the development and implementation of IT in private and public institutions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Technology Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/187" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6095142024-02-09T22:35:13Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-609461" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-09T20:49:53ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that they have selected Lisa Harrison-Hadler to serve as the Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that they have selected Lisa Harrison-Hadler to serve as the Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am pleased to select Lisa Harrison-Hadler as the Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Lisa has extensive experience serving and advocating for compassionate care, treatment, and justice for all Minnesotans. She is well prepared to take on this role, and I’m grateful for her continued leadership and state service.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Lisa Harrison-Hadler is a true servant leader who is dedicated to protecting the rights of all Minnesotans,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“By advocating for the dignity, fair treatment, and inclusion of all Minnesotans, she is making our state better for everyone. I look forward to working with her.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am deeply honored to be appointed Ombudsman,” </strong>said Harrison-Hadler. <strong>“While our previous ombudsman’s time at the agency was far too brief due to his tragic passing, I look forward to carrying forward the critical work that he did at OMHDD on behalf of our clients and stakeholders. The office’s complaint investigation and resolution services, review of deaths and serious injuries, public reports, and advocacy to improve the service system are essential elements of Minnesota’s disability services landscape. I am excited to support and lead our passionate and dedicated staff in protecting and promoting the rights, justice, inclusion, and informed choice of our clients.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Lisa Harrison-Hadler <br /></em>Lisa is the Deputy Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities and has been leading the agency during the appointment process. Previously, she was the Regional Ombudsman for Southeast Minnesota and the Southwest Metro. Prior to joining the Office of Ombudsman in 2012, she worked as the community advocacy and development manager, independent living manager, and independent living coordinator with the Southeastern Minnesota Center for Independent Living. Lisa earned her B.A. in psychology from the University of Wisconsin, Stout. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Office of Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities <br /></em><em>T</em>he Office of Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities (OMHDD) protects the rights of Minnesotans through individual and systemic advocacy. OMHDD is charged with promoting the highest attainable standards of treatment, competence, efficiency, and justice for persons receiving services for mental illness, developmental disabilities, chemical dependency, or emotional disturbance. OMHDD oversees work done by state agencies, local school districts, and county social service agencies that monitor, provide, or regulate services or treatment to clients. OMHDD also oversees work done by programs and facilities licensed, registered, or certified by the Department of Human Services or Minnesota Department of Health providing services for mental health, developmental disabilities, chemical dependency, and emotional disturbance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information about OMHDD can be found at <a href="https://mn.gov/omhdd/about-us/" target="_blank">https://mn.gov/omhdd/about-us/</a>.</p>6094612024-02-09T20:54:09Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-609433" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-09T19:07:54ZGovernor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for St. Louis County due to damage caused by heavy rain and flooding from September 23-25.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for St. Louis County due to damage caused by heavy rain and flooding from September 23-25.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s emergency management team coordinates year-round with local counties to address damages caused by severe weather,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The state stands ready to deliver assistance and help communities recover from unexpected severe weather events.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">From September 23-25, St. Louis County experienced significant damage to public infrastructure caused by heavy rain and flooding.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather events, impacts to outdated infrastructure and roadways have caused millions of dollars in damages statewide. Collaborative emergency planning at all levels of government and investments in infrastructure are critical to safeguarding against future damage.</p>6094332024-02-09T19:08:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-609394" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-09T18:44:45ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced their support for a legislative package to ease the burden of medical debt on Minnesotans. The provisions are part of the Minnesota Debt Fairness Agenda, which Attorney General Keith Ellison has developed with stakeholders over the last several months and which will soon be introduced by Sen. Liz Boldon and Rep. Liz Reyer. Minnesota Debt Fairness Act developed by Attorney General Ellison includes provisions to ban medical debt from affecting someone’s credit score and cut interest on medical debt1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced their support for a legislative package to ease the burden of medical debt on Minnesotans. The provisions are part of the Minnesota Debt Fairness Agenda, which Attorney General Keith Ellison has developed with stakeholders over the last several months and which will soon be introduced by Sen. Liz Boldon and Rep. Liz Reyer.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Act’s provisions concerning medical debt include banning medical debt from affecting someone’s credit score and cutting interest on medical debts from 8 to 0 percent. One in 10 U.S. adults owes at least $250 in medical debt.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“There’s no way to predict a trip to the emergency room. I’m proud to support this legislation to help Minnesotans manage the unpredictable financial burden of medical care that can wipe out everything from your credit score to your savings account,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This plan will lower costs, help Minnesotans manage their medical debt, and protect them in their most challenging moments.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Medical debt is one of the most common barriers to financial security for families. As a mother and daughter who cared for my parents as they aged, I know these costs add up fast,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I’m proud to support a proposal that will protect Minnesotans and lift financial burdens off families’ shoulders. This proposal is about helping families save money, build wealth, and feel secure in their day to day lives.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"People rarely have a choice about taking on medical debt. Minnesotans trying to catch up with their medical debts should be able to do so without being exploited or pulled into poverty,"</strong> said Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. <strong>"This plan will strengthen protections for people dealing with medical debt and make it fairer, easier, and more dignified for Minnesotans to gain their financial footing and not get trapped in an unfair, vicious cycle."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Debt Fairness Act would: <br /> • Ban medical debt from being reported to credit bureaus <br /> • Reduce interest on medical debts from 8 to 0 percent <br /> • Ban the withholding of medical services due to unpaid debt <br /> • Remove all medical debt creditors’ ability to intercept tax refunds through revenue recapture <br /> • Repeal statutory liability for one’s spouse’s medical debt <br /> • Require insurers to count copay assistance paid on behalf of a patient to count towards their annual deductible and out-of-pocket limits <br /> • Prohibit charging patients fees for coding errors</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Every Minnesotan should be able to get the care that they need without fear of facing devastating debt or bankruptcy. In my work as a practicing nurse, I hear from patients far too often that this is not the reality for many, in part because of predatory debt collection practices that put profits over people,”</strong> said Sen. Boldon. <strong>“I’m proud to author this legislation alongside Rep. Reyer and in partnership with the Attorney General’s Office, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues this session to protect the financial well-being of Minnesota families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Medical debt is one of the most widespread and devastating facts of life in our current health care system, but it doesn’t have to be,”</strong> said Rep. Reyer. <strong>“These pieces of legislation take an important step to protect patients and their families from debt and help them experience economic stability."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2023, the Access to Justice Committee of the Minnesota State Bar Association released a comprehensive report on debt-collection lawsuits across the state. The report reveals that debt-collection cases dominate Minnesota civil courts and that confusing policies can be burdensome for the many Minnesotans without legal counsel. It also finds that 82 percent of debt lawsuits filed in district courts end in an automatic win for the plaintiff, which leads to court-authorized garnishment of wages and bank accounts, and that there exist significant disparities in race and income, with Black, Latino/a, and low-income Minnesotans more likely to be sued.</p>6093942024-02-09T19:00:35Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-609228" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-08T21:28:52ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that nearly 90,000 Minnesota children are benefitting from Minnesota’s new Child Tax Credit in just the first two weeks of tax filing season. To date, 89,000 children have qualified for the credit with families receiving an average credit of $1373, for a total of $116 million in tax credits. Walz, Flanagan are traveling the state to encourage Minnesotans to file for the credit1055<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <p>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan <a name="x__Hlk155796598" id="x__Hlk155796598" />today announced that nearly 90,000 Minnesota children are benefitting from Minnesota’s new Child Tax Credit in just the first two weeks of tax filing season. To date, 89,000 children have qualified for the credit with families receiving an average credit of $1373, for a total of $116 million in tax credits. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan today visited sites in Alexandria and Duluth offering free tax preparation assistance to encourage Minnesotans to file for the new Child Tax Credit.</p> <p>The tax credit of up to $1750 per child is estimated to cut child poverty by up to one third in Minnesota. Nearly 300,000 households including 513,000 children are estimated to qualify for the credit.</p> <p><strong>“Millions of dollars are going back into the pockets of families through our new child tax credit to help with grocery bills, child care, and life expenses,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m excited to see the benefits middle class families are seeing from this legislation. By giving families with kids a boost, we’re helping families in the here and now and setting kids up for future success. This is an investment that will pay off for generations.”</strong></p> <p><strong>“Two weeks into tax season, we’re seeing our Child Tax Credit have an outstanding impact on families across the state,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Whether it’s child care, a flat tire, or an emergency medical bill, we’re helping Minnesotans land on their feet when life happens. We will continue working with our community partners to spread the word and help eligible families claim the credit.”</strong></p> <p>Minnesotans can now claim the Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child, with no limit on the number of children claimed. Minnesotans must file a 2023 individual income tax return in order to claim the credit. Most taxpayers who are eligible to claim the new Child Tax Credit are also eligible for free tax preparation assistance. Learn more about income requirements and qualifications on the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit">Child Tax Credit webpage</a> . </p> <p>Over 170 sites offering free tax preparation assistance are now open to help those filing income tax and property tax refund returns. Sites are staffed by certified volunteers and offer in-person and virtual options with most being open through April 15. To recognize volunteers for their service to their communities, Governor Walz also proclaimed February as Volunteer Tax Preparer Appreciation Month.</p> <p><strong>About free tax preparation sites <br /></strong> Last year, the VITA and AARP TCE programs prepared almost 49,000 federal tax returns, more than 49,000 Minnesota income tax returns, and nearly 38,000 property tax refund returns for Minnesota taxpayers. All those returns provided over $96 million in federal, state income, and property tax refunds.</p> <p><strong>Free tax preparation criteria <br /></strong> Minnesotans can get help at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site if any of the following apply:</p> <ul> <li>You are age 60 or older.</li> <li>You are a person with a disability.</li> <li>You speak limited or no English.</li> <li>Your annual income is less than $64,000.</li> </ul> <p>The AARP Tax-Aide program offers free tax preparation for all Minnesotans, particularly those age 50 or older. Unlike VITA sites, AARP Tax-Aide sites do not have income restrictions.</p> <p>Minnesotans can <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/free-tax-preparation-sites" target="_blank">search for a site</a> on the department’s website using their search feature and interactive map. Visit the Department of Revenue website for a list of <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/2022-12/what%20to%20bring%20english.pdf" target="_blank">suggested items to bring to a tax preparation site</a>, including a photo ID, W-2 information, banking information for direct deposit, and other applicable items.</p> <p>Free electronic filing is also available for Minnesotans with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $79,000 or less. To see if you are eligible for free electronic filing, see the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/electronic-filing-software-individuals" target="_blank" style="font-family: Verdana;">Electronic Filing Software for Individuals</a> page on the department’s website.</p> </div>6092282024-02-08T21:33:47Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-609109" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-07T23:15:37ZGovernor Tim Walz today released a statement celebrating the Attorney General’s settlement with Eli Lilly that caps the monthly out-of-pocket cost of insulin at $35 for all Minnesotans with or without insurance.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today released a statement celebrating the Attorney General’s settlement with Eli Lilly that caps the monthly out-of-pocket cost of insulin at $35 for all Minnesotans with or without insurance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This settlement is welcome news for Minnesotans – no one should be priced out of life-saving medicine. Four years ago, I signed the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act into law to provide relief to Minnesotans struggling to afford their insulin and now we’re holding Big Pharma accountable,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am grateful to the Attorney General for his work to lower costs and make life easier for Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In April 2020, Governor Walz signed the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act into law to provide relief to Minnesotans struggling to afford their insulin. With the price of insulin tripling over the past 10 years, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan worked tirelessly with insulin advocates to call attention to this urgent issue, keep up the pressure, and get the bill passed through the legislature.</p>6091092024-02-07T23:17:04Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-609079" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-07T20:31:39ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced more than $7.8 million in funding for seven business expansion projects statewide. The projects are expected to support 719 jobs and leverage more than $169 million in outside investment.Seven projects will create over 700 jobs with support from DEED’s Job Creation Fund and Minnesota Investment Fund 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced more than $7.8 million in funding for seven business expansion projects statewide. The projects are expected to support 719 jobs and leverage more than $169 million in outside investment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is proud to be a top state to start and grow a business,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By supporting business expansion, we’re helping businesses create good-paying jobs for Minnesotans. We are committed to supporting our businesses and investing in communities across the state, whether through business expansion, grants for entrepreneurs, or child care.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s economy continues to grow, with six straight months of net job growth and businesses investing and expanding,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“DEED’s Job Creation and Minnesota Investment funds are just two examples of how DEED is delivering for Minnesotans and supporting the growth of the businesses that operate here.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Job Creation Fund and Minnesota Investment Fund are important programs that stimulate economic investment across the state,”</strong> said DEED Deputy Commissioner Kevin McKinnon. <strong>“By awarding funding that supports job creation and retention and increases local tax bases, these tools provide necessary support for the economic vitality and prosperity of Minnesota’s communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/mn-jcf/" target="_blank">Job Creation Fund</a> provides financial incentives to new and expanding businesses that meet certain job creation and capital investment targets. Eligible companies may receive up to $2 million for creating or retaining high-paying jobs and for constructing or renovating facilities or making other property improvements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/mif/" target="_blank">Minnesota Investment Fund</a> provides financing to help add new workers and retain high-quality jobs – with a focus on industrial, manufacturing, and technology-related industries – increasing the local and state tax base and improving Minnesota's economic vitality. Funds are awarded to local units of government, which provide loans to assist expanding businesses. Some of the loans may be forgiven if specific goals are met.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Details on individual projects below:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>George Modular Innovation Solutions LLC, Minneapolis — JCF $756,816, MIF $3,000,000</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">George Modular Innovation Solutions, LLC is a volumetric modular manufacturing company that utilizes an advanced design and engineered approach to produce precise-built, steel modular units for on-site assembly of permanent, multi-story buildings. The total project cost is $30.2 million and will cover the expansion and site improvement of its building, as well as additional machinery, equipment, and property acquisition costs. The project is expected to create 166 jobs over three years at an average wage of $33.13 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>L&amp;M Supply, Inc., Grand Rapids — JCF $790,000, MIF $2,000,000</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">L&amp;M Supply, Inc., is a retail company specializing in farm and home products with 12 stores located across northern Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan. This project will constitute a new 210,000-square-foot distribution center in Grand Rapids, with the ability to add additional space in years to come. The total project cost is $55.6 million and is expected to create 31 new jobs over the next three years, at an average wage of $21.42 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Northstar Lime LLC, Crookston — MIF $430,000</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Northstar Lime LLC converts spent lime produced by American Crystal Sugar Company (ACSC) into pellets, with the goal to improve the ability to transport and apply the product as a soil amendment to low-PH soils more readily. This process also works to eliminate ACSC’s need to build additional landfill space. The proposed project will finance the purchase of a reactor that burns biomass into sequestered carbon called Biochar. The project is expected to cost more than $10 million and will create 21 jobs over the next two years at an average hourly wage of $28.33.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>nVent, Anoka — JCF $175,000, MIF $450,000</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">nVent is a global provider of electrical connection and protection solutions. Under the nVent HOFFMAN brand, nVent manufactures, markets, installs, and services a wide range of products, including steel enclosures, air and liquid cooling solutions, server racks, steel enclosures, monitoring and sensors, electronic access control, and more. The proposed project will add 100,000 square feet of manufacturing space to their existing warehouse in Anoka. The estimated project cost is $27 million and is expected to create 141 jobs within three years at an average wage of $34.96.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Rion Inc., Rochester — JCF $440,000, MIF $175,000</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rion Inc. reimagined regenerative biotherapies and scaled their production for their flagship innovation called Platelet Exosome Product—a potent and accessible regenerative technology used to heal a variety of hard-to-treat body tissues. The proposed project will lease approximately 10,000 square feet of additional space at a new location, with a total estimated project cost of $7.3 million. The project is expected to create 22 jobs within the first three years at an average cash wage of $48.30 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>SOMIC Packaging Inc., Inver Grove Heights — JCF $345,000</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SOMIC Packaging, Inc. manufactures compact and versatile end-of-line automated case packaging equipment for various industries with complex packaging demands. The company’s newly-constructed 48,000 square foot building allows for assembly, commissioning, and office space. The total project cost is $8.3 million and is expected to create 23 jobs, at an average wage of $33.37 within the first three years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>USG Interiors</em><strong><em>,</em></strong> <em>LLC Cloquet — MIF $300,000</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">USG Interiors, LLC produces wall, ceiling, flooring, sheathing, and roofing products. The Cloquet plant is USG's largest production facility for ceiling tiles in North America, manufacturing products for customers—hotels, hospitals, offices, etc.—across the U.S. and internationally. The proposed project will replace an existing dryer with a state-of-the-art dryer that will include a heat recovery system and other design efficiencies that will reduce natural gas consumption at nominal output by approximately 21%. The anticipated total project cost is $38.5 million and is expected to retain the 315 full-time employees in Cloquet.</p>6090792024-02-07T20:34:45Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-609018" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-05T20:55:19ZToday, Governor Tim Walz joined governors from across the country in filing an amicus curiae brief with the United States Supreme Court in the case of Food and Drug Administration, et al., v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, arguing that a decision upholding a recent Fifth Circuit decision would undermine Minnesota’s ability to provide adequate healthcare services and would have far-reaching implications beyond reproductive healthcare. Minnesotans can now claim tax credit of up to $1750 per child1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – With tax filing season now open, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan <a name="x__Hlk155796598" id="x__Hlk155796598" />today visited a site in the Twin Cities metro offering free tax preparation assistance to encourage Minnesotans to file for the new Child Tax Credit. The tax credit of up to $1750 per child is estimated to cut child poverty by up to one third in Minnesota. Nearly 300,000 households including 513,000 children are estimated to qualify for the credit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We set a goal of making Minnesota the best state in the nation to grow up in. Our Child Tax Credit will mean thousands of dollars for families with children to meet their basic needs – whether that’s school supplies, new shoes, or a new water heater,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With dozens of free tax preparation sites available across the state, Minnesotans have the opportunity to make sure they’re getting every possible refund available. That’s money back in the pockets of hard-working Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Nearly 300,000 Minnesota households are eligible for the Child Tax Credit we signed into law last year, and we want to see 100 percent of eligible families benefit from it,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Our tax credit provides economic stability, helping form a foundation of safety and security for families. I’m grateful for the volunteers across the state who are helping Minnesotans file their taxes and claim these benefits.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans can now claim the Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child, with no limit on the number of children claimed. You must file a 2023 individual income tax return in order to claim the credit. Most taxpayers who are eligible to claim the new Child Tax Credit are also eligible for free tax preparation assistance. Learn more about income requirements and qualifications on the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit">Child Tax Credit webpage</a> . </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over 170 sites offering free tax preparation assistance are now open to help those filing income tax and property tax refund returns. Sites are staffed by certified volunteers and offer in-person and virtual options with most being open through April 15. To recognize volunteers for their service to their communities, Governor Walz also proclaimed February as Volunteer Tax Preparer Appreciation Month.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We want all Minnesota taxpayers to have access to resources that will help them get their returns filed accurately and claim all the tax benefits, including the new Child Tax Credit, they’re entitled to receive,”</strong> said Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart. <strong>“These free tax preparation sites offer this essential service to taxpayers across the state, and I encourage anyone who is eligible and needs assistance to utilize these sites.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Volunteers are essential to Prepare + Prosper’s mission to build financial well-being through free tax prep, financial services, and coaching. P+P is committed to empowering economic opportunities through these services, which couldn’t exist without our dedicated volunteers,”</strong> said Suyapa Miranda, executive director of Prepare + Prosper, one of the largest volunteer tax preparation sites in the state. <strong>“We are incredibly grateful to Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan for honoring the value that they bring to organizations like P+P.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>About free tax preparation sites <br /></strong>Last year, the VITA and AARP TCE programs prepared almost 49,000 federal tax returns, more than 49,000 Minnesota income tax returns, and nearly 38,000 property tax refund returns for Minnesota taxpayers. All those returns provided over $96 million in federal, state income, and property tax refunds.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Free tax preparation criteria <br /></strong>Minnesotans can get help at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site if any of the following apply:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>You are age 60 or older.</li> <li>You are a person with a disability.</li> <li>You speak limited or no English.</li> <li>Your annual income is less than $64,000.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> The AARP Tax-Aide program offers free tax preparation for all Minnesotans, particularly those age 50 or older. Unlike VITA sites, AARP Tax-Aide sites do not have income restrictions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans can <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/free-tax-preparation-sites" target="_blank">search for a site</a> on the department’s website using their search feature and interactive map. Visit the Department of Revenue website for a list of <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/2022-12/what%20to%20bring%20english.pdf" target="_blank">suggested items to bring to a tax preparation site</a> , including a photo ID, W-2 information, banking information for direct deposit, and other applicable items.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Free electronic filing is also available for Minnesotans with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $79,000 or less. To see if you are eligible for free electronic filing, see the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/electronic-filing-software-individuals" target="_blank">Electronic Filing Software for Individuals</a> page on the department’s website.</p>6090182024-02-07T17:26:37Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-608676" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-02T21:10:17ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training; Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction; Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles; and State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training; Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction; Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles; and State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Troy Wolbersen – Alexandria, MN <br /></strong>Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training <br /> County Sheriff <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training: <br /></em>The Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training licenses peace officers, establishes minimum qualifications and standards of conduct, and regulates professional peace officer education and continuing education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/29" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gavin Bart – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory <br /> Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Kyle Christianson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brandy Brink – North Mankato, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Bobby Marines Jr.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Farhia Budul – Edina, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Donovan – Big Lake, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Wendy Jones – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pamela Lanhart – Burnsville, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Suzanne Nash – Chisago, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Kate Noffke <br /> <strong><br /></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lynne Redleaf – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Arden Two Bears</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kimberly Stokes – Britt, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction: <br /></em>The Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction identifies opportunities for and barriers to the development and implementation of policies and strategies to expand access to effective services for Minnesotans. The council also examines services, supports, and needs and provides opportunities for Minnesotans who have experienced addiction.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/303" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stacy Davis – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Michael Gorman</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Damien Riehl – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Co-Chair <br /> Effective: February 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Phil Magney</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles:</em> <br /> The Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles reviews developments in connected and automated vehicle technology and intelligent and emerging transportation technology, explores partnership opportunities to remain prepared for the widespread adoption of new technologies, and proposes policies to safely test and deploy connected and automated vehicles.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/253" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laurie York – Mahnomen, MN <br /></strong>State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training <br /> Public Member (representing a federally recognized Indian Tribe) <br /> Effective: February 7, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training: <br /></em>Created by legislation in 2023, the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training was established to direct the Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training which serves parents and children in the child legal welfare system. The board will work with the head appellate counsel to govern the office and provide fiscal oversight.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/352" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s <a href="https://www.sos.state.mn.us/boards-commissions/" target="_blank">website</a> .</p>6086762024-02-02T21:18:52Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-608601" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-02-01T23:15:17ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Darlene Rivera Spalla and the Honorable Shari R. Schluchter. These seats will be chambered in Mahnomen in Mahnomen County and Bemidji in Beltrami County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Darlene Rivera Spalla and the Honorable Shari R. Schluchter. These seats will be chambered in Mahnomen in Mahnomen County and Bemidji in Beltrami County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at  <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on February 22 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-March.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Ninth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6086012024-02-01T23:20:06Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-608459" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-31T21:32:24ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Judge JaPaul Harris to an at-large seat on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Harris will fill the vacancy that occurred upon the resignation of the Honorable Jeffrey M. Bryan, who was recently appointed to the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota by President Joe Biden.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Judge JaPaul Harris to an at-large seat on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Harris will fill the vacancy that occurred upon the resignation of the Honorable Jeffrey M. Bryan, who was recently appointed to the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota by President Joe Biden.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Judge JaPaul Harris to the Minnesota Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“He is an experienced judge with a diverse practice background who has consistently worked to build trust in the courts. Whether by guiding parties through housing court as a judicial referee or assisting low-income families as a legal aid attorney, he has always been committed to helping those who need it the most.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Judge Harris will be an excellent addition to the Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “ <strong>He has been a leader on the bench and in the community and has worked tirelessly to make our courts more accessible and inclusive for everyone. I am confident that he will work every day to build trust and confidence in our justice system.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Still waters run deep,”</strong>said Chief Justice Natalie Hudson, chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. <strong>“Judge Harris is an intellectually gifted jurist whose wisdom, incisiveness, and depth of character will bring a thoughtful, measured voice to the Court of Appeals. The Governor could not have made a better choice.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers extends are heartfelt congratulations to Judge JaPaul Harris and our appreciation to Governor Walz,”</strong> said Dana Mitchell, president of the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers. <strong>“Judge Harris is a brilliant, dedicated, and skilled jurist who no doubt will serve with distinction and honor. The appointment of Judge Harris is important because it reflects our collective commitment to excellence, fidelity to the law, and confidence in the judiciary.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Judge JaPaul Harris</em> <br /> JaPaul Harris serves as a judge in the Second Judicial District in Ramsey County. He previously served as a judicial referee in Hennepin County, presiding over housing, harassment, juvenile, and civil commitment matters, and as an attorney at Mid Minnesota Legal Aid and Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services. Harris also serves as the chair of the Minnesota Supreme Court’s Juvenile Rules Advisory Committee. Harris’s community involvement includes serving as co-chair of the Ramsey County Youth Justice Transformation Initiative (formerly JDAI), as chair of the Equal Justice Committee for the Second Judicial District, and as a member of the board of the Volunteer Lawyers Network and board of advisors for the National Consortium for Racial and Ethnic Fairness in the Courts. He earned his B.A. from Syracuse University and his J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6084592024-01-31T21:35:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-608365" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-31T16:55:19ZToday, Governor Tim Walz joined governors from across the country in filing an amicus curiae brief with the United States Supreme Court in the case of Food and Drug Administration, et al., v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, arguing that a decision upholding a recent Fifth Circuit decision would undermine Minnesota’s ability to provide adequate healthcare services and would have far-reaching implications beyond reproductive healthcare. Supreme Court considering ban on medication that would undermine state’s ability to provide reproductive health care services1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz joined governors from across the country in filing an amicus curiae brief with the United States Supreme Court in the case of <em>Food and Drug Administration, et al., v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine</em> , arguing that a decision upholding a recent Fifth Circuit decision would undermine Minnesota’s ability to provide adequate healthcare services and would have far-reaching implications beyond reproductive healthcare.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Health care decisions should be guided by science and expertise, not politics. Minnesotans deserve access to the full spectrum of reproductive health care services so they can make the best decisions for their own health after consulting qualified medical professionals,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Women in this country deserve the best care possible. This case represents a grave threat to that fundamental right.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mifepristone is a safe, highly effective, and widely used medication prescribed for medication abortions and miscarriage management – used in well over half of all abortions. This medication is a critical component of the reproductive healthcare system in states where abortion remains legal. Any rollback on access to mifepristone would cause major disruptions to state healthcare systems, further strain providers, and pose serious health risks to millions of women. Ideological extremists shouldn’t be allowed to overrule medical experts and decades of scientific evidence by curtailing access to safe, effective medication.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This lawsuit threatens to upend the federal FDA review process – a time-tested gold standard for rigor and risk mitigation – that Governors rely on to protect the health and well-being of their constituents. If the Court allows this decision to stand, there will be severe consequences for patient access to a wide range of safe and effective medications.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The brief argues:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>“...[Governors] rely on the expertise of FDA to determine the safety and effectiveness of drugs and medical devices, including particular indications and conditions for use…Nothing about this framework contemplates a single out-of-state litigant who morally disapproves of a particular drug using out-of-state federal courts to invalidate FDA’s expert judgment nationwide…This strategy, if successful, would have an enormously disruptive impact on state governance and hamstring Governors’ ability to fulfill their mandate of protecting public health and safety—in the reproductive healthcare context and beyond.”</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A link to the full amicus brief can be found <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.supremecourt.gov%2FDocketPDF%2F23%2F23-235%2F299138%2F20240130100221018_Reproductive%2520Freedom%2520Alliance%2520Amicus%2520Brief.pdf&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C1a98cebf89444d90842608dc22615700%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638423048703727841%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=LT2sOzRgzI8bePZjOklZC4r2AaYviwhHBSlqw5P9B2Q%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a> .</p>6083652024-01-31T17:01:27Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-608254" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-30T20:10:35ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan announced today that over $6 million in Child Care Economic Development Grants – the state’s largest-ever round of these grants – are now open. These grants are aimed at expanding access to child care and meeting the needs of working families. Over $6 million to be awarded to communities across the state1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan announced today that over $6 million in Child Care Economic Development Grants – the state’s largest-ever round of these grants – are now open. These grants are aimed at expanding access to child care and meeting the needs of working families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is also launching a new office to coordinate the efforts of state government, communities, businesses, and non-profit organizations that are working to provide child care in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Affordable, accessible child care allows Minnesotans to work and allows our economy to thrive,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With the largest-ever round of child care grants, we’re ramping up our efforts to increase child care slots and invest in our child care providers and middleclass families across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a mom and a lifelong child advocate, I know child care isn’t a nice to have – it’s a need to have. Affordable, accessible child care should be available to every family who needs it, and we’re working to make that a reality in Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“We took action to expand affordable, quality child care to make sure our child care providers and working families have the support they need to thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Accessible, quality child care is critical, not only for strong child development, but also the economic stability of families and communities and the future growth of our workforce”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Through our new Office of Child Care Community Partnerships, we’re helping child care businesses access the support they need to succeed. With our Child Care Economic Development Grants, we’re aiming to create more child care slots so families have better access to the high-quality, affordable child care they deserve.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>DEED’s largest-ever Child Care Economic Development Grant round</strong> <br /> DEED is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Child Care Economic Development grants for local units of government and other eligible communities and non-profit organizations to create new child care slots to meet the needs of working families. This program provides funding to communities to invest in new or expanding child care businesses, including facility improvements, worker training, attraction, retention, and licensing, among other strategies to reduce the child care shortage.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This round of Child Care Economic Development grants will be the largest so far at $6.2 million —nearly as much as has been distributed during all previous such grant rounds combined. Grants will be available up to $600,000, which DEED expects to deliver to dozens of communities across Minnesota, impacting thousands of the new child care slots in communities in which access is needed most.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since 2017, DEED has issued more than $6.5 million in Child Care Economic Development grants to 56 local governments and non-profit organizations across the state, helping create up to 9,300 child care slots.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED will issue a second grant round, also worth $6.2 million, later this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota communities or organizations interested in submitting a proposal for a Child Care Economic Development grant are invited to attend a <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fdl%2Flauncher%2Flauncher.html%3Furl%3D%252F_%2523%252Fl%252Fmeetup-join%252F19%253Ameeting_MzdmODJiZjktNWM2Ni00YWE4LThmMzktOTg5YTMxZTgzNTE0%2540thread.v2%252F0%253Fcontext%253D%25257b%252522Tid%252522%25253a%252522eb14b046-24c4-4519-8f26-b89c2159828c%252522%25252c%252522Oid%252522%25253a%2525226fc05b7d-f6b6-4b28-bf21-c64efb67b199%252522%25257d%2526anon%253Dtrue%26type%3Dmeetup-join%26deeplinkId%3D19ca83ff-2033-499d-8881-c43653fa5e15%26directDl%3Dtrue%26msLaunch%3Dtrue%26enableMobilePage%3Dtrue%26suppressPrompt%3Dtrue&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Cd445f3e02020477ac46108dc21cea926%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638422418713402763%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=dV%2FLg4O4NqdeE%2FpjOSBZxGzgfrqO6i%2Bg2i9vz8zHRAo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">virtual informational meeting on Feb. 8 at 11 a.m.</a> The RFP application and additional information <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/about/contracts/open-rfp.jsp" target="_blank">can be found here</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Launching the new Office of Child Care Community Partnerships</strong> <br /> DEED’s new <a href="http://mn.gov/deed/childcare" target="_blank">Office of Child Care Community Partnerships</a> will provide leadership, leverage existing community relationships and coordinate small business assistance, economic development grants, labor data, and other DEED resources to increase access to child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The office will serve as a front door for communities, businesses, and other organizations that provide child care by communicating about existing child care programs at DEED, planning for future opportunities to address the child care shortage and coordinating with other state agencies and offices that oversee or fund child care and early education, including the Department of Human Services and the Department of Education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“DEED's new Office of Child Care Community Partnerships will work with local units of government, organizations and employers to help find solutions that work best for each community,”</strong> said DEED Director of Child Care Community Partnerships Tammy Wickstrom, who will lead the office. <strong>“I think of the Office as a hub for communities, businesses, providers and non-profit organizations focused on working together to provide more affordable, quality child care in their areas of Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“DEED’s Office of Child Care Community Partnerships elevates the visibility of child care as an economic and workforce development issue, and our team is excited by this new opportunity for strengthened partnership within community.”</strong> said Erin Bailey, Executive Director of the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet. <strong>“This new office brings unique expertise and value to the other interagency child care and early education efforts already in place.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Child Care Community Partnerships will administer DEED’s Child Care Economic Development Grants, as well as direct appropriation funding to Minnesota Initiative Foundations and Women Venture, which are working to address the child care shortage statewide. The office will also oversee DEED’s new Greater Minnesota Child Care Facility Grants, which DEED will soon launch for communities or non-profit child care providers to build or expand child care facilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Those interested in learning more about the Office of Child Care Community Partnerships can find out more about the office and what it does by visiting mn.gov/deed/childcare.</p>6082542024-01-30T20:14:56Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-608241" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-30T19:59:32ZGovernor Tim Walz, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) today announced the eight winning names of the 2023-24 Name a Snowplow contest. Taylor Drift, Beyonsleigh, and Fast and Flurrious join the state’s snowplow fleet as winners of the contest. Each newly named snowplow will be assigned to one of MnDOT’s eight districts. More than 32,500 voters cast a ballot in this year’s contest. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) today announced the eight winning names of the 2023-24 Name a Snowplow contest. Taylor Drift, Beyonsleigh, and Fast and Flurrious join the state’s snowplow fleet as winners of the contest. Each newly named snowplow will be assigned to one of MnDOT’s eight districts. More than 32,500 voters cast a ballot in this year’s contest.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Whether it’s a</strong> <strong>November election or a snowplow naming contest, you can count on Minnesotans to turn out and vote,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Thank you to the Minnesotans who submitted creative names and voted for their favorites, and a big thank you to our snowplow drivers who are always ready to keep our roads safe and help us get to work, school, and back home safely.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Rain or shine, blizzards or clear skies, we have a fleet of snowplows and drivers ready to clear the roads and make our lives easier and safer in the winter,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“From Beyonsleigh to Barbie’s Dream Plow, Minnesotans’ creativity was on full display for this contest that celebrates the important work of our snowplow drivers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">The winning names, in order of vote totals, and their future homes are:</span></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><a name="_Hlk65251372" style="font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>Taylor Drift</strong></a><span style="font-family: Verdana;">– District 2 (Northwest Minnesota)</span></li> <li><strong>Clark W. Blizzwald</strong>– District 3 (Central Minnesota)</li> <li><strong>Dolly Plowton</strong>– District 1 (Northeast Minnesota)</li> <li><strong>Waipahinte</strong>(Dakota word for “snowplow”)– District 8 (Southwest Minnesota)</li> <li><strong>Beyonsleigh</strong>– District 4 (West Central Minnesota)</li> <li><strong>You’re Killin’ Me Squalls</strong>– District 6 (Southeast Minnesota)</li> <li><strong>Fast and Flurrious</strong>– District 7 (South Central Minnesota)</li> <li><strong>Barbie’s Dream Plow</strong>– Metro District (Twin Cities)</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tallies for all 49 finalists can be found on MnDOT’s <a href="https://www.dot.state.mn.us/nameasnowplow/">Name a Snowplow website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MnDOT invited people to submit creative ideas for snowplow names in December 2023 and received more than 8,000 submissions; most suggestions were submitted multiple times by multiple people. Agency staff narrowed the list to 49 finalists for the public to vote on. This is the fourth year that MnDOT has hosted the Name a Snowplow contest.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Statewide, MnDOT now has 35 named snowplows, including Plowy McPlowFace, Betty Whiteout, and Plow Bunyan. In addition to the 32 named snowplows selected through the Name a Snowplow contests, MnDOT staff have also helped to name three additional snowplows: Giiwedin-The North Wind; Goonodaabaan-Snow Vehicle (both Ojibwe); and Icamna-Blizzard (Dakota) in acknowledgement of the highways the state plows adjacent to tribal lands.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>*Note: Individuals were able to vote for up to eight choices, so the final totals will differ from the overall number of votes. There was a total of 32,588 unique voters.</em></p>6082412024-01-30T20:09:33Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-608135" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-29T22:45:16ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the opening of a selection process for two vacancies on the Minnesota Supreme Court. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable G. Barry Anderson and the Honorable Margaret H. Chutich.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the opening of a selection process for two vacancies on the Minnesota Supreme Court. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable G. Barry Anderson and the Honorable Margaret H. Chutich. Justice Anderson and Justice Chutich both serve as associate justices on the Minnesota Supreme Court. Governor Walz has asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in his administration, the chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection, and the at-large members of the commission to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The panel is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. The Governor is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Only one application is required to be considered for both vacancies. Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on February 26 and should be addressed to Governor Tim Walz.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">the Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For inquiries concerning the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> .</p>6081352024-01-29T22:48:13Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-607686" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-25T16:10:06ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced they have opened an expanded application process, including the use of a dedicated professional recruiter from Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB), to complete the national search for the new director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). They also formally appointed Charlene Briner as interim director of OCM.Governor Walz also appoints Charlene Briner as Interim OCM Director1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced they have opened an expanded application process, including the use of a dedicated professional recruiter from Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB), to complete the national search for the new director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). They also formally appointed Charlene Briner as interim director of OCM.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"I’m excited to have Charlene Briner leading this office while we continue our national search for a permanent director,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“For the last eight months, Charlene has worked tirelessly across state agencies to build the new Office of Cannabis Management from the ground up. I’m grateful for the work being done to not only revamp our vetting process but also expand our recruiting process. Today’s news marks months of work to modernize state government as we work to remain competitive with the private sector and bring talented executives into public service.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Charlene Briner is a highly-qualified leader who has delivered great results for the state of Minnesota in several roles. I’m grateful for Charlene’s dedication and effectiveness in standing up the Office of Cannabis Management,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“As we continue the search for a permanent director, I know she will continue to move the office and implementation forward.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Charlene Briner has led OCM implementation since June of 2023, and has successfully built a team at OCM, started the stakeholder outreach for the rulemaking process, and coordinated cross-agency work to stand up the new office within the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Briner previously served as deputy commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the Minnesota Department of Education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As part of its role as the state’s human resources department, MMB oversees the overall recruitment strategy throughout the state, region, and nation – using dedicated professional recruiters and employment events.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On May 30, 2023, Governor Walz signed a bill making Minnesota the 23rd state to legalize adult-use cannabis. The law established OCM to regulate cannabis, issue licenses, and develop regulations outlining how and when businesses can participate in the industry. The director serves as the chief executive and administrative officer of OCM and plays a key leadership role in establishing and regulating the new adult-use cannabis market in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Applications will be accepted through Monday, February 26, with a final candidate to be named at the conclusion of the search. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Those interested can find more information and apply for the position through the Minnesota Careers <a href="https://careers.mn.gov/psc/mnjob/MNCAREERS/HRCR/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&amp;FOCUS=Applicant&amp;SiteId=1001&amp;JobOpeningId=72920&amp;PostingSeq=1&amp;languageCd=ENG&amp;PortalActualURL=https%3a%2f%2fcareers.mn.gov%2fpsc%2fmnjob%2fMNCAREERS%2fHRCR%2fc%2fHRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL%3fPage%3dHRS_APP_JBPST_FL%26FOCUS%3dApplicant%26SiteId%3d1001%26JobOpeningId%3d72920%26PostingSeq%3d1%26languageCd%3dENG&amp;PortalRegistryName=MNCAREERS&amp;PortalServletURI=https%3a%2f%2fcareers.mn.gov%2fpsp%2fmnjob%2f&amp;PortalURI=https%3a%2f%2fcareers.mn.gov%2fpsc%2fmnjob%2f&amp;PortalHostNode=HRMS&amp;NoCrumbs=yes&amp;PortalKeyStruct=yes&amp;" target="_blank" style="font-family: Verdana;">website</a>. More information about the Office of Cannabis Management and the director position can be found <a href="https://cannabis.mn.gov/" target="_blank" style="font-family: Verdana;">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">.</p>6076862024-01-25T16:17:05Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-607752" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-24T16:10:06ZGovernor Tim Walz today shadowed home care worker Felicia Johnson in Minneapolis to highlight increased wages for health care workers. On January 1, home care workers received a 25 percent pay increase as a result of legislation Governor Walz signed in 2023.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today shadowed home care worker Felicia Johnson in Minneapolis to highlight increased wages for health care workers. On January 1, home care workers received a 25 percent pay increase as a result of legislation Governor Walz signed in 2023.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s home care workers dedicate themselves to caring for others – not for the paycheck, but in service of improving the quality of life of those who need it most,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This wage increase is a much-needed investment to ensure these vital workers earn a living wage. It’s a historic win for the thousands of home care workers who make up a critical piece of our health care workforce.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2023, Governor Walz signed legislation establishing the SEIU patient care assistant contract which has increased wages and supports for thousands of health care workers. The contract covers over 20,000 care workers across the state. The contract includes a 25 percent wage increase to $19 per hour as of Jan. 1, 2024. Workers will receive an additional increase to $20 per hour (a 31 percent increase over last year’s wage floor) in 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The contract includes other wins for workers, including the establishment of a wage scale rewarding home care workers for their years of experience, bringing long-time caregivers up to as much as $22.50 per hour (a 48 percent increase over last year’s wage floor) in 2025.</p>6077522024-01-25T16:23:25Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-607574" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-23T18:37:10ZGovernor Tim Walz announced that the newly opened Minnesota Veterans Home in Montevideo admitted its first residents today – four veterans who served in eras from World War II to Vietnam. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz announced that the newly opened Minnesota Veterans Home in Montevideo admitted its first residents today – four veterans who served in eras from World War II to Vietnam. The Montevideo Veterans Home is the second of three new veterans homes to open this year. The <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/605767">Preston Veterans Home</a> admitted its first residents on Jan. 3 and the Bemidji Veterans Home will open in the coming weeks. Photos from the opening can be found <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmdva%2Falbums%2F72177720314273920%2Fwith%2F53482771451&amp;data=05%7C02%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cd7f3a8e5b08c441a39f608dc1c57e1ea%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638416411002359855%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=k4PTdSFBPGtpGI9pFFhKV2elRJABlp4g7j13u9pM2eI%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re proud to expand service to our veterans in southwest Minnesota through the new veterans home in Montevideo,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This is another measure of the state’s respect and dedication for those who’ve served their state and country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Long-time Montevideo community member and World War II Veteran William Homan, who served in the Army Air Corp, was the very first resident at the Montevideo home. <strong>“I made many, many trips to the State Capitol, helping people understand the need,”</strong> said Mr. Homan. <strong>“I can’t tell you what an honor it is to be the first Veteran to move in. This will really benefit Montevideo and the area for a long time.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The home came to fruition after more than a decade of advocacy and planning and two years of construction. <strong>“Our residents are excited to come through our doors today,”</strong> said Home Administrator Ashley Bormann. <strong>“The facility is absolutely beautiful, and our team members are thrilled to be now working on site. This is really a meaningful day for our community and all of southeastern Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">During the next few weeks, the home will continue to admit new residents up to a total of 24. The home must then successfully complete a recognition survey from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (Federal VA). The survey is expected to take place later this spring.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Once that federal VA survey is completed, the home will continue to admit additional residents and hire the remaining staff required to care for a full facility. The home will also be pursuing its certification with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in the first year of operation. Minnesota Veterans Homes are surveyed by both MDH/CMS and the federal VA and MDVA leaders look forward to achieving certification from both regulatory agencies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a name="x__Hlk155182969" id="x__Hlk155182969"><strong>“MDVA is honored to open the second of three new Veterans Homes across the state this month,”</strong></a> said MDVA Commissioner Brad Lindsay. <strong>“As our 294,000 Minnesota Veterans age, it is more important than ever that we can care for them in their final years.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">While the Montevideo Veterans Home has hired most staff needed for the first month of operation, additional employees will be needed as more residents are admitted.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To learn about employment opportunities, visit <a href="https://mn.gov/mdva/about/work-for-mdva/">MinnesotaVeteran.org/Careers</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The support from the community is absolutely amazing,”</strong> said Cindy Wilkens, Public Affairs Coordinator. <strong>“Montevideo and surrounding communities have been so supportive. We couldn’t have done this project without their support. It’s an awesome thing to see come together.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Groundbreaking for the Montevideo Veterans Home took place in August 2021 for the 72-bed skilled nursing facility, located at <em>2190 William Ave.</em> <em>All</em>residential units include private baths and are split into two sections and four “neighborhoods” of 18 residents each, avoiding long hallways.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To be accepted for admission, residents must be:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Discharged under honorable conditions from any branch of the U.S. armed forces and a current resident of Minnesota, who served 181 consecutive days on active duty, unless discharged earlier because of disability incurred in the line of duty.</li> <li>The spouse of an eligible Veteran who is at least 55 years old and meets residency requirements.</li> <li>Able to demonstrate a medical or clinical need for <em>skilled nursing care.</em></li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.macvso.org%2Ffind-a-cvso.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cd7f3a8e5b08c441a39f608dc1c57e1ea%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638416411002371718%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9OjFZz%2BIPIuuUGBqzQH3hSYAOpxZnN9YyaWI1dxFswQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">County Veterans Service Officers</a> are available to assist future residents with the admission application process. Admissions inquiries can also be emailed to<a href="mailto:NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us">NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Administrator Bormann noted that a formal, large dedication event is planned for late spring, In the meantime, small group tours are being provided as requested. To schedule a tour, contact Public Affairs Coordinator Cindy Wilkens at <a href="mailto:cindy.wilkens@state.mn.us">cindy.wilkens@state.mn.us</a> or 320-435-4744.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information, visit the MDVA website at <a href="https://mn.gov/mdva/homes/futurehomes/">MinnesotaVeteran.org/Homes</a> .</p>6075742024-01-23T22:30:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-607453" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-22T20:17:53ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the launch of a new Department of Defense initiative that will expand child care benefits for military families. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the launch of a new Department of Defense initiative that will expand child care benefits for military families. The initiative will increase child care options for military families, while reducing the cost of child care expenses up to $1,800 per month per child. Governor Walz made the announcement today at a child care center in Brooklyn Park.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s military families make incredible sacrifices for our state and country,”</strong> said <strong>Governor Walz.</strong> <strong>“These families deserve affordable, reliable child care that allows them the flexibility to work, visit the doctor, and manage their lives. By increasing child care options and lowering expenses, we’re making sure our military families know we have their back.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The initiative expands child care options through the fee assistance program, known as Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS). This fee assistance program, offered to eligible military families, will include quality state rated providers when on-installation child care is unavailable. This program is funded and operated by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). Benefits will be paid directly to qualifying child care providers from the DoD.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Defense Department recognizes our military families need and deserve quality, affordable care for their children in order to be mission ready,”</strong> said <strong>Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy Patricia Montes Barron.</strong> <strong>“The department invites all remaining states that operate child care quality rating and improvement systems to partner with us and join the MCCYN-PLUS initiative, so the department can provide more military families with fee assistance to offset the high cost of child care in the community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS Program provides an affordable, high-quality education for our children, reducing our out-of-pocket expenses saving our family thousands of dollars annually,”</strong> said <strong>Joshua Niblack, a procurement specialist with the U.S. Army.</strong> <strong>“This program highlights just how committed Minnesota is to expanding childcare options to military families, especially as we face the challenges of limited availability and rising costs of childcare.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed child care programs can now participate in MCCYN-PLUS based on their rating in the state’s quality rating and improvement program, <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.parentaware.org%2F%23%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C4b206dee007846b165b508dc1b8d8a01%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638415541968987904%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=MySUMy2X9cBlei%2BAV3DlJbXM%2FM%2F1%2FAXtBYikjAZCWNQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">Parent Aware</a> . Under the new initiative, child care programs in Minnesota can participate if they have a quality level equivalent to 3 stars or higher. Child care providers and military families can learn more by going to the Child Care Aware of America <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.childcareaware.org%2Ffee-assistancerespite%2Ffeeassistancerespiteproviders%2Fqris-mccyn-plus%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C4b206dee007846b165b508dc1b8d8a01%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638415541968996526%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=7pJPu7CdRMolyjd4rUmLgh8u%2BF5bZZCYvU%2FCw82jYto%3D&amp;reserved=0">website</a> for assistance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As of January 2024, Minnesota has nearly 1,600 active duty service members and more than 21,000 active National Guard and reserve members. Minnesota joins 14 other states and counties in this expanded program.</p>6074532024-01-22T22:31:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-607452" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-22T20:17:53ZMinnesota Governor Tim Walz and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers today celebrated the announcement that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded $1.058 Billion in federal funding to replace the aging John A. Blatnik Bridge between Duluth, Minn., and Superior, Wis. The Governors have long advocated for federal funding for the project. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">ST. PAUL, MN] – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers today celebrated the announcement that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded $1.058 Billion in federal funding to replace the aging John A. Blatnik Bridge between Duluth, Minn., and Superior, Wis. The Governors have long <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/601722">advocated for federal funding</a> for the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/589905">project</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is big news for Minnesota. This investment will make it possible for Minnesota and Wisconsin to rebuild a critical connection between our states that will foster regional economic growth, strengthen our national supply chains, and improve the safety and reliability of our transportation network,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This is a project that will serve hundreds of communities between our states. I am grateful for the partnership of Governor Evers, our Congressional leaders, and President Biden in making this project happen.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I have been glad to work closely with Senator Baldwin and other state and federal partners to secure the necessary investments to replace the Blatnik Bridge here at the end of its service life, and I’m proud to be able to say today that our hard work has paid off,”</strong> said Gov. Evers. <strong>“We’re excited to celebrate this award today and what it means for our state, our workforce and economy, and the quality of life in Northern Wisconsin. I want to thank Sen. Baldwin and Gov. Walz for their partnership in championing this project to get this done for our states, and I look forward to our continued work together toward ensuring our infrastructure is built to meet the needs of a 21st-century workforce and economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The funding is provided through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s INFRA program which is intended to support highway and freight projects of national or regional significance that will improve the safety, efficiency and reliability of the movement of freight and people in and across rural and urban areas.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“<strong>This is a transformational opportunity for Wisconsin and Minnesota to bring a critical piece of our infrastructure into the 21 ^st century</strong>,” Gov. Evers said. “ <strong>A new Blatnik Bridge means safer vehicle travel and better support for the billions of dollars in freight moving across the bridge each year. I want to thank our federal partners, including Sen. Tammy Baldwin, for their unwavering support for this project. I’m proud to partner with Gov. Walz and his administration to bring this project across the finish line.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The total cost for rebuilding the Blatnik Bridge is estimated to be $1.8 billion. Each state committed $400 million toward the project in 2023.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Replacing this bridge is a top priority. MnDOT is grateful to our federal partners for the funds needed to get this project done. We look forward to working with WisDOT to build the modern and reliable Blatnik Bridge that the Twin Ports deserve,”</strong> said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our commitment to improving safety and the long-term sustainability of our bridges is unwavering,”</strong> said WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson. <strong>“This was a team effort – from local communities and elected officials in both states – and we will act with urgency to deliver this important project.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more than 60 years, the Blatnik Bridge has served as a vital link between Duluth and Superior via Interstate 535 and US 53. Jointly owned and managed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation and Wisconsin Department of Transportation, the Blatnik Bridge is an important freight and commercial connection between the Duluth-Superior Twin Ports and serves more than 33,000 vehicles per day. The bridge is also one of the largest marine links for U.S. trade with Canada, the top trade partner of Wisconsin, Minnesota and the United States. The replacement project will improve safety and accommodate oversize and overweight loads.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Design work for the project, which will determine specifications and shape the final project, is anticipated to begin in 2024. Once a final design is selected, construction could begin as early as 2025.</p>6074522024-01-22T22:30:58Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-607256" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-19T20:16:59ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 24-02, continuing the Governor’s Council on Freight Rail. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 24-02, continuing the Governor’s Council on Freight Rail.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The executive order now requires that the council include two members representing labor unions, in recognition of their contributions to maintaining safe and efficient freight rail operations in Minnesota.</p>6072562024-01-19T20:18:00Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-607047" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-18T22:02:43ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable James A. Moore. This seat will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable James A. Moore. This seat will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on February 8 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews for the vacancy in early March.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Fourth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>6070472024-01-18T17:59:26Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-607116" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-18T21:31:29ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 24-01, directing the continued development and maintenance of the Minnesota Continuity of Government Plan and Agency Continuity of Operations Plans. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 24-01, directing the continued development and maintenance of the Minnesota Continuity of Government Plan and Agency Continuity of Operations Plans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The executive order rescinds and replaces Executive Order 19-23 and reiterates the State’s requirement to maintain a Continuity of Government Plan and that agencies prepare Continuity of Operations Plans.</p>6071162024-01-18T22:00:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-600837" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-18T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that a record number of Minnesotans signed up for private health insurance plans using MNsure, Minnesota’s official health insurance marketplace. At the close of MNsure’s annual open enrollment period on January 15, 146,445 people had successfully signed up for private health plans for 2024.Over 146,000 Minnesotans enrolled in private health insurance during MNsure’s annual open enrollment period1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that a record number of Minnesotans signed up for private health insurance plans using MNsure, Minnesota’s official health insurance marketplace. At the close of MNsure’s annual open enrollment period on January 15, 146,445 people had successfully signed up for private health plans for 2024.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thousands of Minnesotans rely on our health insurance marketplace to secure affordable, high-quality health care,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re proud to be serving more Minnesotans than ever before, helping them lower health insurance costs and secure the coverage they need.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Over 146,000 Minnesotans came to MNsure looking for health insurance and found high-quality, affordable private health plan coverage,”</strong> said MNsure CEO Libby Caulum. <strong>“The tens of thousands of entrepreneurs, farmers, gig workers, and other self-employed Minnesotans who rely on MNsure each year have the peace of mind that comes with coverage they can count on. MNsure is the only place Minnesotans can access discounts (in the form of tax credits and cost-sharing reductions) to lower their health care costs, on plans that are guaranteed to cover essential benefits like doctor’s visits, emergency services, and so much more.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">• Private health plan sign-ups: 146,445</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">• New public program applicants (Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare): 39,106</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">• Dental plan sign-ups: 38,082</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">• Percentage of households receiving tax credits: 58%</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">• Statewide average annual tax credit by household: $6,460</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MNsure saw a 13% increase in private health plan sign-ups from the previous year’s open enrollment period. MNsure is providing crucial support for Minnesotans who are no longer eligible for Medical Assistance (Minnesota’s Medicaid program) or MinnesotaCare, following the end of federal Medicaid continuous coverage requirements in 2023. MNsure has already helped thousands connect with new private coverage through the marketplace and will continue to support Minnesotans through this unprecedented time of coverage transitions known as the Medicaid “unwinding.”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Before MNsure, Minnesotans without affordable job-based coverage faced the intimidating task of shopping for health insurance on their own,”</strong> said MNsure CEO Libby Caulum. <strong>“Today, MNsure offers a streamlined application to compare health insurance options from different companies in one place, free help from a statewide network of insurance experts, and access to financial help for individuals and families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year, nearly 60% of MNsure enrollees will save money on their health insurance thanks to advanced premium tax credits, which lower the cost of monthly premiums. In 2024, eligible families will save an average of $6,460 per year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Additional opportunities to sign up for health insurance</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Outside of MNsure’s annual open enrollment period, Minnesotans who don’t have health insurance may still have opportunities to get covered. The January 15 deadline does not apply to Minnesotans who qualify for <a href="https://www.mnsure.org/financial-help/ma-mncare/index.jsp">Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare</a>, or members of <a href="https://www.mnsure.org/new-customers/who-can-enroll/american-indians/index.jsp">federally recognized tribes</a>, who can enroll in health insurance through MNsure any time of year. And Minnesotans who experience a <a href="https://www.mnsure.org/new-customers/enrollment-deadlines/special-enrollment/sep-le/index.jsp">qualifying life event</a> like getting married, having a baby, or losing job-based coverage also may be eligible to shop for coverage through MNsure. MNsure’s statewide network of <a href="https://www.mnsure.org/help/find-assister/index.jsp">certified brokers and navigators</a> offers free, expert help with the entire application and enrollment process, from start to finish.</p>6008372024-01-18T18:00:48Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-607254" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-16T20:47:36ZGovernor Tim Walz today congratulated Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Margaret Chutich on her retirement. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today congratulated Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Margaret Chutich on her retirement.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I want to thank Justice Margaret Chutich for her service to the court. She has been a brilliant jurist who has advanced the rule of law for all Minnesotans,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She is also a trailblazer as Minnesota’s first openly gay justice. With grace and humility, she has moved our state forward and redefined the image of a justice. Similar to the late Judge Diana Murphy, who Justice Chutich clerked for, she has forged a path for women to lead at the highest levels of the law and our government.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor will announce the application process for the vacancy on the court in the coming weeks.</p>6072542024-01-19T20:12:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-606766" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-16T19:39:53ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s 2024 Infrastructure Plan – their capital investment recommendation for the upcoming legislative session. The $982 million plan invests in infrastructure improvements across the state, including funding for water and transportation infrastructure, housing, and public safety. The plan includes $982 million for water and transportation infrastructure, housing, and public safety.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s 2024 Infrastructure Plan – their capital investment recommendation for the upcoming legislative session. The $982 million plan invests in infrastructure improvements across the state, including funding for water and transportation infrastructure, housing, and public safety.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The investments in our 2024 Infrastructure Plan are investments in the wellbeing and future of Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We have an obligation to ensure every Minnesotan has access to clean water, well-maintained infrastructure, safe communities, and state buildings that are safe and accessible. These projects will support local governments in their work to improve our infrastructure and create good-paying jobs in every corner of the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Infrastructure investments like those laid out in our plan are one critical way we ensure we’re making life easier for all Minnesotans,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“In addition to the important infrastructure investments, this plan will help more Minnesotans find a safe, affordable place to call home and create additional early childhood programs and facilities to continue to put Minnesota on a path to becoming the best state for kids and families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Water Systems and Transportation</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Our state’s water and transportation systems protect Minnesotans’ health and safety. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s 2024 Infrastructure Plan invests more than $215 million in water and transportation infrastructure, including more than $119 million to support grants and low-interest loans to keep our water clean and replace lead pipes. The plan includes $28 million to establish new grant programs to help remove contaminants like PFAS from drinking water. Additionally, $2 million in invested in developing a continuous nitrate monitoring network.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Public Safety</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Everyone in Minnesota deserves to be safe and protected. That’s why Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan’s 2024 Infrastructure Plan includes more than $142 million for public safety projects, including expanding laboratory and investigatory capacity for the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and planning for a Minnesota State Patrol headquarters. The Infrastructure Plan also includes $47 million to build the infrastructure needed to provide rehabilitative programming and educational space for incarcerated individuals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Housing</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Every Minnesota deserves access to a safe and affordable place to call home and a healthy environment. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan’s 2024 Infrastructure Plan includes more than $97 million for housing and environment, with more than half of that in Housing Infrastructure Bonds to back the development of multifamily housing supporting people facing homelessness, seniors, and families find safe housing. The infrastructure plan also includes more than $16 million to update the Minneapolis Veterans Home to better meet residents’ needs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Maintain State Infrastructure</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Maintaining and renewing state facilities is an important part of a safe, healthy, and fiscally responsible state budget. That’s why their 2024 Infrastructure Plan includes more than $440 million to maintain and renew the buildings that taxpayers own and rely on every day, including nearly $206 million for Minnesota State and the University of Minnesota to repair and renovate buildings.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Other Infrastructure</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan’s 2024 Infrastructure Plan includes more than $85 million for other infrastructure needs across the state, including $40 million for local government projects and $5 million in grants to construct and renovate early childhood facilities and help ensure families have access to early childhood programs housed in safe facilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information on the Infrastructure Plan can be found <a href="https://mn.gov/mmb/budget/capital-budget/current/">here</a> .</p>6067662024-01-16T19:44:06Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-606573" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-12T20:53:00ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy; Board of Firefighter Training and Education; Board of Nursing, Board of Pharmacy; Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority; Governor’s Residence Council; Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission; Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing; Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board; Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program Board of Directors; Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board; State Board of Physical Therapy; and State Competency Attainment Board.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy; Board of Firefighter Training and Education; Board of Nursing, Board of Pharmacy; Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority; Governor’s Residence Council; Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission; Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing; Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board; Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program Board of Directors; Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board; State Board of Physical Therapy; and State Competency Attainment Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Randy Stillday – Red Lake, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy:</em> <br /> The Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy regulates the practices of alcohol and drug counseling and professional counseling and professional clinical counseling in the State of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/20" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Falcon – Rochester, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> League of Minnesota Cities Representative <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate McKay – Columbia Heights, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> Minnesota State Fire Department Association Representative <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chad Vermeersch – Cloquet, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Firefighter Training and Education <br /> Minnesota Professional Firefighter Association Representative <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Firefighter Training and Education:</em> <br /> The Board of Firefighter Training and Education supports firefighter training and education and works to fund standardized training and through licensing of the firefighters in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Firefighter Training and Education can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/24" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sandra Anderson – Wyoming, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Nursing <br /> Registered Nurse <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Sarah Simons</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rhonda Johnson – Tyler, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Nursing <br /> Licensed Practical Nurse <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Latasha Lee – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Nursing <br /> Registered Nurse <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joseph Owen – Litchfield, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Nursing <br /> Advanced Practice Registered Nurse <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cindy Petty – Hugo, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Nursing <br /> Registered Nurse working in a Nursing Home <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Jane Teipel</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Nursing:</em> <br /> The Board of Nursing oversees and ensures the safe practice of nursing in Minnesota. The Board holds nurses accountable for conduct based on legal, ethical, and professional standards.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Nursing can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/101" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Haag – Blaine, MN</strong> <br /> Board of Pharmacy <br /> Pharmacist <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Pharmacy:</em> <br /> The Board of Pharmacy regulates the pharmacy profession and the quality, labeling and distribution of drugs. It also administers the Minnesota Prescription Monitoring Program, the Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program, and the Opiate Product Registration Fee Program. <br /> <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Pharmacy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/30" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carli Amatuzio – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Carrie Heffernan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Finnegan – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patrick Mullen – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shane Peterson – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Lynne Williams</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority:</em> <br /> The Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority oversees management of the business, property, and affairs of the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/56" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eric Hansen – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Residence Council <br /> American Institute of Architects Representative <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amelious Whyte – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Governor's Residence Council <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Residence Council:</em> <br /> The Governor’s Residence Council develops and implements an overall restoration plan for the Governor’s Residence and surrounding grounds, solicits and accepts contributions to restore, maintain, improve, decorate, and furnish the building, and approves alterations to the structure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Residence Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/67" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Huntley – Saint Paul, MN</strong> <br /> Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission <br /> Commissioner <br /> Effective: January 12, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission: <br /></em>The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission administers the rules, policies, and procedures of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, an agreement among participating U.S. states and territories to work together to significantly streamline the licensing process for physicians who want to practice in multiple states. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission can be found <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.imlcc.org%2Fimlc-commission%2Fabout-the-imlc-commission%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C11e3c8dc05d54a95a49d08dc13aeddba%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638406889021427245%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=lEqiaIBKYOy%2FbCjvu4MZdXiLra3GHly4sSg%2BgH42Rso%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">here.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Fechter – Wyoming, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing serves as the principal agency of the state to advocate on behalf of the deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing Minnesotans by working to ensure those persons have equal access to the services, programs and opportunities available to others.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/185" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Naveen Aggarwal – Maple Grove, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jacqueline Rambin – Apple Valley, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Program is established to award grants to nonprofit corporations to fund loans to businesses owned by minority or low-income persons, women, veterans, and people with disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/94" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alex West Steinman – Minneapolis, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program Board of Directors <br /> Small Business Owner <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robin Ritter – Maple Grove, MN</strong> <br /> Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program Board of Directors <br /> Human Resources Executive <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program Board of Directors:</em> <br /> The Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program Board of Directors is the policy-making function of the Secure Choice Retirement Program, which is intended to benefit employees in the private sector who have no opportunity to save for retirement through an employer-sponsored retirement plan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program Board of Directors can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/343" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Aho – Baxter, MN</strong> <br /> Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board <br /> Teacher in Related Services Category <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Justin Hoelscher – Farmington, MN</strong> <br /> Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board <br /> Administrator of a Cooperative Unit Who Oversees a Special Education Program <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board:</em> <br /> The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board licenses teachers, establishes and maintains teacher licensure standards and requirements, establishes and enforces the Teacher Code of Ethics, approves and oversees teacher preparation providers and programs, and administers grants.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/234" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Maura Kelly – Maple Grove, MN</strong> <br /> State Board of Physical Therapy <br /> Physical Therapist <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Board of Physical Therapy:</em> <br /> The State Board of Physical Therapy evaluates applicants for licensure, renews annual licenses for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, and enforces the Physical Therapy Practice Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Board of Physical Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/143" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jacqueline Buffington – Duluth, MN</strong> <br /> State Competency Attainment Board <br /> Mental Health Professional with Experience in Competency Attainment <br /> Effective: January 17, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Competency Attainment Board:</em> <br /> The State Competency Attainment Board creates and administers a statewide, independent competency attainment system that certifies competency attainment programs and uses forensic navigators to promote prevention and diversion of people with mental illnesses and cognitive impairments from entering the legal system. It also supports defendants with mental illness and cognitive impairments, supports defendants in the competency process, and assists courts and partners in coordinating competency attainment services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Competency Attainment Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/310" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" style="font-family: Verdana;">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6065732024-01-12T20:57:25Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-606484" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-11T23:47:36ZGovernor Tim Walz today congratulated Minnesota Supreme Court Justice G. Barry Anderson on his retirement. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today congratulated Minnesota Supreme Court Justice G. Barry Anderson on his retirement.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I want to thank Justice G. Barry Anderson for over 25 years of service to the Judicial Branch and for his dedication to public service,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Justice Anderson has worked tirelessly to uphold the integrity and fairness of our justice system. He is leaving the court stronger because of his commitment to the rule of law and the institution itself. As one of Minnesota’s longest serving justices, his legacy and work on the Supreme Court will endure for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor will announce the application process for the vacancy on the court in the coming weeks.</p>6064842024-01-11T23:48:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-606471" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-11T20:17:53ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited BevComm, a broadband provider in Blue Earth, to discuss the state’s progress to expand broadband access across the state. Over the last year, the state has provided enough funding to expand broadband to 46,000 Minnesota homes and businesses that didn’t previously have access.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited BevComm, a broadband provider in Blue Earth, to discuss the state’s progress to expand broadband access across the state. Over the last year, the state has provided enough funding to expand broadband to 46,000 Minnesota homes and businesses that didn’t previously have access.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The momentum behind our work to expand high-speed broadband access across the state is connecting more Minnesotans to their jobs, their businesses, their health care, and their friends and family,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re helping our network of providers expand this critical infrastructure to thousands of homes and businesses, improving quality of life for Minnesotans, making businesses more competitive, and connecting folks to critical services.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The state has been making consistent progress to expand high-speed broadband to all Minnesotans. In December 2022, Governor Walz announced <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/551346">$100 million</a> for 61 projects to expand broadband to 33,000 Minnesota homes and businesses in 48 counties. In June 2023, the Governor announced <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/583176">$67 million</a> for 30 projects to expand broadband to 13,100 Minnesota homes and businesses in 26 counties. That announcement came after the Governor signed an additional <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/578333">$100 million</a> into law to expand high-speed broadband.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) will award another $50 million in broadband grants in February.</p>6064712024-01-11T22:24:58Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-606274" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-09T18:31:19ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Allison Whalen as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. Whalen will replace the Honorable David L. Mennis and will be chambered in Benson in Swift County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Allison Whalen as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. Whalen will replace the Honorable David L. Mennis and will be chambered in Benson in Swift County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Allison Whalen will be an excellent addition to the Eighth Judicial District bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her diverse practice background and measured approach to the law will help her tackle the challenges she will face in this important position.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I applaud the appointment of Allison Whalen,” </strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“She is a highly-qualified public servant who has dedicated her career to improving her community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District encompasses Big Stone, Chippewa, Grant Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle, Meeker, Pope, Renville, Stevens, Swift, Traverse, Wilkin, and Yellow Medicine Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Allison Whalen is an assistant county attorney in the Stevens County Attorney’s Office, where she handles a caseload of criminal prosecution, juvenile delinquency, child protection, civil commitment, guardianship and conservatorship, child support, and appellate matters. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Swift County Attorney’s Office and a law clerk to the Honorable Matthew E. Johnson on the Minnesota Court of Appeals and the Honorable Michael R. Savre in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Whalen’s community involvement includes serving on the board of the 16th District Bar Association and as a member of the Stevens County Children’s Justice Initiative and the Stevens County Violence Prevention Task Force. She received her B.A. from the University of Minnesota and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6062742024-01-09T23:35:31Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-604305" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-05T21:06:18ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, and Prescription Drug Affordability Board. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, and Prescription Drug Affordability Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joseph Nayquonabe – Onamia, MN <br /></strong> Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Tribal Representative <br /> Effective: January 10, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> Replacing: Noya Woodrich</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service: <br /></em> The Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, also known as ServeMinnesota, provides grant funding, training, and technical assistance to nonprofits, government agencies, and schools that run AmeriCorps programs. The commission also pioneers strategic initiatives in a variety of impact areas to solve complex social problems.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/105" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marco Hernandez – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong> Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 10, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ivette Izea-Martinez – Eagan, MN <br /></strong> Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: January 10, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eusebio Perez – Maplewood, MN <br /></strong> Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs <br /> At-large Member <br /> Effective: January 10, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Sandra Filardo</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Reyes – Hibbing, MN <br /></strong> Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 10, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Susana Pelayo-Woodward</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs: <br /></em> The Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs works for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for its constituency by advising and informing the Governor’s office and state legislature in the legislative and policymaking process.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/178" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Angela Finney – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong> Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 10, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anthony Sertich – Hermantown, MN <br /></strong> Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 10, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Vekich – Saint Louis Park, MN <br /></strong> Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority <br /> Chair <br /> Effective: January 10, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: December 31, 2026 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority: <br /></em> The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority controls, operates, and is responsible for U.S. Bank Stadium and any other sports facility constructed or acquired by the authority.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/172" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephen Schondelmeyer – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong> Prescription Drug Affordability Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 10, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Matthew Anderson – Mahtomedi, MN <br /></strong> Prescription Drug Affordability Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: January 10, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Prescription Drug Affordability Board: <br /></em> The Prescription Drug Affordability Board reviews prescription drug product information to protect consumers, state and local governments, health plan companies, providers, pharmacies, and other health care system stakeholders from unaffordable costs of certain prescription drugs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Prescription Drug Affordability Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/350" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" style="font-family: Verdana;">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6043052024-01-05T21:17:31Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-605854" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-04T18:37:10ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Richard C. Ilkka. This seat will be chambered in Stillwater in Washington County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Richard C. Ilkka. This seat will be chambered in Stillwater in Washington County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for the vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00pm on January 25 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-February.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Tenth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at  <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> <u>.</u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6058542024-01-04T18:41:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-605846" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-04T18:09:23ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Friday, January 5, in honor of Sergeant Cade Michael Wolfe’s memorial. Sgt. Wolfe, a Mankato native, was killed in an aircraft crash during a training exercise over the Mediterranean Sea in November.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Friday, January 5, in honor of Sergeant Cade Michael Wolfe’s memorial. Sgt. Wolfe, a Mankato native, was killed in an aircraft crash during a training exercise over the Mediterranean Sea in November.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Cade Michael Wolfe, a Minnesotan who dedicated himself to selflessly serving our nation and keeping our country safe,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With deep gratitude, Minnesota recognizes Sgt. Cade Michael Wolfe for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his state and country. His family, loved ones, and community are in our prayers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6058462024-01-04T18:11:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-605767" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-03T22:02:43ZGovernor Tim Walz announced that the newly opened Minnesota Veterans Home in Preston admitted its first residents today – four veterans who served in eras from Korea to Vietnam. The Preston Veterans Home is the first of three new veterans homes scheduled to open this month.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz announced that the newly opened Minnesota Veterans Home in Preston admitted its first residents today – four veterans who served in eras from Korea to Vietnam. The Preston Veterans Home is the first of three new veterans homes scheduled to open this month. The communities of Montevideo and Bemidji will also admit their first residents to new veterans homes in the coming weeks.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are proud to open the doors of Minnesota’s newest veterans home in Preston, expanding services and increasing quality of life for our veterans in southeastern Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We have a responsibility to ensure Minnesota’s aging veterans receive the care and services they need.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“MDVA is honored to expand our veterans homes across the state this month,”</strong> said MDVA Commissioner Brad Lindsay. <strong>“As our 294,000 Minnesota veterans age, it is more important than ever that we can care for them in their final years.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Long-time Preston community member Walter Hanson, one of the veterans who moved into the new veterans home today, also celebrated his 91st birthday today.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It takes a lot of people to put this together,” </strong>said Hanson, an Army veteran who served in Korea in the 1950s. <strong>“It’s going to be quite a shot in the arm for Preston and the area. This is going to be a nice place to live. I’ll find out soon enough!”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our residents are excited to come through our doors today,”</strong> said Home Administrator Dave Dunn. <strong>“The facility is absolutely beautiful, and our team members are thrilled to now be working on site. This is really a meaningful day for our community and all of southeastern Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The home came to fruition after more than a decade of advocacy and planning and two years of construction. During the next few weeks, the home will continue to admit up to 24 new residents. The home must then complete a recognition survey from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (Federal VA). The survey is expected to take place in early 2024.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Once that federal VA survey is completed, the home will continue to admit additional residents and hire the remaining staff required to care for a full facility. The home will also pursue its certification with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in the first year of operation. Minnesota Veterans Homes are surveyed by both MDH/CMS and the federal VA.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">While the Preston Veterans Home has hired most of the staff needed for the first month of operation, additional employees will be needed as more residents are admitted, according to Gabby Kinneberg, Preston Veterans Home Public Affairs Coordinator. <strong>“We still have a few staff positions open right now. We want to let everyone know that once we get to full capacity, we will be hiring additional employees. I encourage community members to keep an eye out for new job openings soon.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To learn about employment opportunities, visit <a href="https://mn.gov/mdva/about/work-for-mdva/">MinnesotaVeteran.org/Careers</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The support from the community is absolutely amazing,” </strong>added Kinneberg. <strong>“Preston and surrounding communities have been so supportive. We couldn’t have done this project without their support. It’s an awesome thing to see come together.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Groundbreaking for the Preston Veterans Home took place in August 2021 for the 54-bed skilled nursing facility located at 1864 First Minnesota on a 15-acre bluff-top site surrounded by a 200-year-old native white oak forest.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To be accepted for admission, residents must be:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Discharged under honorable conditions from any branch of the U.S. armed forces and a current resident of Minnesota, who served 181 consecutive days on active duty, unless discharged earlier because of disability incurred in the line of duty.</li> <li>The spouse of an eligible Veteran who is at least 55 years old and meets residency requirements.</li> <li>Able to demonstrate a medical or clinical need for <em>skilled nursing care.</em></li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.macvso.org%2Ffind-a-cvso.html&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7Ce158a7801f824f35643408dc0ca3869f%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638399143700503330%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Z0sAjlu5psjEB9pylNli9UMzKoQJbJii%2FI%2BN%2F%2FNWXPA%3D&amp;reserved=0">County Veterans Service Officers</a> are available to assist future residents with the admission application process. Admissions inquiries can also be emailed to <a href="mailto:NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us">NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A formal, large dedication event will be planned for late spring. To schedule a tour, contact Gabby Kinneberg at <a href="mailto:gabby.kinneberg@state.mn.us">gabby.kinneberg@state.mn.us</a> or 507-808-8927.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information, visit the MDVA website at <a href="https://mn.gov/mdva/homes/futurehomes/">MinnesotaVeteran.org/Homes</a> .</p>6057672024-01-03T22:05:45Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-605743" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-03T20:17:53ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Transportation today announced $17.4 million for eight construction projects in the Twin Cities Metro and Greater Minnesota to improve transportation infrastructure that supports economic growth. The projects are estimated to support over 2,000 jobs.1055<p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Transportation today announced $17.4 million for eight construction projects in the Twin Cities Metro and Greater Minnesota to improve transportation infrastructure that supports economic growth. The projects are estimated to support over 2,000 jobs.</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Investing in our transportation system helps strengthen communities, create jobs, and promote economic growth,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“</strong> <strong>These projects will support a broad range of opportunities for business growth, ranging from business incubators to small businesses to meat processing plants, while improving the safety and efficiency of our transportation system.”</strong></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The funding comes from the state’s competitive Transportation Economic Development (TED) and Transportation Economic Development Infrastructure (TEDI) programs. The programs target transportation infrastructure projects that create economic development opportunities and jobs through a collaboration between MnDOT, the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), and local government and private sector partners.</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This round of Transportation Economic Development funding leverages local public and private funding to complete road projects that help create safe, vibrant communities, connect local businesses to their customers and supply chains, and connect people to jobs,”</strong> said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. <strong>“The projects also improve local and regional safety, and demonstrate how a strong multi-modal transportation system supports healthy communities.”</strong></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Infrastructure investments help businesses grow and make local communities attractive to companies looking to relocate or expand,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“This partnership between DEED, MnDOT and local jurisdictions around the state illustrates our all-in effort to sustain Minnesota’s economic success.”</strong></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The projects selected are:</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a name="x__Hlk89861479" id="x__Hlk89861479" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>City of Waconia</strong></a> (TED: $5 million) – Assist with completion of the Highway 5 Phase 2 Reconstruction Project. The project will upgrade 1.4 miles of two-lane road to a four-lane divided road with multiple intersections through the eastern end of the city limits, close a .8-mile gap in the regional trail system, improve mobility and safety, and connect residents to more employment centers, including the nearby Ridgeview Medical Campus. Companies along the corridor may add 40 new jobs by 2028.</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dakota County</strong> (TED: $2.4 million) – Improve the existing Highway 52/County Road 42 interchange in Rosemount, including adding new traffic signals and improving turn lane capacity from Highway 52 onto County Road 42. The project will improve safety in an area seeing increased truck traffic serving local companies. Businesses along the corridor may add 1,340 new jobs by 2028.</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>City of Brooklyn Center</strong> (TEDI: $500,000) – Reconstruct and replace streets and utilities on Opportunity Site to be redeveloped to accommodate a business incubator, a conference center and mixed income housing. The site is targeted for businesses owned by women, immigrants and Black, Indigenous and People of Color. It is estimated that the project will create 89 jobs and increase the market value of the site by $165 million.</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a name="x__Hlk89436145" id="x__Hlk89436145" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong>City of Hastings</strong></a> (TED: $2.73 million) – Reconstruct Highway 61 through Hastings. The project includes a new road system from 21st Street to 25th Street that will reduce traffic on local neighborhood roads, provide a local road system for industry and commercial access and improve trail system access that safely connects bike and pedestrian traffic to businesses in the area. The project may help create as many as 75 new jobs by 2028.</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>City of Norwood Young America</strong> (TEDI: $900,000) – Construct streets and utilities to expand the Tacoma West Industrial Park. The 60-acre expansion will allow for approximately 14 new lots. The city has two committed businesses to locate in the park. The project, when fully built out, would increase the value of the land by $27 million and create or retain 260 jobs.</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carver County</strong> (TED: $3.2 million; TEDI: $500,000) – Construct a new roundabout to improve safety and mobility at the Highway 5/County Road 11 intersection in Victoria. It is anticipated that 45–100 new jobs will be created within the next five years.</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a name="x__Hlk87967275" id="x__Hlk87967275" /><a name="x__Hlk87963935" id="x__Hlk87963935" /><strong>Mahnomen County </strong>(TED: $125,000) – Install new right-turn lane from Highway 59 into the new Benson and Turner Foods plant bringing economic development to an underserved area within the White Earth tribal community. The turning lane is necessary to safely accommodate semi-trailer trucks and other vehicles turning from a high-traffic road into the business. Benson and Turner Foods is providing matching funds for this project.</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aitkin County</strong> (TED:$2.1 million) – Construct a roundabout at the intersection of Highway 65/Highway 210/County Road 8 in McGregor to improve safety and access to businesses and industries near the intersection, including numerous retail and hospitality, manufacturing, mining, and trucking businesses. The project could create up to 130 jobs by 2028.</p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">An additional TED funding solicitation will open in summer 2024, with $4.4 million in TED funds available for projects exclusively in Greater Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a name="x__Hlk89349610" id="x__Hlk89349610"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">For more information on the TED program, visit</span> </a><a href="https://www.dot.state.mn.us/funding/ted/index.html">mndot.gov/funding/ted/index.html</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information on the TEDI program, visit <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/government/financial-assistance/business-funding/tedi/">mn.gov/deed/government/financial-assistance/business-funding/tedi/</a> .</p>6057432024-01-03T20:30:37Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-605740" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-01-03T20:12:10ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Hwikwon Ham to serve as a commissioner of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC).1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Hwikwon Ham to serve as a commissioner of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Hwikwon Ham brings technical expertise and a deep knowledge of Minnesota’s energy grid to the PUC,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m confident he will hit the ground running, leading the clean energy transition and providing Minnesotans with efficient and reliable utility services.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are excited to have Hwikwon Ham join the PUC,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“His institutional knowledge and dedication to the commission will be key to ensuring the future of Minnesota energy is strong.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I thank Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan for giving me a chance to serve the people of Minnesota,”</strong> said Hwikwon Ham. <strong>“I will ensure that Minnesotans have reliable and affordable service from their utilities, while positioning Minnesota as a national leader in the clean energy transition.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hwikwon Ham is a supervisor for the regional energy program within the PUC. He previously served as energy facilities planning director with the commission. Prior to his tenure with the PUC, he was an energy rates analyst with the Minnesota Department of Commerce. He earned an M.A. in economics from the University of Minnesota, and a B.A. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Hwikwon Ham’s service to Minnesotans as an expert on the reliability and resiliency of the grid will make him an outstanding public utilities commissioner,”</strong> said PUC Chair Katie Sieben. <strong>“His training in economics and his deep knowledge of Minnesota’s energy system will enable him to meaningfully contribute to the many complex decisions the Minnesota Commission will make in the years ahead.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We need a PUC commissioner who has the expertise and independence to move projects forward that will put our members to work. Hwikwon Ham understands the energy system and is ready to step right in and ensure we can move the energy transition forward in a way that is affordable, reliable and benefits workers and businesses,”</strong> said Jason George, business manager and financial secretary, International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Fresh Energy congratulates Hwikwon Ham on his appointment,”</strong> said Dr. Brenda Casselius, executive director of Fresh Energy. <strong>“With his extensive experience serving the public interest in multiple state agency roles, Ham brings a deep technical understanding of utility markets, economics, and planning to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission—all of which will be key assets for the commission as it takes critical steps to equitably usher in Minnesota's 100% clean electricity standard and statewide greenhouse gas reduction goals.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission regulates the electricity, natural gas, and telephone services industries in Minnesota – ensuring safe, reliable, and effective utility services. The PUC is a five-member body with legislative and quasi-judicial functions.</p>6057402024-01-03T20:15:54Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-604780" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-21T20:55:10ZGovernor Tim Walz announced today that the Department of Revenue will send $300 million in public safety aid to local governments next week. At the Lino Lakes Fire Station today, Governor Walz and public safety leaders highlighted how cities are planning to use the funding. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz announced today that the Department of Revenue will send $300 million in public safety aid to local governments next week. At the Lino Lakes Fire Station today, Governor Walz and public safety leaders highlighted how cities are planning to use the funding.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This funding will allow public safety officials to invest in the things that matter most to their communities, whether that’s officer recruitment and retention, a new ambulance, or fire and rescue equipment,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I want to give a special thank you to Minnesota’s law enforcement and public safety officials this holiday season, who never take a day off from keeping their residents safe.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public safety departments can use the aid for public safety initiatives such as recruitment and retention, equipment costs, mental health crisis responses, victim​ services, and first responder wellness and training programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Also going out next week are the second half payments of more than $1.2 billion in other state aid, including County Program Aid (CPA), Local Government Aid (LGA), and Town Aid. County and local governments can use these funds to pay for basic needs such as local roads and public safety. They also can help relieve the burden of local property taxes. During the historic 2023 legislative session, lawmakers invested an additional $80 million annually in LGA and CPA to be paid starting in July 2024.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These aid programs are important investments that impact all Minnesotans,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart. <strong>“These programs take into consideration multiple factors to ensure that these aid amounts are dispersed in an equitable manner that tries to reflect the diversity and uniqueness we see in communities in every corner of the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The total certified aid amounts for 2023 include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$564,398,012 in Local Government Aid</li> <li>$300,000,000 in One-time Public Safety Aid</li> <li>$264,374,444 in County Program Aid</li> <li>$20,250,000 in Statewide Affordable Housing Aid</li> <li>$20 million in Local Homeless Prevention Aid</li> <li>$15 million in Soil and Water Conservation District Aid</li> <li>$10 million in Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Aid</li> <li>$9,611,507 in Town Aid</li> <li>$8 million in Riparian Protection Aid</li> <li>$3,646,777 in Out-of-Home Placement Reimbursement Aid</li> <li>$526,926 in Local Performance Reimbursement Aid</li> <li>$16,209 in Utility Valuation Transition Aid</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Visit Revenue’s website for more breakdowns of <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/county-program-aid-cpa-certification" target="_blank">County Program Aid</a> , <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/local-government-aid-lga-certification-cities" target="_blank">Local Government Aid</a> , <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/town-aid-certification" target="_blank">Town Aid</a> , and <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/2023-public-safety-aid" target="_blank">One-time Public Safety Aid</a> certifications.</p>6047802023-12-21T20:58:56Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-604680" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-20T21:31:17ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Brad Lindsay to serve as Commissioner of Veterans Affairs. Lindsay has been serving as temporary commissioner since September. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Brad Lindsay to serve as Commissioner of Veterans Affairs. Lindsay has been serving as temporary commissioner since September.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a U.S. Army veteran with extensive experience serving Minnesota’s veterans and their families, I’m proud to</strong> <strong>appoint Brad Lindsay to this important role, </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“As a veterans affairs leader, he as worked </strong><strong>tirelessly to end veteran homelessness, strengthen our veterans homes and cemeteries, and connect Minnesota’s veterans to</strong> <strong>the services and benefits they have earned.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Brad Lindsay is an exceptional leader and public servant who has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to those who’ve raised their hand to serve,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“It’s clear that the respect and care for Minnesota’s veterans and their families are his top priority. I’m grateful for his continued service.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I have spent the last 25 years serving the veterans of Minnesota in one capacity or another – it has truly been my life’s work and passion,”</strong> said Brad Lindsay. <strong>“I sincerely appreciate everyone who has supported and mentored me over the years and who will undoubtedly support me in my new role. Thank you to Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan for their continued confidence in me to provide nation-leading programs and services for my fellow veterans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Brad Lindsay <br /></em>Brad Lindsay was named the temporary commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) in September 2023. Since 2014, Lindsay has served as the MDVA Deputy Commissioner of Programs and Services. In that role, he oversaw the Veterans Programs and Memorial Affairs, Veterans Services, and Veterans Education and Occupational Resources teams. Prior to his role as deputy commissioner, Lindsay served as MDVA’s senior director of programs and services for three years and as the Olmstead County veterans services officer for six years. He was president of the Minnesota Association of County Veterans Service Officers from 2008-2009.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Temporary Commissioner Lindsay is an Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran. He started his military career in the U.S. Army and served 13 years in the Military Police, within both the Regular and Reserve components. During his military service, he was deployed to Kuwait, Iraq, Jordan, Germany, and Panama and is the recipient of numerous awards including the Combat Action Badge, the Army Achievement Medal, and two awards of the Army Commendation Medal.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Brad Lindsay, a combat veteran himself, is the perfect person for the Commissioner of the Department of Veterans Affairs,”</strong> said Stephen Whitehead, Minnesota Disabled American Veterans Adjutant. <strong>“As a veteran who has been serving veterans for more than two decades, Brad understands the importance of taking care of veterans and has what it takes to get the job done right.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I have had the opportunity to work with Brad Lindsay for many years in his variety of positions supporting Minnesota veterans,”</strong> said Dean Ascheman, Veterans 4 Veterans Trust Fund. <strong>“I applaud the Governor’s appointment of Brad as Commissioner of MDVA.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Brad Lindsay is a great team player who is always willing to work with the veteran service organizations and always looking out for the best interests of Minnesota veterans and their families,”</strong> said VFW State Commander Dan Meyer. <strong>“He will be a great asset in this position and for the future of MDVA.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Brad has provided great leadership in his roles in MDVA, while building relationships with all the veteran service organizations and government agencies, and still finding time to be present to hear the needs of veterans and ensure the best services are provided,”</strong> said Stew Medneck, Minnesota Department of Jewish War Veterans. <strong>“He is beloved by the Minnesota veteran community, and there is no person better suited for this position.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About MDVA <br /></em>The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) is dedicated to serving Minnesota veterans and their families. In addition to overseeing the eight state veterans homes and four state veterans cemeteries, MDVA helps eligible veterans and families secure state and federal benefits and provides programs and services relating to higher education, benefits, burial, claims, and outreach.</p>6046802023-12-20T21:42:16Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-604455" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-18T21:32:26ZIn accordance with a proclamation issued by President Joe Biden, Governor Tim Walz has ordered all Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings from sunrise until sunset on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, to honor the life of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – In accordance with a proclamation issued by President Joe Biden, Governor Tim Walz has ordered all Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings from sunrise until sunset on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, to honor the life of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Justice O’Connor’s appointment and tenure paved the way for more women to serve as judges and lawyers across the United States,”</strong> reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. <strong>“Justice O’Connor was a tireless advocate for judicial independence and the Rule of Law throughout the United States and the world.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6044552023-12-18T21:34:44Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-604422" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-18T20:09:22ZEarlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The panel includes the chair and at-large members of the Commission on Judicial Selection and other administration leaders. Today, the panel announced that it is recommending three candidates from that applicant pool for consideration to fill the current vacancy on the Minnesota Court of Appeals.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Earlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The panel includes the chair and at-large members of the Commission on Judicial Selection and other administration leaders.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Today, the panel announced that it is recommending three candidates from that applicant pool for consideration to fill the current vacancy on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The vacancy occurred upon the resignation of the Honorable Jeffrey M. Bryan, who was recently appointed to the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota by President Joe Biden.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rachel Bond: </strong>Rachel Bond is a managing attorney in the Office of the Minnesota Appellate Public Defender, where she supervises a team of attorneys and represents criminal defendants in their direct appeals to the Minnesota Court of Appeals and Minnesota Supreme Court. She was previously an attorney at Faegre &amp; Benson LLP and Shearman &amp; Sterling, as well as a law clerk to the Honorable Boyce F. Martin Jr. on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. Bond’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Supreme Court Advisory Committee for the Minnesota Rules of Civil Appellate Procedure and an adjunct professor at Mitchell Hamline School of Law. Bond’s community involvement also includes serving on the board of the Great North Innocence Project and as a judge for the William E. McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court Competition.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>JaPaul Harris:</strong> JaPaul Harris serves as a judge in the Second Judicial District in Ramsey County. He previously served as a judicial referee in Hennepin County, presiding over housing, harassment, juvenile, and civil commitment matters. Harris also serves as the chair of the Minnesota Supreme Court’s Juvenile Rules Advisory Committee. Harris’s community involvement includes serving as co-chair of the Ramsey County Youth Justice Transformation Initiative, as chair of the Equal Justice Committee for the Second Judicial District and various statewide committees, and as a member of the board of the Volunteer Lawyers Network.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Hennesy:</strong> Sarah Hennesy is the chief judge of the Seventh Judicial District and is chambered in St. Cloud. She previously practiced law in both appellate and trial courts as an appellate public defender in Iowa, as a criminal defense attorney in Washington, D.C. and Virginia, and as a staff attorney at Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid in St. Cloud. Hennesy also serves as chair of the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the General Rules of Practice. Her community involvement includes speaking at Minnesota Women Lawyers Association and other legal organization events, volunteering as a judge and coach for mock trial teams, and working with local schools to help students learn about the judiciary.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6044222023-12-18T20:15:43Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-604309" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-15T22:21:19ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Krista Marks as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Marks will replace the Honorable Arlene M. Asencio Perkkio and will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Krista Marks as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Marks will replace the Honorable Arlene M. Asencio Perkkio and will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Krista Marks to the First Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As a longtime public defender, she is committed to serving Minnesotans and dedicated to fair and just outcomes. I am confident that she will bring an important perspective to the Dakota County bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Krista Marks will be an extraordinary judge for Dakota County,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Her lived experience is powerful, and she is deeply rooted in community. She has dedicated her career to pursuing justice for those on the margins, and I am confident that her fair and compassionate approach to the law will benefit those who need it the most.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s First Judicial District consists of Carver, Dakota, Goodhue, Le Sueur, McLeod, Scott, and Sibley Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Marks is an assistant public defender in the Fourth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Hennepin County. She was previously a staff attorney and expungement program director at the Neighborhood Justice Center, where her work centered around community advocacy. Marks’s community involvement includes volunteering at her son’s school and at Neighbors, Inc., a local nonprofit that provides food, clothing, and other services to those in need in her community. She earned her B.A. from the University of St. Thomas and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6043092023-12-15T22:31:39Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-604298" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-15T21:04:32ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated the news that sustainable aviation fuels will now qualify for tax credits under President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. With a nation-leading sustainable aviation fuel tax credit, Governor Walz has led efforts to grow the sustainable aviation fuels industry in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated the news that sustainable aviation fuels will now qualify for tax credits under President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. With a nation-leading sustainable aviation fuel tax credit, Governor Walz has led efforts to grow the sustainable aviation fuels industry in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Sustainable aviation fuels will help us meet our climate goals, support our crop-based biofuels sector, and grow our economy,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“President Biden’s new tax credit is fantastic news for farmers and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to this growing industry. By supporting the production and supply of sustainable fuels, we’re reducing our carbon footprint, supporting rural communities, and creating good-paying jobs across the country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In August, Governor Walz <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/589989">highlighted Minnesota’s efforts</a> to grow the sustainable aviation fuel industry through Minnesota crop-based biofuels. This year, the Governor signed a nation-leading sustainable aviation fuel tax credit into law. The new tax credit, combined with new federal tax breaks, will help grow the emerging sustainable aviation fuel industry in Minnesota. The Inflation Reduction Act was passed by the United States Congress and signed into law by President Biden in August of 2022.</p>6042982023-12-15T21:11:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-604297" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-15T19:53:07ZGovernor Walz, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and Minnesota Housing today announced nearly $350 million to preserve and build over 4,700 units of housing across Minnesota. With over $1 billion in housing investments signed into law by Governor Tim Walz this year, this is the largest slate of development projects Minnesota Housing has ever approved.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Walz, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and Minnesota Housing today announced nearly $350 million to preserve and build over 4,700 units of housing across Minnesota. With over $1 billion in housing investments signed into law by Governor Tim Walz this year, this is the largest slate of development projects Minnesota Housing has ever approved.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As one of the most basic human needs, housing provides a foundation for safety, stability, and economic growth,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“Through this historic slate of development projects, we’re increasing the availability of affordable housing and investing in a better future for Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re taking important steps to expand and preserve affordable housing, make homeownership a reality for more Minnesotans, and ensure Minnesota housing meets the needs of families across the state,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“The project selections announced today will soon become safe, stable homes thousands of children will grow up in. Their futures will be brighter because of what we accomplished together.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The total funding announcement is a compilation of project selections across the spectrum of housing: multifamily housing, single-family homeownership opportunities, and manufactured home communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Housing selected 28 rental properties this year, with 13 located in the Twin Cities metro and 15 in Greater Minnesota. The multifamily rental selections support a total of 1,486 units. Most of the units will be new construction (875 units) and the rest are preservation of existing affordable properties (611 units). The state needs to build more housing and invest in existing properties to both improve the properties for the current residents and to maintain the affordability of the rental units for decades to come.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Many of the properties are for families with children. Some of the units are for specific populations, such as seniors (273 units), people with disabilities (138), and people who have experienced homelessness or need supportive services (474).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In the homeownership area, Minnesota Housing approved 78 projects supporting a total of 1,314 homes. Of these, 278 homes are new construction, and 598 will be rehabilitations of existing homes. The agency also provides funding to make homeownership more affordable for families who have sufficient income to become a homeowner. This year’s selections are the highest ever for homeownership activities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Housing more than doubled its funding toward manufactured home community investments this year over 2022, with $21.5 million allocated in selections. These funds can be used for infrastructure projects such as water and sewer upgrades, storm shelter construction or repairs, electrical work, and road and sidewalk improvements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Between multifamily, single-family, and manufactured home communities, Minnesota Housing selected developments in every region of the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This year we’re seeing a lot of new collaborative partnerships among the developers,”</strong> said Minnesota Housing Commissioner Jennifer Leimaile Ho. <strong>“It’s exciting to see the industry open up to new women-owned businesses and firms led by people of color. And we’re grateful to our many longstanding partners who helped advocate for this year’s investments and continue to do great work in the community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Highlights of developments selected:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Single-family homes, rowhomes, and duplexes coming to Golden Valley:</strong> The City of Golden Valley Housing &amp; Redevelopment Authority (HRA) is working with developers to build new, affordable homes across the city including Magnolia Homes, LLC, a Black-owned affordable housing developer, and Greater Metropolitan Housing Corporation (GMHC). The projects are part of Home Ownership Program for Equity (HOPE), a Golden Valley initiative to make public land available for the new construction of affordable homes. Many of the homes will be placed into the Homes Within Reach community land trust to ensure the units remain affordablelong term.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Passive House meets affordable apartments:</strong>Enhanced sustainability is among Minnesota Housing’s priorities for its selections. Enclave Overlook, a new mixed-income rental development to be developed in Rockford by TTT Development, LLC, will use strategies to aggressively reduce energy usage. Doing so will reduce the building’s environmental footprint and will save money for residents long-term. <br /></li> <li><strong>New storm shelter will accommodate all residents:</strong> Landfall Park Terrace in Washington County is a manufactured home community that houses 300 families. It has a community space that doubles as a storm shelter, but the space only fits about a third of the residents. The project will replace the storm shelter as well as address water and sewer system repair, street improvements and sidewalk repair, all common infrastructure needs in older manufactured home communities. </li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the 2023 selections, including complete project financing details and photos, visit Minnesota Housing at <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mnhousing.gov%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CEmmet.Rice%40state.mn.us%7C500bcfeb30644bda0fe108dbfda761fc%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638382667617159610%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=aanAofbHw9Fsqtoj0VsL7PwNrCTIBAVsVUefjps3K28%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.mnhousing.gov</a> .</p>6042972023-12-15T20:57:18Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-604293" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-14T20:12:06ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David L. Mennis. This seat will be chambered in Benson in Swift County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David L. Mennis. This seat will be chambered in Benson in Swift County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kristen Pierce:</strong> Kristen Pierce is the first assistant county attorney in the Kandiyohi County Attorney’s Office, where she provides legal advice to county departments and maintains a criminal, juvenile, and civil commitment caseload. She was previously an associate attorney at Anderson Larson PLLC, a law clerk for the Honorable Ann L. Carrott in Minnesota’s Seventh Judicial District, and a contract public defender in the Eighth Judicial District. Pierce’s community involvement includes serving on the Eighth Judicial District Treatment Court team and as a member of the West Central Singers. She also volunteers with the Minnesota State Bar Association Mock Trial Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Allison Whalen: </strong>Allison Whalen is an assistant county attorney in the Stevens County Attorney’s Office, where she handles a caseload of criminal prosecution, juvenile delinquency, child protection, civil commitment, guardianship and conservatorship, child support, and appellate matters. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Swift County Attorney’s Office and a law clerk to the Honorable Matthew E. Johnson on the Minnesota Court of Appeals and the Honorable Michael R. Savre in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Whalen’s community involvement includes serving on the board of the 16th District Bar Association and as a member of the Stevens County Children’s Justice Initiative and the Stevens County Violence Prevention Task Force.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brandon Zumwalt: </strong>Brandon Zumwalt is a partner at Johnson, Moody, Schmidt, Kleinhuizen &amp; Zumwalt, P.A., where he represents clients in a broad range of criminal and civil matters. He was previously an associate attorney at Walling, Berg, &amp; Debele, P.A. Zumwalt’s community involvement includes serving on the boards of the Willmar Rotary Club, Willmar Rotary Foundation, and Willmar Area Community Foundation. He also volunteers on the Willmar Public School District Community Task Force and as a mentor for the school district’s REACH program to help students overcome academic and personal obstacles to achieve success.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6042932023-12-15T20:42:25Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-604079" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-13T21:35:06ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced a vacancy on the Commission on Judicial Selection. The vacancy is for an at-large attorney member seat. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor seek applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced a vacancy on the Commission on Judicial Selection. The vacancy is for an at-large attorney member seat. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor seek applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals may request an application by contacting  <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on </strong><strong>Wednesday,</strong> <strong>January 3 and should be addressed to Governor Tim Walz.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Commission on Judicial Selection solicits, considers, and recommends candidates to the Governor for vacancies in the district courts and the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. In addition to the Governor’s 27 appointments, the Minnesota Supreme Court also appoints 22 members to the commission.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the Commission on Judicial Selection, please visit the  <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For inquiries concerning the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor at  <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p>6040792023-12-14T17:46:41Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-603897" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-12T22:23:15ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Transportation today announced that they have secured $25 million in federal funds for improvements to Highway 210 in Brainerd.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Transportation today announced that they have secured $25 million in federal funds for improvements to Highway 210 in Brainerd.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our roads and bridges power our economy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesotans who live and do business along this corridor know that this road requires significant safety and structural improvements. I’m grateful for the federal government’s partnership as we work to improve roads, bridges, and transportation all across our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The $25 million Rural Surface Transportation Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Multimodal Discretionary Grants Program is part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden in November 2021. This project will rebuild a 4-mile stretch of Highway 210, also known as Washington Street, from Baxter Drive to Pine Shores Road. It will include accessibility and sidewalk upgrades to improve pedestrian safety, the construction of two roundabouts, and resurfacing of the bridge over the Mississippi River. This project is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to begin in 2026.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the <a href="https://www.dot.state.mn.us/d3/projects/brainerd/index.html">Highway 210/Washington Street reconstruction project</a> can be found on MnDOT’s website.</p>6038972023-12-12T22:28:08Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-603665" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-08T21:53:07ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota effective immediately until sunset on Friday, December 15, in honor and remembrance of Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann, a Minnesotan killed in an aircraft crash during a training mission near Yakushima, Japan.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota effective immediately until sunset on Friday, December 15, in honor and remembrance of Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann, a Minnesotan killed in an aircraft crash during a training mission near Yakushima, Japan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann was a courageous member of the United States Air Force, dedicating himself to protecting our country,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota mourns this tragic loss and recognizes Major Jeffrey Hoernemann for his selfless service to his country. His family, friends, and loved ones are in my thoughts and prayers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6036652023-12-08T21:56:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-603637" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-08T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced seven companies received Governor’s International Trade Awards and International Investment Awards for their leadership in global trade and investment.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced seven companies received Governor’s International Trade Awards and International Investment Awards for their leadership in global trade and investment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“International trade is a key driver in growing our economy and expanding our job market,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These seven companies have made an extraordinary impact not only here at home, but on the global stage – strengthening and growing our state’s economy. I’m proud to recognize these companies for their progress and contributions to Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year’s recipients of the Governor’s International Trade Awards and International Investment Awards are:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>DigiKey, Thief River Falls;</li> <li>East View Companies, Minneapolis;</li> <li>Microbiologics, Inc., St. Cloud;</li> <li>Milk Specialties Global, Eden Prairie;</li> <li>MINPACK, Inc., Pine City;</li> <li>ThermaSolutions, White Bear Lake;</li> <li>Rosenbauer, Wyoming (International Investment Award honoree).</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/exporting/about/trade-award.jsp">Governor’s International Trade Awards</a> honor companies that have shown extraordinary progress and success in exports to foreign markets, as well as foreign-owned companies that have made significant economic contributions through their investments in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Governor's inaugural trade mission to Australia last month was just the most recent in a years-long series of efforts to strengthen our economy through trade,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“We are proud to recognize and award these seven companies for their monumental contributions to Minnesota’s international business community and the state economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Milk Specialties Global has been a true leader in helping establish and expand international market opportunities for Minnesota agricultural products, and we congratulate them on this well-deserved honor,”</strong> said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. <strong>“Minnesota’s ag exports continue to reach new heights, totaling a record $10 billion in 2022, and we look forward to working with all international trade partners to meet the increasing global demand for products grown and made in our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As the Minnesota Trade Office (MTO) celebrates its 40th anniversary, we are mindful of the dramatic changes that have occurred in global engagement and doing business internationally since the MTO was established in 1983,”</strong> said MTO Executive Director Gabrielle Gerbaud. <strong>“It’s an honor to recognize the incredible efforts and accomplishments by the award recipients, as well as the MTO’s work during the past four decades and dedication to supporting the state’s exporters and attracting foreign investment.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 2023 Governor’s International Trade Award Recipients:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>DigiKey</strong> (Large Company: Any Industry Sector) is an e-commerce distributor of electronic components and automation products that has been located in Thief River Falls since 1972. Digikey offers more than 17.2 million components from over 2,800 quality name-brand manufacturers and does business in 27 different currencies and offers websites and content in 22 different languages. The company employs more than 5,000 people in Northwest Minnesota and beyond, and delivers over 27,000 orders per day to customers in more than 180 countries around the world.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>East View Companies</strong> (Services: Small- to Medium-sized Company) specializes in acquiring uncommon information from extraordinary places. Formed in 1989, East View sources newspapers, books, peer reviewed journals, census data, travel guides, satellite imagery, maps, and more from around the world. It also creates subscription databases and bespoke creations for customers that include higher education, the United States Government and allied nations, and multi-national corporations in numerous industries.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Microbiologics, Inc.</strong> (Manufactured Goods: Small- to Medium-Sized Company) partners with healthcare and life science laboratories, manufacturers, and suppliers across the globe to co-create and provide biological reference materials, assay services and consult for microbiology, molecular diagnostics and virology. Located in St. Cloud, Microbiologics’ catalog of 2,600 infectious disease quality control products are sold through a network of more than 160 distribution partners serving 142 countries across the globe.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Milk Specialties Global</strong> (Agricultural Commodities/Processed Food: Any Size Company) was founded in the 1940s and was an early pioneer in reclaiming and drying whey leftover from the cheesemaking process. Today, MSG owns 12 manufacturing facilities across the U.S. and is one of the largest protein and dairy ingredients manufacturers on the globe. Headquartered in Eden Prairie, MSG exported to 42 countries on six continents in 2022.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>MINPACK, Inc.</strong> (Services: Small to Medium-Sized Company) began operations in 1968 manufacturing 3M Microfilm Aperture Cards. MINPACK, Inc. as we know it today was founded in 2005 and continues to manufacture paper and film products for the global office supply and medical markets, while broadening its technology in manufacturing, converting, assembly, packaging and printing solutions. MINPACK began working with Sprout Denmark in 2014 to manufacture its plantable pencils that grow into herbs, vegetables, flowers, and even spruce trees. More than 40 million pencils have been sold across 80 countries.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rosenbauer</strong> (International Investment Award) was founded in 1866 and is the world’s largest producer of firefighting vehicles and solutions. With over 4,000 employees worldwide, the company produces more than 3,000 vehicles every year and operates in 150 countries. Rosenbauer America, previously known as General Safety Equipment, was founded in 1929, and joined Rosenbauer International in 1995. The Minnesota campus has 450 employees in Wyoming, Minn.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ThermaSolutions</strong> (Manufactured Goods: Small- to Medium-Sized Company) is a global leader in Hyperthermic medical technology used in cancer treatment, with a primary focus on Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) procedures. ThermaSolutions has been intricately and consistently involved in cancer treatment, partnering with physicians worldwide in six continents and over 50 countries, working with oncology centers, universities, and hospitals throughout the world. Recently, ThermaSolutions launched their newest development in cancer treatment – the HurriChem, which is used in Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosolized Chemotherapy (PIPAC) procedures.</p>6036372023-12-08T19:40:27Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-603525" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-07T22:54:33ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced a vacancy on the Commission on Judicial Selection. The vacancy is for an attorney member seat in the Sixth Judicial District. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor seek applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced a vacancy on the Commission on Judicial Selection. The vacancy is for an attorney member seat in the Sixth Judicial District. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor seek applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals may request an application by contacting  <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on Thursday, December 28 and should be addressed to Governor Tim Walz.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Commission on Judicial Selection solicits, considers, and recommends candidates to the Governor for vacancies in the district courts and the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. In addition to the Governor’s 27 appointments, the Minnesota Supreme Court also appoints 22 members to the commission.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the Commission on Judicial Selection, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For inquiries concerning the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor at  <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p>6035252023-12-07T23:10:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-602752" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-06T22:07:13ZGovernor Tim Walz has proclaimed Thursday, December 7, 2023, as Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day in Minnesota and ordered all Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings from sunrise until sunset on Thursday, December 7, 2023, in honor and remembrance of those who died during the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor and those who sacrificed their lives for liberty and freedom during World War II.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has proclaimed Thursday, December 7, 2023, as Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day in Minnesota and ordered all Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings from sunrise until sunset on Thursday, December 7, 2023, in honor and remembrance of those who died during the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor and those who sacrificed their lives for liberty and freedom during World War II.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Over 16 million people served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the four long years of World War II,”</strong> reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. <strong>“It is fitting and proper to remember the sacrifices of all who served in defense of our nation during World War II, especially those who paid the ultimate price and lost their lives in defense of the liberties that Americans enjoy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6027522023-12-06T22:09:13Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-602565" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-05T22:46:49ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited St. Cloud’s wastewater treatment plant as part of a statewide tour highlighting state infrastructure needs ahead of the 2024 legislative session. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited St. Cloud’s wastewater treatment plant as part of a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/597349">statewide tour</a> highlighting state infrastructure needs ahead of the 2024 legislative session. Governor Walz was joined by Senator Aric Putnam, Representative Dan Wolgamott, and St. Cloud Mayor Dave Kleis.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m traveling the state to tour the infrastructure investments that would make the biggest difference for our communities,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“St. Cloud’s Wastewater treatment plant provides an essential service – one we often take for granted. We've got to make the investments to ensure our infrastructure remains safe and reliable for Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In June, Governor Walz signed the state’s largest-ever <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579789">infrastructure bill</a> into law. The $2.6 billion package invests in construction and renovation projects, creating thousands of good-paying jobs for Minnesotans and bringing long-term benefits to communities. Since then, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan have visited local projects across the state, from Thief River Falls and Moorhead to Chisholm and Winona. </p>6025652023-12-05T23:21:58Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-602583" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-05T19:55:49ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Arlene M. Ascencio Perkkio. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Arlene M. Ascencio Perkkio. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christopher Bates:</strong> Christopher Bates is an assistant county attorney in the Civil Division of the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office. He previously served as an assistant city attorney for the City of Minneapolis, where he handled criminal cases with a focus on domestic violence, and an assistant county attorney for the McLeod County Attorney’s Office. Bates’s community involvement includes serving on the board of Mental Health Resources. He also volunteers with the Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities and as a mock trial judge with the Minnesota State Bar Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Krista Marks: </strong>Krista Marks is an assistant public defender in the Fourth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Hennepin County. She was previously a staff attorney and expungement program director at the Neighborhood Justice Center, where her work centered around community advocacy. Marks’s community involvement includes volunteering at her son’s school and Neighbors, Inc., which is a local nonprofit that provides food, clothing, and other services to those in need in her community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Luis Rangel Morales: </strong>Luis Rangel Morales is a staff attorney and director of community engagement for the Neighborhood Justice Center, where he represents low-income community members facing criminal charges in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties. He has also served as defense counsel for the Ramsey County Veterans Treatment Court and Ramsey County DUI Court. Rangel Morales’s community involvement includes serving as chair of the St. Paul Planning Commission and vice-chair of St. Paul’s Board of Zoning Appeals. He has also volunteered with organizations helping at-risk youth.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6025832023-12-05T23:09:31Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-601722" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-04T19:10:45ZGovernor Tim Walz and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers today announced their departments of transportation have requested over $1 billion in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bridge Investment Program (BIP) to rebuild the John A. Blatnik Bridge between Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers today announced their departments of transportation have requested over $1 billion in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bridge Investment Program (BIP) to rebuild the John A. Blatnik Bridge between Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Blatnik Bridge is a critical connection point for transportation and commerce between Minnesota and Wisconsin – and it needs an upgrade,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m proud to partner with Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers as we urge our federal partners to support this project that will foster regional economic growth, bolster our national supply chains, and strengthen the reliability of our transportation network that serves hundreds of communities between our states.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“For more than 60 years, the Blatnik Bridge has been a vital link for our communities and businesses. But as the bridge reaches the end of its service life, its condition continues to deteriorate—and it’s time for us to exhaust every opportunity to replace this crucial connector with a safer, more efficient, and more reliable structure for the next generation,”</strong> said Governor Evers. <strong>“This submittal is a major step forward for our two states, and I look forward to continuing to work with Gov. Walz and our partners in Minnesota and our federal partners to build the 21st-century infrastructure the people of our states deserve.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Earlier this year, Gov. Evers and Gov. Walz announced a federal grant application for over $1 billion through the U.S. DOT’s Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant (MPDG) program. Both grant programs are part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The total project cost is estimated at $1.8 billion. Each state committed $400 million toward the project this year. Both states hope to secure the federal funding necessary to replace this aging infrastructure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Replacing this bridge is a top priority. MnDOT is grateful to our federal partners for their consideration. We look forward to working with WisDOT to build the modern and reliable Blatnik Bridge that the Twin Ports deserves,”</strong> said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our commitment to improving safety and the long-term sustainability of our bridges is unwavering. I know our partners at MnDOT share this sentiment,”</strong> said WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson. <strong>“These grant applications and deepening shows of support – from local communities and elected officials in both states – demonstrate how important this project is and why we must act with urgency.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more than 60 years, the Blatnik Bridge has served as a vital link between Duluth and Superior via Interstate 535 and US 53. Jointly owned and managed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), the Blatnik Bridge is an important freight and commercial connection between the Duluth-Superior Twin Ports and serves more than 33,000 cars per day. The bridge is also one of the largest marine links for U.S. trade with Canada, the top trade partner of Wisconsin, Minnesota and the United States. The replacement project will improve safety and accommodate oversize and overweight loads.</p>6017222023-12-04T19:43:51Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-602200" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-12-01T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee, Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training, State Rehabilitation Council, and The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee, Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training, State Rehabilitation Council, and The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jimmy Longoria – Oak Park Heights, MN <br /></strong>Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Replacing: Robyne Robinson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christina Woods – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Cheyanne St. John</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bryan Thao Worra – Brooklyn Park, MN <br /></strong>Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee advises and makes recommendations to the State Capitol Preservation Commission regarding art exhibits to be displayed in State Capitol spaces.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Capitol Art Exhibit Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/250" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>KB Brietzke – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Theo Casio – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Garcia – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Selena Garza – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shor Salkas – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: January 2, 2024 <br /> Term Expires: January 3, 2028 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Created by legislation in 2023, the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans works for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for Minnesota's community of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender expansive, queer, intersex, asexual, or two-spirit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/317" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heidi St. Clair – Inver Grove Heights, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Vicky Rizzolo</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles reviews developments in connected and automated vehicle technology and intelligent and emerging transportation technology, explores partnership opportunities to remain prepared for the widespread adoption of new technologies, and proposes policies to safely test and deploy connected and automated vehicles.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/253" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Bartels – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Community Member <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Dave Beal</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jane Leonard – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Community Member <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Walstien – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service <br /> Community Member <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Lee Sumee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, also known as ServeMinnesota, provides grant funding, training, and technical assistance to nonprofits, government agencies, and schools that run AmeriCorps programs. The commission also pioneers strategic initiatives in a variety of impact areas to solve complex social problems.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/105" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tiffany Allbee – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sadie Hart – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelly Tronstad – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Created by legislation in 2023, the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training was established to direct the Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training which serves parents and children in the child legal welfare system. The board will work with the head appellate counsel to govern the office and provide fiscal oversight.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Board of Appellate Counsel and Training can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/352" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Crystal Hellekson – East Grand Forks, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Disability Advocacy Group Representative <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Addyson Moore</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katie Legrid – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>State Rehabilitation Council <br /> Current or Former Recipient of VR Services <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Rehabilitation Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Rehabilitation Council is responsible for advising state government on the performance of Minnesota's vocational rehabilitation programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/150" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jamie Harthan – Two Harbors, MN <br /></strong>The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities <br /> Consumer Representative <br /> Effective: December 6, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Lisa Harvey</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities advises and assists the ombudsman in developing policies, plans, and programs to benefit persons with mental illness, developmental disabilities, chemical dependence, and emotional disturbance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about The Ombudsman Committee for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/128" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>6022002023-12-01T22:49:40Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-602015" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-30T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today visited the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, making Governor Walz the first Minnesota Governor to visit all 11 Tribal nations in Minnesota. During their visit, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor met with Chairman Keith Anderson and Secretary and Treasurer Rebecca Crooks-Stratton to learn about Tribal priorities. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today visited the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, making Governor Walz the first Minnesota Governor to visit all 11 Tribal nations in Minnesota. During their visit, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor met with Chairman Keith Anderson and Secretary and Treasurer Rebecca Crooks-Stratton to learn about Tribal priorities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“No Governor in the history of our state has visited all 11 Tribal nations. Today that changed,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am incredibly proud to reach this milestone on the final day of Native American Heritage month. By learning from and working hand-in-hand with Tribal governments, we’ll continue building a state government that works better for everyone and ensures Minnesota is a place where Tribal nations and their citizens can thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Since we took office, our administration has been committed to strengthening relationships with all 11 Tribal nations in Minnesota. By traveling to Tribal lands and meeting with the 11 Tribal governments, we’ve put those words into action,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“The Tribal nations are our partners, and these visits are part of ensuring that our relationship with each individual Tribal nation respects their independent self-governance. This is a big deal, and I’m proud to celebrate this milestone, but this isn’t the end of our work. We will continue to maintain our relationships with Tribal nations in a good way for the benefit of Tribal members and all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor has now visited all 11 Tribal nations in Minnesota:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Miskwaagamiiwi-Zaagaiganing (Red Lake Nation): October 29, 2020</li> <li>Nah-gah-chi-wa-nong (Fond Du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa): October 30, 2020</li> <li>Tinta Wita (Prairie Island Indian Community): June 26, 2021</li> <li>Zagaakwaandagowininiwag (Bois Forte Band of Chippewa): September 13, 2021</li> <li>Pezihutazizi Oyate (Upper Sioux Community): April 12, 2022</li> <li>Misi–zaaga’iganiing (Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe): June 1, 2022</li> <li>Gichi–Onigaming (Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa): September 26, 2022</li> <li>Gaa–waabaabiganikaag (White Earth Nation): May 4, 2023</li> <li>Cansa’yapi (Lower Sioux Indian Community): August 1, 2023</li> <li>Gaa–zagaskwaajimekaag (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe): September 27, 2023</li> <li>Mdewakanton (Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community): November 29, 2023</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2021, Governor Walz <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/508751">signed a bill</a> codifying government-to-government relations and Tribal consultation into law. The bill recognizes the unique legal relationship of the 11 Tribal nations; affirms Tribal sovereignty; and requires state agencies to appoint Tribal liaisons and attend Tribal-state relations training for state leaders and employees.</p>6020152023-12-01T15:22:08Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-601721" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-28T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Dean Eyler, Kristen Marttila, and Dominick Mathews as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. The seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">ST. PAUL, MN – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Dean Eyler, Kristen Marttila, and Dominick Mathews as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. The seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Eyler will replace the Honorable Keala C. Ede.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Dean Eyler to the Fourth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“He is a skilled attorney with an extensive background in complex civil litigation that will lend itself well to the Hennepin County bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I applaud the appointment of Dean Eyler,”</strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Not only is he a talented attorney, but his dedication to helping asylum seekers through our justice system demonstrates his dedication to serving the most vulnerable.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Marttila will replace the Honorable Tanya M. Bransford.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am pleased to appoint Kristen Marttila</strong>,” said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her background working on complex antitrust cases, consumer class actions, and environmental litigation will bring a valuable perspective to this court.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Kristen Marttila will be an excellent addition to the Fourth Judicial District bench,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Throughout her career she has demonstrated a deep commitment to justice, oftentimes advocating for clients who were the underdog. I am confident she will be a fair, effective, and empathetic jurist.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mathews will replace the Honorable Toddrick S. Barnette.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to appoint Dominick Mathews to the bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“He approaches the law with humility and grace, which will continue to show through his work on the Hennepin County bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Dominick Mathews is an outstanding attorney with a deep understanding of our criminal justice system and the role that the judge plays in ensuring the equitable administration of justice,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“His deep roots in community and lived experience will serve the people of the Fourth Judicial District well. I look forward to seeing him excel in his new role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District encompasses Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Dean Eyler</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Dean Eyler is a partner at Lathrop GPM, where he litigates complex commercial and intellectual property disputes and serves as the firm’s pro bono partner. He was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Donald P. Lay on the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals and an associate attorney at Dorsey &amp; Whitney. Eyler’s community involvement includes serving on the boards of the Advocates for Human Rights and Minnesota Urban Debate League. He also volunteers with the Volunteer Lawyers Network and provides pro bono representation to parties seeking asylum before the asylum office and immigration court. Eyler helped create a fellows program for high school debaters and is a former Edina High School debate coach. He earned his B.A. from the University of Northern Iowa and his J.D. from the University of Iowa College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Kristen Marttila</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Kristen Marttila is a partner at Lockridge Grindal Nauen PLLP, where her practice focuses on litigating complex antitrust and other consumer-oriented class actions. She is the chair of the firm’s pro bono committee, and her own pro bono practice has included civil rights, environmental, criminal appeals, and criminal expungement cases. Marttila was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Patrick J. Schiltz and Honorable Eric C. Tostrud on the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. She was also an attorney at Faegre &amp; Benson LLP, where she handled environmental and land use matters. Marttila’s community involvement includes chairing the amicus committee of the Committee to Support the Antitrust Laws. She also volunteers in Minneapolis Public Schools as a classroom assistant and as a member of the Welcoming Equity Committee of her local elementary school. She earned her B.A. from the University of Iowa and her J.D. from the University of Iowa College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Dominick Mathews</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Dominick Mathews is a principal attorney at the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, where he supervises over 100 attorneys and support staff in the felony prosecution of homicide, sexual assault, domestic assault, child abuse, felony assault, and other serious felony level crimes. He was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Toddrick S. Barnette in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Mathews’s community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Rules of Criminal Procedure and volunteering as a mentor for the ACT/SAT college preparatory program for Twin Cities youth. He is also a member of the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He earned his B.A. from the University of Minnesota and his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p>6017212023-11-29T22:11:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-601720" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-28T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz released the following statement today celebrating the announcement of Mayo Clinic’s $5 billion expansion in Rochester. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz released the following statement today celebrating the announcement of Mayo Clinic’s $5 billion expansion in Rochester.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota has long been an internationally recognized hub for academic medicine, research, and cutting-edge medical technology. Now, Mayo Clinic is making a multi-billion dollar investment to build on that foundation,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I applaud Mayo Clinic for investing in Minnesota, ushering in the next generation of health care innovation, and ensuring Minnesotans have access to the best possible services and care.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The expansion includes 2.4 million square feet of new building space, adding state-of-the-art spaces and technology to improve health care delivery and bolstering economic growth in Rochester. The $5 billion investment is estimated to support 6,000 new jobs and generate an additional $2 billion in economic output.</p>6017202023-11-28T19:53:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-601255" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-22T18:40:00ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Saturday, November 25, until the day of interment to honor the life and legacy of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Saturday, November 25, until the day of interment to honor the life and legacy of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a tireless humanitarian, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter embodied courage, grit, and integrity. She fought tirelessly for those values until the end of her life, setting an example we should all seek to follow,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re so grateful for her service to our country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“First Lady Rosalynn Carter was an inspiration. A true partner to her husband, and not just during the White House years,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I’m grateful for the example she set as a First Lady not afraid to get involved in important issues, like access to mental health care, and also her deep commitment to and love for President Carter. Our country is better because of her.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>6012552023-11-22T19:46:35Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-600942" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-22T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today presented Minnesota’s Thanksgiving turkey at the Capitol. With over 660 growers statewide, Minnesota is the top turkey producer in the country 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today presented Minnesota’s Thanksgiving turkey at the Capitol. He was joined by Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, Minnesota Turkey Growers Association President Jake Vlaminck, Minnesota Turkey Growers Association Executive Director Ashley Kohls, and Hunger Solutions Minnesota Executive Director Colleen Moriarty. Photos from the event are attached.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota produces more turkey than any other state, and that is thanks to the hard work and passion of our growers every day of the year,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota’s agriculture industry is a crucial part of our state’s thriving economy and culture. I am grateful for all of Minnesota’s farmers and growers who work to ensure we can enjoy our favorite foods this holiday season.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s $12 billion turkey industry wouldn’t be possible without our turkey growers and their families,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I want to thank our turkey growers for their work to feed our state and country. As we gather with loved ones around the dining table this holiday season, this is a perfect time to celebrate their contributions to our communities, economy, and the world.</strong> <strong>This year – and every year – I am grateful that 5.7 million people and 40 million turkeys call Minnesota home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota has consistently ranked #1 in the United States for turkey production with over 660 turkey farms and 450 growers statewide raising over 40 million birds. Minnesota accounts for 18 percent of all turkeys produced in the U.S. The $12 billion industry support over 46,000 jobs across Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota is also home to three locally-owned operators who pride themselves in farm-to-table products: Jennie-O Turkey Store in Willmar; Turkey Valley Farms in Marshall; Northern Pride in Thief River Falls. Additionally, Minnesota is home to Select Genetics, the country's largest turkey hatchery.</p>6009422023-11-22T18:39:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-600834" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-21T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today stood alongside a bipartisan group of legislators and community leaders to open the last stretch of Highway 14 that completes a continuous four-lane highway between New Ulm and Rochester.Milestone project completes a continuous four-lane highway between New Ulm and Rochester1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today stood alongside a bipartisan group of legislators and community leaders to open the last stretch of Highway 14 that completes a continuous four-lane highway between New Ulm and Rochester.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz’s advocacy on this project spans back to his time in Congress and the death of his neighbor in Mankato.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As someone who has lost a neighbor on this road, I know that for the Minnesotans who travel Highway 14 every day, this project is personal. After years of working on this in Congress, I’m incredibly proud to see the final miles of this project completed,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Today, I am keeping all who have lost loved ones on this highway in my thoughts. This expansion will keep Minnesotans safe while expanding economic activity across southern Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Highway 14’s expansion is a major investment in the safety and vitality of communities across southern Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am so proud to be celebrating its completion and am grateful for all our partners who have been instrumental throughout this project. We will continue investing in transportation and infrastructure projects that connect Minnesotans, improve safety, and drive economic growth.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Targeted improvements along this corridor included constructing new interchanges in Courtland and Brown County Road 37 in New Ulm, adding turn lanes, improving intersections, and installing snow fence between Courtland and Nicollet to prevent excessive blowing and drifting snow.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Improving safety and travel on Highway 14 has long been the focus of both MnDOT and the communities along this important corridor,”</strong> said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. <strong>“Today we celebrate the completion of this project, and we want to extend a thank you to all our partners at the federal, state and local levels who helped us achieve this long-term goal. Most of all, we want to thank the communities who live on this corridor for their patience with the many construction projects over the years.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Funding for the Highway 14 expansion project was made possible with $48.2 million from a U.S. Department of Transportation Rural Projects Initiative loan and a $22 million grant from the U.S. DOT’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) program that Governor Walz announced in 2020. Additional sources of funding include contributions from the state trunk highway fund and from Nicollet County.</p>6008342023-11-21T20:21:27Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-600546" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-20T14:24:07ZAhead of the holiday season, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced $5 million in new funding for Minnesota’s food shelves. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Ahead of the holiday season, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced $5 million in new funding for Minnesota’s food shelves. With significant increases in food shelf demand this season, Governor Walz will allocate $5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds for Minnesota’s seven regional food banks. Lieutenant Governor Flanagan made the announcement at Second Harvest Heartland alongside Second Harvest Heartland CEO Allison O’Toole, Neighborhood House President Nancy Brady, and Minnesota Department of Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“No family should go hungry this holiday season,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As we continue working to lower costs, we’re making sure our state’s food banks can keep helping families get what they need. We’re grateful for the continued collaboration with partners like Second Harvest that are helping Minnesotans all year round.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Food shelves and banks step up to help Minnesotans put food on the table when resources are stretched thin,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I’m proud our administration can do our part in providing an additional $5 million to support the year-round work that connects Minnesotans with food resources, especially to meet the rising demand during the holiday season.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The funds will be allocated to Minnesota’s seven regional food banks to support the purchase and distribution of in-demand foods at food shelves.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This funding comes in addition to $5 million in <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/567763">emergency food shelf funding</a> the Governor signed into law in February.</p>6005462023-11-20T20:29:12Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-600373" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-17T14:24:07ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill three vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These vacancies occurred upon the resignation of the Honorable Toddrick S. Barnette, the retirement of the Honorable Tanya M. Bransford, and the elevation of the Honorable Keala C. Ede to the Court of Appeals. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill three vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. These vacancies occurred upon the resignation of the Honorable Toddrick S. Barnette, the retirement of the Honorable Tanya M. Bransford, and the elevation of the Honorable Keala C. Ede to the Court of Appeals. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rachel Barrett:</strong> Rachel Barrett is an associate attorney at Ciresi Conlin, where she represents plaintiffs in medical malpractice, catastrophic injury, and impact litigation in state and federal court. She was previously an assistant public defender in the Fourth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Hennepin County. Barrett also clerked for the Honorable Margaret H. Chutich and the Honorable Diane B. Bratvold on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. She currently serves as vice chair of the board of directors and a volunteer attorney for the Children’s Law Center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>LeeAnn Bell:</strong>  LeeAnn Bell is senior litigation counsel for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, where she prosecutes a variety of felonies in the criminal division, including violent crime, national security matters, drug trafficking, and civil rights violations. She also serves as the district’s training officer, overseeing the office’s training program. Bell was previously an associate attorney at Halleland, Lewis, Nilan and Johnson, where she practiced complex commercial litigation. Her community involvement includes serving as a volunteer for the U.S. District Court’s Open Doors Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dean Eyler:</strong> Dean Eyler is a partner at Lathrop GPM, where he litigates complex commercial and intellectual property disputes and serves as the firm’s pro bono partner. He was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Donald P. Lay on the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals and an associate attorney at Dorsey &amp; Whitney. Eyler’s community involvement includes serving on the boards of the Advocates for Human Rights and Minnesota Urban Debate League. He also volunteers with the Volunteer Lawyers Network and provides pro bono representation to parties seeking asylum before the asylum office and immigration court. Eyler helped create a fellows program for high-school debaters and is a former Edina High School debate coach.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Johnston:</strong>Elizabeth Johnston<strong> </strong>is a manager and assistant attorney general at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General, where she leads a division representing the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. She previously represented state agencies including the Departments of Labor and Industry and Health. Johnston was an assistant county attorney in Hennepin County in the child protection, criminal appeals, and criminal trials divisions. She was also a law clerk to the Honorable John R. Tunheim on the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota. Her community involvement includes volunteering with First Nations Kitchen and her children’s schools and swim team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kristen Marttila:</strong> Kristen Marttila is a partner at Lockridge Grindal Nauen PLLP, where her practice focuses on litigating complex antitrust and other consumer-oriented class actions. She is the chair of the firm’s pro bono committee, and her own pro bono practice has included civil rights, environmental, criminal appeals, and criminal expungement cases. Marttila was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Patrick J. Schiltz and Honorable Eric C. Tostrud on the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. She was also an attorney at Faegre &amp; Benson LLP, where she handled environmental and land use matters. Marttila’s community involvement includes chairing the amicus committee of the Committee to Support the Antitrust Laws. She also volunteers in Minneapolis Public Schools as a classroom assistant and as a member of the Welcoming Equity Committee of her local elementary school.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dominick Mathews:</strong> Dominick Mathews is a principal attorney at the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, where he supervises over 100 attorneys and support staff in the felony prosecution of homicide, sexual assault, domestic assault, child abuse, felony assault, and other serious felony level crimes. He was previously a law clerk for the Honorable Toddrick S. Barnette in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. Mathews’s community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Rules of Criminal Procedure and volunteering as a mentor for the ACT/SAT college preparatory program for Twin Cities youth.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>6003732023-11-17T19:44:58Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-600336" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-17T14:24:07ZOn the final day of Minnesota’s trade mission to Australia, Governor Tim Walz celebrated recent and upcoming investments in Minnesota by Australian medical technology companies.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – On the final day of Minnesota’s trade mission to Australia, Governor Tim Walz celebrated recent and upcoming investments in Minnesota by Australian medical technology companies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz and the Minnesota trade delegation visited the Melbourne headquarters of Seer Medical on Friday as the company announced a new round of funding that could allow it to expand its operations in the U.S. Seer established its first U.S. office in Rochester in 2021 with two people, and now half its 17 U.S.-based staff are in Minnesota, with plans to expand. Seer researches and manufactures long-term brain and heart monitoring devices for diagnosing and forecasting seizure episodes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s</strong> <strong>medical technology sector leads the world in innovation and discovery, and it’s one of the powerhouses of Minnesota’s economy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Australian companies know the value of investing in Minnesota – that's why they’re here now, and why they plan to grow here for years to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz and the trade delegation also met this week with officials from three other Australian companies operating in Minnesota:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Optiscan Imaging, a digital imaging technology manufacturer based in Melbourne that recently announced plans to open its first U.S. office in the Twin Cities;</li> <li>Saluda Medical, a company researching and manufacturing therapies for neurological disorders, which recently launched operations in Bloomington; and</li> <li>Mobius Medical, which recently selected Minnesota to host its U.S. offices.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota's trade mission to Australia – the first in the state’s history – is deepening connections between the two trading partners, especially in the medical technology sector.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Australia imports $4.6 billion worth of medical equipment annually, making it a major potential market for Minnesota’s world-leading medical technology industry. Minnesota already exports $74 million in medical products to Australia in 2022, 11th most among states. But Australia’s growing demand for medical equipment means Minnesota companies stand to benefit from closer trade ties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota has the top health tech cluster in the world</strong> <strong>; the most Fortune 500 companies per capita in the U.S.; Medical Alley, a network of over 800 health care leaders; and a globalized economy with 900 foreign-owned companies from 40 countries operating in the state,”</strong> said Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Simply put, we’re the global epicenter of health innovation and care. We’re proud companies like Seer, Mobius Medical, Optiscan, and Saluda call Minnesota their home away from home as they expand their North American footprint.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“SEER Medical,</strong><strong>Optiscan</strong><strong>, and Saluda are tremendous Medical Alley Partners — which exemplify the dynamic and collaborative relationship between Minnesota and Australia,”</strong>said Medical Alley President and CEO Roberta “Bobbie” Dressen. <strong>“These investments are a testament to the transformative power of the Medical Alley ecosystem, and the commitment from Gov. Walz and DEED Commissioner Varilek to showcase Minnesota as a global hub of innovation.”</strong></p>6003362023-11-17T16:12:35Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-600334" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-15T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today are celebrating Apprenticeship Week and highlighting efforts to connect Minnesotans to high-growth, high-demand jobs through apprenticeships, job training, and workforce development programs.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today are celebrating Apprenticeship Week and highlighting efforts to connect Minnesotans to high-growth, high-demand jobs through apprenticeships, job training, and workforce development programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We have many tools to recruit and train workers for the high-growth, high-demand jobs we have available across our state, and apprenticeship programs are a critical part of that effort,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This week, we’re recognizing apprenticeship programs and the opportunities they provide Minnesotans to build advanced job skills, expand our workforce, and grow the state’s economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Apprenticeship programs chart pathways for Minnesotans to succeed in high-growth industries,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Thank you to the employers and organizations that provide apprenticeship opportunities for thousands of Minnesotans across the state. We’ll continue to invest in these programs and create more opportunities for Minnesotans to succeed.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More than 11,000 apprentices in Minnesota are actively training in over 200 registered programs that are in high-demand and high-growth industries such as advanced manufacturing, agriculture, construction, health care, information technology, transportation, and utilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Throughout his time in office, the Governor has advocated for funding for education alternatives after high school, including expanded job training, workforce development, and apprenticeship opportunities. Last month, Governor Walz signed an <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/597989">executive order</a> eliminating college degree requirements for over 75% of state government jobs, recognizing that not all Minnesotans need a four-year degree to succeed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In October, Governor Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) launched the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/596116">Drive for 5 Workforce Initiative</a> , a major new effort to prepare more Minnesotans for high-demand jobs in five occupational categories: technology, the trades, caring professions, manufacturing, and education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Drive for 5 initiative is part of a slate of historic workforce development investments Governor Walz secured during the last legislative session. DEED has more than $216.5 million for its Employment and Training Programs over the next two years, including $20 million for Drive for 5 and $50 million to support workforce development in historically overlooked communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s economy added about 50,000 jobs over the past year, and nearly 200,000 jobs remain open in Minnesota as employers try to find enough workers to fill these vacancies. Job demand over the past two years was at or near record highs in every region of the state and in most industries, with many openings providing opportunities for career growth and family-sustaining wages.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Information about Apprenticeship Week events can be found <a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/NAW">here.</a></p>6003342023-11-17T16:12:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-600331" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-15T14:24:07ZToday, at a virtual event co-hosted by the National Governors Association and Results for America, Minnesota was recognized as a national leader in using evidence and data to guide decision-making and deliver better results for Minnesotans. This is the second year in a row Minnesota has received this recognition.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, at a virtual event co-hosted by the National Governors Association and Results for America, Minnesota was recognized as a national leader in using evidence and data to guide decision-making and deliver better results for Minnesotans. This is the second year in a row Minnesota has received this recognition.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am proud that Minnesota has once again been recognized as a leading state for our commitment to data-driven decision making,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By using data and evidence thoughtfully and investing in policies that achieve results, we will continue to improve the lives of all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From universal school meals and child care assistance to a child tax credit to reduce child poverty, we’re making historic investments in evidence-based practices to improve lives,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“This recognition reflects our commitment to prioritizing data-driven policies that deliver the best results for Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota was one of only five states designated as national leaders in evidence-based decision-making by Results for America. Highlights of the state’s data-driven work include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>A $1 billion investment per year for four years in evidence-based direct services for children and families.</li> <li>A $1.7 million investment in evaluating and improving programs and policies.</li> <li>Including evidence indicators in public budget documents.</li> <li>Promoting budgeting towards equitable outcomes.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Governors, state legislators and state agency leaders are using the key levers of power – grantmaking, budgeting and direct services – to expand evidence-based solutions and accelerate economic mobility,”</strong> said Michele Jolin, CEO and co-founder of Results for America. <strong>“By building more efficient and effective governments, they are helping restore the public’s faith in government’s ability to tackle our most urgent challenges.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It’s important for state agencies to test assumptions about programs and to invest in services we know produce positive outcomes,”</strong> said MMB Commissioner Erin Campbell. <strong>“Minnesota Management and Budget partners with other state agencies and organizations to collect data that agency leaders, Governor Walz, and legislators can consider when deciding where to invest state resources.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Results for America is a national nonprofit that promotes evidence-based policymaking. Its newly released <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2F2023state.results4america.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CManushri.Ivaturi%40state.mn.us%7Cee375734827b42021f3308dbe61bc0c7%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638356779123138137%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=pnTiTxpJFkw9O%2BpSiztmoRjpUusfZ%2BFL0UK7Lpnrrxg%3D&amp;reserved=0"><em>2023 Invest in What Works State Standard of Excellence</em></a> highlights advances in evidence-based grantmaking, budgeting and direct services, and identifies 194 efforts across 46 states to build and use evidence and data to achieve better, more equitable results for residents. For more information about how states are building their data and evidence capacity, visit Results for America’s <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2F2023state.results4america.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CManushri.Ivaturi%40state.mn.us%7Cee375734827b42021f3308dbe61bc0c7%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638356779123138137%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=pnTiTxpJFkw9O%2BpSiztmoRjpUusfZ%2BFL0UK7Lpnrrxg%3D&amp;reserved=0"><em>2023 Invest in What Works State Standard of Excellence</em></a> .</p>6003312023-11-17T16:12:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-599775" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-14T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today celebrated Minnesota being named by a recent CNBC study as the second best state for millennial homeownership based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau. This ranking comes after Governor Walz signed into law the $1 billion housing omnibus bill last spring, the largest single investment in housing in state history1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] — Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today celebrated Minnesota being named by a recent <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnbc.com%2F2023%2F11%2F06%2Fstates-highest-millennial-homeownership-rate-scholaroo-study.html&amp;data=05%7C01%7CIsabella.Widrow%40state.mn.us%7Ca535882be4904cb30abf08dbe541c7f6%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638355842976595168%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=BMuT7RnU%2FozAyMQA6RsrT6i7mcQM4YK%2B5jvpxWJGS4s%3D&amp;reserved=0">CNBC</a> study as the second best state for millennial homeownership based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau. This ranking comes after Governor Walz signed into law the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-577783">$1 billion housing omnibus bill</a> last spring, the largest single investment in housing in state history.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lieutenant Governor Flanagan today toured and met with residents at Spring Creek II affordable housing complex in Northfield, Minnesota. Photos from the event are attached.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Homeownership is a goal for many Minnesotans and important for long-term financial stability,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am proud to invest in affordable housing and home ownership assistance programs, especially for younger generations. Whether it’s building new housing, providing rental assistance, or ensuring homeownership is an option for all Minnesotans, we are committed to giving every person quality, affordable housing options.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Being named the 2nd highest state for millennial homeownership is a big step towards making home ownership a reality for every person and family,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Housing security is the foundation of educational and professional growth, health and safety, and allows kids and families to thrive. We have made expanding access to affordable housing a top priority in our administration. I am proud of our historic housing investments and look forward to supporting more Minnesotans in achieving their financial and housing goals.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year, Governor Walz signed into law the largest single investment in housing in state history. The $1 billion investment reduces disparities in housing and homeownership, improves access to affordable housing, provides rental assistance, and invests in homelessness prevention across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill included:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$200 million for down payment assistance programs. This includes $150 million for first-generation down payment assistance.</li> <li>$200 million for housing infrastructure investments.</li> <li>$95 million for the Economic Development and Housing Challenge Program to support new workforce housing.</li> <li>$40 million to support workforce housing and infrastructure in Greater Minnesota.</li> <li>$45 million for homelessness prevention in addition to the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/572012">$50 million</a> that Governor Walz signed into law on March 31.</li> <li>Permanent funding for housing needs across the state.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota was also recently named as the best state for millennials in a <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnbc.com%2F2023%2F11%2F06%2Fstates-highest-millennial-homeownership-rate-scholaroo-study.html&amp;data=05%7C01%7CIsabella.Widrow%40state.mn.us%7Ca535882be4904cb30abf08dbe541c7f6%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638355842976595168%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=BMuT7RnU%2FozAyMQA6RsrT6i7mcQM4YK%2B5jvpxWJGS4s%3D&amp;reserved=0">study</a> that analyzed affordability, political and social environment, employment, quality of life, heath, personal finance, and safety.</p>5997752023-11-14T21:14:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-599774" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-14T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz visited Medtronic’s Sydney offices today with administration officials and Minnesota business leaders to celebrate the Minnesota-based company’s 50th year operating in Australia. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz visited Medtronic’s Sydney offices today with administration officials and Minnesota business leaders to celebrate the Minnesota-based company’s 50th year operating in Australia.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Medtronic is one of Minnesota’s great contributions to the world, and we’re seeing firsthand the global influence of their cures and therapies during our trade mission in Australia,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>"Congratulations to Medtronic and their team in Australia and New Zealand on 50 years of med tech innovation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are pleased to host Governor Walz and the Minnesota trade mission in our Sydney office today and celebrate 50 years of our impact and innovation in Australia. This is a milestone anniversary as we continue to deliver our mission of alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life,”</strong> said Liz Carnabuci, Vice President, Enterprise Accounts &amp; Services, Japan, Australia and New Zealand; Vice President, Diabetes, APAC and Greater China.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Medtronic has delivered over 40,000 distinct medical devices to patients in Australia and New Zealand and now serves over 2 million people in these countries each year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Australia is an active destination for Medtronic’s clinical trials; over the last decade, the company has sponsored 68 studies (including 18 first in human trials) and 70 external research programs there.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Medtronic is one of more than 800 healthcare companies in Minnesota. The Biden-Harris administration <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/597345" target="_blank">recently designated Minnesota</a> as one of the 31 inaugural Tech Hubs in regions across the country that show potential for rapid growth in key technology sectors. Minnesota MedTech Hub 3.0, a consortium led by the Greater Minneapolis Saint Paul Economic Development Partnership, will position Minnesota as a global center for “Smart MedTech” by integrating artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science into medical technology.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s medical technology industry leads the world, and we’re proud Medtronic is a part of our ecosystem,”</strong> said Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Medtronic’s 50 years in Australia is evidence of the global nature of med tech innovation. We’re proud of the partnerships Medtronic and Minnesota have forged with our friends and allies in Australia and New Zealand and DEED is eager to support mutually beneficial growth and innovation going forward.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Medtronic is one of about 40 Minnesota companies operating businesses at over 700 locations in Australia. They are among the hundreds of U.S.-based companies that employ 320,500 people and have invested nearly $47 billion in Australia.</p>5997742023-11-14T21:08:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-599749" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-13T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota effective immediately until sunset on Monday, November 20, in honor and remembrance of Sergeant Cade Michael Wolfe. Sgt. Wolfe, a Minnesotan from Mankato, and four other American service members were killed in an aircraft crash during a training exercise over the Mediterranean Sea.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota effective immediately until sunset on Monday, November 20, in honor and remembrance of Sergeant Cade Michael Wolfe. Sgt. Wolfe, a Minnesotan from Mankato, and four other American service members were killed in an aircraft crash during a training exercise over the Mediterranean Sea.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Cade Michael Wolfe, a Minnesotan who dedicated himself to selflessly serving our nation and keeping our country safe,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With deep gratitude, Minnesota recognizes Sgt. Cade Michael Wolfe for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his state and country. His family, loved ones, and community are in our prayers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Office will provide additional flag guidance pending more information on funeral and interment arrangements.</p>5997492023-11-14T19:55:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-599407" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-09T14:24:07ZOn Friday, Governor Tim Walz will lead a trade delegation to Australia, with stops in the major business centers of Sydney and Melbourne.Focus on expanding medical technology ties follows Biden Administration’s designation of Minnesota as one of nation’s tech hubs 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – On Friday, Governor Tim Walz will lead a trade delegation to Australia, with stops in the major business centers of Sydney and Melbourne. The mission will focus on growing the state’s exports of goods and services, showcasing Minnesota as a top destination for business investment, and developing new partnerships. This will be Minnesota’s first-ever trade mission to Australia.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The trip’s focus on medical technology follows last month’s announcement that the Biden Administration has designated Minnesota MedTech Hub 3.0 as one of the 31 inaugural Tech Hubs in regions across the country that show potential for rapid growth in key technology sectors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota has a lot to offer Australia: cutting-edge technologies that are curing diseases and combating climate change, innovative research institution</strong> <strong>s, and agricultural products that are feeding the globe,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“</strong> <strong>We know how beneficial a strong relationship between Minnesota and Australia can be in creating jobs, promoting new investment in Minnesota, and strengthening trade agreements. We look forward to promoting Minnesota, our companies, and our workers on the global stage.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Minnesota-Australia relationship presents tremendous opportunities for Minnesota businesses looking for new customers, and Australian companies looking to invest in the North American market,</strong> ” said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“With strong trade between our countries, a virtually zero-tariff free trade agreement and few societal, legal and language barriers, Australia is a natural, receptive</strong> <strong>, and important market for Minnesota goods and services.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s farmers help feed the world, and we rely on strong relationships with international partners to accomplish this,”</strong> said Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. <strong>“That’s why it’s important for us to travel to Australia and demonstrate our value as leaders in agriculture. We have an opportunity to build these new and lasting relationships that will benefit both Australia and Minnesotans across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Australia is a large market for Minnesota, and there is significant room to grow.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s total trade in goods with Australia in 2022 was valued at $579 million, with exports of $438 million and imports of $141 million. Australia was Minnesota’s 13th largest market for goods and 19th largest market for agricultural products last year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The U.S. is Australia’s second-largest two-way trade partner, the largest investor in Australia and Australia’s largest foreign investment destination. Trade between the two countries – valued at $46 billion last year – has grown 14% since 2021. Australia’s business culture is straightforward and low barrier: it offers a familiar legal and corporate framework, sophisticated consumer and industrial sectors and shares English as the primary language.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">One of the primary goals of this trade mission is to establish new relationships with businesses in key industries, including medical technology, clean technology, higher education, and agriculture.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As part of the trade mission, Governor Walz and Minnesota leaders will meet with Australian companies looking to buy goods from North America, promote Minnesota as a place for business investment, meet with local elected leaders, and facilitate business-to-business negotiations for Minnesota companies traveling in the delegation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Deepening trade ties. A strong bilateral relationship. A business culture welcoming to American imports and investment. Australia represents one of the best opportunities in the world for Minnesota companies looking to expand foreign trade,”</strong> said Gabrielle Gerbaud, executive director of the Minnesota Trade Office. <strong>“On this trade mission, Governor Walz, DEED, MDA and the Minnesota Trade Office will make sure Minnesota businesses and workers benefit from this relationship by opening new doors with potential trading partners in Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra and across Australia.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz will be joined by Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Matt Varilek, Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, and representatives from the Minnesota Trade Office. The state delegation will be joined by business organizations and leaders from across Minnesota, including representatives from:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Destination Medical Center</li> <li>Medical Alley</li> <li>Zopec Medical LLC</li> <li>St. Cloud State University</li> <li>Delta Air Lines</li> <li>Cozen O’Connor</li> <li>University of Minnesota Extension</li> <li>University of Minnesota</li> <li>GREATER MSP</li> <li>Clean Energy Economy Minnesota</li> <li>Naturally MN</li> <li>Northarvest Bean Growers Association</li> <li>Vessyll</li> <li>Talon Metals</li> <li>Metro Pros Human Resource Consulting</li> <li>Newterra Corporation, Inc.</li> <li>Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association</li> <li>KnectIQInc.</li> <li>Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures</li> <li>Red Lake, Inc.</li> <li>Alexandria Technical &amp; Community College</li> <li>SolarPod, Inc.</li> <li>Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council</li> <li>Imricor Medical Systems, Inc.</li> <li>Fredrikson &amp; Byron</li> <li>Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce, Minneapolis</li> <li>Minnesota Farmers Union</li> <li>Minnesota Soybean</li> </ul>5994072023-11-09T22:31:24Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-599408" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-09T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Animal Health, Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change, Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles, Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau, Minnesota State High School League, and State Rehabilitation Council. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Animal Health, Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change, Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles, Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau, Minnesota State High School League, and State Rehabilitation Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Abigail Maynard – Saint Paul Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Animal Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed Veterinarian Specializing in Companion Animals</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Animal Health:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Animal Health inspects and tests livestock and poultry for diseases specified by control and eradication programs and maintains surveillance for specific diseases deemed to be catastrophic or adversely affecting the state's livestock or human health.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Animal Health can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/17" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patrick Lunemann – Clarissa, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the</em> <em>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Advisory Council on Climate Change identifies opportunities for, and barriers to, the development and effective implementation of policies and strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote climate change resiliency.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/268" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tammy Russell – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jacob Frey</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joan Willshire – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: John Hausladen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles reviews developments in connected and automated vehicle technology and intelligent and emerging transportation technology, explores partnership opportunities to remain prepared for the widespread adoption of new technologies, and proposes policies to safely test and deploy connected and automated vehicles.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/253" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chad Bjugan – Chaska, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Evenson – Maple Grove, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau governs the operations of the Minnesota Auto Assigned Claims Plan in providing no-fault basic economic loss benefits to eligible recipients.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Automobile Assigned Claims Bureau can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/99" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joe Fittante, Jr. – Prior Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota State High School League</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Justin Buoen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota State High School League:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota State High School League exercises supervision and regulation of interscholastic athletics, and musical, dramatic, and other contests between students of Minnesota high schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota State High School League can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/118" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ben Coady – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Rehabilitation Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Business, Industry, or Labor Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Karen Leddy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deanne Curran – Farmington, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Rehabilitation Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Training and Information Center Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Barb Ziemke</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Delaney – Becker, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Rehabilitation Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Department of Education Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Lindsey Horowitz</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deborah Gleason – Minnetonka, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Rehabilitation Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Statewide Independent Living Council Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: November 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Linda Lingen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Rehabilitation Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Rehabilitation Council works jointly with the Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation Program to develop goals and priorities, assess customer satisfaction, conduct needs assessments, and seek citizen input through public forums.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Rehabilitation Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/150" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5994082023-11-09T22:31:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-599409" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-09T14:24:07ZOn Friday, Governor Tim Walz, a 24-year veteran of the National Guard, is recognizing Veterans Day in the State of Minnesota and reiterating his unwavering support and commitment to Minnesota’s veterans.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – On Friday, Governor Tim Walz, a 24-year veteran of the National Guard, is recognizing Veterans Day in the State of Minnesota and reiterating his unwavering support and commitment to Minnesota’s veterans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota remains committed to honoring our veterans – the more than 300,000 Minnesotans who answered the call to serve our state, country, and democracy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“From expanding service bonuses, signing the Veterans Restorative Justice Act into law, and moving Minnesota closer to ending veterans homelessness, we’ll continue to invest in the health, wellbeing, and success of our veterans. Today and every day, they deserve our highest support.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In May, Governor Walz signed a comprehensive veterans and military affairs bill into law that is moving the state closer to its goal of becoming the fourth state to end veteran homelessness, expanding service bonuses for veterans, funding veterans homes, and investing in the readiness of the Minnesota National Guard.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In August, Governor Walz attended a dedication ceremony for the Redwood Falls State Veterans Cemetery, another measure of respect for Minnesota’s veterans and military community.</p>5994092023-11-09T22:31:15Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-598962" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-07T20:36:33ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today launched a new effort to support and grow small businesses in Minnesota. The $10 million program will provide low-interest loans to small businesses, promoting the growth and success of Minnesota’s small business economy.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today launched a new effort to support and grow small businesses in Minnesota. The $10 million program will provide low-interest loans to small businesses, promoting the growth and success of Minnesota’s small business economy. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Small businesses are foundational to Minnesota’s economic ecosystem – they’re at the heart of our communities, our workforce, and our state’s economy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This program will make it easier for small businesses to access loans that are critical for their growth and long-term success and help us build a thriving state economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Small businesses drive economic growth, create jobs, and build community across the state. We’re committed to their growth and success,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“From</strong> <strong>helping entrepreneurs access low-interest loans to start their businesses to providing paid family and medical leave to help small businesses support and retain workers, we’ll continue working alongside business owners and entrepreneurs to build a diverse and vibrant small business ecosystem.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED’s $10 million Expanding Opportunity Fund will support entrepreneurs who have struggled to access capital through traditional bank loans. The fund is designed to support historically under-funded small businesses operated by women, people of color, or in Greater Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Small business owners and entrepreneurs are often unable to get the loans they need to start or expand their businesses – a critical miss for job creation</strong> <strong>, business growth and community development,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“</strong><strong>Small business owners look to DEED to deliver for them – and that’s exactly what we’re doing. Our new Expanding Opportunity Fund will benefit small businesses by providing access to the capital they need to take off and thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED is <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/elp/" target="_blank">now accepting applications</a> from non-profit lenders interested in participating in the Expanding Opportunity Fund. Lenders can receive up to $600,000 at one time to provide low-interest loans to the small business owners they serve.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Nonprofit lenders are located statewide, often share the culture of their borrowers and focus on serving targeted populations. But right now, they are unable to meet the demand and community needs for small business loans,”</strong> said DEED Deputy Commissioner for Economic Development Kevin McKinnon. <strong>“Expanding lending to serve these small businesses will empower more companies start up and to expand.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Expanding Opportunity Fund builds on recent DEED efforts to support small businesses by easing access to borrowing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED’s Emerging Entrepreneur Loan Program provides funding through nonprofit partners for businesses owned and operated by people living with disabilities, people experiencing low income, people of color, women, and veterans. Last fiscal year, the program saw record lending numbers, including 61 new loans for over $2.6 million, leveraging over $14.8 million in private funding and creating an estimated 202 new jobs for new and expanding businesses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last fall, DEED launched the State Small Business Credit Initiative, a slate of six federally-funded programs to provide more capital to small businesses statewide. So far, the programs have facilitated $14.7 million in loans to businesses and have 47 enrolled nonprofit or CDFI lenders.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">CNBC recently named Minnesota a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/584394">top-five</a> state for business, and small business growth is particularly strong: Small business starts have increased by nearly one-third in Minnesota since 2019, and businesses are launching faster than they did before the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, new business starts totaled over 61,000, nearly 15% above 2020.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota also has the best five-year survival rate for small businesses, according to data released in October by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.</p>5989622023-11-07T20:37:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-599012" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-04T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated the 21st annual Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener and opened the 2023 firearm deer season in Lanesboro. The celebration is organized by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Explore Minnesota in partnership with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Bluffland Whitetails Association, Minnesota Conservation Federation, and Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated the 21 ^st annual Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener and opened the 2023 firearm deer season in Lanesboro. The celebration is organized by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Explore Minnesota in partnership with Backcountry Hunters &amp; Anglers, Bluffland Whitetails Association, Minnesota Conservation Federation, and Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With its focus on community, conservation, and the multi-million dollar impact on our state’s economy, the Deer Hunting Opener highlights the best of Minnesota and our rich outdoor recreation traditions,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Thank you to the Lanesboro community, Eagle Bluff Learning Center, and our partners for hosting an outstanding kick-off to the deer hunting season. As thousands of Minnesotans across the state are gathering with family, friends, and neighbors to take part in this time-honored tradition, I wish everyone a safe and successful hunting season.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz hunted alongside Jim Vagts, a former appointed member of the Minnesota Board of Animal Health and a founder of Bluffland Whitetails Association, on the Vagts’ private land.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Following the hunt, the Governor visited Eagles Bluff Environmental Learning Center to share stories of the hunt and underscore the importance of mentorship in passing on the tradition of hunting to future generations. The Governor was joined by hunters who participated in firearms season for the first time that morning, alongside their hunting mentors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Sharing outdoor experiences such as deer hunting with family and friends, both old and new, is at the heart of this great tradition,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“Time afield in a deer stand or blind helps ensure that a love of nature and stewardship of the outdoors continues throughout the state. I’m grateful to the Lanesboro community as well as our conservation partner organizations for sharing and highlighting outdoor traditions in Minnesota’s bluff country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With nearly half a million Minnesotans taking part in the deer hunting season each year, deer hunting has a significant impact on Minnesota’s economy, outdoor recreation, and tourism industries. According to the Association of Fish &amp; Wildlife Agencies, the average hunter invests over $2,000 annually on guns, ammunition, clothing, lodging, and food. Deer hunting contributes to Minnesota’s tourism industry, which supports nearly 280,000 jobs and has a total economic impact in the hundreds of millions of dollars.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener celebration began in 2002 and highlights the state’s white-tailed deer hunting tradition. The event provides an opportunity to discuss deer management, promote outdoor skills, recreation and safety, and bring attention to tourism and other economic benefits of deer hunting.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information on deer hunting in Minnesota is available at mndnr.gov/deerhunt.</p>5990122023-11-08T15:21:46Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-598583" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-11-02T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced today that they have awarded more than $2.3 million in grants to infrastructure projects in Greater Minnesota. The projects are expected to fund 946 full-time jobs in three communities.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced today that they have awarded more than $2.3 million in grants to infrastructure projects in Greater Minnesota. The projects are expected to fund 946 full-time jobs in three communities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In Minnesota, we know that investing in infrastructure builds strong communities and grows our economy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These infrastructure projects in Greater Minnesota will create jobs, attract investment, and improve the lives of Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The funding, awarded through DEED’s <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/government/financial-assistance/business-funding/infrastructure/" target="_blank">Greater Minnesota Business Development Public Infrastructure Grant Program</a> (BDPI), will support projects in Hutchinson, Bemidji, and Princeton.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Grants from our BDPI program help encourage the kind of economic development that will add and keep jobs around the state”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“These investments in public infrastructure are more vital than ever to communities in Greater Minnesota, and we’re excited to partner with Hutchinson, Bemidji and Princeton to spur local economic growth.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The BDPI grant program supports communities outside the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Under the program, DEED awards 50% of eligible capital costs for qualifying public infrastructure projects, including streets, wastewater collection and treatment, drinking water, storm sewers, and more.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This round of grants include:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hutchinson - $53,821</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The city of Hutchinson was awarded $53,821 to construct a storm water pond and street improvements to allow development on a 1.8 acre lot in Hutchinson’s industrial park. The city estimates the lot will attract a business that will create 10 jobs and invest $1.5 million on the site. The total cost of the infrastructure project is $107,643.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bemidji - $1,509,300</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The city of Bemidji was awarded $1,509,300 to construct streets and utilities to allow development of five hangars at the Bemidji Regional Airport. One of the hangars will allow Bemidji Aviation to expand in the city, investing $8.5 million and retaining and adding 135 jobs. Bemidji Aviation is the UPS air freight partner for the Upper Midwest, and also provides air cargo transportation throughout the country. The total cost of the infrastructure project is $3,268,400.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Princeton - $750,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The city of Princeton was awarded $750,000 to assist with street and utility improvements to expand the Princeton Industrial Park. The new infrastructure will open 44 acres and five lots for industrial development. The city expects to create and retain 801 jobs and attract $63 million in private investment within five years. Element Group, a metal fabrication and finishing company, is the first business to commit to a lot. The company will construct a $15.6 million facility and create or retain 165 jobs. The total cost of the public infrastructure project is $1,842,016.</p>5985832023-11-14T19:27:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597993" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-31T19:25:00ZGovernor Walz today announced that increased payment rates for child care assistance take effect this week, as Minnesota continues to move toward making child care accessible to more families. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Walz today announced that increased payment rates for child care assistance take effect this week, as Minnesota continues to move toward making child care accessible to more families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Affordable and accessible child care is essential to creating opportunity and economic growth across the state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re raising child care assistance rates to support providers and improve access for more families. This is an investment in our workforce, economy, and the well-being of families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Bold and impactful child care investments like this are crucial to making Minnesota the best state for children and families,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Our state’s current and future economy relies on child care providers every day and the important work they do to educate and care for our youngest Minnesotans. I’m proud to invest in the entire spectrum of child care from increasing access and affordability for families to ensuring our providers can make a living caring for our littlest Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Higher reimbursement rates will bring state payments closer to market rates for child care providers serving over 11,000 families, including 23,000 children, through the Child Care Assistance Program. The increase will help stabilize providers’ finances and improve access to affordable child care for families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz and the Legislature approved the new child care assistance rates earlier this year, including $146 million in funding over the next two years. The change was part of a $1.3 billion child care package that also included payments to improve compensation for child care providers and funding to reduce wait lists for another type of child care assistance known as Basic Sliding Fee.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Families should be able to get child care when they need it,”</strong> said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. <strong>“It’s so important to their well-being and to our entire economy. The new child care assistance rates will help providers cover basic expenses that allow them to offer quality care.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Child Care Assistance Program provides financial assistance for child care to families with low incomes. When rates are low, child care providers are less likely to serve families in the program and access to child care suffers in an already tight market. Low rates also make it harder for providers who participate in the program to cover their costs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The program’s rates are based on a grid that includes the county, the type of child care and the child’s age group. When the rate increase takes effect, maximum rates in the grid will increase to match the 75th percentile of market rates, as measured by a 2021 survey of child care rates. The state will adjust the rates every three years to reflect market rates, beginning in January 2025.</p>5979932023-11-02T20:05:59Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597994" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-31T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for seven Minnesota counties due to damage caused by flooding in April.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for seven Minnesota counties due to damage caused by flooding in April.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s emergency management team is coordinating closely with the counties to address damage caused by spring flooding this year,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’ll continue working to deliver assistance and help Minnesotans recover from this year’s severe spring flooding.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">From April 11-30, Cass, Itasca, Lyon, Polk, Ramsey, Redwood, and Washington counties experienced significant damage caused by spring flooding.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather events, impacts to outdated infrastructure and roadways have caused millions of dollars in damages statewide. Collaborative emergency planning at all levels of government and investments in infrastructure are critical to safeguarding against future damage.</p>5979942023-10-31T19:35:39Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597992" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-31T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Lake City will host the 76th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener on May 10-11, 2024. Explore Minnesota coordinates each year with the Governor’s Office, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and the host committee to put on the event celebrating Minnesota’s rich tourism and fishing opportunities. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Lake City will host the 76th Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener on May 10-11, 2024. Explore Minnesota coordinates each year with the Governor’s Office, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and the host committee to put on the event celebrating Minnesota’s rich tourism and fishing opportunities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am incredibly excited to bring the longtime tradition of the Governor’s Fishing Opener to Lake City,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“This region is known for its phenomenal fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities. I look forward to celebrating the unique tourism and outdoor opportunities that Lake City has to offer.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lake City, nestled on the shores of Lake Pepin, stands as a testament to the outstanding angling experiences available in Minnesota. With 85 different species of fish populating the waters, Lake Pepin has earned its reputation as a sport fishing destination within the state. Anglers from all over travel to this scenic area, known for its abundant walleye, sauger, pike, perch, and white bass populations. This event underscores Lake City's standing as one of the best places in the Midwest for fishing enthusiasts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am thrilled to help welcome anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike to Lake Pepin for the 2024 Governor's Fishing Opener in Lake City,”</strong> said Lauren Bennett McGinty, director of Explore Minnesota. <strong>“We will celebrate Minnesota's rich angling heritage and how fishing tourism shapes our state's modern identity. We are confident that this event will not only provide a memorable experience but will inspire many to explore the diverse attractions our state has to offer and support local businesses in communities across Minnesota in all four seasons. Together with the Lake City community, we hope to share Minnesota's unparalleled hospitality and boundless opportunities for adventure."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry, and in recent years has served as a kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am very excited that we will be celebrating the 2024 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener in Lake City,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“Lake Pepin and the Mississippi River offer a tremendous diversity of quality fishing opportunities, including being a popular destination for anglers seeking our state fish, the walleye. I look forward to experiencing these angling opportunities as well as all the other outdoor experiences the Lake City area offers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"It is an honor to have Lake City chosen to host Governor Walz and this quintessential Minnesota spring tradition,”</strong> said Ed Hoffman of Visit Lake City. <strong>“We look forward to the opportunity to showcase one of the Midwest’s most scenic natural playgrounds and premier angling destinations, Lake Pepin."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The event provides a platform to showcase the city's natural beauty, Lake Pepin’s diversity of fish species, and the hospitality of its residents.</p>5979922023-10-31T19:26:39Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597989" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-30T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed an executive order eliminating college degree requirements for over 75% of state government jobs. The executive order will open job opportunities for more people and make it easier for people in Minnesota to choose state service. Throughout his time in office, the Governor has advocated for funding for alternatives to college, including expanded job training and workforce development, recognizing that not all Minnesotans need a four-year degree to succeed.1055<p align="center" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz Signs Executive Order Eliminating Four-Year College Degree Requirements for Most State Government Jobs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed an executive order eliminating college degree requirements for over 75% of state government jobs. The executive order will open job opportunities for more people and make it easier for people in Minnesota to choose state service. Throughout his time in office, the Governor has advocated for funding for alternatives to college, including expanded job training and workforce development, recognizing that not all Minnesotans need a four-year degree to succeed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"There are many opportunities to build meaningful careers through state service. We’re making sure these opportunities are available to more Minnesotans, so we can grow our workforce, tap into valuable skills, and recognize that not all Minnesotans need a four-year degree to be successful,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By removing these requirements, we’re expanding opportunities for people to enter the workforce, choose state service, and build a good-paying, family-sustaining career.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“For too long, 4-year degree requirements have stood in the way of job opportunities for highly qualified Minnesotans ready to join the state workforce. Today, we’re opening doors,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“We are breaking down barriers to good-paying jobs and investing in the success of Minnesotans by recognizing that job skills can come from a wide variety of experiences.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s labor force has grown for seven straight months, adding more than 1,500 workers in September alone.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This executive order aims to build, develop, and maintain Minnesota’s workforce by:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">· Updating hiring guidance to emphasize skills and work experience</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">· Helping existing employees develop long-term career paths through individual development plans and career training</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">· Including working titles in job postings to improve state job searches</p>5979892023-10-31T19:20:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597710" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-27T17:51:30ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, Center for Rural Policy and Development, Governor’s Advisory Council on Climate Change, Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles, Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council, Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority, and Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson, Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board, Center for Rural Policy and Development, Governor’s Advisory Council on Climate Change, Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles, Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council, Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority, and Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Graciela Bloch – Burnsville, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Attorney Who Works in the Juvenile Court System or Family Court <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shawna Bullen-Fairbanks – Bemidji, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Youth Who Is Currently in the Foster Care System or Who Was Recently in the Foster Care System <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jasmine Clark – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Adult Who Was in the Foster Care System as a Youth <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sage Desai – Fridley, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Youth Who Is Currently in the Foster Care System or Who Was Recently in the Foster Care System <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ziigwan Frazer – Grand Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Adult Who Was in the Foster Care System as a Youth <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Melinda Doms – Montrose, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Guardian ad Litem Who is Currently Appointed to Protect the Interests of Minors in Cases in the Juvenile Court System <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nia Dyer – Moorhead, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Youth Who Is Currently in the Foster Care System or Who Was Recently in the Foster Care System <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deddtrease Edwards – Richfield, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Youth Who Is Currently in the Foster Care System or Who Was Recently in the Foster Care System <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ariana Guerra – Coon Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Nonprofit Professional Who Works at a Nonprofit Serving Foster Youth <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lacey Hubert – Moorhead, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Social Worker Who Works in the Juvenile Justice System or Family Court <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lucina Kayee – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Adult Who Was in the Foster Care System as a Youth <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elena Leomi – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Nonprofit Professional Who Works at a Nonprofit Serving Foster Youth <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kristine Snyder – Richfield, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Nonprofit Professional Who Works at a Nonprofit Serving Foster Youth <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Izavella Wagner – Maple Lake, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Youth Who Is Currently in the Foster Care System or Who Was Recently in the Foster Care System <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>DeShawn Woods – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /> Adult Who Was in the Foster Care System as a Youth <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson: <br /></em>The Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson makes recommendations to the foster youth ombudsperson and staff while continuously overseeing the foster youth ombudsperson’s work.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/305" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>James McClean – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board: <br /></em>The Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board is responsible for architecture, urban design, and comprehensive land-use planning in the capitol area of St. Paul, exercising zoning and design review authority, and overseeing redevelopment of the north Capitol area.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/42" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Samuel Hansen – New Ulm, MN <br /></strong>Center for Rural Policy and Development <br /> Rural County Government Representative <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Timothy Houle</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carolyn Olson – Cottonwood, MN <br /></strong>Center for Rural Policy and Development <br /> Farm Bureau Representative <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029 <br /> Replacing: Kevin Paap</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Seibert – Aitkin, MN <br /></strong>Center for Rural Policy and Development <br /> Regional County Government Representative <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> Replacing: Mark Phillips<em>About the Center for Rural Policy and Development: <br /></em>The Center for Rural Policy and Development identifies social and economic issues in rural Minnesota and, through alliances and partnerships, provides research and information on current issues and practical solutions for problems.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Center for Rural Policy and Development can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/43" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelly Applegate – Princeton, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Khalif Bashir</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Peter Aube – Bemidji, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Mike Birkeland</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mindy Granley – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Christopher Clark</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>J. Drake Hamilton – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Eric Dayton</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hilda Martinez Salgado – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Josiah McClellan – Arden Hills, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Wayne Dupuis</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ann Mulholland – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Micah Niermann – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bethany Owen – Duluth, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Marco Hernandez</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kevin Pranis – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alex Savelli – Edina, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Lucinda Johnson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anne Schwagerl – Browns Valley, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Sunderman – Madison Lake, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Luisa Trapero – Saint James, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Advisory Council on Climate Change <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Alexandra Klass</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Advisory Council on Climate Change: <br /></em>The Governor’s Advisory Council on Climate Change identifies opportunities for, and barriers to, the development and effective implementation of policies and strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote climate change resiliency.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Advisory Council on Climate Change can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/268" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Hannah Alstead – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Amber Backhaus</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ryan Daniel – Saint Cloud, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Neal Foster, Jr. – Eagan, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Dan Chen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Phil Magney – Minnetonka, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Myrna Peterson – Grand Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Damien Riehl – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kyle Shelton – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bret Weiss – Golden Valley, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patrick Weldon – Medina, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles <br /> Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles: <br /></em>The Governor’s Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles reviews developments in connected and automated vehicle technology and intelligent and emerging transportation technology, explores partnership opportunities to remain prepared for the widespread adoption of new technologies, and proposes policies to safely test and deploy connected and automated vehicles.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor's Council on Connected and Automated Vehicles can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/253" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Harmony Kuller – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2025 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicole Peterson – Maplewood, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council <br /> Program Representative <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: June 30, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council: <br /></em>The Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council provides consumer-responsive, consumer-driven advice to the state for the planning of, implementation of, and evaluation of activities carried out under the federal Assistive Technology Act grant.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/85" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julia Nelmark – Detroit Lakes, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority <br /> Member with Expertise in Financing Projects at a Community Bank, Credit Union, Community Development Institution, or Local Government <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority: <br /></em>The Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority is charged with accelerating the deployment of clean energy projects, greenhouse gas emissions reduction projects, and other qualified projects through the strategic deployment of public funds in the form of grants, loans, credit enhancements, and other financing mechanisms.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/329" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brandee Shoemaker – Montevideo, MN <br /></strong>Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board <br /> Teacher outside the seven-county metro area <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Glazell Toledo – Brooklyn Park, MN <br /></strong>Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board <br /> Teacher within the seven-county metro area <br /> Effective: November 1, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board: <br /></em>The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) is responsible for licensing teachers. The board evaluates candidates for compliance with statutory or rule requirements for licensure and develops licensure verification requirements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/234" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5977102023-10-27T18:18:45Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597773" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-27T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 23-13, updating emergency responsibilities assigned to state agencies. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 23-13, updating emergency responsibilities assigned to state agencies. The executive order also rescinds <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/executive-orders/?id=1055-378974">Executive Order 19-22</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This executive order is effective fifteen days after publication in the State Register and filing with the Secretary of State. It will remain in effect until rescinded by proper authority or until it expires in accordance with Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 4.035, subdivision 3.</p>5977732023-10-27T22:04:31Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597664" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-26T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today stood alongside a group of state and local officials, emergency management leaders, and community partners to break ground on the new State Emergency Operations Center in Blaine. The $41 million project, funded through the 2020 and 2023 capital investment bills, will strengthen Minnesota’s ability to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies and disasters.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today stood alongside a group of state and local officials, emergency management leaders, and community partners to break ground on the new State Emergency Operations Center in Blaine. The $41 million project, funded through the 2020 and 2023 capital investment bills, will strengthen Minnesota’s ability to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies and disasters. Photos from the event are attached and linked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720312236013%2Fwith%2F53288196449%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CIsabella.Widrow%40state.mn.us%7C2661e131890645a9fd0208dbd65e4961%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638339472737325623%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=mPT%2FCkkB5crXiBvP2J8mGEQ3%2BnyOQStO38rrzBc8TP8%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"In times of crisis, one of the best resources we have to protect Minnesotans is our dedicated team of emergency managers who coordinate with local, county, and federal partners,"</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The new State Emergency Operations Center will be the hub for state agencies and their partners to come together and prepare for and handle any emergencies that come our way. This is an investment in the safety of every community across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Emergency Operations Center is the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) division’s central command and control facility for supporting communities experiencing disasters and other emergency management incidents.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When disasters strike and local resources are overwhelmed or exhausted, we're called into action and in to help. We get boots on the ground, resources on the way and tap into funds to help communities get back on their feet. But to do that, our staff needs space to work and reliable communications networks and power sources that can stand up to these disasters,</strong> said HSEM Director Kristi Rollwagen. <strong>“This new facility gives us what we need to keep Minnesotans safe — not only on their worst days but for the long haul.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The new 37,000-square-foot facility will sit on 20 acres in Blaine and replace the current inadequate operations center in St. Paul. The new building will offer clear sight lines and include critical safety and modernization updates, including:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Geothermal heating/cooling and solar panels for electricity.</li> <li>The ability to withstand an EF3 tornado.</li> <li>Protection from lightning and power surges.</li> <li>The capability to house and feed emergency staff.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The center will also contain HSEM’s offices, where staff carry out their daily functions and duties. These new features ensure the new SEOC is modern, secure, sustainable, and flexible, increasing Minnesota’s ability to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies and disasters. The building is expected to be staffed and operational by spring 2025.</p>5976642023-10-27T14:40:25Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597589" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-26T13:24:07ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David L. Mennis. This seat will be chambered in Benson in Swift County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on November 16, 2023, and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-December.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Eighth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5975892023-10-26T21:15:44Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597586" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-26T13:24:07ZIn accordance with a proclamation from the White House, Governor Tim Walz today directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff effective immediately until sunset on Monday, October 30, to remember, mourn, and honor the lives lost in the shooting in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday, October 25.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – In accordance with a proclamation from the White House, Governor Tim Walz today directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff effective immediately until sunset on Monday, October 30, to remember, mourn, and honor the lives lost in the shooting in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday, October 25.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Lewiston, Maine is a little smaller than Mankato, Minnesota. I can’t imagine the impact a mass shooting will have on that community,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“My office has offered Maine any resources they need, and Minnesotans offer our heartfelt condolences as Mainers grapple with our country’s latest violent, senseless tragedy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>5975862023-10-26T21:02:41Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597590" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-25T13:24:07ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the resignation of the Honorable Toddrick S. Barnette. This seat will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on November 1 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . <strong>The commission is currently reviewing applications for two other vacancies in the Fourth Judicial District related to the retirement of the Honorable Tanya M. Bransford and the elevation of the Honorable Keala C. Ede to the Court of Appeals. Applicants who applied for those vacancies will be considered for this opening and do not need to submit a new application.</strong> The commission expects to hold interviews for these vacancies in mid-November.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Fourth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> <u>.</u></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5975902023-10-26T21:22:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597351" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-24T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Sleepy Eye will host the 2024 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Sleepy Eye will host the 2024 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"I am thrilled that the community of Sleepy Eye will host next year’s Minnesota Governor's Pheasant Hunting Opener,"</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“After a strong kick off to this year’s pheasant hunting season, I’m already looking forward to our time in Sleepy Eye and for the community to carry on the tradition of a fantastic opener next year, highlighting strong communities and exceptional public lands.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Sleepy Eye Chamber of Commerce and Convention &amp; Visitors’ Bureau submitted an application on behalf of the community to host the 2024 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. Sleepy Eye was then selected through a process that considered available hunting land, travel, tourism opportunities, and community support.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are very excited to have the opportunity to host the 2024 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,”</strong> said Christina Andres, Sleepy Eye chamber of commerce executive director. <strong>“Sleepy Eye, Brown County and its area sporting and wildlife organizations have a strong history of collaborating together, so we are confident this event will be another great opportunity to showcase our southern Minnesota hospitality, habitat and hunting.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Set in the heart of Brown County, Sleepy Eye has a rich outdoor heritage that includes excellent pheasant habitat on nearby public lands. The community is situated on the banks of Sleepy Eye Lake, which boasts exceptional fishing in both summer and winter. Sleepy Eye has a population of 3,428 and is located at the junction of U.S. Highway 14 and Minnesota Highway 4.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 2024 event, scheduled for Oct. 11-12, will be the twelfth annual Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Explore Minnesota will assist local partners in planning the event.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Initiated by Governor Mark Dayton in 2011, the Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Opener has been hosted by eight different communities. Most recently, Owatonna held the opener October 13-14, 2023. Other host cities have included Montevideo (2011 and 2016), Marshall (2012 and 2017), Madelia (2013), Worthington (2014 and 2022), Mankato (2015), Luverne (2018), and Austin (2019).</p>5973512023-10-25T14:49:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597349" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-23T13:24:07ZJoined by representatives from Minnesota labor unions, Governor Tim Walz kicked off a statewide tour today to highlight proposed infrastructure projects ahead of the 2024 legislative session. The Governor will tour proposed infrastructure projects ahead of his capital investment proposal for the 2024 legislative session. Attached are photos from the event at Saint Paul College, which is seeking support to modernize classrooms, labs, and academic facilities. Governor Walz surveying potential projects to consider in his 2024 capital investment proposal1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Joined by representatives from Minnesota labor unions, Governor Tim Walz kicked off a statewide tour today to highlight proposed infrastructure projects ahead of the 2024 legislative session. The Governor will tour proposed infrastructure projects ahead of his capital investment proposal for the 2024 legislative session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Whether that's roads and bridges, clean water infrastructure, or investments in modernizing our state’s higher education, a strong infrastructure plan creates jobs while helping ensure every community across Minnesota prospers,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I look forward to</strong> <strong>hearing directly from Minnesotans about the local infrastructure projects that matter most to them.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Capital investment bills like the one Governor Walz signed in June provide crucial funding to keep critical infrastructure safe,”</strong> said Minnesota Management and Budget Commissioner Erin Campbell. <strong>“We have a historic opportunity to invest now in projects that maintain and improve state assets and will benefit Minnesota for years to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In June, Governor Walz signed the state’s largest-ever <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579789">infrastructure bill</a> into law. The $2.6 billion package invests in construction and renovation projects across the state, creating thousands of good-paying jobs for Minnesotans and bringing long-term benefits to communities across the state. Since then, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan have visited local projects across the state, from <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/596642">Thief River Falls</a> and <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/583348">Moorhead</a> to <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/593496">Chisholm</a> and <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/585409">Winona</a> .</p>5973492023-10-25T14:51:46Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-597345" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-23T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated the news that the Biden-Harris administration, through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA), designated Minnesota MedTech Hub 3.0 as one of the 31 inaugural Tech Hubs in regions across the country that show potential for rapid growth in key technology sectors.Minnesota identified by U.S. Department of Commerce as a regional center primed for innovation and job creation1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated the news that the Biden-Harris administration, through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA), designated Minnesota MedTech Hub 3.0 as one of the 31 inaugural Tech Hubs in regions across the country that show potential for rapid growth in key technology sectors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota MedTech Hub 3.0, a consortium led by Minneapolis Saint Paul Economic Development Partnership, will position Minnesota as a global center for “Smart MedTech” by integrating artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science into medical technology. Leveraging its medical technology ecosystem and concentration of hospitals, research institutions, and medical device manufacturers, the MedTech Hub 3.0 will work to capitalize on regional assets to drive innovative collaboration in the MedTech sector.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota leads the world in innovative medical technology, and as Governor I’ve made the case for critical investments in workforce development, education, research and more to bolster our position and keep us competitive,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“The selection of our Minnesota MedTech Hub 3.0 in this highly competitive process is a recognition of our incredible ecosystem of private companies, regional economic development partners, healthcare providers, and world-class research institutions. I’m proud that Minnesota landed this federal investment to accelerate production of next-generation smart tech, creating jobs at home and improving health care around the globe.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are honored and ready to continue to pave the way for medical technology growth,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Minnesota has a long history of medical technology innovation, and this investment will create jobs and provide the next generation of innovators with more opportunities to make an impact on global health.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This designation is part of the first phase of the novel Tech Hubs program, authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act, that will invest directly in high-potential U.S. regions and aim to transform them into globally competitive innovation centers. Designation is an endorsement of the region’s strategy to supercharge their respective technological industry to create jobs and strengthen U.S. economic and national security. Designated Tech Hubs are now eligible to apply for the next phase of the Tech Hubs Program that will invest between $50-$75 million in each of 5-10 Designated Hubs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“A diverse and powerful team of leaders and organizations came together this summer through the GREATER MSP Partnership to create a plan to build the global future of medical technology,”</strong> said GREATER MSP CEO Peter Frosch. <strong>“Our MedTech 3.0 plan will increase Minnesota’s competitiveness, America’s economic security and opportunity for residents across the entire Greater MSP region.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Medtronic is proud to be a leader in Minnesota MedTech 3.0 alongside so many other great partners,”</strong> said Medtronic Chairman &amp; CEO Geoff Martha. <strong>“This is a tremendous opportunity for Minnesota, and we’re committed to using our resources to ensure the success of this Tech Hub.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"As one of America's leading research universities, the University of Minnesota has created a strong foundation of discovery and innovation for Minnesota's leadership in medical technology -- from the</strong> <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmed.umn.edu%2Fvhlab&amp;data=05%7C01%7CManushri.Ivaturi%40state.mn.us%7C068fe15719c64067f06708dbd3f03d67%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638336801020186718%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=pHKKOutEWhNPK0kaELotlnEpzdDd%2BfRILaZGKMY4Lt4%3D&amp;reserved=0">Visible Heart Lab</a> <strong>in partnership with Medtronic to the Bakken Medical Device Center's</strong> <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbmdc.umn.edu%2Fprograms%2Finnovation-fellows&amp;data=05%7C01%7CManushri.Ivaturi%40state.mn.us%7C068fe15719c64067f06708dbd3f03d67%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638336801020186718%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=guqeHOGWeluc%2BIBc1Y87tOS9WNrixreYG%2BaKlolxNfI%3D&amp;reserved=0">Innovation Fellows Program</a> <strong>, helping train the next generation in med tech,"</strong>said Jeff Ettinger, Interim President of the University. <strong>"We are honored to know the U of M will be an important contributor to the effort outlined today. We are ready to roll up our sleeves and get to work with public and private partners to advance Minnesota as a global leader and to bring Smart MedTech innovations to bear on behalf of all patients."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 31 Tech Hubs were selected from 198 applications from regional consortia that include industry, academia, state and local governments, economic development organizations, and labor and workforce partners. The Tech Hubs span regions across 32 states and Puerto Rico and represent a cross section of urban and rural regions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For a full list of Tech Hubs, visit <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eda.gov%2Ffunding%2Fprograms%2Fregional-technology-and-innovation-hubs&amp;data=05%7C01%7CManushri.Ivaturi%40state.mn.us%7C068fe15719c64067f06708dbd3f03d67%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638336801020186718%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=zVd2r4JWNJcrMu8G5VRGAJlE5B1qvhHFuANgLrNrl0w%3D&amp;reserved=0">TechHubs.gov</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the U.S. Economic Development Administration</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation’s regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.</p>5973452023-10-25T14:41:29Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596846" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-19T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan today announced the appointment of Steve Hanke as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. Hanke will be replacing the Honorable Michael J. Cuzzo and will be chambered in Two Harbors in Lake County and Grand Marais in Cook County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan today announced the appointment of Steve Hanke as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. Hanke will be replacing the Honorable Michael J. Cuzzo and will be chambered in Two Harbors in Lake County and Grand Marais in Cook County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Steve Hanke to the Sixth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His dedication to serving his community and commitment to finding creative solutions to challenging issues makes me confident that he will be an excellent jurist for Lake and Cook counties.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Steve Hanke will be a great addition to the Sixth Judicial District bench,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“His work with Minnesota’s treatment courts and dedication to restorative justice practices makes him uniquely qualified for this position, and I look forward to seeing how he incorporates that experience into his new role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District encompasses Carlton, Cook, Lake, and St. Louis counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Steve Hanke is an attorney for the City of Duluth, where he practices civil law and prosecutes criminal matters. He is also an adjunct professor in the Human Behavior, Justice, and Diversity Department at the University of Wisconsin – Superior. His community involvement includes volunteering with the Minnesota State Bar Association as a high school mock trial judge and the Duluth Amateur Hockey Association. He also serves as the president of the 11th District Bar Association and as a board member for the Damiano Center and Duluth Area Family YMCA. He earned his B.A. from the University of North Dakota and his J.D. from the University of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5968462023-11-14T20:43:03Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596854" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-19T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the 2023 Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener will take place in southeast Minnesota at the Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Lanesboro.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that the 2023 Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener will take place in southeast Minnesota at the Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Lanesboro.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is home to exceptional public lands and unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the state,”</strong> Governor Walz said. <strong>“I look forward to commemorating the time-honored deer hunting tradition that so many Minnesotans celebrate each year.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The celebration is organized by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Explore Minnesota in partnership with Backcountry Hunters &amp; Anglers, Bluffland Whitetails Association, and the Minnesota Conservation Federation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Nearly half a million Minnesotans deer hunt each year, and this year’s event will celebrate that rich tradition, whether a hunter’s tradition is new or generations old,”</strong> Minnesota DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen said. <strong>“From the southern farmlands to the Northwoods, and all corners of our state, I am excited to welcome hunters to deer season.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The governor’s recognition and celebration of Minnesota’s deer hunting tradition will be on Friday, Nov. 3, and Saturday, Nov. 4, at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, a year-round facility that provides children, adults, and families with outdoor learning and experiences.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The location of this year’s Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener provides the opportunity to highlight Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, a well-respected outdoor recreation facility that serves over 16,000 children, adults</strong> <strong>, and families annually,”</strong> Explore Minnesota Director Lauren Bennett McGinty said. <strong>“Minnesota’s annual deer hunting season is a significant driver of spending at tourism-related businesses beyond summer and fall color seasons. The dollars invested by deer hunters provide crucial support to local businesses, serving as a cornerstone for the overall economic well-being of our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Highlights of the 2023 Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Listening session (Nov. 3)</strong>: DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen will host a gathering of hunters to share their perspectives on a variety of deer and deer hunting topics.</li> <li><strong>Deer processing demo and venison sampling (Nov. 3)</strong> : Attendees will be able to observe a deer processing demo, followed by a venison sampler of southeast Asian-inspired recipes prepared by members of the Hmong hunting community.</li> <li><strong>Opening day of Minnesota’s firearms deer season (Nov. 4)</strong> : <ul type="circle"> <li><strong>Post-hunt</strong>: Hunters, including the governor and mentor and mentee pairs, will gather to share stories from the hunt.</li> <li><strong>Social media highlights of opening day</strong>: All hunters are invited to join Gov. Walz and others in sharing a favorite memory from opening day of the firearms season on social media using the hashtags #DeerCampMN and #OnlyInMN.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are honored to be a host for this year’s Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener,”</strong> said Taylor Bestor, Bluffland Whitetails Association president. <strong>“This year’s event will celebrate the diverse backgrounds and experiences that define our state’s hunting tradition, and we look forward to forging new connections while honoring the values that bind us together.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re excited to add a fresh twist to tradition by hosting a venison sampler,”</strong> said Eli Mansfield, Backcountry Hunters &amp; Anglers, Minnesota chapter board chair. <strong>“Communing over meals is where stories are swapped, traditions are honored, and new friendships are forged. It’s a time to savor not only the flavors of the harvest but also the bonds that tie us as hunters and stewards of the outdoors.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As hunters begin their preparation for opening day, consider the impact you can make by guiding a newcomer into the world of hunting,”</strong> said Brad Gausman, Minnesota Conservation Federation executive director. <strong>“Introducing someone to hunting is an investment in our shared legacy. Let’s ensure that Minnesota’s hunting tradition endures by sharing the passion this year.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are thrilled to host the Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener,"</strong> said Colleen Foehrenbacher, Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center executive director. <strong>“We appreciate the opportunity to shine a spotlight on hunting and its ties to conservation, education and outdoor experiences.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener, now in its third decade celebrates the state’s white-tailed deer hunting heritage. It fosters conversations on deer management, promotes outdoor skills, and underscores the economic benefits of hunting and tourism.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information about Explore Minnesota, the DNR, Backcountry Hunters &amp; Anglers, Bluffland Whitetails Association, Minnesota Conservation Federation, and Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center can be found at:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><a href="https://www.exploreminnesota.com/">Explore Minnesota</a> (exploreminnesota.com)</li> <li><a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/">Minnesota Department of Natural Resources</a> (mndnr.gov)</li> <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.backcountryhunters.org%2Fminnesota&amp;data=05%7C01%7CIsabella.Widrow%40state.mn.us%7Ce923a887687f425188d308dbd0c2c984%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638333307304296895%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=%2FW4g1jaZO4sO7LroTxlwxAgRBpZFayTx5v9jUHftmRU%3D&amp;reserved=0">Backcountry Hunters &amp; Anglers</a> (backcountryhunters.org/minnesota)</li> <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blufflandwhitetails.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CIsabella.Widrow%40state.mn.us%7Ce923a887687f425188d308dbd0c2c984%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638333307304296895%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=mcIlzG9WcVw%2BphTyPHPhfi0YEEDhbBhJVIMKZlwwdow%3D&amp;reserved=0">Bluffland Whitetails Association</a> (blufflandwhitetails.com)</li> <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mncf.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CIsabella.Widrow%40state.mn.us%7Ce923a887687f425188d308dbd0c2c984%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638333307304296895%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=AmRSG%2FEsxv3bhwABe8XfPwAgmC%2FX%2Fkozd9PVnzAlzhU%3D&amp;reserved=0">Minnesota Conservation Federation</a> (mncf.org)</li> <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Feaglebluffmn.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CIsabella.Widrow%40state.mn.us%7Ce923a887687f425188d308dbd0c2c984%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638333307304296895%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=4VtKbnY%2Bx%2FDFpTIjTN02CNziYROVY2MYA51FAfBat1A%3D&amp;reserved=0">Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center</a> (eaglebluffmn.org)</li> </ul>5968542023-10-19T19:00:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596842" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-18T13:24:07ZOn Wednesday, October 18, 2023, Governor Tim Walz announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) selected three projects in Minnesota for $614 million to enhance the power grid’s ability to deliver affordable, clean energy to communities across the Midwest. U.S. Department of Energy selected Minnesota’s Commerce Department and Minnesota utilities for awards in the largest nationwide investment to increase power grid resilience and reliability1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – On Wednesday, October 18, 2023, Governor Tim Walz announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) selected three projects in Minnesota for $614 million to enhance the power grid’s ability to deliver affordable, clean energy to communities across the Midwest.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A grant for $464 million has been awarded to a proposal submitted by the Minnesota Department of Commerce for a grid innovation award. The application was created in partnership with the Great Plains Institute and two regional electricity transmission operators, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) and Southwest Power Pool (SPP).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is proud to lead the way on delivering affordable, clean energy to families across the Midwest,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“This is an investment in our climate, community health, and family pocketbooks. I’m grateful Minnesota can play a significant role in this historic project and look forward to seeing the impact of this grant across our state and country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Extreme weather events fueled by climate change will continue to strain the nation’s aging transmission systems, but President Biden’s Investing in America agenda will ensure America’s power grid can provide reliable, affordable power,”</strong> said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. <strong>“Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever direct investment in critical grid infrastructure, supporting projects that will harden systems, improve energy reliability and affordability—all while generating union jobs for highly skilled workers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The DOE has provided us a historic opportunity to leverage federal clean energy funds to deliver reliable, affordable and safe energy that is increasingly generated by carbon-free and renewable energy resources,”</strong> said Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold. <strong>“The joint project delivers critical funds to expand our electric grid with new transmission lines and to reduce the burden of costs to utility ratepayers for adding those needed transmission lines. This collaboration could become a model for building multistate energy infrastructure into the future.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The grant award will be used to help build five high-voltage transmission lines that will span seven states – Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. The federal grant is expected to spur over $1 billion in additional private sector investments, to reduce the costs to ratepayers across the region, and to provide communities with a range of benefits.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In coming weeks, the Minnesota Department of Commerce and its award partners will begin negotiations with DOE to finalize a funding agreement and the proposed projects. The process also requires approvals from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, MISO and SPP Board of Directors, and state regulatory bodies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to the Minnesota Department of Commerce’s award, Allete Inc. received a $50 million grant from the Department of Energy for the Minnesota Power HVDC Terminal Expansion Capability project to meet future energy needs while increasing the reliability and resilience of the regional grid. Xcel Energy was also selected for a $100 million award to boost its work to reduce and mitigate the threat of wildfires and ensure the resiliency of the grid through extreme weather.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The funds are part of the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.energy.gov%2Fgdo%2Fgrid-resilience-and-innovation-partnerships-grip-program&amp;data=05%7C01%7CIsabella.Widrow%40state.mn.us%7C8f93d50d07fd4749937c08dbd01f6fd0%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638332605711071787%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=v5DSC2e5cyzz4UmvCrSUSHe88smxwf9VPteDKtsLB4o%3D&amp;reserved=0">Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships</a> (GRIP) Program, which seeks to enhance grid flexibility and improve the resilience of the power system against growing threats of extreme weather and climate change. Funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the GRIP program leverages federal and private investments to ensure that communities across the nation have a reliable grid that’s prepared for extreme weather while also delivering affordable, clean energy and creating robust local opportunities for economic investment and jobs.</p>5968422023-10-19T18:43:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596643" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-17T19:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Warrior Early Learning in Baxter as part of his statewide tour highlighting investments made in pre-K this year. Because of this legislation, 9,000 children across the state will attend pre-K that wouldn’t have otherwise, saving families money and expanding access to early childhood education. Without this funding, Warrior Early Learning would have lost 100 percent of their pre-k seats this year1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Warrior Early Learning in Baxter as part of his statewide tour highlighting investments made in pre-K this year. Because of this legislation, 9,000 children across the state will attend pre-K that wouldn’t have otherwise, saving families money and expanding access to early childhood education. Without this funding, Warrior Early Learning would have lost 100 percent of their pre-k seats this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Across the state, we are opening classroom doors for 9,000 pre-k students,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This investment gives our kids a leg up early in life while saving middle class families thousands of dollars a year on child care. It’s an investment that will pay off in the here and now and for years down the line.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year, Governor Walz secured funding to make permanent 4,000 pre-kindergarten seats across the state that were set to expire in 2024. An additional 5,200 seats will be added in the next two years, resulting in over 9,000 permanent pre-k seats funded in total. This investment ensures thousands of young students have access to high-quality early childhood education and saves families thousands of dollars on child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This is the Governor’s second stop on a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/596494">statewide tour</a> to highlight these investments. Governor Walz visited Eisenhower Elementary in Hopkins last week.</p>5966432023-10-18T14:40:44Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596642" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-17T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Thief River Falls to highlight investments in child care and workforce development in Greater Minnesota. Governor Walz first visited DigiKey, an electronics manufacturer, to tour their recent 2.2 million-square-foot expansion that is set to create about 1,000 new jobs in Thief River Falls. Governor Walz also visited the construction site of the new cargo hangar at the Thief River Falls Regional Airport, a project funded through the infrastructure package signed into law last session.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Thief River Falls to highlight investments in child care and workforce development in Greater Minnesota. Governor Walz first visited DigiKey, an electronics manufacturer, to tour their recent 2.2 million square-foot expansion that is set to create about 1,000 new jobs in Thief River Falls. Governor Walz also visited the construction site of the new cargo hangar at the Thief River Falls Regional Airport, a project funded through the infrastructure package signed into law last session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thief River Falls is home to businesses that power the state and regional economy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By investing in child care and local infrastructure, we’re allowing businesses like DigiKey to grow and providing middle class families the support they need to work.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Yesterday, Governor Walz announced a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/596498">new $316 million program</a> that will bolster wages and benefits for Minnesota child care providers and early educators, addressing a longstanding workforce crisis that makes it challenging for families to get child care. Beginning on Monday, Oct. 16, over 8,000 child care providers can begin applying for Great Start Compensation Support Payments. Minnesota is one of the first states to provide direct funding to support the child care workforce.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This spring, Governor Walz signed the state’s largest-ever <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579789">infrastructure bill</a> into law, which will create good-paying jobs, invest in the state’s roads and bridges, and bring long-term benefits to communities across the state. The infrastructure package included $3 million for a new cargo hangar at the Thief River Falls Regional Airport, which will allow for commercial and economic growth in Thief River Falls. The new building is expected to be complete in summer 2024.</p>5966422023-11-17T16:32:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596498" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-16T21:04:42ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced a new program that will bolster wages and benefits for Minnesota child care providers and early educators, addressing a longstanding workforce crisis that makes it challenging for families to get child care.Minnesota one of first states to offer direct support to increase compensation1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced a new program that will bolster wages and benefits for Minnesota child care providers and early educators, addressing a longstanding workforce crisis that makes it challenging for families to get child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Beginning on Monday, Oct. 16, over 8,000 child care providers can begin applying for Great Start Compensation Support Payments. Applications will close on Wednesday, Oct. 25, with the first payments going out later that week.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s economy doesn’t work without child care providers. Without the dedicated care they provide, parents can’t work and children miss early learning opportunities critical to brain development,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We are boosting the pay and benefits those providers receive to grow the workforce and reflect the critical work they do each and every day.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota is one of the first states to provide direct funding to support the child care workforce. With $316 million over the next two years, and $130 million each year after that, the Great Start Compensation Support Payment Program is a key piece of a historic $1.3 billion package of child care investments signed into law by Governor Walz.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Families are already struggling to afford care, and providers cannot easily raise their rates without losing families,”</strong> said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. <strong>“We know how essential child care is to a thriving economy. That’s why this is so important to both providers and parents.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Delivering quality child care is expensive, and providers often don’t have enough revenue to cover operating costs and offer competitive wages and benefits. Minnesota’s median wage for child care workers is $14 per hour, one of the lowest median wages for positions requiring at least a high school diploma. For many families, these broken economics have created a crisis. Roughly a quarter of Minnesota’s young children live in areas with a severe lack of child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The state is anticipating that better compensation will attract more people to the field of child care, and keep them in those jobs, in turn making it easier for families to get child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Great Start Compensation Support Payment Program builds off Minnesota’s Child Care Stabilization Grant Program, which helped support about 70% of the state’s child care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Providers who received stabilization grants were more likely to raise employees’ pay, keep staff turnover down and continue operating.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To provide a bridge from the stabilization grants to the new compensation grants, the state also offered $42.5 million in transition grants for child care providers. Transition grants were available beginning in July through this month.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Great Start Compensation Support Payment Program will issue monthly payments to eligible child care providers for increases in compensation and benefits, moving the child care workforce closer to a livable wage. Licensed and certified child care centers must use the funding to increase compensation and benefits, while family child care providers will have more flexibility in how they can use the funds because of their unique business models.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To qualify for compensation support payments, providers must:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">· Be licensed, certified, or registered</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">· Be in good standing with the Minnesota Department of Human Services or their Tribe</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">· Be open, operating and serving children during the funding period, and</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">· Meet additional requirements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To protect program integrity, recipients will also be subject to random audits.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information, visit the</p> <a href="https://mn.gov/dhs/partners-and-providers/grants-rfps/great-start-grants/" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Compensation Support Payment Program webpage</a> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">or contact Child Care Aware of Minnesota at</p> <a href="mailto:supportfunds@childcareawaremn.org" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">supportfunds@childcareawaremn.org</a> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">or 651-290-9704.</p>5964982023-10-16T21:06:41Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596645" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-14T13:24:07ZThis weekend, Governor Tim Walz celebrated the eleventh annual Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener in Owatonna and Steele County. Governor Walz’s hunting party harvested a rooster this morning. The weekend included a public lands celebration, community gathering, hunters’ breakfast, and a post-hunt lunch.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – This weekend, Governor Tim Walz celebrated the eleventh annual Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener in Owatonna and Steele County. Governor Walz’s hunting party harvested a rooster this morning. The weekend included a public lands celebration, community gathering, hunters’ breakfast, and a post-hunt lunch.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a lifelong hunter and Pheasants Forever member, the pheasant opener is one of my favorite times of year,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Thank you to the community of Owatonna and Steele County for making the opening weekend of the pheasant hunting season a memorable one. A celebration like this gives us the opportunity to make memories with friends and family, recognize the incredible conservation work that makes this sport possible, and showcase outstanding communities across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The 2023 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener was an amazing event! It was such a privilege to spend the day out on the prairie, with my host and a group of female hunters who made the experience so memorable,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“I also want to thank the people of Owatonna for being such welcoming and gracious hosts. With so many options for hunting and other outdoor recreation activities, the community has a lot to be proud of!”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Schedule of Events</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Friday afternoon, Governor Walz attended a public lands celebration that recognized the conservation efforts on the Somerset Wildlife Management Area. On Friday evening, Governor Walz attended a community gathering in downtown Owatonna to meet with community members and leaders.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Saturday morning, Governor Walz attended a hunters’ breakfast before departing for the hunt. Governor Walz hunted privately owned lands that have been enrolled in conservation programs. Following the hunt, Governor Walz returned to Owatonna for a post-hunt lunch and bird cleaning.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz was hosted by Al Steinbauer, a member of the Steele County Chapter of Minnesota Pheasants, Inc. Also joining the hunt were Becky Wolfe and Derek Ritter from Owatonna, and Sierra Spindler, a recent graduate of Owatonna High School and avid clay shooter.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 2023 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener showcased the many hunting, recreational, and community opportunities that Owatonna and Steele County have to offer, including more than 2,000 acres of state-managed public hunting land in Steele County.</p>5966452023-10-18T14:45:10Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596494" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-13T19:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Eisenhower Elementary in Hopkins to kick off a statewide tour highlighting investments made in pre-K this year.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Eisenhower Elementary in Hopkins to kick off a statewide tour highlighting investments made in pre-K this year. Because of this legislation, 9,000 children will attend pre-K that wouldn’t have otherwise, saving families money and expanding access to early childhood education. Without this funding, Eisenhower Elementary would have lost up to 100 percent of their pre-k seats. Photos from today’s event are attached.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re expanding free pre-k for thousands of families to make Minnesota the best place to live, work, and raise a family,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These investments will give our kids a strong foundation while saving families thousands of dollars a year on child care. This is good for kids, families, and the future of our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year, Governor Walz secured funding to make permanent 4,000 pre-kindergarten seats across the state that were set to expire in 2024. An additional 5,200 seats will be added in the next two years, resulting in over 9,000 permanent pre-k seats funded in total. This investment ensures thousands of young students have access to high-quality early childhood education and saves families thousands of dollars on child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This is the Governor’s first stop on a statewide tour to highlight these investments.</p>5964942023-10-16T20:45:05Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596199" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-13T13:24:07ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Arlene M. Asencio Perkkio. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Arlene M. Asencio Perkkio. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on November 3 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Ms. Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews at the end of November.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the First Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5961992023-10-13T19:10:27Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596141" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-13T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated news that the U.S. Department of Energy will deliver nearly $1 billion to the Heartland Hydrogen Hub to advance the regional clean energy project. The regional partnership is expected to create upwards of 3,800 jobs.Federal investment will bring economic activity and thousands of jobs to Minnesota 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated news that the U.S. Department of Energy will deliver nearly $1 billion to the Heartland Hydrogen Hub to advance the regional clean energy project. The regional partnership is expected to create upwards of 3,800 jobs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last year, Governor Walz joined his colleagues in a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-542609">memorandum of understanding</a> to initiate the effort and signed an executive order <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/545241">directing state agencies to pursue federal funding</a> for clean hydrogen market development in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is a major investment in Minnesota and the region’s economy and vote of confidence in our ability to innovate,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota is ready to meet the changing needs of our energy, transportation, and agriculture industries. By developing clean hydrogen, we can reduce emissions and mitigate climate impacts for future generations.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Clean fuels are a critical component of enabling economy-wide decarbonization. The Heartland Hydrogen Hub is game-changing initiative that demonstrates how we’re accelerating the development of the next generation of clean energy technology with significant benefits for our customers and the environment,”</strong> said Bob Frenzel, Xcel Energy chairman, president and CEO. <strong>“The strong partnership with our Upper Midwest states and other energy providers demonstrates our commitment to increasing economic impact while achieving carbon reduction goals for our customers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed into law in 2021 by President Joe Biden, provided the U.S. Department of Energy with $8 billion to fund regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs, networks of clean hydrogen producers, consumers, and connective infrastructure. Minnesota worked with neighboring states to develop a proposal for the Heartland Hydrogen Hub with the goal of obtaining that federal funding.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Heartland Hydrogen Hub, which was selected to receive funding after a highly competitive process, aims to produce low-carbon hydrogen, decarbonize regional supply chains and create clean energy jobs across the four states.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The University of North Dakota’s Energy and Environmental Research Center (EERC), Marathon Petroleum Corp., TC Energy and Xcel Energy are leading development of the Heartland Hydrogen Hub. A variety of projects will produce clean hydrogen for delivery to multiple markets including industrial operations, fertilizer production, and natural gas blending for power generation and distribution, while reducing carbon emissions from multiple sectors.</p>5961412023-10-13T15:14:45Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-598542" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-12T13:24:07ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Arlene M. Asencio Perkkio. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the resignation of the Honorable Arlene M. Asencio Perkkio. This seat will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on November 3 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Ms. Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews at the end of November.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the First Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5985422023-11-02T20:12:44Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596134" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-12T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education, Governor’s Task Force on Broadband, Governor’s Workforce Development Board, Psychedelic Medicine Task Force, and a task force studying the aiding and abetting felony murder doctrine. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education, Governor’s Task Force on Broadband, Governor’s Workforce Development Board, Psychedelic Medicine Task Force, and a task force studying the aiding and abetting felony murder doctrine.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Steven Anderson – Merrifield, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rebekah Doyle – White Bear Lake, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Mathew Ollig</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sally Grans Korsh – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pasha Khosravi – Bloomington, MN <br /></strong>Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education <br /> Member <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education: <br /></em>The Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education is responsible for the care, management, and control of the Perpich Center for Arts Education. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of the Perpich Center for Arts Education can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/36" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Hood – Cloquet, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Task Force on Broadband <br /> Member <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Jason Hollinday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Briana Mumme – Franklin, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Task Force on Broadband <br /> Member <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: April 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Theresa Sunde</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband: <br /></em>The Governor’s Task Force on Broadband advises the executive and legislative branches on broadband policy, including strategies for successfully achieving the state broadband goals, comprehensive assessment of digital inclusion issues and gaps, and strategies for unlocking the benefits of universal access to broadband for all communities in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/171" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Emma De Vera – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Public Libraries Representative (Non-voting) <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Catherine Penkert</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeff Tollefson – Eden Prairie, MN <br /></strong>Governor's Workforce Development Board <br /> Business Representative <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2026 <br /> Replacing: Robert Blake</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Workforce Development Board: <br /></em>The Governor’s Workforce Development Board assists the Governor in developing, implementing, and modifying the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Combined State Plan. It also reviews statewide policies and programs, provides recommendations on actions to improve the workforce development system and programs, and develops strategies to remove barriers to those programs, among other duties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Workforce Development Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/182" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Guthrie Capossela – Rochester, MN <br /></strong>Psychedelic Medicine Task Force <br /> Member Representing the Dakota Tribes <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Psychedelic Medicine Task Force: <br /></em>The Psychedelic Medicine Task Force advises the legislature on the legal, medical, and policy issues associated with the legalization of psychedelic medicine, including 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), psilocybin, and LSD.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Psychedelic Medicine Task Force can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/312" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Molly Evans – Saint Paul, MN <br /></strong>Task force studying the aiding and abetting felony murder doctrine <br /> Impacted Person who is Directly Related to a Person who has Been Convicted of Felony Murder <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 16, 2024 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Frase – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Task force studying the aiding and abetting felony murder doctrine <br /> Person with Expertise Regarding the Laws and Practices of Other States Relating to Aiding and Abetting Felony Murder <br /> Effective: October 18, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 16, 2024 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the task force studying the aiding and abetting felony murder doctrine</em> <em>: <br /></em>This task force collects and analyzes data on the charging, convicting, and sentencing of people for aiding and abetting felony murder, assesses whether current laws and practices promote public safety and equity in sentencing, and makes recommendations to the legislature.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the task force studying the aiding and abetting felony murder doctrine can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/326" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the </p> <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a>5961342023-10-13T15:01:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596102" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-12T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that the application process is now open for a vacancy on the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that the application process is now open for a vacancy on the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). The vacancy occurred upon the resignation of Commissioner Matt Schuerger. Schuerger was first appointed to the PUC in 2016.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission regulates the electricity, natural gas, and telephone services industries in Minnesota – ensuring safe, reliable, and effective utility services. The PUC is a five-member body with legislative and quasi-judicial functions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking individuals with experience in law, engineering, accounting, property and utility valuation, finance, science, agriculture, or natural resources. Those interested can find more information and apply for the position on the Secretary of State’s <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/134">website</a>.</p>5961022023-10-12T21:48:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596138" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-11T20:09:49ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Adam Johnson and Lauren Johnson as district court judges in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The seats will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County and Shakopee in Scott County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Adam Johnson and Lauren Johnson as district court judges in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The seats will be chambered in Hastings in Dakota County and Shakopee in Scott County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Adam Johnson will be replacing the Honorable Tim D. Wermager for the seat chambered in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am delighted to appoint Adam Johnson to the First Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His career in public service is a testament to his commitment to ensuring equity and fairness in our justice system.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Adam Johnson is an exceptional legal mind and leader who will be a great addition to the Dakota County bench,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“He approaches the practice of law with compassion and humility, even in the most challenging of moments.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lauren Johnson will be replacing the Honorable Mark C. Vandelist for the seat chambered in Scott County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am proud to appoint Lauren Johnson to the Scott County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her lived experience and diverse practice background will allow her to tackle the variety of cases and challenges faced by our judiciary.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Lauren Johnson’s integrity and commitment to justice is indisputable,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am confident that her connection to community, dedication, and mindfulness in the courtroom will make her a judge of the highest quality.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s First Judicial District consists of Carver, Dakota, Goodhue, Le Sueur, McLeod, Scott, and Sibley counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Adam Johnson</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Adam Johnson is the deputy county administrator for Rice County, where he serves as a legal advisor to the county administrator and the county board on a wide variety of civil and operational matters. He was previously chief assistant for the Rice County Attorney’s Office, where he was primarily responsible for criminal prosecution of felonies including domestic assault, criminal sexual conduct, and murder. Johnson’s community involvement includes serving as an American Mock Trial Association judge, volunteering at legal aid clinics provided by Legal Assistance of Dakota County, and serving as the Fifth District Bar Association representative to the Minnesota State Bar Association. Additionally, Johnson has previously volunteered at Worthington Dollars for Scholars, Feed My Starving Children, and Volunteers Enlisted to Aid People. He earned his B.A. from the University of Minnesota and his J.D. from the University of North Dakota School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Lauren Johnson</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lauren Johnson is an associate attorney with Melchert Hubert Sjodin, PLLP, where she specializes in family law, orders for protection, and child protection matters. She previously served as an assistant county attorney for the McLeod County Attorney’s Office, where she focused on criminal prosecution and child support. Johnson also worked as a staff attorney with the Autism Advocacy &amp; Law Center, where she represented families with special needs. Her community involvement includes serving as a board member of the ISD 110 Foundation and as president of the Eighth District Bar Association. Johnson has also volunteered with Lutheran Social Services. She earned her B.S. from Minnesota State University, Mankato and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5961382023-10-13T15:09:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596131" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-11T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that three State of Minnesota projects won top honors at the 2023 National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) State IT Recognition Awards. Minnesota’s Frontline Worker Pay Program, drone bridge inspections, and a driver and vehicle services’ virtual chatbot were honored from a list of 31 finalists nationwide across 10 categories, ranging from cybersecurity and business-process innovation to digital services and innovation.Three State of Minnesota projects in transportation, public safety, and workforce received State IT Recognition Awards1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that three State of Minnesota projects won top honors at the 2023 National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) State IT Recognition Awards. Minnesota’s Frontline Worker Pay Program, drone bridge inspections, and a driver and vehicle services’ virtual chatbot were honored from a list of 31 finalists nationwide across 10 categories, ranging from cybersecurity and business-process innovation to digital services and innovation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are so proud to be recognized as a national leader in how we use technology to improve the lives, safety, and experiences of Minnesotans,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“We’re committed to building new, creative ways to use technology to deliver the best services to Minnesotans</strong> .”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Commissioners from Minnesota IT Services (MNIT) and the Minnesota Departments of Labor and Industry (DLI), Public Safety (DPS), and Transportation (MnDOT) accepted the awards on Tuesday, October 10, at the annual NASCIO conference in Minneapolis. A first for Minnesota, seven of the state’s projects made it to the finals and three won top awards.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This recognition shows that when we collaborate with state agency partners and invest in modern, person-centered experiences, we can reduce barriers to accessing services in Minnesota,”</strong> said MNIT Commissioner Tarek Tomes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information about the winning technology projects:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The Frontline Worker Pay Program received the Digital Services: Government to Citizen State IT Recognition Award. The collaborative work deployed a platform focused on user experience to ensure Minnesota could process 1.2 million applications and distribute $500 million to eligible workers who served the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>MnDOT’s drone inspection multi-year project received the Emerging and Innovative Technologies State IT Recognition Award. The drone bridge inspections take advantage of 3D modeling to provide better quality data and asset management, improve safety for bridge inspectors and the public, and reduce traffic delays.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The Department of Public Safety’s Driver and Vehicle Service’s virtual assistant received the State CIO Office Special Recognition State IT Award. The virtual assistant used AI technology to provide access to services to 67% of Minnesota’s non-English-speaking population and received overwhelmingly positive responses from individuals about how the work has made them feel and their ability to interact with the government in their language.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It was an honor to administer the Frontline Worker Pay Program and provide the well-deserved and long-awaited recognition to so many of Minnesota's frontline workers for the extraordinary sacrifices they made during the COVID-19 pandemic,”</strong> said DLI Commissioner Nicole Blissenbach. <strong>“These workers deserve our thanks and I'm grateful to be part of the program that gave them a token of our appreciation. We are incredibly proud of this program and honored to receive this award.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our bridge inspectors and crews work hard to ensure that Minnesota bridges are safe for the thousands of motorists and pedestrians who cross them daily,”</strong> said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. <strong>“Through the use of technology—such as drones, 3D digital models and augmented reality—we have been able to improve the quality of Minnesota bridge inspections and help reduce safety risks, traffic disruptions and costs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“All Minnesotans who come for services at the Department of Public Safety deserve dignity and respect,”</strong> said DPS Commissioner Bob Jacobson. <strong>“The virtual assistant helps us to better serve those of our neighbors and community members for whom English may not be their primary language. Quite simply, it brings us closer to our commitment to those Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">NASCIO has presented State IT Recognition Awards for about 35 years to honor impactful and transformational information technology projects that help solve problems, connect citizens to government, streamline services, and optimize results within state government. NASCIO is the premier network and resource for state CIOs and a leading advocate for technology policy at all levels of government.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Access the press release from NASCIO’s website announcing the full list of award recipients <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nascio.org%2Fpress-releases%2Fnascio-announces-recipients-for-nascio-2023-state-it-recognition-awards-3%2F%3Futm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dgovdelivery&amp;data=05%7C01%7CManushri.Ivaturi%40state.mn.us%7C1cd4f80b41af4d5201c808dbcb40e7de%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638327251888352573%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=RZnjuzljelmUkrQBiV8k2E7gddUyEtMzj2%2BGac7kEY8%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a> .</p>5961312023-10-13T14:51:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-596116" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-11T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today launched the Drive for 5 Workforce Initiative, a major new effort to prepare more Minnesotans for high-demand jobs in five occupational categories: technology, the trades, caring professions, manufacturing, and education.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today launched the Drive for 5 Workforce Initiative, a major new effort to prepare more Minnesotans for high-demand jobs in five occupational categories: technology, the trades, caring professions, manufacturing, and education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Whether it’s teaching our students or innovating in technology, Minnesota has hundreds of employers looking to fill good-paying jobs, and we’re working to ensure Minnesotans have access to the training they need to fill them,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re making it easier for Minnesotans to join the workforce, so they can earn family-sustaining wages in high-growth jobs that contribute to our state’s economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“An investment in our workforce is the best investment we can make in the future of our state,”</strong> Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“These programs will open doors for all Minnesotans but especially those that have faced unjust barriers to employment and been overlooked for too long. This initiative is a crucial part of making Minnesota the best state for children and families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The five occupational groupings offer high-demand jobs, are projected to be high-growth in the years ahead, and provide family-sustaining wages for workers – making them important sectors for both Minnesota’s economy and Minnesotans looking to join the labor force.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Through Drive for 5, DEED will partner with workforce development institutions around Minnesota, which will implement or expand job training programs for specific occupational paths. The training programs will be designed to help Minnesotans prepare for and find jobs on an in-demand career path – providing job-ready skills for Minnesota workers and growing Minnesota’s workforce for employers looking to hire. DEED has released a <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/about/contracts/open-rfp.jsp" target="_blank">Request for Proposals (RFP) for potential grantees.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong> <strong>Drive for 5 is one of the ways DEED is delivering for Minnesota workers and employers,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“This is a strategic approach to two of Minnesota’s most challenging problems: employment disparities faced by some of our fellow Minnesotans and a labor force shortage that creates many difficulties for employers looking to hire. We’re excited to engage sector partnerships to work together in overcoming these challenges.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sector partnerships that receive Drive for 5 funding through DEED will provide training that leads to high-quality job placements in these occupations, breaking down barriers to good employment for Minnesotans who have long faced higher unemployment, lower wages, and more tenuous connections to work. Localized sector partnerships are essential to ensure education and training programs are reflective of employers’ needs in their local labor markets, facilitating faster job placement for program participants and helping to create a steady talent pipeline for in-demand positions in communities across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Drive for 5 prioritizes training for populations that face the largest disparities in employment: people of color, people with disabilities, people who lack stable housing, and other people who face barriers to family-sustaining employment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Drive for 5 initiative is part of a slate of historic workforce development investments Governor Walz secured during the last legislative session. DEED has more than $216.5 million for its Employment and Training Programs over the next two years, including $20 million for Drive for 5 and $50 million to support workforce development in historically overlooked communities through the Targeted Workforce Development Program, which is set to launch in the weeks ahead.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Over the coming months and years, the Drive for 5 Initiative will help Minnesota fill some of its most critical workforce needs while supporting more Minnesotans embarking on an in-demand career path with family-sustaining wages,”</strong> said DEED Deputy Commissioner for Workforce Development Marc Majors. <strong>“This is just one of the ways that DEED is serving Minnesota workers. We’re excited to get to work with our partners on this important initiative.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s economy added about 50,000 jobs over the past year, and nearly 200,000 jobs remain open in Minnesota as employers try to find enough workers to fill these vacancies. Job demand over the past two years was at or near record highs in every region of the state and in most industries, with many openings providing opportunities for career growth and family-sustaining wages.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED is inviting nonprofit organizations, state or local government units, including Tribal governments, community action agencies, business organizations, education institutions, labor organizations, trade associations, chambers of commerce, and community-based organizations to submit proposals to create sector partnerships.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Interested applicants are urged to submit their proposal by December 11, 2023. Drive for 5 Request for Proposal can be found on <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/about/contracts/open-rfp.jsp" target="_blank">DEED’s website</a> . DEED will host a webinar for interested applicants on October 19 at 2:00 pm. More information is <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/about/contracts/open-rfp.jsp" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>5961162023-10-13T14:38:08Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-595941" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-11T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota effective immediately until sunset on Saturday, October 14, to remember, mourn, and honor the victims of the attacks on Israel by Hamas terrorists.MNDOT to light I-35W Bridge blue and white in support of Israel1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota effective immediately until sunset on Saturday, October 14, to remember, mourn, and honor the victims of the attacks on Israel by Hamas terrorists.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota joins the nation in condemning the horrific acts of violence against Israeli civilians by Hamas,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The United States and Israel are united by a shared commitment to democracy, economic prosperity, and regional security. We will continue to stand in solidarity with Minnesota’s Jewish and Israeli community and work with the State Department to ensure the safety of Minnesotans at home and abroad.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Transportation will light the I-35W Bridge in Minneapolis tonight through Friday night with blue and white, the colors of the Israeli flag, to show support for the country and its people.</p>5959412023-10-11T22:08:09Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-595808" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-09T13:24:07ZThis weekend, the Star Tribune Editorial Board highlighted Minnesota’s new Child Tax Credit as a pioneering and historic investment in Minnesota kids. A priority of Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan’s last session, the tax credit is estimated to cut child poverty by up to 33% in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – This weekend, the Star Tribune Editorial Board highlighted Minnesota’s new <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.startribune.com%2Fa-historic-investment-in-minnesota-kids%2F600310603%2F%3Frefresh%3Dtrue&amp;data=05%7C01%7CIsabella.Widrow%40state.mn.us%7Cf397cc2b6f5b4b7ec79908dbc8de4f2a%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638324629399227957%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=zUxWMoJYgOXkbwtlQ66scE0AKOkT33ub3HS%2FIkT7Ax4%3D&amp;reserved=0">Child Tax Credit</a> as a pioneering and historic investment in Minnesota kids. A priority of Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan’s last session, the tax credit is estimated to cut child poverty by up to 33% in Minnesota. Read the article here:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Although Minnesota has one of the lowest official child poverty rates in the nation — 11.6%, according to one national measure — a deeper dive into the state's data is far from reassuring.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A look at county rates reveals grim pockets where the percentage of kids living in poverty rivals levels reported in Mississippi, which has the nation's highest rate at 27.6%.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mahnomen County in northern Minnesota leads the state with 33.8% of children under 18 living in poverty, according to the most recent Minnesota Department of Health data. Close behind are Beltrami and Cass counties. Disturbingly, rates are even higher for young children.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In Mahnomen County, about 40% of kids under 5 live in poverty. Lake of the Woods and Beltrami counties are close behind at 35% and 33.3%, respectively. Fourteen other state counties — all of them outside the metro area — have rates at or over 20% for this vulnerable age group.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The numbers are unacceptable from a moral standpoint. The data also illustrates a threat to the state's future prosperity. Minnesota's educated workforce is a preeminent economic asset, but one that is built on the foundation of healthy families. That's why a pioneering new state policy that could significantly reduce child poverty is a farsighted investment — one that merits the spotlight to ensure that Minnesota families take advantage of it early next year during tax filing season.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">There's no catchy name for the measure. Instead, it's simply known as the state's new child tax credit. "Beginning with tax year 2023," families with children 17 and under "may qualify for a Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child with no limit on the number of children claimed," according to the Minnesota Department of Revenue.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">An additional point: "This is a refundable credit, meaning you can receive a refund even if you do not owe tax." Another important point: You need to file taxes in order to benefit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Eligibility hinges on income, with the credit "phasing out" if income is over $29,500 or $35,000 for those who are married/filing jointly. Note the "phasing out." Those whose incomes exceed the threshold may not receive the maximum credit of $1,750 but still could receive a sum that's helpful.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In an interview with an editorial writer, Department of Revenue officials estimated that 300,000 Minnesota families — 36% of households with children — could benefit. The new tax credit was a priority of Gov. Tim Walz's administration and the DFL majorities during the 2023 legislative session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota is now one of 14 states to offer a child tax credit, and several others are considering it, according to September 2023 Governing.com report. There's a reason initiatives like it are gaining momentum: Evidence suggests they work.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">"The federal pandemic-era child tax credit expansion lifted millions of children out of poverty in the second half of 2021. But Congress allowed it to expire at the end of that year, and new U.S. census data shows the child poverty rate more than doubled in 2022, erasing the record gains that were made," the Governing.com report concluded.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota's initiative appears to be one of the most ambitious child tax credits in the nation. It covers one of the broadest age ranges — through age 17 — and the $1,750 maximum credit may be one of the largest amounts offered nationally. The phaseout is also vital. "It isn't just a program for the families at the very bottom. Middle-class families will benefit from it, too," said Luke Shaefer, a professor of social justice and social policy at the University of Michigan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The tax credit is permanent and will be adjusted for inflation, two more reasons the Minnesota program is considered a national standout. Cost is estimated at $400 million a year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The initiative was praised this week by Art Rolnick, an economist and former Federal Reserve executive, who is a prominent advocate for early childhood education. Rolnick lauded the focus on childhood poverty, especially when this issue usually lacks well-heeled lobbyists at the State Capitol. He also praised the state for following an evidence-based approach.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Along with other early education initiatives, the new child tax credit is "a continuation of Minnesota's investment in our people. ... It gives me a lot of optimism that Minnesota will continue to be one of the best economies in the world," Rolnick told an editorial writer.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Again, Minnesotans need to file taxes in order to benefit. While there's nothing that parents need to do right now, the Department of Revenue is ready to answer questions at 651-296-3781.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With the program's scope and cost comes a responsibility to track its results. A Columbia University analysis suggested the program could reduce child poverty in the state by up to 33%. Minnesotans should be hopeful it delivers but also demand the data in years to come to see the return on this historic public investment.</p>5958082023-10-10T21:05:44Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-595798" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-06T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan will celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day on Monday, October 9. Monday marks the first Indigenous Peoples Day as a State holiday in Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan will celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day on Monday, October 9. Monday marks the first Indigenous Peoples Day as a State holiday in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Indigenous Peoples Day serves as a time to celebrate the 11 Tribal Nations and the diverse Native communities that continue to strengthen our state’s cultural landscape, economy, and heritage each and every day,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“It’s also a reminder of our commitment to strengthening and growing our relationships with Minnesota’s Native communities and tribal governments today and every day.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This has been years in the making, and I’m thrilled to celebrate the first Indigenous Peoples Day in Minnesota as a state holiday,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Native people are still here, and we’ve always been here. Honoring and marking that is an important step in the work to make sure our history continues to be told for our children and our children’s children. Thank you to the advocates and legislators who have been working to make this day a reality for many years. We have so much to celebrate.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2021, Governor Walz signed a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/508751">historic bill</a> to put government-to-government relations and consultation into law. The law affirms tribal sovereignty; requires state agencies to appoint tribal-state liaisons and recognizes the unique legal relationship between the State of Minnesota; and mandates tribal-state relations training for state leaders and employees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan continue their work to improve government-to government relationships with the 11 Tribal Nations in Minnesota and strengthen Native communities across the state. This work includes:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Funding the Minnesota American Indian Scholars Program and expanding the Tribal College Supplemental Grant Assistance Program</li> <li>Expanding the Minnesota Indian Teacher Training Program</li> <li>Investing in Native Language Revitalization Grants</li> <li>Protecting Native children’s inherent right to access their culture, language, and Tribal identities</li> <li>Making a historic, $1 billion investment in housing and homelessness prevention</li> <li>Invested in food security and Tribal food sovereignty initiatives</li> <li>Expanding the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives Office and establishing the Office of American Indian Health</li> </ul>5957982023-10-10T20:51:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-594380" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-10-03T20:09:49ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the retirement of the Honorable Michael J. Cuzzo. The seat will be chambered in Cook and Lake counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Steve Hanke</strong>: Steve Hanke is an attorney for the City of Duluth, where he practices civil law and prosecutes criminal matters. He is also an adjunct professor in the Human Behavior, Justice and Diversity Department at the University of Wisconsin – Superior. His community involvement includes volunteering with the Minnesota State Bar Association as a high school mock trial judge, as well as with the Duluth Area Family YMCA and the Duluth Amateur Hockey Association. He also serves as the president of the 11 ^th District Bar Association and as a board member for the Damiano Center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Molly Hicken:</strong> Molly Hicken serves as the Cook County attorney, where she is the county’s chief prosecutor and legal advisor. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the office. She helped found Cook County’s hybrid treatment court and serves on the advisory council for the Cook County Minnesota Restorative Justice program. She is vice president of the board of directors for the Minnesota County Attorney’s Association and is a member of both the Rural Justice Collaborative and the Beyond Big Cities initiative of the Institute for Innovation in Prosecution.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tyson Smith:</strong>Tyson Smith is a managing attorney at Smith Law, PLLC in Grand Marais, where he is a general practitioner and takes cases in most major practice areas. He was previously an associate attorney at Bernick Lifson, P.A. practicing primarily in civil litigation. His community involvement includes volunteering as an emergency responder for Cook County Search &amp; Rescue and as a member of the Grand Marais Lion’s Club.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5943802023-10-04T20:19:59Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-593800" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-29T20:43:22ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 23-12 renewing both the Governor’s One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity and the Governor’s Community Council on Inclusion and Equity. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 23-12 renewing both the Governor’s One Minnesota Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity and the Governor’s Community Council on Inclusion and Equity. This executive order ensures both councils can continue their work making Minnesota a place where everyone can thrive regardless of who they are.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Equity and inclusion remain top priorities of our administration. While we have made significant strides toward a more equitable and inclusive Minnesota, our work is not finished,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The work of the One Minnesota Council and Community Council moves us closer to building a state where every individual can thrive no matter their background or identities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We remain committed to centering the people most impacted by disparities based on race, geography, and economic status, and making sure that they are part of developing solutions to address those disparities,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“We will continue working to engage and empower those who have been historically left out of government. This work helps us build a more equitable, inclusive, and effective state government.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/365086">One Minnesota Council</a> , established in the administration’s first executive order, and the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/472620">Community Council</a> , established in March 2021, worked together with state agency equity practitioners to develop a long-range plan with recommendations for a more equitable, inclusive, and accessible state government. This executive order will work to implement the long-range plan and will make sure that those who are most affected by state government decisions are involved and centered in that process.</p>5938002023-10-04T20:55:10Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-593759" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-29T19:20:54ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota effective immediately until sunset on the day of interment to honor the life and legacy of Senator Dianne Feinstein.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota effective immediately until sunset on the day of interment to honor the life and legacy of Senator Dianne Feinstein.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Senator Dianne Feinstein was a trailblazer who spent her career fighting for gun safety, environmental protections, and reproductive freedom,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Throughout her long career of public service, she worked across the aisle to enact change and improve the lives of Americans. We will continue to honor her life and legacy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Senator Dianne Feinstein cleared a path for so many of us,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“Her legacy will live on in the people she inspired and the policies she passed that will improve the lives of countless Americans for generations to come. I have tremendous gratitude for her service.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>5937592023-09-29T19:29:02Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-593583" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-28T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority, Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council, State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care, and Minnesota Zoological Board. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority, Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council, State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care, and Minnesota Zoological Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joe Fowler – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority <br /> Representative of a Labor Union with Experience in Working on Clean Energy Projects <br /> Effective: October 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 6, 2025 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shalini Gupta – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority <br /> Member with Expertise in Environmental Justice <br /> Effective: October 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 5, 2026 <br /> New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tessa Haagenson – Ramsey, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member Representing Either a Municipal Electric Utility or a Cooperative Electric Association</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bali Kumar – Eden Prairie, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in Investment Fund Management or Financing and Deploying Clean Energy Technologies</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Axaule Sultanova – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in Sustainable Development and Energy Conservation</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jenna Warmuth – Hermantown, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in the Impact of Climate Change on Minnesota communities, Particularly Low-Income Communities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority helps accelerate the deployment of clean energy projects, greenhouse gas emissions reduction projects, and other qualified projects using public funds in the form of grants, loans, credit enhancements, and other financing mechanisms.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/329" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Markus Flynn – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Children's Cabinet Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Keenan Jones</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council makes recommendations to and helps support the Children’s Cabinet.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/263" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rachel Daley – Red Wing, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jennifer Mueller</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Maren Hulden – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Rinal Ray</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care makes recommendations to the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council and Children’s Cabinet and fulfills the duties required under the federal Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/264" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jose Acosta-Reyes – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Zoological Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Richard Carlbom</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Grace Chou – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Zoological Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eric Galler – Woodbury, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Zoological Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kerry Hanifl – Northfield, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Zoological Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kent Peterson – Bloomington, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Zoological Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Weeks – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Zoological Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: October 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Quannah Parker-McGowan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Zoological Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Zoological Board is responsible for the supervision and control of the Minnesota Zoological Garden.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Zoological Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/121" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5935832023-09-29T14:37:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-593496" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-27T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Hibbing and Chisholm to highlight state investments on the Iron Range. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Hibbing and Chisholm to highlight state investments on the Iron Range. Governor Walz first visited Detroit Diesel Remanufacturing, a Hibbing company expanding and investing in the electric vehicle industry. Governor Walz also visited the construction site of the new Chisholm Public Safety Center, a project funded through the infrastructure package signed into law last session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This year we’ve invested millions in the safety and economic vitality of communities like the Range,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By supporting business expansion projects and funding local public safety departments, we’re creating good-paying, family-sustaining jobs and building strong communities across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Detroit Diesel Remanufacturingcontinues to grow and thrive on the Iron Range. Theyrecently constructed a 60,000-square-foot addition to its Range Regional Airport campus in Hibbing. The added space will be used to remanufacture electric vehicle batteries, repair and upgrade microchips, and manufacture other hybrid-electric products. The expansion is expected to create 18 new good-paying jobs. The state supported this project with a $500,000 infrastructure grant and $10 million loan through the Iron Range Resources &amp; Rehabilitation (IRRR).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz also invested <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/585129">$20 million</a> over the next two years in a program that will prepare Minnesotans to enter five of the most critical occupational categories in the state with high-growth jobs and family-sustaining wages: technology, caring professions, education, manufacturing, and trades.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This spring, Governor Walz signed the state’s largest-ever <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579789">infrastructure bill</a> into law, which will create good-paying jobs, invest in the state’s roads and bridges, and bring long-term benefits to communities across the state. The infrastructure package included $3 million for a new Chisholm Public Safety Center, which will house Chisholm’s police, fire, and ambulance services. The new building is expected to be complete in 2024.</p>5934962023-09-28T18:29:58Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-593497" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-27T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today outlined the steps the State of Minnesota is taking to mitigate the impact of a potential federal government shutdown and prepare for its impacts on state programs that receive federal funds. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today outlined the steps the State of Minnesota is taking to mitigate the impact of a potential federal government shutdown and prepare for its impacts on state programs that receive federal funds.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Republicans in Congress are putting personal politics ahead of hundreds of millions of dollars in food, health care, and military spending,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“But if Washington won’t lead, Minnesota will. I have directed my state agencies to take every step available to communicate with Minnesotans and mitigate the impacts of a federal shutdown.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“By refusing to fund the government, Republicans in Congress are putting critical services at risk for infants, children, mothers, and seniors – from food assistance to health care,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“We’re working closely with our state agencies to help ensure Minnesotans have what they need to take care of their families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A lapse of federal funding will have minimal impact on many federally funded state activities in the short-term because some federal resources have already been obligated for many state services through block grants. The longer a shutdown lasts, the greater the impact to the state programs and services Minnesotans rely on. The Governor will be regularly convening his cabinet to share information and explore creative solutions where possible.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Activating Statewide Contingency Response Team <br /></strong>Governor Walz has stood up the Statewide Contingency Response Team to work with individual state agencies to identify near-term programmatic impacts to Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Communicating Service Disruptions <br /></strong>The Governor has asked state agencies to reach out to the people, communities, and Tribal Nations that might experience service interruptions and to provide regular updates throughout a potential shutdown.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Working with Congressional Delegation <br /></strong>Governor Walz and his administration will continue to work with our representatives in Congress to support Minnesotans adversely affected by the shutdown.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Legal Protections for Minnesota <br /></strong>Governor Walz has directed Minnesota Management and Budget to work with the Attorney General to analyze legal remedies against the federal government if there is any failure to reimburse the State of Minnesota.</p>5934972023-09-28T18:29:55Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-592862" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-22T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, September 24, to honor firefighters who have been killed or injured in the line of duty.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, September 24, to honor firefighters who have been killed or injured in the line of duty. This order occurs annually in honor of Minnesota Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We rely on our firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies and protect communities across Minnesota, and every firefighter deserves to come home at the end of every shift,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“On Sunday, we recognize those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty in service to their communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Minnesota fallen firefighters and their families.</p>5928622023-09-22T20:06:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-592754" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-21T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Erin DuPree as the state’s first director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM).1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Erin DuPree as the state’s first director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Starting on October 2, DuPree will be responsible for building the new state agency and will play a key leadership role in establishing and regulating the new adult-use cannabis market in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>​“With direct experience in Minnesota’s hemp and cannabis industry and over 20 years of success in launching, managing, and growing businesses and organizations, Erin DuPree is an outstanding choice to lead the Office of Cannabis Management,"</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“DuPree is a proven and effective leader, who will be successful in standing up Minnesota’s new adult-use cannabis market and helping Minnesotans succeed in the industry.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>​“Erin DuPree is an experienced leader and successful entrepreneur with a passion for building and growing the adult-use cannabis industry in Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“With outstanding business acumen, organizational management, and strategic vision, DuPree has what it takes to meet the needs of Minnesotans and build out a critical new industry in the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"It is an honor to join the Walz-Flanagan administration as the first director of the new Office of Cannabis Management,”</strong> said Erin DuPree. <strong>“I look forward to working closely with all of the legislators, stakeholders, and advocates who worked so hard to pass this new law and am committed to the work of ensuring Minnesota's new adult-use cannabis industry will grow and thrive for years to come."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Erin DuPree is an entrepreneur, small business owner, and a consultant focused on assisting new start-ups in the implementation phase of their business vision. Erin is the founder, vice president of sales and operations, and head of research and development at Loonacy Cannabis Co., located in Apple Valley. In this position, she has managed multiple aspects of the business and led continued research on hemp-derived and cannabis products while maintaining compliance with state laws and regulations. She is also the founder, vice president of operations, and senior business consultant for Cook and Quinwood Consulting, providing consultations for businesses and start-up companies. Since 2009, DuPree has volunteered with Business Network International, where she has held large scale trainings, seminars, and panel discussions on the importance of structure and strategy in business.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Erin emerged early as a leading candidate as we considered a wide range of qualified individuals for this important new leadership role,”</strong> said Charlene Briner, who led the search and early implementation work for the new Office of Cannabis Management. <strong>“Her experience, credibility, and passion for ensuring the success of Minnesota’s new cannabis industry made her a stand-out among an extraordinary pool of talented candidates. I have no doubt those qualities will serve her well as she carries out her work in the months ahead.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On May 30, Gov. Walz <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579413" target="_blank">signed legislation</a> making Minnesota the 23rd state to legalize adult-use cannabis. The law establishes the OCM to regulate cannabis, including for the adult-use market, the Medical Cannabis Program, and for lower-potency hemp edibles. The OCM will be responsible for issuing licenses and developing regulations outlining how and when businesses can participate in the industry.</p>5927542023-09-22T15:53:27Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-592756" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-21T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jakub Tolar – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member Representing the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 26, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Penny Wheeler – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member Representing the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 26, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Herman – Duluth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in Delivering Primary Care or Care in Rural Areas</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 26, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Meghan Walsh – West Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in Delivering Primary Care or Care in Rural Areas</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 26, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pahoua Hoffman – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in Health Disparities and Health Equity, particularly as they Relate to Health Professions Education and Access to Health Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 26, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julia Joseph-Di Caprio – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in Health Disparities and Health Equity, particularly as they Relate to Health Professions Education and Access to Health Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 26, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brenda Hilbrich – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in Health Professions Education and Health Care Workforce Issues</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 26, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Connie Delaney – Edina, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in Health Professions Education and Health Care Workforce Issues</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 26, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Barbara Joers</strong> <strong>– South Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in Hospital or Health System Finances, State or Federal Health Care Reimbursement Issues, Health Care Spending, or Health Economics</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 26, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Vance Opperman – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Expertise in Hospital or Health System Finances, State or Federal Health Care Reimbursement Issues, Health Care Spending, or Health Economics</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 26, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition, the Senate has appointed Senator <strong>Melissa Wiklund</strong> and the House has appointed Representative <strong>Tina Liebling</strong> to the task force.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Finally, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor announced that former Governors <strong>Mark Dayton</strong> and <strong>Tim Pawlenty</strong> will serve as special advisors for the task force.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The task force, chaired by former Commissioner of Health <strong>Jan Malcolm,</strong> will focus primarily on the University of Minnesota’s health workforce training mission and will develop recommendations to support world class health professions education and training that advances equity, centers primary care, and ensures that Minnesotans can continue to receive the highest quality care in a financially sustainable way.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota can be found on the <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/academichealth/index.html">Minnesota Department of Health website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5927562023-09-22T15:53:23Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-592757" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-21T13:24:07ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Tanya M. Bransford and the elevation of the Honorable Keala C. Ede to the Court of Appeals. These seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on October 19 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-November.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Fourth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>5927572023-09-22T15:53:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-592760" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-21T13:24:07ZAfter meeting with law enforcement, legislative leaders, and Attorney General Keith Ellison, Governor Tim Walz today issued the following statement on making significant progress toward bringing remaining school resource officers back into schools.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – After meeting with law enforcement, legislative leaders, and Attorney General Keith Ellison, Governor Tim Walz today issued the following statement on making significant progress toward bringing remaining school resource officers back into schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Last night I had a productive meeting with law enforcement and legislative leaders where we made significant progress in coming to an agreement that will help ensure school safety. Law enforcement leaders came to the Attorney General with valid questions, and I am grateful for the Attorney General’s binding opinion clarifying that school resource officers can continue to do their jobs effectively. I am committed to further addressing this issue next legislative session and eager to see school resource officers return to schools as soon as possible.”</strong></p>5927602023-09-22T15:53:18Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-592860" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-18T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced 36 cities, townships, and counties across Greater Minnesota will receive nearly $24 million in Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) grants. 36 cities, townships, and counties to receive Small Cities Development Program grants1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced 36 cities, townships, and counties across Greater Minnesota will receive nearly $24 million in <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/government/financial-assistance/community-funding/small-cities.jsp/" target="_blank">Small Cities Development Program (SCDP)</a> grants. The grants will be used for residential and commercial property rehabilitation, upgrading public facilities, and other economic development projects.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are dedicated to making Minnesota the best state to live, work, and raise a family – no matter where in the state you call home,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These grants will boost our economy and help Greater Minnesota communities throughout the state grow and thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These grants not only help individual communities address their unique goals and needs, but also help bolster the state’s overall economic position and its reputation as a great place for business and quality of life,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“This is how we build strong communities and support Minnesotans across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SCDP grants are awarded to Minnesota cities with fewer than 50,000 residents and townships and counties with populations under 200,000. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (<a href="https://mn.gov/deed/">DEED</a>)administers the grants, which are part of the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hud.gov%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cddccfbb833fd4103b35b08dbb87d52fe%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638306620688042105%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=c1pGsUCC%2BCBydGG36lUKHzjZ%2BeNjCONrjoAH0R4K7g8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development</a> <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hudexchange.info%2Fprograms%2Fcdbg%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cddccfbb833fd4103b35b08dbb87d52fe%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638306620688042105%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=2JCXDLUdArnzr5nCuM4qv5IKm96tIEhVnjZZwkUNm1Y%3D&amp;reserved=0">Community Development Block Grant Program</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“SCDP grants provide Greater Minnesota communities with financing to address their need for safe and affordable housing and suitable living environments for persons of low to moderate incomes,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“This funding supports projects that support community vitality and enhance conditions for additional economic growth.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To be eligible for SCDP grants, projects must meet at least one of three federal objectives:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Benefit people of low and moderate incomes based on individual and area income standards;</li> <li>Eliminate slum and blight conditions; or</li> <li>Address an urgent community need to eliminate a public health or safety threat.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Communities can apply for funds for one or more of the following types of projects:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Residential owner-occupied or rental property improvement projects to increase the quality of dwellings suited for individual or family occupancy. Examples include exterior repairs and replacement projects, insulation, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, lead paint remediation or accessibility modifications.</li> <li>Commercial property improvement projects for buildings occupied by retail and independent businesses. This can include façade improvements (e.g. awnings, exterior signs), building code issues and energy efficiency.</li> <li>Public facility improvement projects that serve neighborhood or communities, such as community centers, streetscapes, or wastewater treatment projects.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This year’s grant recipients are:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Bagley, $345,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Baudette, $1,200,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rental housing rehab and public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Big Falls, $170,430</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rental housing rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Brainerd, $575,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab and rental housing rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Brooten, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Clarkfield, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Darwin, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Deer Creek, $581,430</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Delhi, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Dodge Center, $431,250</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Edgerton, $1,049,375</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab, rental housing rehab and commercial rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Erskine, $704,375</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rental housing rehab and commercial rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Fosston, $597,713</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Granite Falls, $943,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rental housing rehab and commercial rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Hallock, $414,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner Occupied Housing Rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Holland, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Kasota, $554,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Kelliher, $417,300</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Facility Improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Lake Lillian, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Lonsdale, $431,250</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Mabel, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Madison, $599,610</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab and rental housing rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Minneota, $599,265</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab and rental housing rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Nielsville, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Okabena, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Pequot Lakes, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Randall, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Red Lake Falls, $929,200</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab, rental housing rehab and commercial rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Sacred Heart, $1,175,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab and public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Staples, $948,750</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab, rental housing rehab and commercial rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Stephen, $368,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab and commercial rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Tracy, $1,127,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab and commercial rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Watkins, $943,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab and commercial rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Waubun, $573,600</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City of Wood Lake, $600,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public facility improvements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">County of Big Stone, $599,265</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">(City of Correll &amp; City of Ortonville)</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owner-occupied housing rehab and rental housing rehab</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The preliminary proposal deadline for 2024 SCDP grants is Nov. 29, 2023, and the final application deadline is April 17, 2024. <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/about/contracts/open-rfp.jsp" target="_blank">Communities can apply here</a> .</p>5928602023-09-22T17:06:06Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-514810" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-18T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Tamar Gronvall to serve as Commissioner of Administration. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Tamar Gronvall to serve as Commissioner of Administration. Gronvall will start as commissioner on October 9, replacing Stacie Christensen, who has been serving as temporary commissioner since June.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>​“From securing critical resources during the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring fairness on the Minnesota Tax Court to advocating for thousands of employees in the University of Minnesota’s Office of Conflict Resolution, Tamar Gronvall is a dedicated public servant and effective leader,"</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I look forward to Gronvall’s continued service to Minnesotans in this important role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>​“Tamar Gronvall has dedicated her career of public service to advocating for justice and equity for Minnesotans,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“Gronvall is an accomplished and effective leader who will ensure our state systems continue to deliver the best and most efficient services for Minnesotans. I’m excited to watch her serve the state in this role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to be appointed as Commissioner of Administration,”</strong> said Tamar Gronvall. <strong>“The Department of Administration plays an important role in supporting all state agencies, their employees, and our Minnesota stakeholders. I look forward to collaborating with the Governor and Lieutenant Governor, my Administration colleagues, state agencies, and with our partners in the legislature and entire Minnesota community to provide excellent service to Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since 2019, Tamar Gronvall has served as director at the Office for Conflict Resolution at the University of Minnesota, providing legal counsel and mediations and overseeing the employee grievance process for over 20,000 employees across all five system campuses. In this role, she has initiated and led processes to improve the university’s practices and policies to advance fairness, transparency, equity, and inclusion. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Gronvall served in a temporary position with the State Emergency Operations Center, where she led efforts across numerous state agencies to secure federal funding for urgent pandemic needs. In 2017, Governor Dayton appointed Gronvall as one of three judges on the Minnesota Tax Court where she expanded free mediation to all parties and increased court accessibility for self-represented litigants. She previously served as general counsel at the Minnesota Department of Commerce and served in the Minnesota State Attorney General’s office, managing several divisions representing numerous state agencies. Gronvall earned her B.A. from the University of Minnesota and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Tamar demonstrated exceptional legal skills when she represented the Departments of Revenue and Commerce as an attorney, and later when served with distinction as a Minnesota Tax Court Judge,”</strong> said University of Minnesota’s Senior Vice President of Finance and Operations Myron Frans. <strong>“Tamar also provided excellent management and analytical skills when she supported Minnesota Management and Budget as an advisor. She is a dedicated public servant, and she will excel as Commissioner of Administration in the Walz-Flanagan Administration.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Ms. Gronvall’s interpersonal skills, communication skills, and ability to see strategic opportunities in complex and dynamic work will make her an extraordinary Commissioner of Administration,”</strong> said Chief Administrative Law Judge Jenny Starr.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Department of Administration <br /></em>The Minnesota Department of Administration oversees and manages the administrative functions of other executive branch state agencies, including purchasing and contracting, facilities management, and more. State law also authorizes the department to engage in strategic planning efforts for the state and to investigate and study the management of state agencies, reorganizing them when necessary to ensure effective and efficient operations.</p>5148102023-09-18T18:07:10Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-592203" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-15T20:11:10ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Nursing, Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Statewide Independent Living Council, Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group, and Young Women’s Cabinet. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Nursing, Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Statewide Independent Living Council, Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group, and Young Women’s Cabinet.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tracy Sonterre-Rieger – Duluth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Nursing</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Registered Nurse with Associate Degree Nursing Education Experience</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Robert Muster</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Nursing:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Nursing regulates nursing practices, holding nurses accountable for conduct based on legal, ethical, and professional standards.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Nursing can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/101" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bibi Black – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jonathan Poquiz – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kat Rohn – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans works for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for Minnesota’s community of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender expansive, queer, intersex, asexual, or two-spirit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/317" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Clement – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Statewide Independent Living Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Lisa Harvey</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Monique Doward – Kettle River, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Statewide Independent Living Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Haley Kimmet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>KiloMarie Granda – Morris, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Statewide Independent Living Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member - State Rehabilitation Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Linda Lingen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Crystal Hellekson – Grand Forks, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Statewide Independent Living Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Julia Washenberger</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anne Paulson – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Statewide Independent Living Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Gloria Lafriniere</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jacob Schuller – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Statewide Independent Living Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Center Director</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Bonnie Danberry</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Statewide Independent Living Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Together with the centers for independent living, the Statewide Independent Living Council develops the state plan for independent living.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Statewide Independent Living Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/152" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elnora Hagans – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Past or Current Domiciliary Staff</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 15, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group reviews and analyzes the acuity of veteran domiciliary residents and the current care model, including admission, care plans, and day-to-day care, and the current staffing structure and ratios.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/330" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rayaan Abdulkadir – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sita Baker – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Reyna Davila-Day – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sophie Hoiseth – Mankato, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lanaya Hoysler Laurent – Woodbury, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Iman Ibrahim – Eagan, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Riss Leitzke – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Madisen Lo – Maplewood, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Solana Madison – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lori Martin-Kingbird – Cass Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Oluwatomini Ola – Rosemount, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Oluwatomi Omiwade – Woodbury, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Ruiz Plaza – Woodbury, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Reauna Stiff – Saint Louis Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Young Women's Cabinet</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 20, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: July 31, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Young Women’s Cabinet:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Young Women’s Cabinet ensures the work of the Young Women’s Initiative stays grounded in the lived experiences of young Black and indigenous women, women of color, and gender expansive people and the community-specific challenges and solutions they identified.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Young Women’s Cabinet can be found <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wfmn.org%2Fywi-mn%2Fabout%2Fyoung-womens-cabinet%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C7dc86d94c52145e8b22608dbb61cf78f%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638304007793623273%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=rxVumbMjvPB93RVB3fECV0ZymlTUiib3z1AWxyJjglM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">here.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5922032023-09-15T20:19:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-592199" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-14T20:11:10ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that they have selected Misty Coonce to serve as the Ombudsperson for the Office of Foster Youth. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that they have selected Misty Coonce to serve as the Ombudsperson for the Office of Foster Youth. As ombudsperson, Coonce will stand up the new office to investigate decisions, acts, and other matters related to the health, safety, and welfare of youth in foster care. Coonce was selected by the Governor and Lieutenant Governor following an open, competitive application process and multiple rounds of panel interviews.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am pleased to select Misty Coonce as the first ombudsperson for the Office of Foster Youth,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Misty has firsthand experience providing adoption services and advocating for youth in foster care. She is well prepared to take on this role as an advocate and champion for children in Minnesota’s foster care system. I look forward to seeing Misty apply her expertise to her work as Ombudsperson.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As the new ombudsperson for the Office of Foster Youth, Misty Coonce will bring her powerful story and lived experience to this role serving and protecting Minnesota’s youth in foster care,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I’m grateful for her commitment to centering equity and advancing dignity in this critical work. I know her work will move us closer to making Minnesota the best state in the country for kids.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Misty Coonce <br /></em>Misty Coonce is a senior program director at Ampersand Families, an agency whose mission is to provide permanency and adoption services to older youth and families who face barriers to equity in child welfare and champion systemic changes that advance belonging, dignity, and hope. She brings personal experience as an adoptee from the Minnesota foster care system whose family also provided kinship care to various relatives while she was growing up. Coonce earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Office of Foster Youth Ombudsperson <br /></em>Created by the Legislature in 2022, the Office of the Foster Youth Ombudsperson may investigate decisions, acts, and other matters related to the health, safety, and welfare of youth in foster care to promote the highest attainable standards of competence, efficiency, and justice for youth who are in the care of the state.</p>5921992023-09-15T20:25:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-592200" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-14T20:11:10ZAfter years urging Congress to protect Minnesota’s critical Air National Guard C-130 fleet, Governor Tim Walz today celebrated the news that Minnesota’s 133rd Airlift Wing was selected to receive eight new C-130J Super Hercules aircraft to replace their aging C-130Hs as part of the Air National Guard’s C-130J Recapitalization and Basing program.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – After years urging Congress to protect Minnesota’s critical Air National Guard C-130 fleet, Governor Tim Walz today celebrated the news that Minnesota’s 133rd Airlift Wing was selected to receive eight new <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.af.mil%2FAbout-Us%2FFact-Sheets%2FDisplay%2FArticle%2F1555054%2Fc-130-hercules%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cbd7370855d9a4c70132708dbb54e2e0b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638303119637433969%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=TD6IQCTQa0vFf9wURFDmWljpUys0H984HyWuWZlIr%2Fg%3D&amp;reserved=0">C-130J Super Hercules</a> aircraft to replace their aging C-130Hs as part of the Air National Guard’s C-130J Recapitalization and Basing program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As Governor, I’ve always fought to ensure the Minnesota National Guard has the resources they need to protect our homeland and support missions abroad and at home,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“C-130 aircraft are critical assets that our Minnesota Air National Guard use to transport cargo and passengers, whether it is in support of missions abroad or offering support here at home during times of floods, hurricanes, and other emergencies. These upgrades will help ensure our Minnesota Air National Guard is equipped to answer the call to serve our state and country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 133rd Airlift Wing at the Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport is the hub for eight C-130H aircraft that are used to transport cargo and passengers in support of global, domestic, and humanitarian missions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since 2020, Governor Walz has urged Congress to protect and upgrade this critical C-130 fleet in Minnesota. In 2020 and 2021, Governor Walz and governors from thirteen other states sent bipartisan letters to the Chairs and Ranking Members of the United States House and Senate Armed Services Committees in support of ensuring that states’ National Guard units have the aircraft needed to support missions abroad, as well as domestic missions at home.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz has championed additional efforts to support the Minnesota National Guard. In May, Governor Walz signed a comprehensive <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/577792">veterans and military affairs bill</a> into law that will move the state closer to its goal of becoming the fourth state to end veteran homelessness, expand service bonuses for veterans, fund veterans homes, and invest in the readiness of the Minnesota National Guard.</p>5922002023-09-15T20:19:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-592202" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-14T20:11:10ZGovernor Tim Walz announced today that President Joe Biden has reappointed him to serve as co-chair of the bipartisan Council of Governors with Vermont Governor Phil Scott. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz announced today that President Joe Biden has reappointed him to serve as co-chair of the bipartisan Council of Governors with Vermont Governor Phil Scott. The council, which consists of 10 governors of both parties, is responsible for advising the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of Homeland Security, and the White House Homeland Security Council on matters related to the National Guard and civil support missions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to be reappointed as co-chair to lead this bipartisan group of governors</strong> <strong>. We will continue to work with the federal government to advance our homeland security and support our soldiers at home and abroad,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“We have made significant progress convening around issues related to cybersecurity, disaster response, and our National Guard, and I look forward to continuing to partner on matters related to critical infrastructure and civil support.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz served nearly 25 years in the Army National Guard. Achieving the rank of Command Sergeant Major, he was the highest-ranking enlisted service member ever to serve in Congress. He has served on the council since taking office in January of 2019.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It has been an honor to serve as co-chair with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, and I look forward to leading the council with Vermont Governor Phil Scott and working together to strengthen our state and federal partnerships,”</strong> continued Governor Walz.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The next Council of Governors meeting is scheduled for February of 2023, in conjunction with the National Governors Association Summer Meeting.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the President’s Council of Governors</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bipartisan Council of Governors serves as the lead forum to strengthen partnerships between the Federal government and State governments to better protect our nation from threats to our homeland security and all types of hazards. The council focuses on matters of homeland security; homeland defense; civil support; synchronization and integration of state and Federal military activities in the United States; and other matters of mutual interest, including those involving the National Guard. Federal-state cooperation is critical to protecting communities given the evolving challenges and threats facing our country, which range from extreme weather to domestic and international terrorism to a global pandemic. The Council of Governors will closely coordinate with the Biden-Harris Administration to bolster preparedness, resilience, and response on behalf of all Americans in times of need.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The council also includes leaders across the Federal government: the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Assistant to the President for Homeland Security, the Deputy Assistant to the President for Intergovernmental Affairs, the Commander of U.S. Northern Command, the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Global Security, the Commandant of the Coast Guard, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, and the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.</p>5922022023-09-15T20:19:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-591903" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-12T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Japan-based Takeda Pharmaceuticals has completed a $45 million investment project to increase production capacity and create new jobs at its facility in Brooklyn Park. Since 2019, the number of Japanese companies operating in Minnesota has increased by nearly 50%1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Japan-based Takeda Pharmaceuticals has completed a $45 million investment project to increase production capacity and create new jobs at its facility in Brooklyn Park. This announcement comes as Governor Walz continues to <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/590816">promote Minnesota</a> and expand economic partnerships during his business development mission to Japan this week.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Since I’ve been Governor, we’ve increased the number of Japanese companies operating in Minnesota by nearly 50%,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By enacting policies to make Minnesota the top state to operate a business and live, work, and raise a family, we’ve attracted investment and built a strong reputation for Minnesota business on the global stage. We’ll continue working with our partners in Japan and across the globe to strengthen these business ties and expand opportunities for Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2019, Governor Walz led a delegation of business leaders and state officials on <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/403001">a visit to Japan to promote business and trade opportunities</a> for Minnesota as part of a six-day trade mission to Asia. At the time, there were 35 Japanese companies operating in Minnesota. Since that trip, there has been a nearly 50% growth in Japanese companies operating in Minnesota with nearly 50 companies operating at more than 120 locations across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Japan-based companies are continuing to make capital investments to expand their Minnesota businesses and create new jobs in the state. Polar Semiconductor, a semiconductor manufacturer in Bloomington jointly owned by Japan-based Sanken Electric, plans to invest $372 million to upgrade and double capacity at their plant. The project will create 73 jobs within two years and is <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/586649">supported by DEED</a> through $4 million from the Minnesota Investment Fund and $800,000 from the Job Creation Fund.</p>5919032023-09-13T21:43:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-591720" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-12T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today thanked Commissioner Larry Herke for his years of service at the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) as he announced his retirement. Commissioner Herke was appointed by Governor Walz in January 2019. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today thanked Commissioner Larry Herke for his years of service at the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) as he announced his retirement. Commissioner Herke was appointed by Governor Walz in January 2019.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a veteran of the U.S. Army and Minnesota National Guard, Commissioner Larry Herke dedicated his career to serving our state and country,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“As commissioner, he worked tirelessly to make progress toward ending veterans homelessness, strengthen our veterans homes and cemeteries, and helping Minnesota’s veterans and their families receive the best care and benefits. I am deeply grateful for his service and wish him well in his retirement.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Commissioner Herke is a dedicated public servant who fought to ensure that those who’ve raised their hand to serve receive the best care and services our state can provide,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Minnesota’s veterans and their families were well served by Commissioner Herke, and we will miss his dedication and selfless service to our state.</strong> <strong>We are forever grateful for his service to the people of Minnesota.</strong> <strong>”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am saddened to announce my retirement from my position as Commissioner for Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs due to my ALS diagnosis,”</strong> said Commissioner Herke. <strong>“It was an honor to serve veterans and their family members in my role as commissioner and I am grateful to Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan to have had the opportunity. I will continue to serve veterans in retirement as I partner with veteran organizations to advocate for advances in medical research toward a cure for ALS, a disease veterans receive a diagnosis of twice as often as the general population.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Larry Herke</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Larry Herke is the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs. Commissioner Herke is responsible for serving the state's 294,232 veterans and their families. He also represents MDVA at hearings before the Minnesota Legislature and United States Congress and maintains close working relationships with the Veterans' Service Organizations of Minnesota. For over 30 years, Commissioner Herke served the nation and state as a member of the U.S. Army and Minnesota National Guard. After retiring from the National Guard in 2016, Herke served as the State of Minnesota Director of the Office of Enterprise Sustainability, assisting state agencies to develop sustainability plans. Commissioner Herke grew up in Mankato, attending Mankato East High School and Minnesota State University – Mankato.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About MDVA</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) is dedicated to serving Minnesota veterans and their families. In addition to overseeing the eight state veterans homes and four state veterans cemeteries, MDVA helps eligible veterans and families secure state and federal benefits and provides programs and services relating to higher education, benefits, burial, claims, and outreach.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Herke’s last day as commissioner will be September 22, 2023. Deputy Commissioner Brad Lindsay will serve as temporary commissioner until a permanent successor is appointed by the Governor.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply to be Minnesota’s next Commissioner of Veterans Affairs can contact <a href="mailto:gov.appointments@state.mn.us" target="_blank">gov.appointments@state.mn.us</a> to request an application. Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, and should be addressed to Governor Tim Walz. Applicants may contact <a href="mailto:gov.appointments@state.mn.us" target="_blank">gov.appointments@state.mn.us</a> or (651) 201-3400 with questions about the application process or to request reasonable accommodations.</p>5917202023-09-12T18:01:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-591544" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-11T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued a writ of special election to fill a vacancy in the Minnesota House of Representatives for House District 52B in Dakota County after the resignation of State Representative Ruth Richardson.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued <a href="/governor/assets/2023_09_11_Writ_52B_Signed%20and%20Filed_tcm1055-591546.pdf" title="2023_09_11_Writ_52B_Signed and Filed" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:title="2023_09_11_Writ_52B_Signed and Filed">a writ of special election</a> to fill a vacancy in the Minnesota House of Representatives for House District 52B in Dakota County after the resignation of State Representative Ruth Richardson. A special election to fill the vacancy will be held on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. A special primary, if necessary, for nomination of candidates for the office of State Representative for District 52B will be held on November 16, 2023. Affidavits of candidacy and nominating petitions for District 52B must be filed with the Secretary of State or the Dakota County auditor from Wednesday, September 13, 2023, until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 19, 2023.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This special election date allows for the new representative to be seated when the legislative session convenes on Tuesday, February 12, 2024. </p>5915442023-09-11T18:51:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-591519" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-10T13:24:07ZIn observance of the 22nd anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and in accordance with a proclamation issued by President Joe Biden, Governor Tim Walz has ordered that all United States and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Monday, September 11.Governor encourages Minnesotans to observe moment of silence1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – In observance of the 22nd anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and in accordance with a proclamation issued by President Joe Biden, Governor Tim Walz has ordered that all United States and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Monday, September 11.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“September 11 is a solemn day of remembrance across the state of Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“On the 22nd anniversary, we lower our flags in honor of the Americans who were lost, who were injured, and who saved lives on that tragic day. We recognize the incredible heroism of our nation’s first responders, and we reflect on the unwavering spirit of the American people.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz encourages all Minnesotans to observe the National Moment of Silence at 7:46 a.m. Central Daylight Time.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags in observance of the anniversary.</p>5915192023-09-11T18:03:14Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-591226" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-07T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for three West Central Minnesota counties due to damage caused by severe thunderstorms and a tornado from July 25-26. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has authorized emergency assistance for three West Central Minnesota counties due to damage caused by severe thunderstorms and a tornado from July 25-26.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s emergency management team is working quickly in partnership with local counties to address damages caused by severe thunderstorms this summer,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The state’s commitment to delivering assistance and helping local communities recover from severe weather events is stronger than ever.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">From July 25-26, Kandiyohi, Pope, and Stevens counties experienced significant damage caused by severe thunderstorms, high winds, and a tornado.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather events, impacts to outdated infrastructure and roadways have caused millions of dollars in damages statewide. Collaborative emergency planning at all levels of government and investments in infrastructure are critical to safeguarding against future damage.</p>5912262023-09-08T13:10:08Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-591224" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-06T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Friday, September 8, to sunset on Saturday, September 9, in honor of former Minnesota Governor Al Quie.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise on Friday, September 8, to sunset on Saturday, September 9, in honor of former Minnesota Governor Al Quie.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Quie served as Minnesota’s 35th Governor from 1979 to 1983, where he worked across the aisle and led with dignity and respect for all,”</strong> reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. <strong>“Quie will leave a strong legacy of bipartisanship and collaborative leadership.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Former Governor Quie will lie in state from 12:00-3:00pm at the State Capitol on Friday, September 8.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>5912242023-09-07T20:51:07Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-591225" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-05T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today visited schools in Bloomington, Rochester, Columbia Heights, and White Bear Lake to welcome students, educators, and staff back to school. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today visited schools in Bloomington, Rochester, Columbia Heights, and White Bear Lake to welcome students, educators, and staff back to school. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan also highlighted the new free school meals program providing free breakfast and lunch for Minnesota students. Families are set to save thousands on school breakfast and lunch costs this year from the new program. Photos from today’s events are linked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720310976211&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cf1a69a2367e143333cb508dbae4b64fb%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638295411270084587%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=X0i19jL9WmhFvnoCPfUDigp1jixlfRlvpMaUdD7gMK4%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a former teacher and lunchroom supervisor for over 20 years, I know that putting resources behind our students, educators, and schools will set our students on a path of success,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This school year, we’re saving families thousands of dollars in grocery bills and ensuring no kid has to learn on an empty stomach. In Minnesota, this is how we kick off the school year on a strong foot.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From providing free school breakfast and lunch to investing in student support and mental health resources, Minnesota is leading the way to make sure our kids succeed in and out of the classroom and support the hopes and dreams that the new school year brings,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.<strong>“I’m proud of the investments we made to help family pocketbooks, protect the health and well-being of our children, and ensure that no student goes hungry.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last session, the Walz-Flanagan Administration made the largest investment in public education in state history, including:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Increasing the general funding formula by 4% next year and 2% the year after and tying the funding to inflation</li> <li>Providing free school breakfast and lunch for Minnesota students</li> <li>Establishing 5,200 new voluntary pre-kindergarten seats</li> <li>Decreasing the Special Education Cross Subsidy by 50%</li> <li>Providing funding for schools to hire additional mental health professionals, counselors, and student support personnel</li> <li>Bolstering Minnesota’s literacy curriculum and resources</li> <li>Strengthening afterschool learning and enrichment opportunities for students</li> </ul>5912252023-09-07T20:51:01Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-590816" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-01T20:30:30ZOn September 8, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan will travel to Tokyo, Japan to attend the 53rd Midwest U.S. Japan Association Conference at the invitation of Shinsuke J. Sugiyama, Japanese Ambassador to the United States.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – On September 8, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan will travel to Tokyo, Japan to attend the 53 ^rd Midwest U.S. Japan Association Conference at the invitation of Shinsuke J. Sugiyama, Japanese Ambassador to the United States. After the conference, they will make a one-day stop in Osaka, Japan to meet with business leaders and Japanese firms that are already operating in Minnesota. Their visit aims to promote Minnesota as a destination for businesses and strengthen the state’s economic partnerships worldwide.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From agriculture to biomedical technology, Minnesota and Japan share a history of strong economic partnerships, and we’re committed to sustaining these opportunities with our partners across the globe,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong>“I look forward to traveling to Japan</strong><strong>and building on these</strong> <strong>important relationships, so that Minnesota remains a great place to start, grow, and invest in business.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s economy benefits when we strengthen economic ties across the globe. I am thrilled by the opportunity to travel to Japan to strengthen our close economic partnerships with Japanese leaders and businesses,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“By meeting with our partners in Japan and promoting Minnesota businesses, we are elevating Minnesota on the global stage and creating economic opportunities for all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan will travel to Japan with representatives from the Minnesota Trade Office (MTO) at the Department of Employment and Economic Development. The MTO provides assistance to Minnesota manufacturers and service providers looking to do business in the international marketplace. Minnesota is home to over 50 Japanese-based companies, located in every corner of the state and in several sectors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">From September 10 – 12, the conference will bring together leaders from Japan and the Midwest to highlight their strong economic partnerships.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On September 13, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan will travel to Osaka, Japan to further strengthen business ties and promote future opportunities for economic partnership.</p>5908162023-09-11T16:36:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-590742" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-01T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz has authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency aviation support in fighting the severe wildfires causing destruction in Louisiana. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency aviation support in fighting the severe wildfires causing destruction in Louisiana.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans don’t stand by when there’s a call for help. Thank you to the members of the Minnesota National Guard for answering the call to help battle the wildfires raging through Louisiana,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re committed to helping these communities in need and assisting our partners in Louisiana get these wildfires under control.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Louisiana is experiencing abnormally high temperatures, historic drought, and dangerous wildfire conditions. Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards has declared a state of emergency, and the State of Louisiana has requested aviation support under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact to supplement local resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota National Guard is preparing to send a team of 10-12 service members and two UH60 Blackhawks to support emergency aerial operations in Louisiana, with current plans to depart for Louisiana on Tuesday, September 5.</p>5907422023-09-01T20:16:03Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-590740" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-01T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council, Board of the Minnesota State Academies, Midwestern Higher Education Compact, Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission, State Advisory Council on Mental Health, Technology Advisory Council, and Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council, Board of the Minnesota State Academies, Midwestern Higher Education Compact, Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission, State Advisory Council on Mental Health, Technology Advisory Council, and Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lonnie Spokely – Sabin, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Potato Wash Plant Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council promotes Minnesota-grown Irish potatoes by providing grants for research and advertising.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Area One Potato Research and Promotion Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/14" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sara Pratt – Dundas, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of the Minnesota State Academies</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Special Education Director Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Nicole Halabi</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of the Minnesota State Academies:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of the Minnesota State Academies governs the state academies for the Deaf and Blind.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of the Minnesota State Academies can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/155" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rachel Croson – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Midwestern Higher Education Compact</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At-Large Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 1, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Michael Goh</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Olson – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Midwestern Higher Education Compact</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At-Large Member - Higher Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 1, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Devinder Maholtra</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Midwestern Higher Education Compact:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Midwestern Higher Education Compact strengthens postsecondary education in member states through cost-savings initiatives and policy solutions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Midwestern Higher Education Compact can be found <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mhec.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cfaf0b677ff3f4aeac94208dbab131e34%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638291870855940644%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=zdGE0G3Vduo7CY9oWGNfoTqndP9SW699aomuRK%2BmBRI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">here.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chris Crutchfield – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Treatment or Rehabilitative Service Provider for Individuals Convicted of Felony Offenses</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Richard Frase – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Academic with Background in Criminal Justice or Corrections</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kyra Ladd – Wadena, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">County Attorney</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Timothy Morin – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member - Convicted and Discharged from a Felony-Level Sentence</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cathryn Middlebrook – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Defender</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelly Mitchell – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chair</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brooke Morath – Plainview, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member - Felony Crime Victim or Victim Advocate</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Mueller – Stillwater, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Peace Officer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Mohamoud Ibrahim</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Latonya Reeves – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Probation or Supervised Release Officer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Surya Saxena – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kelly Mitchell</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission establishes the sentencing guidelines that district courts apply at felony sentencing hearings, conducts related research and analysis, and advises the legislature.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/116" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Gourneau – Maplewood, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Mental Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">American Indian Mental Health Advisory Council Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Springer – Edina, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Mental Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Advisory Council on Mental Health:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Advisory Council on Mental Health is charged with advising the Governor and state agencies on policy, programs, and services affecting people with mental illness as well as educating the public about mental health.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Advisory Council on Mental Health can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/142" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Evan Rowe – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Technology Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Agency Business Planning - Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Steve Grove</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Technology Advisory Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Technology Advisory Council advises the state on the development and implementation of IT in public and private institutions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Technology Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/187" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stacy Tepper – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Health Care Professional with Expertise in Veterans’ Health Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: September 6, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 15, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group reviews and analyzes the acuity of veteran domiciliary residents and the current care model, including admission, care plans, and day-to-day care, and the current staffing structure and ratios.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/330" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the Minnesota <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position/" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5907402023-09-01T20:15:59Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-590741" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-01T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today are celebrating Workforce Development Month and highlighting efforts to connect Minnesotans to high-growth, high-demand jobs through job training and workforce development programs.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today are celebrating Workforce Development Month and highlighting efforts to connect Minnesotans to high-growth, high-demand jobs through job training and workforce development programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From youth training programs to workforce development grants, we have many tools in our wheelhouse to recruit and train workers for the high-growth, high-demand jobs we have available across our state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Through these programs, we’re finding new ways to bring more Minnesotans into the labor market, grow our economy, and help businesses and workers thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When we invest in workforce development and job training programs, we advance economic equity for Minnesotans across the state,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“These programs are charting pathways for Minnesotans to succeed in high-growth industries, from clean energy to health care. I’m grateful for those working to connect Minnesotans with these fantastic opportunities across our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In Minnesota, the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and its business and nonprofit partners strive to connect people who need work with employment, and to help employers reach often overlooked labor pools. These efforts are now amplified thanks to additional investment in employment and training to bring more Minnesotans into the labor force on a career path with family-sustaining wages.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Thanks to historic and visionary initiatives passed during the legislative session, DEED and our workforce development partners have new tools to help people prepare for and find employment,"</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“This is great news for Minnesota workers and employers, including businesses struggling to find the workers they need during our tight labor market.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota and many states across the nation face a tight labor market due to demographic changes, including a rapidly aging population and a large number of baby boomers retiring. While Minnesota already has one of the highest labor force participation rates in the country, helping more people to join or rejoin the labor force will help employers and workers thrive.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Taking additional steps to align the workforce development system in order to deliver high quality services and prepare more Minnesotans to attain family-sustaining employment are important strategies to address employment and economic disparities,”</strong> said Marc Majors, DEED Deputy Commissioner of Workforce Development. <strong>“The significant funding from the Legislature will assist more Minnesotans in joining the labor force and help meet the hiring needs of employers.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This fall, DEED will roll out several new or bolstered workforce development initiatives, including:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Targeted Populations Workforce Grants</strong> to bring workers who are often overlooked, particularly Black, Indigenous, and people of color, into the workforce at family-sustaining wages</li> <li>The <strong>Drive for Five Fund</strong> to create a pipeline of workers who are skilled and prepared to pursue employment in high-demand, career-path occupations in Minnesota</li> <li>The <strong>Clean Energy Equitable Workforce</strong> program to prepare Black, Indigenous, and people of color for high-demand fields in clean energy</li> <li><strong>Youth workforce training programs,</strong>which received a boost in funding and could serve twice as many young people as they did during the last two years</li> <li><strong>Programs that help connect Minnesotans with disabilities to employment</strong> , which also received additional funding, including State Services for the Blind and Individual Placement Services</li> <li>The new <strong>Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund</strong> to help employers make reasonable accommodations for workers with disabilities</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to these new programs, longstanding and effective programs like the CareerForce network continues to serve workers across the state. CareerForce is made up of DEED and local workforce development board staff, who along with other workforce development partners around the state are offering services in person, over the phone, and online. CareerForce workforce development professionals help people explore their career options, access training and other services for which they are eligible, plus prepare for job interviews, update their resume, and network to find employment now. Minnesotans are invited to find assistance at a CareerForce location near them by visiting <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.careerforcemn.com%2Flocations&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C241cb2cb49f84c1d225008dbab177cf8%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638291889631185275%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=YzQ6Lpv7KjLZCSiknDX%2FtWDSjGo5c79nUdckhQtArS4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">CareerForceMN.com/locations</a>or by calling 651-259-7500.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State of Minnesota recognizes that investment in the education, training, and career advancement of Minnesota's workforce is crucial to the ability of our state to compete in the global economy and to achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans. View <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.careerforcemn.com%2FWorkforceDevelopmentMonth&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C241cb2cb49f84c1d225008dbab177cf8%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638291889631185275%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=YhauZoLmiRWpf4R7wPdzvgqABKSXBIqsaFkbvc8aAJM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">additional resources and Governor Walz's proclamation of Workforce Development Month</a> .</p>5907412023-09-01T20:15:55Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-590739" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-31T13:24:07ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced the extension of the application period for the upcoming vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The <strong>new application deadline is 4:00 pm on September 8, 2023</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in late September.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Please review the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/586876" target="_blank">original vacancy announcement</a> issued on August 9, 2023:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Michael J. Cuzzo. This seat will be chambered in Two Harbors in Lake County and Grand Marais in Cook County.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at</em> <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank"><em>Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</em></a> <em>.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the</em> <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank"><em>Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</em></a> <em>.</em></p>5907392023-09-01T20:15:51Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-590738" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-29T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today celebrated the launch of a first-of-its-kind coalition to scale the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated the launch of a first-of-its-kind coalition to scale the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry in Minnesota. The Minnesota SAF Hub, a partnership established by Greater MSP, Bank of America, Delta Air Lines, Ecolab, and Xcel Energy, is the first large-scale SAF coalition in the U.S. with collaboration among key players across industries committed to scaling SAF production to replace conventional jet fuel. The State of Minnesota will continue to work with these partners and other leading institutions to decarbonize the airline industry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota has what it takes to lead the sustainable aviation fuel industry,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“With this partnership and a nation-leading tax credit, we’re making Minnesota the best state in the nation to produce and blend sustainable aviation fuels – all while creating good-paying jobs and supporting rural communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This multi-year strategy is rooted in commitments to:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Environmental and water stewardship at all points along the SAF value chain beginning with feedstock – not at the airport – and at every step of the SAF production process.</li> <li>Producing affordable, low-carbon SAF by developing an integrated value chain that stretches from production source and processing to refining, blending and use at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport.</li> <li>Fostering adoption of innovative solutions and technology breakthroughs to accelerate the SAF transformation journey and scale up commercial progress.</li> <li>Supporting university and private-sector research and collaboration to address scientific and technical hurdles associated with the commercially viable production of ultra-low carbon SAF from regenerative agricultural inputs.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last week, Governor Walz <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dtnpf.com%2Fagriculture%2Fweb%2Fag%2Fcolumns%2Fletters-to-the-editor%2Farticle%2F2023%2F08%2F23%2Fus-agriculture-future-cleaner-flight&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C617aeb926fd34619888608dba890337c%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638289109571852314%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=vbobymwQr9WSD6CK98Cj3vP65zmDWoIL3gCKYGHQmQ4%3D&amp;reserved=0">highlighted Minnesota’s efforts</a> to grow the sustainable aviation fuel industry through Minnesota crop-based biofuels. This year, the Governor signed a nation-leading sustainable aviation fuel tax credit into law. The new tax credit, combined with new federal tax breaks, will help grow the emerging sustainable aviation fuel industry in Minnesota.</p>5907382023-09-01T20:15:47Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-589989" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-25T19:24:07ZThis week, Governor Tim Walz highlighted Minnesota’s efforts to grow the sustainable aviation fuel industry through Minnesota crop-based biofuels.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – This week, Governor Tim Walz <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dtnpf.com%2Fagriculture%2Fweb%2Fag%2Fcolumns%2Fletters-to-the-editor%2Farticle%2F2023%2F08%2F23%2Fus-agriculture-future-cleaner-flight&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514680444%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=MXiYzLr%2B4F9y6Vj8CmrIFYaO8%2BHE55V8bc5Z836Cu70%3D&amp;reserved=0">highlighted Minnesota’s efforts</a> to grow the sustainable aviation fuel industry through Minnesota crop-based biofuels. This year, the Governor signed a nation-leading sustainable aviation fuel tax credit into law. The new tax credit, combined with new federal tax breaks, will help grow the emerging sustainable aviation fuel industry in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s letter is below:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>U.S. Agriculture Is the Future of Cleaner Flight and Minnesota is Ready to Take the Lead</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">From soil health to regenerative farming practices, innovation is core to the ethos of American agriculture, and it’s at the heart of who we are in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">It’s no surprise that American agriculture is ready to innovate when it comes to fueling our aviation industry. And with electrification still far away as an opportunity to decarbonize air travel, we’re looking at sustainable aviation fuel as a solution to powering the airline industry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Biden Administration has set several ambitious goals for decarbonization – including a target of net-zero carbon emissions for the transportation sector by <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.energy.gov%2Feere%2Fus-national-blueprint-transportation-decarbonization-joint-strategy-transform-transportation&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514680444%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=6cV4r5rmTUq2QwdjrqKwp6WGy9%2Bt6bghUExGGvE%2BrEM%3D&amp;reserved=0">2050</a> and a goal of <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.energy.gov%2Feere%2Fbioenergy%2Fsustainable-aviation-fuel-grand-challenge&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514680444%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=UKX008IrZNr%2FpwlGhUgglSYKuecguWYWiYQ1apcrgN4%3D&amp;reserved=0">3 billion gallons</a> of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2030.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Stakeholders in the aviation sector have begun to announce SAF goals and agreements. In 2022, <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dhl.com%2Fglobal-en%2Fhome%2Fpress%2Fpress-archive%2F2022%2Fdhl-express-announces-two-of-the-largest-ever-sustainable-aviation-fuel-deals-with-bp-and-neste-amounting-to-more-than-800-million-liters.html&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514836667%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=j486EVdN4JKRnhpJcPXWmBS14UQJCam546kv4AYkxiA%3D&amp;reserved=0">DHL Express</a> announced that BP and Neste deals would provide SAF from both suppliers until 2026; <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnews.delta.com%2Fdeltas-deal-gevo-pushes-saf-goal-forward&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514836667%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Zpnfv7xvXkNto%2FNCridlHCIEmf2%2B8hbKFuJhTkqB2yo%3D&amp;reserved=0">Delta Airlines</a> , <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnewsroom.hawaiianairlines.com%2Freleases%2Fhawaiian-airlines-and-gevo-enter-into-sustainable-aviation-fuel-sales-agreement&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514836667%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=T5JZrvAhao%2B51HJYw2wjT0PYMUfuUpTwjgsUYxnyFTY%3D&amp;reserved=0">Hawaiian Airlines</a> and <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finvestors.gevo.com%2Fnews-releases%2Fnews-release-details%2Fgevo-signs-sustainable-aviation-fuel-sales-agreement-american&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514836667%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=7W9DSP2J6C3rZdVwYARcIQrA5qqaVRCBj4sdANX7ZzY%3D&amp;reserved=0">American Airlines</a> announced purchase agreements for SAF from Gevo, Inc. this year and last; and <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.prnewswire.com%2Fnews-releases%2Fboeing-doubles-sustainable-aviation-fuel-purchase-for-commercial-operations-buying-5-6-million-gallons-for-2023--301746897.html&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514836667%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=UeZ%2F0uhO0U04Q5FukuIVdUnQjhkdeE5JqL84zo%2FZRHo%3D&amp;reserved=0">Boeing</a> just doubled SAF purchases for commercial operations this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But there is more to be done to reach these goals, which means more opportunities to tap into the crop-based biofuels sector.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">What is abundantly clear is that we will not achieve the Biden Administration’s goals without the contributions of American crop-based biofuels. In Minnesota, we understand the urgency to address climate change, have the problem-solving spirit to tackle these problems, and are home to thousands of farmers and workers ready to meet the needs of a growing SAF industry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.energy.gov%2Feere%2Fbioenergy%2Fsustainable-aviation-fuel-grand-challenge&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514836667%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=xBbXWeRwb294CA9f9hE%2BkzS2wRT0PK48NCk%2BPjIb%2Fzg%3D&amp;reserved=0">SAF Grand Challenge Roadmap</a> , the Biden Administration set a goal of 3 billion gallons of SAF produced by 2030. With only seven years to go, time is of the essence for making progress on these important decarbonization targets.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In Minnesota, we embrace this sense of urgency. Sustainability and ingenuity are core priorities for so many farms here in Minnesota. Take Shawn Feikema’s family farm in southwest Minnesota. Shawn uses cattle manure to fertilize his fields without the use of synthetic fertilizers, corn stovers to enrich the soil, and strip-tills his fields to reduce waste. Farmers like Shawn are using various sustainable agricultural practices to limit carbon emissions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And as Governor of Minnesota, I know we have what it takes to lead in creating sustainable aviation fuels.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As the third-largest producer of corn in the U.S. with over 8 million acres planted and $1.78 billion value of corn exported, Minnesota boasts more than 24,000 farmers ready to contribute to this growing industry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thanks to outstanding opportunities at the University of Minnesota, we also have the research capabilities to innovate and advance the industry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To attract more investment in SAF, this year we created a nation-leading sustainable aviation fuel tax credit. The new refundable tax credit provides $1.50 per gallon of sustainable aviation fuel produced or blended in Minnesota and sold for use in planes departing Minnesota airports. This tax credit, combined with new federal tax breaks, will help grow this emerging industry right here in Minnesota. We have also added a construction materials sales tax exemption for the next three years to further incentivize the location of these new facilities in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Crop-based biofuels are an obvious solution when it comes to making one of our biggest carbon footprints, the airline industry, more sustainable. With smaller greenhouse gas footprints than fossil fuels, crop-based biofuels can be the building blocks that help us meet our national net-zero goals. In fact, the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ipcc.ch%2Fsr15%2Fchapter%2Fchapter-4%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514836667%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=LemGzzqrzVdusjeIVrmNjdr23%2B0E8UP55FU0u%2FV6bTE%3D&amp;reserved=0">Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change</a> several years ago determined that biofuels can help lead to the reduction of emissions required in energy-intensive industries to limit warming by 1.5 ^o C.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SAF that leverages crop-based feedstocks is a win-win in reducing our carbon footprint while supporting rural communities and creating good-paying jobs across the United States. In addition to boosting feedstock production, expanding SAF production would create job opportunities in construction and equipment design for cutting-edge biorefineries, manufacturing for operating SAF biorefineries and infrastructure, and scientific research on bioenergy and biofuels. <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fonlinelibrary.wiley.com%2Fdoi%2F10.1002%2Fbbb.1728&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C3ffa6cdbefab4cda720e08dba595ae5b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638285834514836667%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=FUVVZ2Gp2VqexkzMIt1CetT6ntgeS4kJUda2Hyxi5bg%3D&amp;reserved=0">Estimates</a> show developing biomass resources and addressing current limitations in SAF could contribute more than $259 billion and 1.1 million jobs to the U.S. economy by 2030.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and federal leaders work to move these ambitious decarbonization goals forward, they cannot lose sight of the opportunity to leverage American agriculture to scale up our SAF industry, advance sustainability, and support rural communities nationwide with the help of crop-based biofuels.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In Minnesota, we have the resources, research capacity, and expertise to position our state on the leading edge of the SAF industry and ensure our biofuels industry is strong for generations to come. Because this industry is good for farmers, our climate, and the economy – and Minnesota is seizing the opportunity.</p>5899892023-08-25T19:49:39Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-589902" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-23T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Justice Natalie Hudson to serve as chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. Justice Hudson will fill the vacancy that will occur upon the retirement of Chief Justice Lorie Gildea in October. Governor Walz also announced the appointment of Karl Procaccini to serve as associate justice. Procaccini will fill the vacancy that will occur upon Justice Hudson’s elevation to chief justice.Governor Walz appoints Karl Procaccini to serve as Associate Justice1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Justice Natalie Hudson to serve as chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. Justice Hudson will fill the vacancy that will occur upon the retirement of Chief Justice Lorie Gildea in October. Governor Walz also announced the appointment of Karl Procaccini to serve as associate justice. Procaccini will fill the vacancy that will occur upon Justice Hudson’s elevation to chief justice.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Justice Hudson is one of our state’s most experienced jurists. She has a strong reputation as a leader and consensus builder,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I know that she will use her decades of judicial experience and deep understanding of our justice system to lead the Judicial Branch with a steady hand and strong conviction. I am confident that she will advance a vision that promotes fairness and upholds the dignity of all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Justice Hudson’s historic appointment is another important first in our state’s history that will continue the work of opening doors and moving towards justice for all Minnesotans,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.<strong>“She is a distinguished and principled leader who has dedicated her career to serving the people of Minnesota and has never wavered in that commitment.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am greatly honored to be selected as the next chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court, and I thank Governor Walz and his team for their consideration,”</strong> said Justice Natalie Hudson of the Minnesota Supreme Court. <strong>“This is a tremendous responsibility that I approach with humility and resolve, seeking to continue the work of my predecessors in administering one of the best state court systems in the nation, and always seeking to deliver the most accessible, highest-quality court services for the citizens of Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Justice Hudson is an outstanding choice to serve as Minnesota’s next chief justice,”</strong> said Chief Justice Lorie Gildea of the Minnesota Supreme Court. <strong>“I have had the privilege of working closely with Justice Hudson on the Supreme Court for nearly eight years, and I have been impressed by her deep knowledge of the law, her collegial spirit, and her unparalleled work ethic. With more than 20 years of service as an appellate court judge, Justice Hudson is among the most talented and respected jurists in the state, and she is the perfect person to lead the Judicial Branch in the years ahead. I look forward to working closely with Justice Hudson to make this leadership transition as smooth as possible for our court and the Judicial Branch.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am delighted to learn that Governor Walz has appointed Justice Natalie Hudson to serve as chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court,”</strong> said Judge Wilhelmina Wright of the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota and former Minnesota Supreme Court justice. <strong>“As a former colleague, I know she brings to this leadership role her keen intellect, her broad legal experience, and her respect for the rule of law. Importantly, she understands that the decisions of the Minnesota Supreme Court affect the lives of everyday people.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“What good news that Natalie Hudson will be our next chief justice! During the five years we served together, I learned that she is principled, thoughtful, accessible, and enjoys a good laugh,”</strong> said Justice David Lillehaug, retired Minnesota Supreme Court justice. <strong>“Few people have more experience in the halls of appellate law, but her grounding is in community, listening to people from all walks of life. Under her leadership, the court will continue to be a place of frequent unanimity with occasional, respectful dissent.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Natalie E. Hudson</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Justice Natalie Hudson is an associate justice on the Minnesota Supreme Court, having been appointed to this position in October 2015 by Governor Mark Dayton. Hudson previously served as a judge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals for thirteen years. She also practiced criminal appellate law with the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General for eight years and served as the St. Paul city attorney. Early in her career, she represented indigent clients as a staff attorney with Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hudson served as a member of the original Minnesota Supreme Court Racial Bias Task Force from 1991-1993 and later served on the task force’s implementation committee. Her other community involvement includes serving on the advisory board for Minnesota Women Lawyers and the advisory board for the University of Minnesota Law School. She also participated on the Warren E. Burger Inn of Court for many years. She is a member of the Judicial Division of the American Bar Association, the Minnesota State Bar Association, and the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers. Hudson earned her B.A. from Arizona State University and her J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With steadiness, humility, and an exceptional legal mind, Karl Procaccini navigated Minnesota through one of the most difficult periods in our history,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Karl understands how legal decisions impact the lives of Minnesotans. There is no one more prepared for the rigors and challenges that come with this important position. I know that Karl will continue to improve the lives of Minnesotans in this important role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Karl Procaccini is a deeply kind person who brilliantly and tenaciously tackled every challenge thrown his way, these past four-plus years,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.<strong>“Time and time again, he has proven to be courageous, honest, fair, compassionate, and dedicated to the rule of law. Lives across the state of Minnesota have been changed for the better through his work, and I look forward to watching him continue to serve Minnesotans and uphold justice in this role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am humbled by the Governor’s decision and grateful for this opportunity to serve Minnesotans as an associate justice,”</strong> said Karl Procaccini. <strong>“I will strive to maintain the Supreme Court’s high standards, protect equal justice for all, and uphold the rule of law.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Karl Procaccini is an outstanding choice for associate justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court,”</strong> said Judge Michael Davis of the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota. <strong>“He has impeccable credentials as a lawyer, and he will be a splendid addition to the court. As a justice, Karl will continue the legacy of Judge Diana Murphy, who he and Justice Margaret Chutich both clerked for. I am ecstatic about his selection.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“That Karl Procaccini was destined for great things has been clear for a while,”</strong> said Justice David Lillehaug, retired Minnesota Supreme Court justice. <strong>“He’s a brilliant lawyer who clerked for giants in the federal judiciary, practiced in one of Minnesota’s best firms, and then served as the Governor’s counselor during challenging times. He’ll bring to the court strong intelligence, great integrity, and a calm temperament.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I applaud the historic appointment of Justice Natalie Hudson to chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court and the appointment of Karl Procaccini as the next associate justice,”</strong> said Erin Sindberg Porter, chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection. <strong>“It has been an honor and privilege to participate in this appointments process with the Governor, and I am confident that each appointee will serve with distinction.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Karl Procaccini</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Karl Procaccini teaches law at the University of St. Thomas School of Law. Procaccini previously served as general counsel in the Office of Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, leading the office’s legal and appointments team. In his role as general counsel, Procaccini navigated complex legal issues and managed litigation across state government. Prior to his state service, he was a partner at Greene Espel PLLP, where his practice focused on litigation, investigations, and global compliance counseling. Procaccini has also taught at William Mitchell College of Law, and he has been published on topics including clemency and attorney-client privilege. At the start of his legal career, Procaccini clerked for Judge Diana E. Murphy on the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals and Chief Judge Michael J. Davis on the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In recognition of his work on the state’s response to COVID-19, Procaccini was named a 2020 Attorney of the Year by Minnesota Lawyer, and he received the 2021 Public Attorney Award of Excellence from the Public Law Section of the Minnesota State Bar Association. Procaccini is a fellow of the American Bar Foundation and has been recognized as a North Star Lawyer for his pro bono work. He is also a past chair of the Minnesota State Bar Association’s International Business Law Section, and he has served as the executive board president and advisory board co-chair of the Minneapolis-St. Paul Lawyer Chapter of the American Constitution Society. Since 2019, he has volunteered as a writing coach for Minneapolis middle school students through the Reader/Writer Program. Procaccini earned his A.B. from Harvard College, LL.M. in International and Comparative Law from the American University in Cairo, and J.D. from Harvard Law School.</p>5899022023-08-24T22:42:52Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-589904" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-21T13:24:07ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending five candidates for consideration to fill two vacancies in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Mark C. Vandelist and Honorable Tim D. Wermager. The seats will be chambered in Shakopee in Scott County and Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Adam Johnson:</strong> Adam Johnson is the deputy county administrator for Rice County, where he serves as a legal advisor to the county administrator and the county board on a wide variety of civil and operational matters. He was previously chief assistant for the Rice County Attorney’s Office, where he was primarily responsible for criminal prosecution of felonies including domestic assault, criminal sexual conduct, and murder. Johnson’s community involvement includes serving as an American Mock Trial Association judge, volunteering at legal aid clinics provided by Legal Assistance of Dakota County, and serving as the Fifth District Bar Association representative to the Minnesota State Bar Association. Additionally, Johnson has previously volunteered at Worthington Dollars for Scholars, Feed My Starving Children, and Volunteers Enlisted to Aid People.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lauren Johnson:</strong> Lauren Johnson is an associate attorney with Melchert Hubert Sjodin, PLLP, where she specializes in family law, orders for protection, and child protection matters. She previously served as an assistant county attorney for the McLeod County Attorney’s Office, where she focused on criminal prosecution and child support. Johnson also worked as a staff attorney with the Autism Advocacy &amp; Law Center, where she represented families with special needs. Her community involvement includes serving as a board member of the ISD 110 Foundation and as president of the Eighth District Bar Association. Johnson has also volunteered with Lutheran Social Services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Krista Marks:</strong> Krista Marks is an assistant public defender in the Fourth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Hennepin County. She was previously a staff attorney and expungement program director at the Neighborhood Justice Center, where her work centered around community advocacy. Marks’s community involvement includes volunteering at her son’s school and Neighbors, Inc., which is a local non-profit that provides food, clothing, and other services to those in need in her community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelly Staples:</strong> Kelly Staples is a solo practitioner primarily practicing family law, including domestic abuse and harassment cases. She also serves as court-appointed counsel for Dakota County, where she represents parties in child support contempt and paternity matters. Staples is also a conciliation court referee for Dakota County District Court. Her community involvement includes serving as a volunteer and board member for Legal Assistance of Dakota County and Momentum Dance Project. She has also volunteered as a mock trial judge with the Minnesota State Bar Association.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaron Winter:</strong> Aaron Winter is an assistant attorney general at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General, where he represents the Minnesota Department of Human Services in civil litigation and civil commitment proceedings. He previously served as an assistant attorney general in Tennessee, where he represented the state in criminal appeals and federal habeas litigation. His community involvement includes coaching his son's soccer team and high schoolers in speech and debate.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>5899042023-08-24T22:45:40Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-589903" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-21T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced the appointment of Greg Norfleet as director of the state’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave program. Norfleet will join DEED on September 20, leading the new program’s planning, implementation, and operations. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced the appointment of Greg Norfleet as director of the state’s new <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/paid-family/">Paid Family and Medical Leave program</a> . Norfleet will join DEED on September 20, leading the new program’s planning, implementation, and operations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Greg Norfleet brings a wealth of leadership and direct experience in establishing a successful state Paid Family and Medical Leave program,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I look forward to working with him as we build out a program that will support Minnesota’s workers</strong> <strong>and businesses, improve economic security for families, and make Minnesota an even better place to live and work.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am thrilled to have an experienced leader in Greg Norfleet implementing and directing this historic Paid Family and Medical Leave program,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“Having spent most of my career fighting for this program, I am confident that Greg and this DEED team will make a major impact on millions of Minnesotans, strengthen our economy, and ensure no family ever has to choose between caring for a child or loved one and a paycheck.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> Greg Norfleet is currently the chief operating officer for the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. Previously, he was deputy director for operations at the Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave program, which launched in 2021. Before that, he was a member of the Massachusetts Strategic Innovation team, an in-house consulting group deployed on critical initiatives throughout state government on behalf of the Governor's Office. Norfleet was a government innovation fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School, and he holds an MSc in evidence-based social intervention from the University of Oxford and a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and criminal justice from Indiana University.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>Greg is a highly skilled government practitioner and an innovative program leader with a proven track record in previously launching and running a successful Paid Family and Medical Leave program in Massachusetts,”</strong>said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek.<strong>“We look forward to his leadership in delivering a service that Minnesota workers can easily</strong> <strong>access in times of need.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong> <strong>Minnesota is a national leader for innovative legislation, and Paid Family and Medical Leave is a positive game-changer for the state,”</strong> said Greg Norfleet. <strong>“I am thrilled to join DEED at a transformational moment to establish and lead a vital program that will support families during important moments in their lives, help businesses retain workers, and attract new talent to the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Launching in January 2026, the state’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program will provide Minnesota workers with partial wage replacement benefits when they need time away from work to address their own serious health needs, care for a family member with a serious health condition, bond with a new baby or child in the family, or support a family member preparing for overseas military deployment.</p>5899032023-08-24T22:45:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-589905" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-21T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers today announced their departments of transportation will seek over $1 billion in federal funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to rebuild the John A. Blatnik Bridge between Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers today announced their departments of transportation will seek over $1 billion in federal funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to rebuild the John A. Blatnik Bridge between Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Blatnik Bridge connects the Twin Ports communities and economies of Duluth and Superior – it provides a vital route for regional commerce, tourism, and emergency services,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m proud to partner with Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers and our colleagues at the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to rebuild and modernize this critical piece of infrastructure as quickly as possible.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In partnership with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, our departments of transportation are ready to take advantage of this federal funding to make critical investments in the Blatnik Bridge,”</strong> saidGovernor Evers. <strong>“This bridge project is a strong candidate for this funding and improvements will create a positive ripple effect throughout the region. The bridge improvements will foster regional economic growth but also bolster national supply chains and strengthen the reliability of the transportation network that serves hundreds of communities across northern Wisconsin and Minnesota. We look forward to working with the folks in Minnesota to improve this crucial infrastructure connection.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more than 60 years, the Blatnik Bridge has served as a vital link between Duluth and Superior via Interstate 535 and US 53. Jointly owned and managed by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), the Blatnik Bridge is an important freight and commercial connection between the Duluth-Superior Twin Ports and serves more than 33,000 cars per day. The replacement project will improve safety and accommodate oversize and overweight loads.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Blatnik Bridge is rated as Minnesota’s highest risk for service disruption and replacing the bridge prior to 2030 is a top priority,”</strong> said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. <strong>“A new Blatnik Bridge will improve travel reliability and freight access, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide good-paying jobs for local residents. MnDOT is grateful to our federal partners for their consideration and look forward to working with our partners at WisDOT to build the modern and reliable Blatnik Bridge that the Twin Ports deserves.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Blatnik Bridge is overdue for an upgrade, and we are ready to act and no longer rely on regular maintenance efforts,”</strong> saidWisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson <strong>. “This federal funding will reinforce our commitment to invest in the existing infrastructure and rebuild this important route between our two states. Local residents and businesses rely on the Blatnik Bridge every day and any closures or traffic delays for maintenance work directly impacts their livelihood. Together with MnDOT, our improvements will provide a safe crossing to benefit transportation for decades to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Each state recently committed $400 million and plans to seek additional federal funds to get the project over the finish line.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Blatnik Bridge is a major freight asset for the national economy. Each year, it carries nearly 265,000 trucks transporting $2.66 billion in domestic goods and $1.07 billion in international goods coming and going from 42 states and nine Canadian provinces. The nearby Twin Ports is the largest port on the Great Lakes and the 17th largest port in the United States. The Port accommodates the maritime transportation needs of a wide range of industries including agriculture, forestry, mining and manufacturing, construction, power generation, and passenger cruising.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MnDOT and WisDOT have been working on this project since 2020 and plan to reveal the recommended alternative for replacing the 8,000-foot structure – Minnesota’s second and Wisconsin’s third longest bridge – in October.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The federal IIJA funding will be allocated to a substantial portion of the project’s budget and streamline scheduling. Design work for the project, which would determine specifications and shape the total cost of the project, is anticipated to begin in 2024. Once a final design is selected, construction is planned to begin in 2027 if full funding is secured.</p>5899052023-08-24T22:42:53Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-587743" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-18T21:16:12ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Kathryn Hipp Carlson as a judge on the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Kathryn Hipp Carlson as a judge on the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. Carlson will replace the Honorable David A. Stofferahn, who retired earlier this month, and will serve the remainder of his term, which expires in January 2027.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Kathryn Hipp Carlson will be an excellent addition to the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her extensive background and balanced perspective gained from representing clients across the workers’ compensation spectrum will make her an exemplary jurist.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Kathryn Hipp Carlson is an attorney at Hipp Carlson, PLLC, where she has practiced exclusively in workers’ compensation since 1993. She was previously an attorney at Gilmore, Aafedt, Forde, Anderson &amp; Gary. Throughout her career, Carlson has advised and advocated for injured workers, as well as employers and insurers, at all levels of the workers’ compensation system. She also represents several medical insurers in intervention matters and serves as a mediator in workers’ compensation disputes. Carlson is a frequent speaker at continuing legal education seminars on workers’ compensation topics. She has also served on the board of directors for Minnesota Youth Athletic Services. Carlson earned her B.A. and J.D. from the University of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals (WCCA) is an independent agency in Minnesota’s executive branch. The WCCA reviews workers’ compensation cases decided by the Office of Administrative Hearings and the Workers’ Compensation Division at the Department of Labor and Industry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>. </p>5877432023-08-18T21:22:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-587744" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-16T21:16:12ZGovernor Tim Walz announced today that the one-time tax rebate payments of up to $1,300 per family will start going out this week. More than two million payments will be sent now through September1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz announced today that the one-time tax rebate payments of up to $1,300 per family will start going out this week.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>As Minnesotans plan for back-to-school, we know that the excitement families are feeling is mixed with the stress that comes with buying books, backpacks, and clothes,” </strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“</strong> <strong>We’re going to help with that – both with payments of up to $1,300 per family and universal free breakfast and lunch. I am grateful for the Department of Revenue’s work to deliver these payments to Minnesotans as soon as possible.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We know that these payments will take a weight off millions of Minnesotans’ shoulders this fall - especially with the start of the new school year,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“These direct payments are a crucial way to put money in the pockets of Minnesotans who need it and empower families across the state to meet their needs on their terms.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The legislation, signed by the Governor in May, provides payments to eligible Minnesotans of:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$520 for married couples filing a joint 2021 income or property tax return with adjusted gross income of $150,000 or less.</li> <li>$260 for all other individuals with 2021 adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less.</li> <li>Another $260 for each dependent, up to three dependents.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Direct deposit payments will go out first, followed by paper checks in the mail. The department expects the nearly 2.1 million rebate payments to be initiated by the end of September.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This tax rebate was proposed and passed to help ease the pain of the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation,”</strong> said Revenue Commissioner Paul Marquart. <strong>“Governor Walz and Revenue staff prioritized the implementation of this rebate program this summer knowing how important the payments are to Minnesotans to help pay for everyday expenses.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Direct deposit rebate recipients</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Recipients who chose direct deposit when they filed their 2021 taxes or updated their bank information with the department earlier this summer should see their payments in their bank accounts starting this week, through the end of August. The payment will appear as “State of Minnesota 2021 Tax Rebate Program” on their bank statement.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Paper check rebate recipients</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Recipients receiving a paper check should start seeing their checks in 2-3 weeks, with checks being mailed through September. Paper checks will appear in a plain white envelope. These checks are protected by standard banking safeguards that help detect and deter fraud.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>I chose direct deposit, why did I get a paper check?</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If a direct deposit is returned due to a banking error or incorrect bank account information, then a paper check will be mailed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If you elected to have tax preparation fees deducted from your 2021 tax refund, a paper check will be issued to avoid the rebate being deposited into an erroneous bank account.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Can I track the status of my rebate payment?</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">No. This rebate payment is being processed outside the usual tax refund processing system so it will not show up in the Where’s My Refund? system.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>What if I didn’t get my rebate payment?</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If you think you are eligible for the rebate but did not receive it by October, <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/direct-tax-rebate-2021" target="_blank">review the eligibility requirements on the Department of Revenue website</a> . If you are eligible for a payment, a customer assistance representative can look into your situation. Call 651-565-6595 or email <a href="mailto:mntaxrebate@submittable.com" target="_blank">mntaxrebate@submittable.com</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Where can Minnesotans find more information on other tax-related legislation?</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Revenue is reviewing other legislation recently signed into law and is working to update the state tax filing systems to reflect changes made to Minnesota’s tax laws. For more information on other tax law changes, visit the <a href="https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/tax-law-changes" target="_blank">Tax Law Changes page</a> on DOR’s website.</p>5877442023-08-18T21:22:31Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-587192" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-11T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Firefighter Training and Education, Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State College and Universities System, Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board, Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board, and Minnesota Rural Finance Authority. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Firefighter Training and Education, Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State College and Universities System, Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board, Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board, and Minnesota Rural Finance Authority.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Falcon – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Firefighter Training and Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Home Rule Charter and Statutory Cities Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gavin Peterson – Hackensack, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Firefighter Training and Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota State Fire Department Association</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Firefighter Training and Education:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Firefighter Training and Education supports firefighter training and education, funds standardized training, and licenses firefighters in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Firefighter Training and Education can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/24" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Micah Coatie – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Technical College Student</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Asani Ajobun</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Idman Ibrahim – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State University Student</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Victor Ayemobuwa</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christopher Richter – Owatonna, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Community College Student</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Oballa Oballa</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of the Trustees of the Minnesota State College and Universities System:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System governs state colleges and universities, including setting tuition and fees, approving programs of study, awarding certificates and diplomas, and adopting policies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/37" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sara Rybarczyk – Lake City, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chair</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 11, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: JB Guiton</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board advises and reviews applicants for state or federal emergency medical services funds, makes recommendations to the legislature, and establishes procedures regarding complaints against emergency medical service providers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/57" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eunice Adjei – Saint Cloud, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patrice Bailey – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carl Crawford – Proctor, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gregory Cunningham – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Delphanie Daniels – Burnsville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Whitney Terrill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jerad Green – White Bear Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carlondrea Hines – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Ebony Walker</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bishop Richard Howell Jr. – Blaine, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Morris – Woodbury, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jude Nnadi – Brooklyn Center, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>JoAnne Pastel – Wayzata, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Chris Taylor</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marcus Pope – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Erickson Saye</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Slack – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: March 31, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Council</em><em>on</em> <em>the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday helps plan celebrations to bring the community together and reflect and build on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, celebrate the Black experience, and strengthen connections.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Council On The Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/66" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jason Blomquist – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Raasch – Maplewood, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Adult with Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Reid Scheller</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Connie Rabideaux – Cloquet, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities works to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports and services to achieve increased independence, productivity, self-determination, integration, and inclusion in their community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/109" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michelle Armstrong</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member who Represents Nursing Home Workers or Worker Organizations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katie Lundmark – Detroit Lakes, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member who Represents Nursing Home Employers or Employer Organizations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board holds public hearings on and conducts investigations into working conditions in the nursing home industry and establishes operating procedures.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/334" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brent Kelsey – Lake Crystal, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Rural Finance Authority</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Mary Gritzmacher</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gary Wertish – Renville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Rural Finance Authority</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 16, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Rural Finance Authority:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Rural Finance Authority develops the state's agricultural resources by extending credit on farm real estate security and depreciable agricultural property.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Rural Finance Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/115" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5871922023-08-11T21:42:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-587021" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-10T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today appointed former Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm to lead a new task force that will develop recommendations to support the University of Minnesota’s Health Sciences Programs. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today appointed former Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm to lead a new task force that will develop recommendations to support the University of Minnesota’s Health Sciences Programs. The group will be tasked with ensuring that Minnesotans can continue to receive the highest-quality care in a financially sustainable way.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The University of Minnesota’s Health Sciences Programs provide critical education, training, and research to support the next generation of health care professionals and provide high-quality care for Minnesotans,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am calling together this group of leaders and health care experts to work to ensure that the future of Minnesota’s academic health remains strong.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Task Force on Academic Health at the University of Minnesota, created by Executive Order 23-09, will develop recommendations to support world-class academic health professions education, research, and care delivery by the Health Sciences Programs that advance equity, center primary care, and ensure that Minnesotans can continue to receive the highest-quality care in a financially sustainable way. As the Governor’s designee and Chair, Jan Malcolm will lead the task force as it works to make recommendations. In addition to the chair, representatives from the legislature, and leaders from the Department of Health and Office of Higher Education, the Governor will appoint individuals with expertise in health professions education, health care finance, and health equity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The task force will provide a summary of their recommendations to the Governor in January 2024.</p>5870212023-08-10T20:06:25Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-586876" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-09T13:24:07ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Michael J. Cuzzo. This seat will be chambered in Two Harbors in Lake County and Grand Marais in Cook County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via email at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on August 30 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong>. The commission expects to hold interviews in late September.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Sixth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a>.</p>5868762023-08-09T18:40:23Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-587191" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-08T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz, Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic, House Speaker Melissa Hortman, and a bipartisan group of legislative leaders today visited a nursing home in Coon Rapids to highlight $173 million in direct funding for 340 nursing homes across the state. The funding took effect this month. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz, Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic, House Speaker Melissa Hortman, and a bipartisan group of legislative leaders today visited a nursing home in Coon Rapids to highlight $173 million in direct funding for 340 nursing homes across the state. The funding took effect this month. Photos from the event are attached.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This session, we worked across the aisle to prioritize the needs of middle class families and seniors. We’re providing direct support to nursing homes across the state to ensure Minnesota’s seniors have the quality care and safe environments they deserve,”</strong> said Governor Walz.<strong>“By funding nursing homes and investing in workforce incentives, we’re</strong> <strong>working to ensure our seniors have access to high-quality care while bringing new workers into this critical profession and building the workforce of the future.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We have heard from nursing home leaders, caregivers, advocates, and residents about the dire demand for increased state support to keep facilities open,”</strong> said Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic. <strong>“We heard them, and made their needs a priority this session, and came through with unprecedented investment in programs to benefit seniors living in every community in the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“All Minnesotans deserve to live with dignity, and seniors and their families should have access to affordable, high-quality, and safe environments in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. This year, the Legislature made historic investments to get us closer to that goal,”</strong> said Speaker Melissa Hortman. <strong>“I’m grateful to the legislators, stakeholders, and advocates who worked together to find common ground on this important issue.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">340 facilities with more than 24,000 active beds are benefiting from the new state funding. Each facility will get $225,000, plus an additional $4,000 for each active bed they operate. Nursing homes will be able to spend the money on costs such as debt restructuring, rent or debt payments, closing lines of credit, and physical improvements and maintenance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Nursing homes received the first half of the payments this month. Funds will come in two installments, with the second payments going out next year. The funding is in addition to routine Medicaid payments to nursing homes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We heard Minnesota nursing homes say loud and clear that they need more support,”</strong> said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. <strong>“We know these payments won’t solve every challenge, but I’m grateful that they will be getting these critical funds. The real winners will be people across Minnesota who rely on nursing homes and will continue to have access to quality care in their communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This session, Governor Walz signed into law over $1 billion to support Minnesota’s seniors and nursing homes across the state – the largest amount of funding ever received by nursing homes in state history. Additional investments include a loan program for distressed nursing homes, a temporary rate add-on, a rate adjustment for critical access nursing facilities, and a workforce incentive grant program.</p>5871912023-08-11T21:42:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-586649" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-04T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) will provide over $13 million to help 15 businesses across Minnesota expand. Funding from DEED’s Job Creation Fund and the Minnesota Investment Fund will help create over 650 jobs1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) will provide over $13 million to help 15 businesses across Minnesota expand. The funding, from DEED’s Job Creation Fund and Minnesota Investment Fund, will leverage nearly $766 million in outside investment and create 652 jobs over five years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is</strong> <strong>proud to be a top state for business and to live and work,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am grateful to the workers, entrepreneurs, and businesses that call Minnesota home and contribute to our economy. We are committed to supporting our businesses and investing in the future of Minnesota’s workforce</strong> <strong>, whether through business expansion, grants for entrepreneurs, or child care.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Job Creation Fund and Minnesota Investment Fund are important programs that not only help create jobs but stimulate economic investment around our state,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“These programs are just two examples of DEED’s continued dedication to business expansion statewide.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This comes as Governor Walz recently announced that Minnesota is <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-586048">a top-five state to live and work</a> . Minnesota was also named <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/584394">a top-five state for business</a> earlier this month.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/mn-jcf/">Job Creation Fund</a> provides financial incentives to new and expanding businesses that meet certain job creation and capital investment targets. Eligible companies may receive up to $2 million for creating or retaining high-paying jobs and for constructing or renovating facilities or making other property improvements.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/mif/">Minnesota Investment Fund</a> provides financing to help add new workers and retain high-quality jobs with a focus on industrial, manufacturing, and technology-related industries to increase the local and state tax base and improve Minnesota's economic vitality. Funds are awarded to local units of government who provide loans to assist expanding businesses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Details on individual projects below:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>CFMOTO Powersport, Plymouth – MIF $340,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">CFMOTO Powersports, Inc., is an exclusive distributor of CFMOTO brand motorcycles, ATVs and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) in the United States. Their proposed building construction project consists of a new 90,000 square feet dual-purpose office and warehouse facility. The building will serve as CFMOTO’s U.S. corporate headquarters and will incorporate new research and development machinery, as well as the latest in warehouse technology. With a projected total project cost of $25.8 million, the CFMOTO project is expected to create 44 new jobs with an average wage of $37.24 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daikin Applied Americas, Inc., Owatonna – JCF $175,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Daikin Applied Americas, Inc. manufactures commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) equipment. The proposed project will upgrade the interior office areas and make additional improvements to the existing factory in Owatonna, with an expected total project cost of $1.96 million. The project is expected to create 20 jobs within the first year at an average wage of $28.49 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elemet Group Inc., Princeton – JCF $800,000, MIF $1,000,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Elemet Group Inc. specializes in robotic welding, heavy metal spinning, powder coating &amp; finishing, heavy machining, fabrication and laser cutting. The proposed project will build a new facility in Princeton to support their growing business and manufacturing needs, with an expected total project cost of $26.4 million. The project is expected to create 45 jobs within the first three years at an average wage of $29.59 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>F2F Inc., Faribault – JCF $175,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">F2F Inc. is a new start up that develops designs that will integrate mushroom cultivation into a single synergistic loop that comprises climate, automation and efficiency improvements, with the goal of raising safety standards and altering the way mushrooms are cultivated. The proposed project will expand the current facility in Faribault and supply machinery and equipment. The total project cost is $7.2 million and is expected to create 40 jobs within the first three years at an average wage of $25.40 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Falls Fabricating LLC, Little Falls – JCF $175,000, MIF $190,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Falls Fabricating LLC is a full-service precision fabricator of complex components with expertise in cabinets, chassis, tanks, reservoirs, frames and brackets. The proposed project will expand their current Little Falls facility by adding an additional 40,000 square feet and updating the current equipment being used. The project is expected to cost $15 million and create 32 jobs with an average wage of $22.34 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>ForwardEdge ASIC LLC, St. Paul – JCF $500,000, MIF $800,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">ForwardEdge ASIC LLC is a microelectronics design business that makes application-specific integrated circuits. The proposed project has leased a 68,308 square feet lab and office space in Saint Paul, and will procure machinery and equipment, with a total project cost of $36 million. The project is expected to create 113 jobs within three years at an average wage of $84.51 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>GEOTEK LLC, Stewartville – JCF $800,000, MIF $230,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">GEOTEK LLC develops and manufactures a variety of engineered composite products utilizing pultrusion and filament winding, including fiberglass crossarms, light poles, and utility poles. The proposed project will construct a new 105,000 square foot facility that includes office, lab and manufacturing space with a total expected project cost of $13.5 million. The project is expected to create 35 jobs within the first three years at an average wage of $21.02 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Graco Minnesota Inc., Anoka – JCF $737,000, MIF $250,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Graco Inc. supplies technology and expertise for the management of fluids and coatings in both industrial and commercial applications. Its subsidiary Graco Minnesota Inc. designs, manufactures and markets systems and equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray fluid and power materials. The proposed project will expand the current facility in Anoka by adding an additional 170,000 square feet, with an expected total project cost of $42.7 million. The project is expected to create 43 jobs within the first three years with an average wage of $27.20 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Massman Companies Inc., Alexandria – MIF $150,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Massman Companies design and manufacture automated packaging machines. Their services include designing, manufacturing and installing systems for case packing, cartoning, robotics, palletizing, liquid filling, shrink packaging and engineering integrated production line systems. The proposed project will purchase 80 acres in Alexandria that includes a new 73,000 square foot facility to be used for machine design, assembly, machine testing, engineering and customer demonstrations. The project is expected to cost $18 million and create 21 new jobs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Natural American Foods, Lakeville – JCF $155,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Natural American Foods LLC – doing business as Sweet Harvest Foods – is a natural sweetener processing company. The proposed project will lease a new 360,000 square feet facility consisting of office, product storage and processing space, with an expected total project cost of $6.5 million. The project is expected to create 20 jobs within the first two years at an average wage of $24.20 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Niagara Bottling Company, Elko New Market – MIF $405,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Niagara Bottling, LLC is a beverage manufacturer that produces bottled water, teas, sparkling waters, and additional products. The proposed project will purchase land and construct a new, 425,000 square feet beverage manufacturing facility in Elko New Market. With an estimated total project cost of $129.4 million, the project is expected to create 58 jobs within the first three years at an estimated average hourly wage of $37.14.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Polar Semiconductor LLC, Bloomington – JCF $800,000, MIF $4,000,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Polar Semiconductor, LLC is a semiconductor manufacturer that develops and produces wafer products— advanced power semiconductor devices and sensors — at its Bloomington fabrication facility, which the proposed project would expand and modernize. The project is expected to cost $372 million and create 73 jobs within the first two years at an average wage of $46.23 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Renegade Truck Equipment, Richmond – MIF $400,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Renegade Truck Equipment, Inc. specializes in the manufacturing of truck bodies including gravel, contractor, flatbed and utility/service, along with the sale of truck equipment, truck and trailer accessories and snow equipment. The proposed project will add an additional 20,000 square feet to the existing facility in Richmond, increasing manufacturing space and upgrading the facility. The project is expected to cost $3.3 million and create 15 new jobs with an average wage of $36.92 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Spectro Alloys Corporation, Rosemount – JCF $750,000, MIF $400,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Spectro Alloys uses technology to turn what’s used (material at the end of its lifecycle) into what’s new (i.e., EVs and solar panels) by recycling aluminum. The proposed project will expand the current facility in Rosemount by 90,000 square feet and will include new equipment to recycle used beverage containers, extrusions and a variety of other regionally generated end of lifecycle scrap types into high quality recycled raw materials for regional extruders and sheet rolling mills. The project is expected to cost $76.8 million and create 70 jobs within the first three years at an average wage of $30.86 per hour.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sunrise Fiberglass LLC, Wyoming – JCF $175,000</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sunrise Fiberglass LLC, a National Composites company, builds parts for cranes, skid-steers, paving equipment, mining equipment, trains, underground infrastructure and more. With multiple molding capabilities and an advanced paint, bonding and assembly department, Sunrise specializes in producing complex parts and large sub-assemblies for multiple industries. The proposed project will add an additional 20,000 square feet of production space to the existing Wyoming facility, with an expected total project cost of $3.6 million. The project is expected to create 23 jobs within the first two years with an average wage of $21.96 per hour.</p>5866492023-08-04T22:03:12Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-586648" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-03T13:24:07ZThis week, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan attended Farmfest in Redwood County to meet with Minnesota farmers and farm associations. WalletHub ranks Minnesota best in the nation based on 44 indicators1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwallethub.com%2Fedu%2Fstates-with-best-health-care%2F23457&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Ca2fa6b8211f54ef64ae408db945ee625%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638266907548028282%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=%2FuolOaoM7b3xEAwDOewaq0xhmQV5YXEbfTBbAMpK8pw%3D&amp;reserved=0">WalletHub</a> ranked Minnesota the best state in the nation for health care. Minnesota’s ranking is based on 44 key indicators in 3 categories of competitiveness: cost, access, and outcomes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With our world-renowned health care institutions, Minnesota is leading the nation in providing high-quality care,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This year, we took further action to lower price of prescription drugs and help families access affordable health care – and we’ll keep fighting to get our children and families the health care they need and deserve.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This ranking highlights what we already know: Minnesota is a national leader in health care and quality of life for children and families,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Whether it’s lowering the price of prescription drugs or expanding comprehensive health care coverage, we’ll continue working to ensure every single Minnesotan has access to affordable, quality care that meets their needs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This ranking comes as Minnesota was recently named a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/584394">top-five state</a> for business and a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/586048">top-five state</a> to live and work.</p>5866482023-08-04T22:15:08Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-586647" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-03T13:24:07ZThis week, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan attended Farmfest in Redwood County to meet with Minnesota farmers and farm associations. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – This week, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan attended Farmfest in Redwood County to meet with Minnesota farmers and farm associations. Photos from Farmfest are attached.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>It was great to be back at Farmfest to hear from farmers and learn about how Minnesota is moving the future of agriculture forward,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota’s farmers feed not just Minnesotans, but the world. Whether it’s investing in aspiring farmers or expanding high-speed broadband, we’re working to ensure we can continue growing and innovating our state’s nation-leading agriculture industry.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“At Farmfest, I was excited to highlight our work to improve the lives of farmers across our state,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“In Minnesota, we’re protecting producers, expanding broadband, and supporting emerging farmers, including women, people of color, immigrants, and refugees. We’ll keep working to ensure our agriculture industry – and the families behind it – remain strong.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz signed the agriculture and broadband bill into law in May. New investments include broadband, emerging farmers, soil health, and farm safety and wellness.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last month, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced new state and federal investments to expand broadband access across Minnesota. Minnesota secured nearly $652 million from the federal government and $67 million in state grants to build on the state’s efforts to expand broadband coverage. These announcements follow $100 million in broadband infrastructure funding Governor Walz signed into law this legislative session.</p>5866472023-08-04T22:14:44Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-586646" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-02T13:24:07ZIn recent days, two major manufacturers have announced expansion plans in Minnesota, bringing hundreds of new jobs to the state. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – In recent days, two major manufacturers have announced expansion plans in Minnesota, bringing hundreds of new jobs to the state. Solar panel maker <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.startribune.com%2Fheliene-canadian-solar-panel-company-plans-145-million-dollar-factory-in-twin-cities%2F600292286%2F%3Frefresh%3Dtrue&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C11573b453e63419c001908db9389a55a%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638265991648151810%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=oNo4rSwSW0biOLF0ELWnUWETU2Dt1B%2FdOioiJXfLSjY%3D&amp;reserved=0">Heliene plans to open a $145 million plant</a> in the Twin Cities – its second in Minnesota. Medical device maker <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.startribune.com%2Fboston-scientific-plans-new-170m-campus-in-maple-grove-medtech-twin-cities-real-estate-minneapolis%2F600292521%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C11573b453e63419c001908db9389a55a%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638265991648308035%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=dYAZvDi%2BMj%2F5IuqhfMRvqiDQvEPGxxCf6MYMHQW7r8k%3D&amp;reserved=0">Boston Scientific plans to open a new $170 million campus</a> in Maple Grove.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This comes as Governor Walz recently announced that Minnesota is <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-586048">a top-five state to live and work</a> . Minnesota was also named <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/584394">a top-five state for business</a> earlier this month.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Keeping Minnesota competitive in the global economy means working with the business community, and manufacturers like Heliene and Boston Scientific, to create jobs and expand our capacity for innovation,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’ll continue recruiting and retaining workers, empowering employers to grow their businesses, and creating the jobs of the future right here at home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Heliene recently completed a $21 million expansion at their solar facility in Mountain Iron, making it the nation's second-largest solar panel producer. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and the Iron Range Rehabilitation and Resources Board provided about $15 million in funding for their facility on the Iron Range.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The state is currently working with Heliene and Boston Scientific as they develop their plans to expand in Minnesota.</p>5866462023-08-04T22:14:25Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-586645" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-08-02T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has earned the highest bond rating achievable. This month, Fitch, Moody’s, and Standard & Poor’s have all affirmed the state’s AAA rating.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has earned the highest bond rating achievable. This month, Fitch, Moody’s, and Standard &amp; Poor’s have all affirmed the state’s AAA rating.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is the second year in a row Minnesota received top bond ratings from all three major rating agencies, confirming our strong economy and financial position,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Our diverse economy, skilled workforce, balanced budgeting, and thoughtful financial management keep Minnesota’s bond ratings among the highest of any state in the nation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Top bond ratings are important because they help reduce the cost of borrowing to make needed improvements across the state,”</strong> said Minnesota Management and Budget Deputy Commissioner Erin Campbell. <strong>“Minnesota demonstrated during the recent pandemic and period of economic uncertainty that our balanced approach toward spending, healthy reserves, and low long-term debt enable us to be agile and responsive even amid historic challenges.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In affirming Minnesota’s AAA rating, Fitch stated, <strong>“Minnesota's 'AAA' IDR and GO bond ratings reflect the state's steadily-growing and broad-based economy, highly educated workforce, expanding population, and a revenue structure well-designed to capture economic growth. The ratings also reflect a low long-term liability burden and historically strong control over revenues and spending that, in conjunction with a sophisticated approach to reserve funding, leaves Minnesota well positioned to manage through economic cycles while maintaining a high level of financial flexibility.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In affirming Minnesota’s AAA rating, Moody’s Investors Service stated, <strong>“Minnesota's long-term economic fundamentals remain very strong stemming from low unemployment, high per capita incomes, high workforce participation, high educational attainment, and a diverse mix of industry.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In affirming Minnesota’s AAA rating, S&amp;P Global stated, <strong>“Minnesota's robust management, with regular and comprehensive multiyear revenue forecasting, focus on matching recurring expenditures with recurring revenue, and commitment to maintaining healthy reserve balances, continues to support the state's 'AAA' credit quality.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">High bond ratings help keep the cost of borrowing for future investments low.</p>5866452023-08-04T22:14:11Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-586053" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-28T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Great Lakes Protection Fund, Infrastructure Resilience Advisory Task Force, Investment Advisory Council, Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board, Minnesota Racing Commission, Minnesota State High School League, State Emblems Redesign Commission, and Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans, Great Lakes Protection Fund, Infrastructure Resilience Advisory Task Force, Investment Advisory Council, Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board, Minnesota Racing Commission, Minnesota State High School League, State Emblems Redesign Commission, and Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>KB Brietzke – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Theo Casio – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Phil Duran – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Garcia – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Selena Garza – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mounkoka Goma – Mankato, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Maxwell Hall – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shor Salkas – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Randy Stillday – Red Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans works to implement economic, social, legal, and political equality for Minnesota's community of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender expansive, queer, intersex, asexual, or two-spirit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/317" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rebecca St. George – Duluth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Great Lakes Protection Fund</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Peter Gove</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Great Lakes Protection Fund:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Great Lakes Protection Fund’s mission is to identify, demonstrate, and promote regional action to enhance the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Great Lakes Protection Fund can be found <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fglpf.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C23edd64ae9d54620947008db8fac19e6%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638261741608222449%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=NChNItLud1cf%2FZOBMwzL29lTOviZxkPwXN3sDoDeokw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">here.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Dicklich – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Infrastructure Resilience Advisory Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Olson – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Infrastructure Resilience Advisory Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Infrastructure Resilience Advisory Task Force:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Infrastructure Resilience Advisory Task Force evaluates issues related to coordination, sustainability, resiliency, and federal funding on state, local, and private infrastructure in the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Infrastructure Resilience Advisory Task Force can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/335" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Constance Onyiah – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Investment Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Employee Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Martha Rush</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Investment Advisory Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Investment Advisory Council advises the State Board of Investment on investment strategies and decisions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Investment Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/72" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michele Fredrickson – Zim, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member who Represents Nursing Home Workers or Worker Organizations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jamie Gulley – West Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member who Represents Nursing Home Workers or Worker Organizations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erin Huppert – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member who Represents Nursing Home Employers or Employer Organizations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paula Rocheleau – Pierz, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member who Represents Nursing Home Employers or Employer Organizations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Swanson – Marshall, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member who Represents Nursing Home Employers or Employer Organizations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board holds public hearings on and conducts investigations into working conditions in the nursing home industry and establishes operating procedures.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/334" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Camille McArdle – Hugo, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Racing Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Camille McArdle – Hugo, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Racing Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chair</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2029</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Racing Commission:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Racing Commission provides regulatory oversight for live horse racing and wagering, online wagering, and card clubs at both of Minnesota’s racetracks.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Racing Commission can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/114" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Justin Buoen – Arden Hills, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota State High School League</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Matthew Heier</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota State High School League:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota State High School League is empowered to exercise supervision and regulation of interscholastic athletics and musical, dramatic, and other contests between pupils of Minnesota high schools.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota State High School League can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/118" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shelley Buck – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Emblems Redesign Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anita Gaul – Worthington, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Emblems Redesign Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Harralson – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Emblems Redesign Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>State Emblems Redesign Commission:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Emblems Redesign Commission is tasked with developing and adopting a new design for the official state flag and the official state seal no later than January 1, 2024.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Emblems Redesign Commission can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/328" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Douglas Beardsley – Edina, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Health Care Professional with Expertise in Veterans' Health Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 15, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shawna Clausen – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Nurse</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 15, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erwin Concepcion – Stillwater, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mental Health Professional</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 15, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kari Everson – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Past or Current Domiciliary Staffer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 15, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rebecca Kammeyer – New Brighton, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Past or Current Domiciliary Staffer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 15, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Meiches – Minnetonka, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Medical Doctor</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: August 2, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 15, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group reviews and analyzes the needs of veteran domiciliary residents and the current care model, including admission, care plans, and day-to-day care, and the current staffing structure and ratios.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Veteran Domiciliary Resident Quality of Care Working Group can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/330">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5860532023-07-28T21:34:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-586050" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-27T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Presbyterian Homes Services, an assisted living and job training center, in Roseville as part of his statewide workforce tour.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Presbyterian Homes Services, an assisted living and job training center, in Roseville as part of his statewide workforce tour. He spent a day in the life as a nurse – one of the career fields experiencing a labor shortage in Minnesota. Minnesota is investing millions in job training and workforce development to fill high-growth, high-demand jobs across the state, including in manufacturing, public safety, technology, caring professions, and education. Photos from the event are <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720310066655&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C24dfeb62a94c499c168e08db8edb4fc2%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638260844878311529%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=ZmyauXCbZGv2tVnTUGKWEOgehFfWvI8Uf%2FZo5rvwPeU%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“By providing new education opportunities and on-the-job training for health care professionals, we’re here to help Minnesotans choose a career path in this critical industry,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The investments we’re making today will strengthen our health care workforce, eliminate barriers to entry into high-demand careers, and support the health of our state. This is how we create pathways for life-long careers and bring short- and long-term benefits to Minnesotans and our economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Health care and social assistance positions make up 7.5% of Minnesota’s total workforce. Home health and personal care aides make up the single largest occupation in Minnesota. The industry has one of the highest job vacancies in the state, with over 45,000 high-demand jobs available to Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The One Minnesota Budget passed this session includes $20 million over the next two years to support the Drive for Five Workforce Fund, which will prepare Minnesotans to enter five of the most critical occupational categories in the state with high-growth jobs and family-sustaining wages: technology, caring professions, education, manufacturing, and trades.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last week, Governor Walz visited Buhler, a food equipment manufacturer in Plymouth, to kick off the statewide workforce tour and spend a day in the life with manufacturing professionals. He also spent a day in the life of a fourth grade teacher in Savage and a police officer in Duluth to highlight the state’s job training and workforce development efforts in manufacturing, education, and public safety.</p>5860502023-07-28T20:46:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-586049" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-25T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced a new partnership to expand Minnesota’s $10 billion outdoor recreation industry. Partnership formed with goal to make Minnesota a top 10 state in outdoor recreation1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced a new partnership to expand Minnesota’s $10 billion outdoor recreation industry. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Explore Minnesota Tourism (EMT), and Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation (IRRR) will partner to enhance and expand Minnesota’s outdoor recreation economy for the social and economic benefit of all Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s $10 billion outdoor recreation industry drives our local and regional economies. From the North Shore to the Winona bluffs, tourism is central to telling the story of who we are as a state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This partnership will</strong><strong>highlight our</strong> <strong>world-class natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities, while creating jobs across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership will combine each agency’s individual strengths — natural resource management, economic development, and marketing — to connect individuals and communities to outdoor recreation resources, build coalitions, and communicate significant benefits of outdoor recreation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The partnership will build on previous work by the Minnesota Outdoor Recreation Task Force and Governor’s Council on Economic Expansion. This will be a first-of-its-kind effort to bring state agencies together in a partnership dedicated to the economic growth of the outdoor recreation sector. Commissioners of the partnership agencies will meet quarterly to plan and track progress. Staff are currently on a statewide tour to gather feedback and form a strategic plan with 1, 3, and 10-year goals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Outdoor recreation is not only a vital industry to Minnesota’s economy, but a fundamental part of our everyday lives,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“DEED is excited to partner with the DNR, IRRR, and EMT to build on the existing $9.9 billion industry, and to continue growing our vibrant outdoor recreation workforce and economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Connecting people to the outdoors is a priority for the DNR because it’s good for the state’s economy and the health and wellness of Minnesotans,”</strong> said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“We’re excited to work with partners across state government to grow opportunities for high quality outdoor recreation and foster future stewards of our natural resources.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s outdoor recreation economy accounts for $9.9 billion in gross domestic product, 91,336 jobs, and $4.7 billion in overall compensation, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. The top activities by economic impact are boating and fishing; hunting, shooting, and trapping; and recreational vehicles. Minnesota is currently ranked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fapps.bea.gov%2Fdata%2Fspecial-topics%2Forsa%2Fsummary-sheets%2FORSA%2520-%2520Minnesota.pdf&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C209cafd1c7814efd916108db8d393364%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638259049080444800%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=tle%2BMZAvdsAuTB1lws9CyBFTs7HcJlK%2FjsdgCZLJ2rM%3D&amp;reserved=0">15th in the nation</a> for outdoor recreation GDP. The Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership aims to move Minnesota into the top 10.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Year-round outdoor recreation is vital for thriving communities. Amenities such as lakes and trails that may be utilized by anglers, snowmobilers, bikers, and riders have important economic impacts,”</strong> said IRRR Commissioner Ida Rukavina. <strong>“The Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership was formed to further support our local communities and families and to attract new residents hoping to make Minnesota their home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Outdoor recreation benefits Minnesota communities, with 93% of Minnesotans reporting outdoor activity to be “very” or “somewhat” important, according to the DNR’s 2017 Minnesota Outdoor Activities Survey. It attracts entrepreneurs, skilled workers, retirees, investment income, manufacturing facilities, and new residents. Outdoor recreation also increases traffic to local businesses, tax revenue, local health outcomes, and satisfaction of current residents.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is a great place to visit to enjoy the natural beauty and world-class outdoor opportunities,”</strong> said EMT Director Lauren Bennett McGinty.<strong>“From fishing for walleye on Lake</strong><strong>Winnebigoshish</strong> <strong>to biking the Root River and Harmony-Preston Valley trails in the driftless region to lake-hopping and urban hiking in the Twin Cities. We will continue to promote these opportunities for the enjoyment of all and the economic benefit of local communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information is available on the Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Foutdoorindustrypartnership.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C209cafd1c7814efd916108db8d393364%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638259049080444800%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=J%2BsMtXgCDf4D60q%2BvTBUGskwS%2Bj%2FqnVhedx2FPzNjwM%3D&amp;reserved=0">website</a> . Outdoor recreation b-roll is available in the <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/mediaroom/News%20release%20resources/7-25-23%20Outdoor%20Recreation/">DNR media room</a> .</p>5860492023-07-28T20:46:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-586048" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-24T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that Minnesota is a top-five state to live and work, according to a new CNBC study. CNBC study ranks Minnesota fourth in the nation based on overall quality of life1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that Minnesota is a top-five state to live and work, according to a new <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnbc.com%2F2023%2F07%2F14%2Fthese-are-americas-10-best-states-to-live-and-work-in.html&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cf92de235dba0487a8d0608db8c701c63%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638258185427269817%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=D8aHCIhJNyZX%2BF8iTzgFvMcOvp%2BncPhT5dRAmS6xMy0%3D&amp;reserved=0">CNBC study</a> . The study evaluated factors that include environmental quality, health care and child care, anti-discrimination laws, worker protections, and reproductive rights. Minnesota is ranked fourth in the nation overall.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Whether you’re raising a family or growing a business, Minnesota is the place to be,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The investments we made this year are lowering costs for families and improving the lives of Minnesotans across our state – and it’s showing. Our goal is to make Minnesota the best state in the country to live and work, and we will continue to invest in our economy, health, education, climate, and kids and families to make that goal a reality.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our work this session to invest in affordable and accessible child care, protect reproductive rights, and expand voting rights has earned us this ranking and helped make Minnesota a state that works better for everyone,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“In Minnesota, we will invest in your career, ensure high quality child care and education are affordable and accessible, and do the hard work now to keep our natural resources and environment protected for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota was named a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/584394">top-five state</a> for business earlier this month. Last week, Governor Walz kicked off a statewide workforce tour to highlight the state’s efforts to build a workforce pipeline in high-growth, high-demand career fields. He spent a day in the life of Minnesotans working in manufacturing, education, and public safety professions, highlighting the $20 million signed into law this session to invest in training for five of the most critical occupational categories in the state with high-growth jobs and family-sustaining wages. To support public safety workforce development efforts, Governor Walz signed into law $300 million for cities, counties, and tribes to meet their unique public safety, fire, or emergency management needs, including for training programs. The state also invested $5 million in a grant program to support peace officer education and training.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lieutenant Governor Flanagan <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/585403">met with senior White House</a> officials last week to discuss and highlight Minnesota’s work to increase access to child care, lower child care costs, establish paid family and medical leave, and eliminate child poverty. The One Minnesota Budget signed into law this session includes over $1.3 billion to support the child care workforce, expand child care access, and ensure quality child care is available statewide.</p>5860482023-07-28T20:46:47Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-585802" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-24T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Judge Keala Ede and Jon Schmidt to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Judge Keala Ede and Jon Schmidt to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Ede and Schmidt will fill the vacancies that will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Denise D. Reilly and the Honorable Lucinda E. Jesson, who both serve in an at-large capacity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Ede will be replacing the Honorable Denise D. Reilly.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Judge Keala Ede to the Minnesota Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His breadth of experience will be an asset to the court and to the people of Minnesota. His commitment to public service and dedication to ensuring fair and equitable justice will make him a tremendous addition to the Court of Appeals.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Judge Ede is a thoughtful and compassionate leader,”</strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“His commitment to equal justice, fairness, and building public trust in the judicial system will make him an excellent addition to the appellate bench. As the first Asian Pacific Islander appointed to the Court of Appeals, he will bring a valuable and needed perspective to our appellate courts.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am delighted by Judge Ede’s appointment,”</strong>said Judge Wilhemina Wright of theUnited States District Court for the District of Minnesota and former Minnesota Supreme Court justice <strong>. “He is an excellent lawyer who has the skills, temperament, and integrity that Minnesotans deserve on the bench.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Minnesota American Indian Bar Association and Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association celebrate the historic appointment of Judge Keala Ede to the Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Casey Matthiesen, president of the Minnesota American Indian Bar Association, and Chris Jison, president of the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association. <strong>“For the first time in Minnesota’s history, the voice and perspective of the Asian Pacific Islander and Native Hawaiian community will be represented on Minnesota’s appellate courts. Judge Ede’s commitment to justice, public service, and legal acumen will make him a remarkable judge on the Court of Appeals.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Schmidt will be replacing the Honorable Lucinda E. Jesson.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored to appoint Jon Schmidt to the Minnesota Court of Appeals,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His nearly two decades of appellate practice has made him a respected expert in the field across the state. He is well prepared to be on the bench, and he brings empathy and compassion to his work.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jon Schmidt will be a remarkable addition to the court,”</strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.<strong>“His profound understanding of appellate practice in the state of Minnesota will serve him well in this new chapter of his legal career. His commitment to being an advocate for the people and his proficiency in civil and criminal law will allow him to be a great judge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jon Schmidt, simply put, is a class act,”</strong>said Justice Anne McKeig, associate justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. <strong>"Not only is he a remarkable attorney, but he also cares deeply about the integrity and future of the profession and spends countless hours mentoring young attorneys and students so that they can be successful members of our legal community."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“On paper, Jon Schmidt is one of the state’s most experienced and able appellate advocates,”</strong> said Justice David Lillehaug, retired Minnesota Supreme Court justice <strong>. “But what really distinguishes him is that he is a public servant of exceptional integrity.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About</em> <em>Judge Keala Ede <br /></em> Keala Ede serves as a judge in the Fourth Judicial District in Hennepin County. He previously served as an assistant federal defender in the Office of the Federal Defender in Minneapolis and as an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General's Office. Ede was also a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Steven H. Levinson of the Hawai'i Supreme Court. His community involvement includes volunteering for the Fourth Judicial District Court Equal Justice Committee, the Minnesota State Bar Association's Effective Advocate Trial Skills Course, the McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court, and the Minnesota American Indian Bar Association Scholarship Committee. He earned his B.A. from Occidental College and his J.D. from the University of California-Berkeley School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Jon Schmidt <br /></em> Jon Schmidt is a principal attorney at the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office. He was previously a shareholder at Briggs and Morgan. He is a past chair of the MSBA Appellate Section and established a pro bono program in which private attorneys represent indigent clients on behalf of the Minnesota Public Defenders’ Office. Schmidt’s community involvement includes serving on the advisory committees for the Rules of Civil Appellate Procedure and the Rules of General Practice. He also volunteers at his children’s school, theater, and sporting activities, and as Hennepin County’s representative on the Advisory Board of the Attorney General’s Conviction Review Unit. He earned his B.A. from the University of Minnesota and his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5858022023-07-27T17:10:17Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-585411" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-21T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that President Joe Biden has approved his request for a major disaster declaration for 23 counties across Minnesota and one tribal nation impacted by severe storms and flooding in April.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that President Joe Biden has approved his request for a major disaster declaration for 23 counties across Minnesota and one tribal nation impacted by severe storms and flooding in April.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m grateful to our federal partners for their support and recognition of the challenge this spring’s historic flooding season brought for so many Minnesotans,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Even as Minnesota navigates a drought, communities across the state are still working to recover from damage to facilities during this spring’s weeks of unprecedented flooding. The state will continue to support impacted residents, businesses, and communities in every way we can in partnership with the federal government’s efforts.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz wrote to the President requesting this declaration on June 28. Recovery assistance has been approved for Aitkin, Big Stone, Carlton, Chippewa, Clay, Grant, Houston, Kittson, Lac qui Parle, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Morrison, Norman, Pine, Pope, Renville, Roseau, St. Louis, Stevens, Swift, Traverse, and Wilkin Counties and the Prairie Island Indian Community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This federal disaster declaration unlocks public assistance for these counties and tribal nations to assist with emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additionally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Small Business Association (SBA) are going to make assessments to determine eligibility for impacted residents and businesses to obtain Individual Assistance through FEMA or low interest loans through SBA. Once assessments are made, they will undergo an approval process for authorization.</p>5854112023-07-21T21:08:03Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-585410" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-20T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Duluth as part of his statewide workforce tour. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Duluth as part of his statewide workforce tour. He spent a day in the life as a police officer – one of the career fields experiencing a labor shortage in Minnesota. Minnesota is investing millions in job training and workforce development to fill high-growth, high-demand jobs across the state, including in manufacturing, public safety, technology, caring professions, and education. Photos from the event are attached.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Law enforcement and public safety professionals are integral to every community,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota needs more public servants who are dedicated to the safety and wellbeing of their community. Through training grants and $300 million for public safety departments across the state, we’re helping communities train the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and 911 dispatchers who we rely on to keep us all safe.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">There are 23,357 public safety jobs across Minnesota – including police officers, fire fighters, and 911 operators.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This session, Governor Walz signed into law $300 million for cities, counties, and tribes to meet their unique public safety, fire, or emergency management needs, including for training programs. The state also invested $5 million in a grant program to support peace officer education and training. Local law enforcement agencies can use the grants to pay the cost of education and training for peace officer candidates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This week, Governor Walz visited Buhler, a food equipment manufacturing company in Plymouth, to kick off a statewide workforce tour and spend a day in the life with manufacturing professionals. On Wednesday he spent the day as a fourth-grade teacher in Savage.</p>5854102023-07-21T21:08:00Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-585409" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-20T13:24:07ZLieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan visited Winona today to highlight investments in child care and infrastructure. She first visited the child care provider, Main Square Montessori, to celebrate recent investments to expand child care access for more Minnesotans statewide. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan visited Winona today to highlight investments in child care and infrastructure. She first visited the child care provider, Main Square Montessori, to celebrate recent investments to expand child care access for more Minnesotans statewide. In the afternoon, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan toured a building reconstruction project on the Winona State University Campus and visited Levee Park with Winona Mayor Scott Sherman and city officials to see a planned expansion project. Both projects were funded through the infrastructure package passed this session. Representative Gene Pelowski joined Lieutenant Governor Flanagan throughout the visit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The investments we made this session will lower costs for families and improve the daily lives of Minnesotans across the state,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“In Winona, we’re making child care more affordable and accessible, and we’re improving the connectivity of the city and region with the beauty of the Mississippi River through the expansion of the riverfront trail. These investments are good for our economy and the community, and I’m proud we got them done.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This week, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan met with senior White House officials and state legislators in Washington D.C. to discuss child care issues and highlight Minnesota’s work to increase access to child care, lower child care costs, and eliminate child poverty. The One Minnesota Budget signed into law this session includes over $1.3 billion to support the child care workforce, expand child care access, and ensure quality child care is available statewide</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz signed the state’s largest-ever <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579789">infrastructure bill</a> into law on June 1, which will create good-paying jobs, invest in infrastructure, and bring long-term benefits to communities across the state. The infrastructure package includes $5 million to expand the riverfront trail in downtown Winona and create more opportunities for walking and biking. The infrastructure bill also includes nearly $5 million for the design of a net-zero energy building that would replace two older buildings on the Winona State University campus. The net-zero energy building will use a solar array and geothermal energy to power the building.</p>5854092023-07-21T21:07:56Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-585408" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-19T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Nicole Hopps as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Nicole Hopps as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. Hopps will be replacing the late Honorable Sally L. Tarnowski and will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my pleasure to appoint Nicole Hopps to the St. Louis County bench to fill the seat left by the late Judge Tarnowski, who served the district with great distinction and who leaves a deep and lasting legacy in the Sixth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With Hopps’s years of experience as a public defender, striving for equitable and just outcomes for her clients, I am confident she will be a remarkable and fair jurist and leader for the Sixth Judicial District.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District encompasses Carlton, Cook, Lake, and St. Louis counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Nicole Hopps is the managing attorney for the Sixth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Duluth. In this role, she supervises attorneys and support staff serving indigent clients, including in the areas of rehabilitative justice, diversion, and welfare programs. She previously served in the Sixth Judicial District as an assistant public defender. Hopps’s community involvement includes volunteering with the Carlton County Community Outreach Program, the South St. Louis County Mental and Behavioral Health courts, and the Indian Child Welfare Act Court team. She also serves on the board of directors of Churches United in Ministry (CHUM), which is an organization that serves low-income, homeless, hungry, isolated, or otherwise marginalized community members in Duluth. She earned her B.A. from the University of Minnesota Duluth and her J.D. from the University of North Dakota School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5854082023-07-21T21:07:53Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-585405" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-19T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Eagle Ridge Middle School in Savage as part of his statewide workforce tour. He spent a day in the life as a teacher – one of the career fields experiencing a labor shortage in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Eagle Ridge Middle School in Savage as part of his statewide workforce tour. He spent a day in the life as a teacher – one of the career fields experiencing a labor shortage in Minnesota. Governor Walz taught a fourth-grade science class to students. Minnesota is investing millions in job training and workforce development to fill high-growth, high-demand jobs across the state, including in manufacturing, public safety, technology, caring professions, and education. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a former classroom teacher of 20 years, I know how challenging and fulfilling teaching can be,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota depends on these professionals to mentor, shape, and educate our students. Minnesota has thousands of teaching positions available, and by providing financial assistance, mentoring, and training, we’re here to help more people choose a career path in education.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With 225,000 jobs in Minnesota, education is the fourth largest industry in the state. The industry has one of the highest job vacancies in the state, with over 13,098 high-demand jobs available to Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The One Minnesota Budget passed this session includes $20 million over the next two years to support the Drive for Five Workforce Fund, which will prepare Minnesotans to enter five of the most critical occupational categories in the state with high-growth jobs and family-sustaining wages: technology, caring professions, education, manufacturing, and trades.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To strengthen teacher recruitment and training, the state is investing over $88 million in the next biennium to support teachers from many different backgrounds to pursue a career in education. Funding is targeted at increasing the number of teachers of color and indigenous teachers, educators in licensure shortage areas such as early learning and special education, and teachers planning to work in geographical shortage areas.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Yesterday, Governor Walz visited Buhler, a food equipment manufacturing company in Plymouth, to kick off a statewide workforce tour and spend a day in the life with manufacturing professionals. This week, he will also highlight public safety workforce development efforts in Duluth.</p>5854052023-07-21T21:07:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-585403" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-19T13:24:07ZLieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today met with senior White House officials, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, and state legislators in Washington D.C. to discuss child care issues. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today met with senior White House officials, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, and state legislators in Washington D.C. to discuss child care issues. Lieutenant Governor Flanagan highlighted Minnesota’s work to increase access to child care, lower child care costs, establish paid family and medical leave, and eliminate child poverty.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a mom and a lifelong child advocate, I know child care isn’t a nice to have – it’s a must have. Affordable, accessible child care should be available to every family who needs it, and we’re working to make that a reality in Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I’m grateful to our state and federal partners for continuing to fight for working families across the country. We’re building systems to ensure every child has a safe place to call home, no child goes hungry, and working families have the support they need to thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The One Minnesota Budget signed into law this session includes over $1.3 billion to support the child care workforce, expand child care access, and ensure quality child care is available statewide. Investments include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$576 million to increase child care worker wages</li> <li>$4 million for child care workforce development scholarships</li> <li>Over $500 million to expand access to the Child Care Assistance Program for over 3600 children</li> <li>$311 million in early learning scholarships</li> <li>Funding for an additional 12,360 new pre-kindergarten seats</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Other investments include a nation-leading child tax credit that will reduce child poverty by 33%, paid family and medical leave for all Minnesota workers, and free breakfast and lunch for all students at school.</p>5854032023-07-21T21:07:46Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-585402" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-19T13:24:07ZEarlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Court of Appeals. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Earlier this year, Governor Walz asked a merit selection panel to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment to the Court of Appeals. The merit selection panel includes the chair and at-large members of the Commission on Judicial Selection as well as leaders in the Governor’s Office.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The panel announced today that it is recommending six candidates for consideration to fill the upcoming vacancies on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Denise D. Reilly and the Honorable Lucinda E. Jesson, who both serve in an at-large capacity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Keala Ede:</strong> Keala Ede serves as a judge in the Fourth Judicial District in Hennepin County. He previously served as an assistant federal defender in the Office of the Federal Defender in Minneapolis and as an assistant attorney general in the Minnesota Attorney General's Office. Ede was also a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Steven H. Levinson of the Hawai'i Supreme Court. His community involvement includes volunteering for the Fourth Judicial District Court Equal Justice Committee, the Minnesota State Bar Association's Effective Advocate Trial Skills Course, the McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court, and the Minnesota American Indian Bar Association Scholarship Committee.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>JaPaul Harris:</strong> JaPaul Harris serves as a judge in the Second Judicial District in Ramsey County. He previously served as a judicial referee in Hennepin County, presiding over housing, harassment, juvenile, and civil commitment matters. Harris also serves as the chair of the Minnesota Supreme Court’s Juvenile Rules Advisory Committee. Harris’s community involvement includes serving as co-chair of the Ramsey County Youth Justice Transformation Initiative (formerly JDAI), as chair of the Equal Justice Committee for the Second Judicial District and various statewide committees, and as a member of the board of the Volunteer Lawyers Network.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Hennesy:</strong> Sarah Hennesy is the chief judge of the Seventh Judicial District and is chambered in St. Cloud. She previously practiced as an appellate public defender in Iowa, as a criminal defense attorney in Washington, D.C. and Virginia, and as a staff attorney at Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid in St. Cloud. Hennesy also serves as chair of the Minnesota Supreme Court’s Advisory Committee on the General Rules of Practice. Her community involvement includes speaking at Minnesota Women Lawyers Association and other legal organization events, volunteering as a judge and coach for mock trial teams, and working with local schools to help students learn about the judiciary.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Veena Iyer:</strong> Veena Iyer is the executive director of the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota. She was previously a shareholder at Nilan Johnson Lewis and an Equal Justice Works fellow at Legal Aid Chicago. She was also a law clerk for the Honorable Natalie Hudson on the Minnesota Court of Appeals, Honorable Susan Burke on the Fourth Judicial District, and Honorable Matthew Kennelly on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Iyer’s community involvement includes serving on the Board of Regents of Augsburg University, the Community Advisory Board of the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank, and the board of Portico Healthnet.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jon Schmidt:</strong> Jon Schmidt is a principal attorney at the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office. He was previously a shareholder at Briggs and Morgan. He is a past chair of the MSBA Appellate Section and established a pro bono program in which private attorneys represent indigent clients on behalf of the Minnesota Public Defenders’ Office. Schmidt’s community involvement includes serving on the advisory committees for the Rules of Civil Appellate Procedure and the Rules of General Practice. He also volunteers at his children’s school, theater, and sporting activities, and as Hennepin County’s representative on the Advisory Board of the Attorney General’s Conviction Review Unit.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate Swenson:</strong> Kate Swenson is a partner at Greene Espel and chairs the firm’s Ethics Committee. Swenson was previously legal counsel to the 2011 Minnesota Special Redistricting Panel and served as a judicial law clerk for the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Her community involvement includes providing pro bono representation to people seeking asylum, serving as an officer of the Public Law Section Council of the Minnesota State Bar Association, serving as a board member of the Minnesota Justice Foundation, and mentoring law students.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5854022023-07-21T21:07:42Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-585129" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-18T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Buhler, a food equipment manufacturer in Plymouth, to kick off a statewide workforce tour and spend a day in the life with manufacturing professionals – one of the career fields experiencing a labor shortage in Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Buhler, a food equipment manufacturer in Plymouth, to kick off a statewide workforce tour and spend a day in the life with manufacturing professionals – one of the career fields experiencing a labor shortage in Minnesota. Minnesota is investing millions in job training and workforce development to fill high-growth, high-demand jobs across the state, including in manufacturing, public safety, technology, caring professions, and education. Photos from the event are attached.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s manufacturing industry is filled with companies that are innovating and delivering solutions in our global economy – and these companies have thousands of high-paying, career-building jobs for Minnesotans across the state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By investing in career training, we’re helping businesses find the skilled workers they need while helping Minnesotans earn family-sustaining wages. This is good for our workers, our businesses, and our economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With 325,000 workers, manufacturing is the second largest industry in Minnesota. The industry has one of the highest job vacancies in the state, with over 18,000 high-growth, high-paying jobs available to Minnesotans. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is working with companies like Buhler to provide job training in the manufacturing industry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The One Minnesota Budget passed this session includes $20 million over the next two years to support the Drive for Five Workforce Fund, which will prepare Minnesotans to enter five of the most critical occupational categories in the state with high-growth jobs and family-sustaining wages: technology, caring professions, education, manufacturing, and trades.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This event comes as Minnesota was recently named a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/584394">top-five state</a> for business. Governor Walz last week also announced more than <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/584372">$7 million in grants</a> awarded to 47 organizations to provide young people workforce development and training opportunities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This week, Governor Walz will visit Savage and Duluth to highlight job training and workforce investments in education and public safety.</p>5851292023-07-19T22:37:41Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-585130" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-18T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota effective immediately until sunset on July 22, 2023, in honor and remembrance of Minnesota National Guard Sergeant and Fargo Police Officer Jake Wallin.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota effective immediately until sunset on July 22, 2023, in honor and remembrance of Minnesota National Guard Sergeant and Fargo Police Officer Jake Wallin.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Sergeant Jake Wallin was a dedicated member of the Minnesota National Guard and the Fargo Police Department who was respected by his family, friends, and colleagues,”</strong> reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. <strong>“With its deepest gratitude, the State of Minnesota recognizes Sergeant Wallin for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his fellow Minnesotans and North Dakotans, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>5851302023-07-19T22:37:34Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-584711" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-14T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Capitol Area Community Vitality Task Force; Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers; Governor’s Residence Council; Governor’s Task Force on Broadband; Metropolitan Governance Task Force; Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority; Psychedelic Medicine Task Force; and Task Force on Priority Admissions to State-Operated Treatment Programs. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Capitol Area Community Vitality Task Force; Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers; Governor’s Residence Council; Governor’s Task Force on Broadband; Metropolitan Governance Task Force; Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority; Psychedelic Medicine Task Force; and Task Force on Priority Admissions to State-Operated Treatment Programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>María Isa Pérez-Vega – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Capitol Area Community Vitality Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: February 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Capitol Area Community Vitality Task Force:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Capitol Area Community Vitality Task Force considers and develops recommendations for the administration, program plan, and oversight of the Capitol Area community vitality account.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Capitol Area Community Vitality Task Force can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/313" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Eid Ali – Edina, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Transportation Network Company Driver Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marianna Brown – Woodbury, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Transportation Network Company Driver Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Budd – Edina, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shenika Chambers – Chaska, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Samantha Diaz – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Labor Union Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Freddi Goldstein – New York, NY</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Transportation Network Company Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Steven Huser – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Cities Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Saahil Karpe – Washington, DC</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Transportation Network Company Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dawit Worku Kassa – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Transportation Network Company Driver Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dan Meyers – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Disability Advocacy Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers will provide a forum to engage, collect, and analyze data and information related to the working conditions of transportation network company (TNC) drivers and will provide recommendations on the compensation and fair treatment of TNC drivers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Committee on the Compensation, Wellbeing, and Fair Treatment of Transportation Network Company Drivers can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/311">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patricia Jean Crego – Saginaw, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Residence Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Dietrich – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Residence Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeffrey Feulner – Maple Grove, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Residence Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">American Society of Landscape Architects Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katie Knutson – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Residence Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Catherine Nicholson – Dellwood, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Residence Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Gregory Nations</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marilyn Porter – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Residence Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Angel Smith – Maple Grove, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Residence Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Madeleine Gagnon</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Spiering – Gilbert, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Residence Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">American Society of Interior Designers Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Young – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Residence Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Sean Ryan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Residence Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Residence Council develops and implements an overall restoration plan for the Governor's Residence and surrounding grounds; solicits and accepts contributions to restore, maintain, improve, decorate, and furnish the building; and approves alterations to the structure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Residence Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/67" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ini Augustine – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Micah Myers</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tewodros Bekele – Lake Elmo, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bruce Crane – Buffalo, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: James Weikum</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Steve Fenske – Saint Michael, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gail Hedstrom – Elbow Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Steve Giorgi</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Adam Hutchens – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Brian Krambeer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marc Johnson – Mora, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daniel Lightfoot – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Barbara Dröher Kline</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jerald Loud – Redby, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Theresa Sunde</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul McDonald – Ely, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Yvonne Cariveau</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Phil Stalboerger – Eagan, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Twiest – Lutsen, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Nolan Cauthen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Wolf – Brandon, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Melissa Wolf – Greenfield, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor's Task Force on Broadband</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Paul Weirtz</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Task Force on Broadband advises the executive and legislative branches on broadband policy, including strategies for successfully achieving the state’s broadband goals, comprehensive assessment of digital inclusion issues and gaps, and strategies for unlocking the benefits of universal access to broadband for all communities in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/171" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kristin Beckmann – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Governance Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">General Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Metropolitan Governance Task Force:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Metropolitan Governance Task Force must study and evaluate options to reform and reconstitute governance of the Metropolitan Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Metropolitan Governance Task Force can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/315" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bonnie Anderson Rons – Rosemount, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chair</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Gary Benson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bonnie Anderson Rons – Rosemount, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gary Benson – New Brighton, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Building Construction Field Expertise</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority assists eligible institutions of higher education in the construction, financing, and refinancing of projects.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/110" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cortney Amundson – Savage, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychedelic Medicine Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Health care practitioner with experience in integrative medicine</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paula Brandt – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychedelic Medicine Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with expertise in the treatment of substance use disorders</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stefan Egan – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychedelic Medicine Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Veteran with treatment-resistant mental health conditions</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Margaret Gavian – Golden Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychedelic Medicine Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychologist with experience treating treatment-resistant mental health conditions</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Arielle McHenry – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychedelic Medicine Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with experience working in public health policy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Nielson – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychedelic Medicine Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with demonstrable experience in the medical use of psychedelic medicine</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kit O'Neill – Lakeville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychedelic Medicine Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Patient with treatment-resistant mental health conditions</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Tabor – Saint Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychedelic Medicine Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Veteran with treatment-resistant mental health conditions</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Adam Tomczik</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychedelic Medicine Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Patient with treatment-resistant mental health conditions</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ranji Varghese – Edina, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychedelic Medicine Task Force</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Psychiatrist with experience treating treatment-resistant mental health conditions</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Psychedelic Medicine Task Force:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Psychedelic Medicine Task Force advises the legislature on the legal, medical, and policy issues associated with the legalization of psychedelic medicine, including 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), psilocybin, and LSD.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Psychedelic Medicine Task Force can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/312" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heidi Heino – Centerville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Task Force on Priority Admissions to State-Operated Treatment Programs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member of the public with lived experience directly related to the task force’s purpose</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicholas Rasmussen – Savage, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Task Force on Priority Admissions to State-Operated Treatment Programs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">General Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Task Force on Priority Admissions to State-Operated Treatment Programs:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Task Force on Priority Admissions to State-Operated Treatment Programs evaluates the impact of statutory requirements for priority admissions on the state’s ability to serve all individuals in need of care in state-operated treatment programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Task Force on Priority Admissions to State-Operated Treatment Programs can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/314" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5847112023-07-14T21:02:08Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-584710" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-13T13:24:07ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy on the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy on the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David A. Stofferahn.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kathryn Hipp Carlson: </strong>Kathryn Hipp Carlson is an attorney at Hipp Carlson, PLLC, where she has practiced exclusively in the area of workers’ compensation since 1993. She was previously an attorney at Gilmore, Aafedt, Forde, Anderson &amp; Gary. Throughout her career, Carlson has advised and advocated for injured workers, as well as employers and insurers, at all levels of the workers’ compensation system. She also represents several medical insurers in intervention matters and serves as a mediator in workers’ compensation disputes. Carlson is a frequent speaker at continuing legal education seminars on workers’ compensation topics. She has also served on the board of directors for Minnesota Youth Athletic Services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Janis Douglass:</strong>Janis Douglass is a compensation attorney principal at the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals, where she assists in the resolution of workers’ compensation appeals. She also serves as a deputy court administrator, where she manages day-to-day court operations. Douglass currently volunteers her time to efforts that support the rights of gender nonconforming youth and to initiatives that increase diversity in the legal profession and in state employment. Her community involvement has included service on the boards of several nonprofit community organizations in St. Paul’s Frogtown neighborhood.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sandra Grove:</strong> Judge Sandra Grove is a workers’ compensation judge at the Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings. She was previously a lead attorney at the Law Offices of Stilp &amp; Grove. Grove practiced as a civil litigator for more than 25 years and has represented employees, employers, and insurers. She has also served as an adjunct professor of legal writing at William Mitchell College of Law and on the faculty for various continuing legal education programs. Grove’s community involvement has included serving as a mentor to students and new attorneys through the Minnesota Lavender Bar Association. She has also served on the board of directors of Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, including as chair in 2016. Her other volunteer work includes service on the MSBA Professionalism Committee and as a MSBA High School Mock Trial competition judge.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p>5847102023-07-14T21:02:15Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-584433" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-12T21:45:07ZToday, Governor Tim Walz chaired the Council of Governors’ 27th plenary meeting in Atlantic City, New Jersey. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, Governor Tim Walz chaired the Council of Governors’ 27th plenary meeting in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The meeting focused on the progress made on issues of cybersecurity, emergency management and disaster response, issues impacting the Air and Army National Guard, workforce matters, and strategic defense budget trends.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a 24-year veteran of the National Guard, it was an honor to convene the bipartisan Council of Governors meeting today and discuss how we can work together to advance our common interests in homeland security and emergency management,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Our country is better off when we come together in a bipartisan manner to solve problems. I am grateful for the opportunity to build on this state-federal partnership.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The President’s bipartisan Council of Governors was established by the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 as a forum for governors to exchange views, information, or advice with the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of Homeland Security, and the White House Homeland Security Council on matters of national security, homeland defense, and disaster response and recovery. Governor Walz, a 24-year veteran of the Army National Guard, was appointed by the President in 2021 to lead the council along with co-chair Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. Walz was first appointed to the council in 2019.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The 27th plenary meeting was attended by leaders across the federal government: the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Deputy Secretary of Defense, the Under Secretaries of the Army and Air Force, the Assistant Secretary for Homeland Defense and Hemispheric Affairs, Commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command and United States Northern Command General, the Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the Atlantic Area Commandant of the Coast Guard, the White House Homeland Security Advisor, and the Assistant to the President and Director of Intergovernmental Affairs.</p>5844332023-07-12T21:56:05Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-584432" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-12T18:24:07ZLieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today visited a Carver County dairy farm in Norwood Young America, Minnesota, to highlight the state’s work to support local farmers and producers and invest in Minnesota’s nation-leading agriculture industry.Funding for agriculture among new laws that took effect this month 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today visited a Carver County dairy farm in Norwood Young America, Minnesota, to highlight the state’s work to support local farmers and producers and invest in Minnesota’s nation-leading agriculture industry. The Lieutenant Governor toured The Grater Good LLC, a small business owned and operated by dairy farmer Christine Leonard. Photos from the event are attached.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Every day, Minnesota families rely on the milk our Minnesota dairy farmers produce,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“We are investing in our local producers through the DAIRI program, a grain indemnity fund, and expanded broadband access and will continue supporting the health and success of Minnesota farmers today and for generations to come. When we invest in farmers and producers, we improve the lives of all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last week, Governor Walz visited the Heldberg Dairy Farm in Le Sueur, Minnesota. Governor Walz signed the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/578333">agriculture and broadband bill</a> into law in May. New investments include broadband, emerging farmers, soil health, and farm safety and wellness. The bill provides $4 million for the Dairy Assistance, Investment, Relief Initiative (DAIRI). The program provides financial assistance to Minnesota dairy cow operations that produced less than 16,000,000 lbs. of milk in 2022 and that enrolled in the Dairy Margin Coverage Program, a federal dairy risk protection program. The bill also includes $10 million to establish the state’s first grain indemnity fund, providing protections and security for producers who have unpaid grain sales when grain buyers or warehouses become financially insolvent.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last month, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced new state and federal investments to expand broadband access across Minnesota. Minnesota secured nearly $652 million from the federal government and $67 million in state grants to build on the state’s efforts to expand broadband coverage. These announcements follow $100 million in broadband infrastructure funding Governor Walz signed into law this legislative session.</p>5844322023-07-12T21:55:46Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-584395" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-12T17:01:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today congratulated departing Commissioner Jim Schowalter and thanked him for his years of service at the Minnesota Department of Management and Budget (MMB). 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today congratulated departing Commissioner Jim Schowalter and thanked him for his years of service at the Minnesota Department of Management and Budget (MMB). Governor Walz has selected MMB Deputy Commissioner Erin Campbell to serve as the next Commissioner of Management and Budget.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>​“I’m deeply grateful for Commissioner Schowalter’s steady leadership and tireless service to the state of Minnesota,"</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Under his direction, the team at MMB has stabilized the state budget, allowing us to invest the state’s historic budget surplus on the things that matter most to Minnesotans: our children and families, a strong economic future, health and safety, and a state government that works for all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>​“We will truly miss Commissioner Schowalter’s invaluable guidance, strategic vision, and collaborative leadership,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“Commissioner Schowalter has helped us make so much progress towards a future that delivers reliable and effective services for Minnesota’s kids, families, businesses, and communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>​“I couldn’t imagine a more important role or time to serve the state than these past three years. I’m grateful to Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan for giving me another opportunity to lead this incredible team as we moved from fiscal crisis to a record surplus. After wrapping up this year’s historic budget, it’s a great time for me to start a new chapter,”</strong> said MMB Commissioner Jim Schowalter. <strong>“I’ve served as MMB commissioner longer than anyone else and know that I’m leaving the agency to a great team of purpose-driven leaders.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Jim Schowalter</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jim Schowalter was appointed by Governor Tim Walz as commissioner of Minnesota Management and Budget in September of 2020, returning to a role in which he’d served for Governor Mark Dayton. Across the two appointments, Schowalter has been the longest serving MMB Commissioner, leading a talented team to respond to record deficits, historic surpluses, and unprecedented health emergencies. Under Commissioner Schowalter’s leadership, the state regained a AAA rating.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In Erin Campbell’s nearly twenty years with the State of Minnesota, she has demonstrated outstanding service and exceptional leadership in every challenge laid in front of her,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Campbell is a talented, dedicated, and tireless public servant; there is no better person to lead MMB while we work to deliver for Minnesotans and position the state for a strong economic future.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Erin Campbell is a strategic, thoughtful, and highly qualified leader with a wealth of experience in state government, policy, human resources, and the state budget,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I can’t think of a better person to lead this agency, and I am excited to watch her excel in the role as she strives to build a state government that works for everyone.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am honored and humbled to be stepping into the role of Commissioner of Minnesota Management and Budget,”</strong> said Erin Campbell. <strong>“There is critical work ahead to retain and hire the workforce of the future, to ensure the state remains on strong fiscal footing, and to support our colleagues in state agencies as they implement recently enacted legislation - I am excited to get started. I look forward to working in collaboration with the Governor and Lt. Governor and with our partners in the legislature to ensure that state agencies are well positioned to deliver excellent service to Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Erin Campbell</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Erin Campbell was appointed Deputy Commissioner for Enterprise Employee Resources in July 2022. In this role, Erin led with a transformational approach to supporting an increasingly diverse workforce, working to improve employees’ experience and retention through increased engagement, equity, and inclusion. This appointment follows Campbell’s nearly twenty-year tenure with the State of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Prior to joining MMB, Erin served in several positions around state government including as the Assistant Commissioner for Facilities and Enterprise Services at the Department of Administration. In this role, Campbell oversaw the restoration of the Minnesota State Capitol, planned and executed the Capitol Grand Opening, and drove the advancement of sustainability in state government operations through the creation of the Office of Enterprise Sustainability. In May 2020, she stepped in to lead the Minnesota Department of Health’s Long Term Care Battle Plan, working to keep COVID-19 out of long-term care facilities. Prior to joining the Department of Administration, Campbell served as the deputy chief of staff for policy and legislative affairs for Governor Mark Dayton. She also spent six years working for the Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller. Campbell graduated from Concordia College in 2004 with majors in social work and Spanish and minors in political science and psychology.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Erin Campbell is one of the smartest and hardest working people I know,”</strong> said former Governor Mark Dayton. <strong>“She is deeply committed to providing excellent service to the people of Minnesota. She will be a superb Commissioner of MMB.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Erin in several different roles at the State and have seen firsthand her skills at work,”</strong> said former Commissioner of Health Jan Malcom. <strong>“Erin’s policy acumen and her ability to think and execute both strategically and tactically will serve MMB and the Administration very well. Her collaborative leadership style will help build on the critical partnership between MMB and other agencies.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As the Executive Director of the largest union bargaining unit in the State of Minnesota, representing more than 20,000 state employees, we believe that Erin will be a wonderful choice to build upon the progress we have made together,”</strong> said AFSCME Council 5 Executive Director Julie Bleyhl. <strong>“I have known Erin for many years and in this role, she will bring her unique skills and expertise in state budgeting, legislative affairs, and stakeholder engagement not only within the enterprise, but also with external stakeholders. Erin Campbell is the best person to help lead MMB under the values and mission of the Walz-Flanagan Administration.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About MMB</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Management and Budget is responsible for managing state finances, payroll, and human resources. It also provides systems for daily business operations and information access and analysis. As a central service agency, MMB serves the governor, the legislature, more than 100 state government entities, 56,000 state employees, and the public.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Schowalter’s last day as commissioner will be August 14, 2023. Campbell will start as commissioner on August 15.</p>5843952023-07-12T19:34:40Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-584392" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-11T20:30:36ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Owatonna and Steele County will host the 11th annual Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener this fall. The event will be held on Friday, Oct. 13 and Saturday, Oct. 14. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Owatonna and Steele County will host the 11th annual Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener this fall. The event will be held on Friday, Oct. 13 and Saturday, Oct. 14.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a life-long hunter and Pheasants Forever member, I look forward to celebrating one of my favorite Minnesota traditions in Owatonna and Steele County this fall,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The pheasant opener is an opportunity to celebrate the best of Minnesota – getting outdoors during a crisp Minnesota fall, spending time with friends and family, and taking full advantage of our natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities. Thank you to Owatonna and Steele County for hosting!”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener will showcase the many hunting, recreational, and community opportunities that Owatonna and Steele County have to offer, including more than 2,000 acres of state-managed public hunting land in Steele County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Governor’s Pheasant Opener is a great opportunity to highlight incredible public lands, outdoor recreation experiences, and vibrant communities in southern Minnesota,”</strong> said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“I look forward to spending a fall weekend on the sweeping Minnesota prairies and enjoying all that the Owatonna community has to offer.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Owatonna is located along the key transportation corridors of Interstate 35 and U.S. Highway 14, less than an hour’s drive south of the Twin Cities. It has rich outdoor opportunities, which include nearby Rice Lake State Park and the Straight River State Water Trail. Owatonna maintains more than 867 acres of parkland throughout 35 parks and has 17 miles of trails.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re very excited to host the Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Opener,”</strong> said Glenda Smith, Director of Visit Owatonna. <strong>“We look forward to the event shining a spotlight on pheasant hunting, our hunting resources, and our community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Steele County has long relied on its agricultural roots to power its economy, but now celebrates a skilled and diverse workforce. At twice the state average, Steele County has one of the highest concentrations of manufacturing jobs in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This thriving regional center serves as a shopping, tourism, and healthcare magnet for southern Minnesota. It consistently ranks among the most livable small towns in the country.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The event is being coordinated by <a href="https://www.exploreminnesota.com/">Explore Minnesota</a> , the <a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/">Minnesota Department of Natural Resources</a> , and <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fvisitowatonna.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C7afaf93210a445acffcf08db82485284%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638247019356913778%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=rLOCAxibu%2BOIXW49okH0s6hdcY%2FM3yG8bsGUp4oENgU%3D&amp;reserved=0">Visit Owatonna</a> . Online registration will be sent out in early September. Additional information and updates can be found at visitowatonna.org/mngpho2023.</p>5843922023-07-12T19:23:02Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-584386" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-11T19:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) will allocate $380 million to fund eight new infrastructure projects through the state’s Corridors of Commerce program.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) will allocate $380 million to fund eight new infrastructure projects through the state’s Corridors of Commerce program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re making historic investments in our state’s transportation system to improve the safety and connectivity of communities across the state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We depend on our roads and highways to</strong> <strong>safely get us to our jobs, education, child care, and businesses. These projects help grow our economy and support our goal of making Minnesota the best state to live, work, and grow up in – no matter where you live.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The projects receiving funding in 2023 include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>TH 13 (Savage/Burnsville) – Grade separations from Quentin to Nicollet Aves: $96,000,000</li> <li>I-94 (Albertville to Monticello) – Lane expansion: $78,000,000</li> <li>TH 14/CSAH 44 (Byron) – Construct a grade separation: $60,000,000</li> <li>TH 371/TH 210 (Baxter) – Construct a grade separation: $58,000,000</li> <li>TH 23/MN 9 (New London) – Construct a grade separation: $33,000,000</li> <li>TH 65 (Blaine) – Grade separations from 103 ^rd to 117 ^th Aves: $30,000,000</li> <li>TH 53 (Eveleth to Virginia) – Roadway improvements: $18,000,000</li> <li>TH 10 (Coon Rapids) – Lane expansion from CSAH 78 to CSAH 9: $8,000,000</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We appreciate the work of our many local partners who submitted Corridors of Commerce funding proposals,”</strong> said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. <strong>“While transportation funding needs are significant in communities across our state, MnDOT is grateful to the legislature for making historic infrastructure investments this session and we’ll continue partnering with proposers to explore other funding options for projects that did not receive funding in this round of the Corridors of Commerce program.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This is the fourth round of Corridors of Commerce funding provided by the Minnesota Legislature and includes a total of $403 million, including $250 million authorized by the Legislature in 2021 and $153 million provided in 2023. $22 million will be reserved for project readiness activities for potential future Corridors of Commerce candidate projects.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Corridors of Commerce program was created by the Minnesota Legislature in 2013 with a goal of focusing transportation investments on state highway projects that directly and indirectly foster economic growth for the state of Minnesota. The program is outside of MnDOT’s regular State Road Construction program and Corridors of Commerce funding is dependent on legislative appropriation. The <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/161.088">authorizing statute (161.088)</a> also includes specific requirements for project eligibility and scoring.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to this year’s Corridors of Commerce funding, the omnibus transportation bill included $6 billion for transportation and will allow MnDOT and its partners at the Metropolitan Council and local and tribal governments to make investments in our state’s multimodal transportation system. Combined with federal resources coming to Minnesota from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, legislation enacted during the 2023 legislative session will result in transformational improvements that maximize the health of people, the environment, and our economy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More information about the Corridors of Commerce program – including past awards and recent applicants – can be found on <a href="http://www.dot.state.mn.us/corridorsofcommerce/index.html" style="font-family: Verdana;">MnDOT’s website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">.</p>5843862023-07-12T19:16:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-584394" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-11T14:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that Minnesota is a top-five state for businesses, according to a recent CNBC study.CNBC study ranks Minnesota fifth in the nation based on 86 indicators1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that Minnesota is a top-five<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnbc.com%2F2023%2F07%2F11%2Famericas-top-states-for-business-2023-the-full-rankings.html&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C6536332b7e8d49a6568f08db82e2e52b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638247683274433736%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=KUFIStFKHGAZwmFYxysihyiOZyj0MNUyy7sKpelTT7w%3D&amp;reserved=0">state for businesses</a>, according to a recent CNBC study. Minnesota’s ranking is based on 86 key indicators in 10 categories of competitiveness, including workforce, infrastructure, economy, health, and business friendliness.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Businesses are at the heart of our communities, our workforce, and our state’s economy.</strong> <strong>They drive our economic growth, culture, and innovation,”</strong>said Governor Walz. “ <strong>From investing in broadband and our highway system to child care and job training, we will continue working hard to make Minnesota the best state to own a business.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Nearly half of Minnesota’s workforce is employed by a small business, and this ranking speaks to our strong support of workers and business owners,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Minnesotans work best when we work together to provide solutions and support for entrepreneurs and workers alike. Just as small business owners and employees work hard every day to better our state, we will continue to make Minnesota work better for them.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This ranking comes as the Governor and Lieutenant Governor recently announced <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/583176" style="font-family: Verdana;">state</a> and <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/583174" style="font-family: Verdana;">federal</a> investments to expand broadband access and as Governor Walz recently signed the state’s largest-ever <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579789" style="font-family: Verdana;">infrastructure bill</a>, which will create good-paying jobs, invest in infrastructure, and bring long-term benefits to communities across the state. Last week, Governor Walz visited a microchip manufacturing company in Bloomington to highlight investments Minnesota made in Minnesota’s high-tech manufacturing industry, including a $250 million investment in expanding Minnesota’s microchip industry that took effect July 1.</p>5843942023-07-12T19:30:31Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-584372" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-11T13:00:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced more than $7 million in grants have been awarded to 47 organizations to provide young people workforce development and training opportunities.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced more than $7 million in grants have been awarded to 47 organizations to provide young people workforce development and training opportunities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The job training we provide for our young people today will pay off for our entire state tomorrow,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This training will grow our workforce and help thousands of kids fill the good-paying jobs we have available and need to fill right now. With these grants, 47 organizations will be able to provide that leg up, helping us reach our goal of allowing every child, in every neighborhood and community across our state, to thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“By investing in workforce development and training opportunities across the state, we’re sending the message to young people: we believe in you and we want you to succeed,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“When we remove barriers to employment and provide training opportunities for disadvantaged youth, we invest in the future of our state and set our young people on a path to success. I’m grateful for the work of these organizations and proud to be supporting this important work.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED's <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/office-youth-development/" target="_blank">Office of Youth Development</a> awarded the Youth at Work grants to organizations providing services to economically disadvantaged or at-risk youth ages 14 to 24. These programs will support youth of color, youth with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged youth by connecting them with good-paying jobs in high-growth industries.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The</strong><strong>Youth at Work program services young people of Minnesota who face barriers to employment and educational success</strong>,” said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“One of our goals at DEED is to create opportunities for our most vulnerable populations where obstacles might exist, and these youth development and job training programs are crucial to the well-being of our communities and our state's economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Youth at Work program has statewide impact: metro-focused organizations received 59% of available funds while Greater Minnesota received 39% of available funds. The remaining 2% of available funds went to organizations serving both Metro and Greater Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As the state continues to make investments to get young Minnesotans into training and development programs, DEED's Youth at Work program partners across the state are helping support the workforce of today and tomorrow in finding economic stability and developing new skills. The program is in high demand: last fiscal year, DEED received over $17.7 million in funding requests from 60 organizations for the Youth at Work program. Lawmakers recently doubled funding for the program in order to provide the necessary support.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Youth at Work program is one of the ways DEED is investing</strong> <strong>in Minnesota’s future. Helping youth gain soft skills and jobs skills are critical to building a strong pipeline of workers and advance Minnesota's economy,”</strong>said DEED Deputy Commissioner for Workforce Development Marc Majors. <strong>“Thank you to Governor Walz, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan, and lawmakers for making this program a priority.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The following 47 organizations have been awarded grants:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Achieve Twin Cities -</strong>$125,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>African Community Services -</strong> $50,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>African Immigrant Community Services -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>American Indian OIC -</strong>$176,059</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anoka County -</strong>$147,150</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Appetite for Change -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Banyan Community -</strong>$60,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brooklynk</strong><strong>-</strong>$125,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Career Solutions -</strong>$115,816</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Center for African Immigrants and Refugees Organization (CAIRO) -</strong> $150,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>City of Duluth -</strong>$236,800</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>City of Minneapolis (Step Up) -</strong>$775,00</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>City of St. Paul (Right Track) -</strong>$775,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cloquet Public Schools -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Comunidades</strong><strong>Latinas Unidas En</strong><strong>Servicio</strong><strong>(CLUES) -</strong>$134,555</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services (CMJTS) -</strong>$188,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Construction Careers Foundation -</strong> $50,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cookie Cart -</strong>$82,972</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cristo Rey Jesuit High School -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dunwoody College -</strong>$150,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>East Side Neighborhood Services -</strong>$89,713</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elpis Enterprises -</strong>$50,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Face to Face -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Faribault Public Schools -</strong>$83,712</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Goodwill Easter Seals -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Greater Bemidji -</strong>$197,500</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>HIRED -</strong>$125,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karen Organization of Minnesota -</strong>$90,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Keystone Community Services -</strong>$65,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>MAHUBE-OTWA -</strong>$50,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Merrick Community Services -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Northeast Minnesota Office of Job Training (NEMOJT) -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pine Technical College -</strong> $50,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Project for Pride in Living (PPL) -</strong>$50,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Project Legacy -</strong>$200,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Red Lake Nation -</strong>$300,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Reve Academy -</strong>$50,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Programs (RMCEP) -</strong> $110,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Southwest MN Private Industry Council and South-Central Workforce Council/Minnesota Valley Action Council (RWDA 5) -</strong> $448,323</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Somali Community Resettlement Services –</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Studio 180 -</strong>$50,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tree Trust -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Urban Boatbuilders -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Urban Roots -</strong>$100,000</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Wildflyer</strong><strong>Coffee -</strong>$200,000</p> <strong xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Workforce Development, Inc. -</strong> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">$225,000</p>5843722023-07-12T19:25:55Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583830" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-06T21:00:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited the Heldberg Dairy Farm in Le Sueur County, Minnesota, to highlight the state’s work to support local farmers and producers and invest in Minnesota’s nation-leading agriculture industry.Funding for agriculture among new laws that took effect this month1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited the Heldberg Dairy Farm in Le Sueur County, Minnesota, to highlight the state’s work to support local farmers and producers and invest in Minnesota’s nation-leading agriculture industry. The agriculture bill, signed into law this session, provided new support for the agriculture industry – including for dairy farms, grain and livestock producers, and emerging farmers. Photos from the visit are <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CEllie.Anderson%40state.mn.us%7C4c8288bf35634dc48f7308db7e636893%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638242737714417021%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=5r%2BX0I9E9af37Qm6fNmjRGwX5KrnHcNp1dZun9aUmMo%3D&amp;reserved=0">available online</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>We lean on our local farmers and producers to fuel, feed, and sustain our families and our economy,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota farmers deserve support and stability during challenging times. That’s why</strong> <strong>we made strong investments to provide security for our local producers through a grain indemnity fund, the DAIRI program, and expanded broadband access. We will keep working to ensure our agriculture industry – and the families behind it – are strong.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz signed the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/578333">agriculture and broadband bill</a> into law in May. New investments include broadband, emerging farmers, soil health, and farm safety and wellness. The bill provides $4 million for the Dairy Assistance, Investment, Relief Initiative (DAIRI). The program provides financial assistance to Minnesota dairy cow operations that produced less than 16,000,000 lbs. of milk in 2022 and that enrolled in the Dairy Margin Coverage Program, a federal dairy risk protection program. The bill also includes $10 million to establish the state’s first grain indemnity fund, providing protections and security for producers who have unpaid grain sales when grain buyers or warehouses become financially insolvent.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last week, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced new state and federal investments to expand broadband access across Minnesota. Minnesota secured nearly $652 million from the federal government and $67 million in state grants to build on the state’s efforts to expand broadband coverage. These announcements follow $100 million in broadband infrastructure funding Governor Walz signed into law this legislative session</p>5838302023-07-07T20:31:54Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583487" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-07-03T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota sent a crew of 17 wildland firefighters to Manitoba, Canada. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota sent a crew of 17 wildland firefighters to Manitoba, Canada. The hand crew was deployed after a mutual aid request from Manitoba through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) partnership with the Great Lakes Forest Fire Compact.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>Thank you to the Minnesota wildland firefighters who answered the call to help our neighbors in the north,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“</strong> <strong>We have a strong partnership and will continue to do everything we can to share resources and contain the Canadian wildfires.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Canada is experiencing a historic fire season this year and I’m proud that our DNR wildland firefighters are ready to protect life and property in Minnesota and beyond, whenever the call comes in,”</strong> DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen said. <strong>“The Minnesota DNR’s partnership with Canada and with our neighboring states ensures we can quickly and efficiently share resources to respond to wildfires throughout the region.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The crew, which departed from the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center in Grand Rapids, will support Canada’s ongoing wildfire suppression efforts. Upon arriving in Manitoba, they will receive their initial assignment to support ground suppression efforts, likely helping establish fire fuel breaks in the remote backcountry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">These international mutual aid agreements, established through the Great Lakes Forest Fire compact, enable the partnering states and provinces – Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Manitoba, and Ontario – to share firefighting resources upon request throughout the Great Lakes region. The partnership allows for cooperation and collaboration as well as learning and training experiences for staff to hone their skills and expertise. During Minnesota’s extensive 2021 wildfire season, DNR contacted the compact for additional support and received access to engines, aircraft, and firefighters.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">When considering the deployment of wildland firefighters and resources beyond Minnesota, DNR coordinates closely with Minnesota’s interagency federal and tribal wildland fire management partners to ensure response needs in the state are covered before committing resources for out-of-state response.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Photos and soundbites will be available after 4 p.m. in the <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/mediaroom/News%20release%20resources/7-3-23%20Firefighters/">DNR Media Room</a> . For questions specific to the deployment of DNR wildland firefighters or the mutual aid agreement, please contact Leanne Langeberg, DNR public information officer, at 218-322-2739.</p>5834872023-07-03T21:17:33Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583406" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-30T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that the application process is now open for the new position of director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that the application process is now open for the new position of director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). The director will be responsible for building the new state agency and will play a key leadership role in establishing and regulating the new adult-use cannabis market in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On May 30, Gov. Walz <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579413">signed legislation</a> making Minnesota the 23rd state to legalize adult-use cannabis. The law establishes the OCM to regulate cannabis, including for the adult-use market, the Medical Cannabis Program, and for lower-potency hemp edibles. The OCM will be responsible for issuing licenses and developing regulations outlining how and when businesses can participate in the industry. The director will serve as the chief executive and administrative officer of the OCM.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Applications will be accepted through July 31, with a final candidate named in early fall.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Those interested can find more information and apply for the position through the <a href="https://careers.mn.gov/psc/mnjob/MNCAREERS/HRCR/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&amp;FOCUS=Applicant&amp;SiteId=1001&amp;JobOpeningId=67167&amp;PostingSeq=1&amp;languageCd=ENG&amp;PortalActualURL=https%3a%2f%2fcareers.mn.gov%2fpsc%2fmnjob%2fMNCAREERS%2fHRCR%2fc%2fHRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL%3fPage%3dHRS_APP_JBPST_FL%26FOCUS%3dApplicant%26SiteId%3d1001%26JobOpeningId%3d67167%26PostingSeq%3d1%26languageCd%3dENG&amp;PortalRegistryName=MNCAREERS&amp;PortalServletURI=https%3a%2f%2fcareers.mn.gov%2fpsp%2fmnjob%2f&amp;PortalURI=https%3a%2f%2fcareers.mn.gov%2fpsc%2fmnjob%2f&amp;PortalHostNode=HRMS&amp;NoCrumbs=yes&amp;PortalKeyStruct=yes&amp;">Minnesota Careers website</a> .</p>5834062023-06-30T21:23:42Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583409" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-30T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Accountancy; Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design; Board of Cosmetologist Examiners; Board of Firefighter Training and Education; Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training; Board of the Minnesota State Academies; Board of Water and Soil Resources; Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board; Gambling Control Board; Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Development; Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council; State Advisory Council on Mental Health; and State Capitol Preservation Commission. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Accountancy; Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design; Board of Cosmetologist Examiners; Board of Firefighter Training and Education; Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training; Board of the Minnesota State Academies; Board of Water and Soil Resources; Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board; Gambling Control Board; Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Development; Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council; State Advisory Council on Mental Health; and State Capitol Preservation Commission.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Douglas Moore – Plymouth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Accountancy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Scott Van Binsbergen</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Diane Rosenwald – Plymouth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Accountancy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Alan Wilensky</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Accountancy:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Accountancy examines, licenses, and regulates certified public accountants and registered accounting practitioners.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Accountancy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/16" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daniel Cermak – Dellwood, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jami Neiber</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christian Faste – Burnsville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Scott Holm</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daniel Hunter – Mahtomedi, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Geoscientist</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Keith Rapp</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Daniel McAninch – Crosslake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed Land Surveyor</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Daniel Baar</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Timothy Meyer – Duluth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed Architect</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Tari Rayala</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Melisa Rodriguez – Eagan, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed Engineer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design licenses and regulates architects, engineers, land surveyors, landscape architects, geologists, and soil scientists, and certifies interior designers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/18" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rhonda Besel – Austin, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Cosmetologist Examiners</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Cosmetologist</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joi Bohn – New Prague, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Cosmetologist Examiners</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Nail Technician</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jodi Friendshuh</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Catrina Mairose – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Cosmetologist Examiners</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Carol Logan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Cosmetologist Examiners:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Cosmetologist Examiners promotes public health and safety by inspecting salons and schools, licensing practitioners and establishments, and enforcing laws and regulations surrounding cosmetology practices.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Cosmetologist Examiners can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/165" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Falcon – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Firefighter Training and Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Home Rule Charter and Statutory Cities Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Roger Ihrke</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christopher Kummer – Maple Grove, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Firefighter Training and Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota State Fire Department Association Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Lohmiller – Cross Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Firefighter Training and Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate McKay – Columbia Heights, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Firefighter Training and Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota State Fire Department Association Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Roxanne Altmeyer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Puera – Austin, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Firefighter Training and Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Schulte – Austin, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Firefighter Training and Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Professional Firefighters Association Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Richard Loveland</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Schwankl – Pequot Lakes, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Firefighter Training and Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota State Fire Department Association Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Robert Dixon Jr.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chad Vermeersch – Cloquet, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Firefighter Training and Education</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Professional Firefighters Association Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1 <s>4</s> , 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Chris Ford</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Firefighter Training and Education:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Firefighter Training and Education supports firefighter training and education, funds standardized training, and licenses firefighters in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Firefighter Training and Education can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/24" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jason Bennett – North Mankato, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Municipal Police Officer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Foster – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Peace Officer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Luke Hennen – Jordan, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">County Sheriff and Chair</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bobbi Holtberg – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Elizabeth Richards</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Revering – Crystal, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Police Chief</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kelly McCarthy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Troy Wolbersen – Alexandria, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">County Sheriff</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training licenses peace officers, establishes minimum qualifications and standards of conduct, and regulates professional peace officer education and continuing education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/29" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Annette Freiheit – Winona, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of the Minnesota State Academies</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Superintendent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Marty Duncan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katherine Wangberg – Bemidji, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of the Minnesota State Academies</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Deaf Community Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of the Minnesota State Academies:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of the Minnesota State Academies governs the State Academies for the Deaf and Blind. It promotes academic standards based on high expectations and an assessment system to measure academic performance toward the achievement of those standards.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of the Minnesota State Academies can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/155" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lori Cox – Carver, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Water and Soil Resources</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Citizen Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Gerald VanAmburg</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jill Crafton – Bloomington, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Water and Soil Resources</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Watershed District Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Todd Holman – St. Cloud, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Water and Soil Resources</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chair</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Gerald VanAmburg</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelly Kirkpatrick – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Water and Soil Resources</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Elected City Official – Non-Metro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Neil Peterson – Saint Hilaire, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Water and Soil Resources</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">County Comissioner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Runk – Oak Park Heights, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Water and Soil Resources</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Elected City Official - Seven-County Metro Area</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Carly Johnson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Water and Soil Resources:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Water and Soil Resources oversees and coordinates the water and soil resources management activities of local units of government through approval of local plans, administration of state grants, cost-sharing contracts, performance evaluation, and administrative appeals and hearings. The board’s mission is to improve and protect Minnesota’s water and soil resources by working in partnership with local organizations and private landowners.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Water and Soil Resources can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/38" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Diane Burton – Lakeville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Michael Jordan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Paul Drucker – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Representative of Minnesota Hospitals</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kevin Miller</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Thomas Edminson – Rosemount, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metro EMS</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: J.B. Guiton</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Edwards – Dennison, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Emergency Medical Technician/Paramedic</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erik Jankila – Hibbing, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Representative of Fire Chiefs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Matthew Simpson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Robert Wilcox – New Prague, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Family Practice Physician, Involved in EMS</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: John Pate</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board advises applicants for state or federal emergency medical services funds, reviews and comments on such applications, and approves the use of such funds unless otherwise required by federal law; makes recommendations to the legislature on improving the access, delivery, and effectiveness of the state’s emergency medical services delivery system; and establishes procedures for investigating, hearing, and resolving complaints against emergency medical services providers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/57" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mike Sundin – Esko, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Gambling Control Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Geno Fragnito</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Gambling Control Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Gambling Control Board regulates the lawful gambling industry to ensure the integrity of operations and provide for the lawful use of net profits. The board oversees an in-depth licensing process, monitors licensees’ gambling activities and expenditures, and provides education and guidance to lawful gambling organizations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Gambling Control Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/63" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Amundson – South St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">County Social Services Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Katherine Meerse</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Wachen Anderson – New Brighton, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Higher Education Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Aaron Deris</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Supreet Deshpande – Plymouth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Physician Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Leila Goggleye – Bemidji, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tribal Council Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>LaMar Hicks</strong> <strong>– Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Melissa Wiklund – Bloomington, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Senator</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Zielinski – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Special Education Coordinator</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Michele Kvikstad</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention advises and assists the Minnesota Department of Education with fulfilling federal and state early childhood special education obligations for children with disabilities and their families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Childhood Intervention can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/188" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Abdirahman Ali-Mumin – West St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Harmonysue Kuller</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaron Arvig – Lonsdale, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chanell Calhoun – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Center for Independent Living Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Mike Peterson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pamela Jo Peters – Savage, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Myrna Peterson – Grand Rapids, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tom Reed – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kenneth Trebelhorn – Waseca, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council provides consumer-responsive, consumer-driven advice to the State of Minnesota for the planning, implementation, and evaluation of activities carried out under the federal Assistive Technology Act grant. The council advises the STAR Program, which promotes access to and acquires the assistive technology people need to live, learn, work, and play, including providing loans and demonstrations of assistive technology for Minnesotans with disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Assistive Technology Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/85" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Claudia Daml – Golden Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Mental Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mental Health Provider</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Peter Fischer – Maplewood, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Mental Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Dave Lislegard</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Advisory Council on Mental Health:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Advisory Council on Mental Health advises the Governor and state agencies about policy, programs, and services affecting people with mental illness as well as educating the public about mental health.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Advisory Council on Mental Health can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/142" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dan Hartman – Duluth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Capitol Preservation Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jack Fraser</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Megan Kluthe – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Capitol Preservation Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Nathaniel Hood</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mark Westpfahl – South St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Capitol Preservation Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Frank White – Woodbury, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Capitol Preservation Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Amber Annis</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Capitol Preservation Commission:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Capitol Preservation Commission coordinates the restoration, protection, risk management, and preservation of the Capitol building, reviews and modifies the restoration plan periodically, and implements a comprehensive financial plan to fund the preservation and restoration of the Capitol building.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Capitol Preservation Commission can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/186" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5834092023-06-30T21:23:39Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583402" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-29T17:24:07ZToday the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Mark C. Vandelist and the Honorable Tim D. Wermager. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today the Commission on Judicial Selection announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Mark C. Vandelist and the Honorable Tim D. Wermager. These seats will be chambered in Shakopee in Scott County and Hastings in Dakota County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for these vacancies. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on July 20 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter</strong> . The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-August.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the First Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5834022023-06-30T21:23:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583348" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-29T13:24:07ZLieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan visited Moorhead today to highlight investments in infrastructure and broadband. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan visited Moorhead today to highlight investments in infrastructure and broadband. She first visited 702 Communications to celebrate recent state and federal funding to expand broadband access for more Minnesotans. In the afternoon, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan toured the 11th street underpass project in downtown Moorhead, a project where final funding was provided in the transportation bill, and visited Weld Hall on the Minnesota State University Moorhead campus, one of the projects included in the infrastructure package. Lieutenant Governor Flanagan was joined by Senator Rob Kupec, Representative Heather Keeler, and Moorhead city officials throughout the visit. Photos from today’s events are linked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720309416700&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C3bd75a483ed94e7dd70808db78df8146%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638236673652613282%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Ho%2BfbIQM4%2FsODB7JlvhxVOtangm4aS6tTtv81%2BH%2BllM%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This session, we focused on making life safer, easier, and more affordable for Minnesotans. It was great to see these investments in action across the community of Moorhead and Clay County,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Whether it’s expanding access to high-speed internet, connecting communities through improvements to transportation and infrastructure, or investing in local public safety departments, communities in every corner of the state will see and feel these investments.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This week, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan announced new <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/583176">state</a> and <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/583174">federal</a> investments to expand broadband access across Minnesota. Minnesota secured nearly $652 million from the federal government and $67 million in state grants to build on the state’s efforts to expand broadband coverage. 702 Communications will receive over $2.6 million to expand broadband coverage in Clay County. These announcements follow $100 million in broadband infrastructure funding Governor Walz signed into law this legislative session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz signed the state’s largest-ever <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579789">infrastructure bill</a> into law on June 1, which will create good-paying jobs, invest in infrastructure, and bring long-term benefits to communities across the state. The infrastructure package includes $23 million for the renovation of Weld Hall on the Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) campus, ensuring it is modernized and equipped for 21st century learning. The oldest building on MSUM’s campus, Weld was built in 1915 and last renovated 50 years ago.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lieutenant Governor Flanagan also visited downtown Moorhead’s 11th street underpass project, which received $10 million in the transportation omnibus bill this session. The funds will be used to complete the project, connecting the community and improving safety and mobility in downtown Moorhead.</p>5833482023-06-30T21:23:46Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583176" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-28T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced $67 million in state grants for internet providers to expand broadband coverage to tens of thousands of Minnesotans, furthering the administration’s commitment to providing high-speed broadband for all Minnesotans. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced $67 million in state grants for internet providers to expand broadband coverage to tens of thousands of Minnesotans, furthering the administration’s commitment to providing high-speed broadband for all Minnesotans. The announcement comes days after the federal government announced a $652 million investment in Minnesota’s broadband infrastructure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“There is extraordinary momentum behind our work to connect more Minnesotans to broadband,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“Broadband is an essential component of our state’s infrastructure and it’s a lifeline for Minnesota students, workers, small businesses, families, and communities. We’re making big investments in the future of our economy and workforce, while ensuring Minnesotans stay connected to the people who matter most.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Every Minnesotan deserves reliable and affordable high-speed internet,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“It’s how we run our businesses, do our homework, and connect to our loved ones. I’m so proud of the incredible investments we’re making so that whether you live in Moorhead or St. Paul, Thief River Falls or Owatonna, every Minnesotan will have access to this basic necessity.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In total, 30 broadband expansion projects around Minnesota will receive grants from two broadband programs administered by the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) Office of Broadband Development. Providers estimate the funding will extend new high-speed broadband access to more than 13,100 Minnesota homes and business in 26 counties. Grant awards by project can be found below and on DEED's website.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Broadband is crucial for Minnesota’s economy. It provides unrivaled flexibility for workers and businesses and helps develop local economies across the state,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“We’re proud to award these grants to broadband providers who will help us foster more connected and equitable communities everywhere.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Broadband expansion is a major priority for the Walz-Flanagan Administration and DEED. The state is pursuing a 2026 goal that every Minnesota home and business has access to at least one broadband provider with download speeds of at least 100 megabits per second (Mbps) and upload speeds of at least 20 Mbps.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Today’s announcement includes investments from two DEED programs:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The Border-to-Border Broadband Development Grant Program, through which grantees can use the funds to reimburse up to half the eligible cost of deploying broadband infrastructure, with funding for a single project capped at $5 million. Projects must offer speeds of at least 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload.</li> <li>The Low-Population Density Program, which funds up to 75% of eligible project costs to help providers build out broadband infrastructure in some of the more remote or costly-to-serve areas of the state.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re grateful for the partnership of so many broadband providers and we’re excited to work with them to connect more Minnesotans to high-speed broadband,”</strong> said Bree Maki, Executive Director of the DEED Office of Broadband Development.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>More funding coming soon</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The grants announced today are part of a concerted strategy to expand broadband statewide.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This is the eighth time DEED has provided funding through the Border-to-Border program since 2014. More than 103,000 homes and businesses have received high-speed broadband access through nearly $296 million in previous awards to over 270 grantees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In May, Governor Walz signed legislation providing $100 million to the program next biennium. DEED will open its next Border-to-Border grant round this fall.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED is also administering the Line Extension Program, which connects residents and businesses that lack broadband to local service providers and then helps pay to extend broadband to those locations. Residents and businesses who believe they are unserved can <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/broadband/extension/" target="_blank">learn more and apply online</a> or by calling 651-259-7610 or emailing <a href="mailto:DEED.broadband@state.mn.us" target="_blank">DEED.broadband@state.mn.us</a> . To date, nearly 2,500 homes and businesses have registered for the program.</p>5831762023-06-29T16:14:40Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583175" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-27T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Animal Health, Board on Aging, Clean Water Council, Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage, Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission, Metropolitan Council, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board, Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, and Rural Health Advisory Committee. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Animal Health, Board on Aging, Clean Water Council, Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage, Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission, Metropolitan Council, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board, Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, and Rural Health Advisory Committee.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Steve Neil – Northfield, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Animal Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Livestock Producer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Dean Compart</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brandon Schafer – Goodhue, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Animal Health</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Livestock Producer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jim Vagts</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Animal Health</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Animal Health protects the health of Minnesota domestic animals and carries out disease control programs for livestock and poultry.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Animal Health can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/17" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christina Cauble – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jim Varpness</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aminata Cham – Shakopee, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Penny Solberg</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Danielle Luniewski – Fairmont, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Mary Jo Schifsky</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pamela Parker – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kathleen Kelso</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alan Perish – Browerville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carolyn Perron – Fridley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Patricia Schommer</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carrie Tripp – Maple Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Patrick McFarland</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>William Tiedemann – Mendota Heights, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Susan Mezzenga</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board on Aging:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board on Aging develops, coordinates, evaluates, and administers federal and state funds for programs for the aging; makes grants to seven area agencies on aging and nonprofit agencies; and advocates for older persons.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board on Aging can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/104" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gary Burdorf</strong> <strong>– Arlington, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Township Officers Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ole Olmanson – Roseville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tribal Government Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jordan Vandal</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Wilson – Edina, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">City Government Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Patrick Shea</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Clean Water Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Clean Water Council advises on the administration and implementation of the Clean Water Legacy Act. The Clean Water Council also makes biennial recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature on expenditures from the Clean Water Fund, which receives funding from the Legacy Amendment sales tax.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Clean Water Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carl Crawford – Proctor, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Wayne Doe – Coon Rapids, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Andre Dukes – Blaine, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Twauna Mullins – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jude Nnadi – Brooklyn Center, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage advises the Governor and the Legislature on issues confronting the constituency of the council, legislative changes needed to improve the economic and social condition of the constituency of the council, and implications and effects of proposed administrative and legislative changes on the constituency of the council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/177" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karlin Ziegler – Hayfield, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 6 Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Thomas Ryan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission conducts system planning and designates regionally significant parks and trails in Greater Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/203" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Judy Johnson – Plymouth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 1 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Reva Chamblis – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 2 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tyronne Carter – Minnetonka, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 3 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deb Barber – Shakopee, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 4 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Pacheco Jr. – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 5 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Anjuli Cameron</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Robert Lilligren – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 6 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: John Pacheco Jr.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Yassin Osman – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 7 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Robert Lilligren</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Anjuli Cameron – Edina, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 8 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Yassin Osman</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Diego Morales – Coon Rapids, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 9 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Peter Lindstrom – Falcon Heights, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 10 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Gail Cederberg – Mahtomedi, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 11 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Susan Vento</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Susan Vento – Maplewood, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 12 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Gail Cederberg</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chai Lee – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 13 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Toni Carter – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 14 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tenzin Dolkar – Inver Grove Heights, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 15 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Wendy Wulff – Lakeville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District 16 Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Metropolitan Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Metropolitan Council is a state-funded regional planning agency that serves the Twin Cities’ seven-county metropolitan area. The council’s mission is to work with local communities to guide growth and develop a comprehensive regional planning framework that focuses on transportation, wastewater, housing, parks, and aviation systems.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Metropolitan Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/80" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate Kelly – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Business Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Emerson – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Community Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nathan Prouty – Apple Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Community Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lois Duffy – Afton, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Community Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Ellenberger – Orono, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Community Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Moncada – St. Louis Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Community Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Curtis Johnson – Little Canada, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Local Government Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Commission on National and Community Service:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service, also known as ServeMinnesota, provides grant funding, training, and technical assistance to nonprofits, government agencies, and schools that run AmeriCorps programs. The commission also pioneers strategic initiatives in a variety of impact areas to solve complex social problems. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/105" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katie Usem – Grand Marais, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Tohow Siyad</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Naveen Aggarwal – Maple Grove, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Grover Jones</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Deborah Gleason – Minnetonka, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Lakisha Witter</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jacqueline Rambin – Apple Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Adeline Wright</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mame Fall – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kenneth Rance</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board is established to award grants to nonprofit corporations to fund loans to businesses owned by minority or low-income persons, women, veterans, and people with disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/94" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sumukha Terakanambi – Lakeville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jillian Nelson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dupree Edwards – Crystal, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alan Joe Morrison – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Brittanie Hernandez-Wilson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Hewitt – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Higher Education Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Jemtrud – Savage, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Michelle Albeck</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Heather Kainz – Britt, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Mary Martin</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lee Shervheim – Lino Lakes, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Nichols – St. Cloud, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kate Quale</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bonnie Jean Smith – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Lisa Emmert</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Erin Krohn-Schwab – New Ulm, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jennifer Santema</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Marsh – Mora, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parent Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jenny Arndt</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joel Liestman – Maple Grove, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Private Nonprofit Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Dan Reed</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Purrington – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Protection and Advocacy Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Daniel Stewart</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Garrett Petrie – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Department of Education Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lelsi Kerkhoff – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Department of Human Services - Disability Services Division</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christine Mueller – Roseville, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Aging Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kay Hendrikson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Gemlo – Golden Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Department of Health Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Wendy Berghorst</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities works to ensure that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports and services to achieve increased independence, productivity, self-determination, integration, and inclusion in their community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/109" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kurt Stumpf – Sauk Rapids, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Superintendent</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Steven Unowsky</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Justin Hoelscher – Farmington, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Administrator of a Cooperative Unit</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Amy York</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Trask – Solway, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Non-Metro Teacher</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Paul Peltier</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Janie Yang – Brooklyn Center, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Teacher - Charter School</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Cesar Montufar</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Professional Education Licensing and Standards Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board is responsible for licensing teachers, developing licensure verification requirements, and evaluating candidates for compliance with statutory or rule requirements for licensure.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/234" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Troy Mayer – Menahga, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Volunteer Ambulance Service Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Thomas Vanderwal</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Margaret Kalina – Alexandria, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Registered Nurse</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Laura Schwartzwald – Brainerd, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed Health Care Professional</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amanda Schermerhorn – Detroit Lakes, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jeff Carpenter</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Trevor Coons – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rural Health Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Consumer Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: July 3, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Rural Health Advisory Committee:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Rural Health Advisory Committee advises the Commissioner of Health and other state agencies on rural health issues.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Rural Health Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/138" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5831752023-06-29T16:14:30Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583174" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-26T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota will receive nearly $652 million from the federal government to build on the state’s efforts to expand broadband coverage and connect Minnesotans and businesses across the state with high-speed internet.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota will receive nearly $652 million from the federal government to build on the state’s efforts to expand broadband coverage and connect Minnesotans and businesses across the state with high-speed internet. This announcement follows $100 million in broadband infrastructure funding Governor Walz signed into law this legislative session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In Minnesota, we’ve made historic investments to connect more homes, businesses, and communities</strong> <strong>with the high-speed internet that today’s economy requires. The funding will help us make sure those efforts reach each end every household across our state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota has an ambitious goal to increase broadband access and a collection of providers ready to expand our high-speed network, and we’re grateful our federal partners are helping us pursue broadband for all.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re working hard to increase broadband access so more Minnesotans can connect online to work, school, telehealth, and their loved ones,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“We know that these connections and services aren’t a nice to have – they’re a must have in our increasingly digital world. The new funding provided today will benefit Minnesotans everywhere as we connect more people to broadband as quickly as possible.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“<strong>We should be able to bring high-speed internet to every family in America — regardless of their zip code. With this federal funding we will reach every corner of Minnesota by bringing needed high-speed internet access to schools, homes, and health care centers</strong>,” said Senator Klobuchar. “ <strong>This funding is based on a bill I introduced that passed as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and as co-chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, I’ll keep working across the aisle to make sure all Minnesotans can reliably access the high-speed internet they need.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Broadband is the infrastructure of the 21st Century. It isn’t just nice to have, it’s essential if we’re going to build an economy that works for everyone,”</strong> said Senator Smith. <strong>“This funding, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, means that thousands more Minnesotans will gain access to affordable, high-speed internet—and the economic opportunity, education and health care that comes along with internet access. I’m proud of our work to secure these investments and will continue fighting to ensure that every Minnesotan, regardless of their zip code, has access to high-speed broadband.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The new funding, created by the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, will go toward broadband infrastructure deployment grants to be administered by the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) Office of Broadband Development.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klobuchar.senate.gov%2Fpublic%2Findex.cfm%2F2021%2F3%2Fklobuchar-clyburn-introduce-comprehensive-broadband-infrastructure-legislation-to-expand-access-to-affordable-high-speed-internet&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C6e90bd5045d847b97d5308db767cc121%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638234050448993691%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=xwyjQXApbw%2BoncJH%2B7XlcdzLZ4UC3Z4aBZvt4NAqudI%3D&amp;reserved=0">Accessible, Affordable Internet for All Act</a> , Klobuchar’s legislation with Former House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn (D-SC) to expand high-speed internet nationwide, served as the basis for this program created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Today’s announcement comes as Minnesota pursues its goal of offering high-speed broadband to all homes and businesses in the state by 2026. DEED’s premier Border-to-Border Broadband Development Grant Program has connected over 103,000 homes and businesses since 2014, having awarded nearly $296 million to over 270 grantees. In May, Governor Walz signed legislation providing $100 million to the program next biennium.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Broadband is an economic and societal imperative,”</strong> said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. <strong>“Widely available broadband will help more Minnesotans find a good job or launch a business regardless of geography. Today’s announcement is a boon for Greater Minnesota and anywhere Minnesotans struggle to connect to high-speed broadband.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"This strong allocation reflects the work of so many Minnesotans who advocate on behalf their communities every day,”</strong> said DEED Office of Broadband Development Executive Director Bree Maki. <strong>“We’re excited to work with our provider partners to connect more Minnesotans to the broadband they need.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s federal broadband funding comes from the U.S. Commerce Department’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program. The allocation is based in part on new mapping, created by state officials, broadband providers, stakeholders, and citizens, that illustrates the need for broadband expansion across Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Federal officials are expected to release more broadband funding to states early next year; the federal Digital Equity Program will enable states to develop an inclusive ecosystem in which all residents, organizations, and businesses have the digital access and tools necessary to thrive.</p>5831742023-06-29T16:14:23Z361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583173" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-26T13:24:07ZThe Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the untimely passing of the Honorable Sally L. Tarnowski. The seat will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Clarissa Ek:</strong> Clarissa Ek is a child support magistrate for the Sixth Judicial District. She was previously a senior assistant attorney for St. Louis County and a staff attorney for the Indian Legal Assistance Program. She has a diverse legal background working in child protection, family law, and criminal law in both district and appellate courts. Ek is a veteran of the U.S Airforce, and her community involvement includes volunteering with the First Witness Child Advocacy Center and the Program for Aid to Victims of Sexual Assault.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Fralich:</strong> Jessica Fralich is a district court referee for the Sixth Judicial District, presiding over housing, harassment, order for protection, conciliation, minor civil, and family court matters. She was previously an assistant county attorney in the Criminal Division of the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office and an attorney in private practice primarily practicing real estate and family law. Fralich’s community involvement includes serving as a member of the Domestic Violence Restorative Circles program, the Domestic Violence Response Team, and the Range Coordinated Community Response Team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicole Hopps:</strong> Nicole Hopps is the managing attorney for the Sixth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office in Duluth. In this role, she supervises attorneys and support staff serving indigent clients, including in the areas of rehabilitative justice, diversion, and welfare programs. She previously served in the Sixth Judicial District as an assistant public defender. Hopps’s community involvement includes volunteering with the Carlton County Community Outreach Program, the South St. Louis County Mental and Behavioral Health courts, and the Indian Child Welfare Act Court team.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p>5831732023-06-29T16:14:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-583181" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-23T13:24:07ZAhead of the one-year anniversary, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today reflected on the Dobbs v. Jackson Supreme Court decision and Minnesota’s work to protect reproductive freedom and health care.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Ahead of the one-year anniversary, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today reflected on the <em>Dobbs v. Jackson</em> Supreme Court decision and Minnesota’s work to protect reproductive freedom and health care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“One year ago, I pledged that Minnesota would not turn back the clock on reproductive rights in Minnesota as long as I remained in office. Since that pledge, Minnesota became the first state in the country to codify abortion rights into law,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We have become an island of freedom for women seeking to make their own health care decisions. In Minnesota, we’ll continue to deliver on our promises and protect your rights – not take them away.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“So many of us remember exactly where we were when the Dobbs decision came down a year ago. I called my mom and she told me to keep fighting for access to abortion. Last June, we promised to protect abortion and reproductive health care in Minnesota, and I’m proud to say we kept that promise,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“Reproductive freedom was on the ballot last November, and Minnesotans were clear: we will not go backwards. We listened to Minnesotans, held their stories with great care and tenderness, and came together to protect their rights. For all of the mothers, grandmothers, aunties, and advocates who fought before us and for our future generations, we will keep fighting to make sure everyone has access to safe, affordable reproductive health care.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Following the Supreme Court decision in June 2022, Governor Walz took executive action to protect reproductive health care services in Minnesota. Executive Order 22-16 protected people seeking or providing abortions in Minnesota from laws in other states.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In January, Governor Walz signed the Protect Reproductive Options (PRO) Act into law, establishing reproductive freedom as a fundamental right for every Minnesotan. The PRO Act establishes that every Minnesotan has a fundamental right to make decisions about their own reproductive health, including the right to use or refuse reproductive health care, to continue a pregnancy and give birth, and to obtain an abortion.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In April, Governor Walz signed the Reproductive Freedom Defense Act, ensuring that patients traveling to Minnesota for abortion care, and the providers who serve them, are protected from legal attacks and criminal penalties from other states.</p>5831812023-06-30T21:23:54Z361527424316<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-582242" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-22T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic, and House Speaker Melissa Hortman today met with senior White House officials in Washington D.C. to celebrate Minnesota’s economic development and infrastructure investments and paid family and medical leave legislation. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic, and House Speaker Melissa Hortman today met with senior White House officials in Washington D.C. to celebrate Minnesota’s economic development and infrastructure investments and paid family and medical leave legislation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>Thanks to the leadership and partnership of the Biden-Harris Administration, we are ushering in a golden age of infrastructure in Minnesota,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“</strong> <strong>What we’re doing in Minnesota to lower costs and improve the lives of working families is creating a blueprint for the rest of the country to follow. I’m excited that the White House is highlighting the investments we made this session to leverage historic infrastructure funding, drive climate action, and create economic security for families. These investments will benefit Minnesotans in every corner of our state and bring us closer to our goal of making Minnesota the best place in the nation to raise a family.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“So many of the investments and policies passed this legislative session speak to our mission to make it easier for Minnesotans to navigate and afford their lives – investments in paid family and medical leave and infrastructure are shining examples of this work,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“By ensuring our roads and bridges are safe, our community organizations are strong, and Minnesotans are able to care for themselves and their loved ones without losing a paycheck, we’re building strong, connected, and safe communities across our state, with equity embedded in all of our work. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share Minnesota’s story with our leaders at the federal level and across the country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Minnesota has a great story to tell about the investments we are making in Minnesota families, communities, businesses, and our collective future,”</strong> said Majority Leader Dziedzic. <strong>“Today at the White House we detailed those investments for national officials, who are eager to hear about our historic efforts on paid family and medical leave, job-creating infrastructure improvements, and our transformative actions to protect our climate. I was pleased that Senator Alice Mann, who skillfully led Senate efforts on paid family and medical leave, joined our meeting to discuss her work to get the legislation signed into law.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The efforts and ongoing partnership of the Biden-Harris Administration directly contributed to the success of our legislative session, allowing us to leverage federal dollars to make historic investments in infrastructure, economic development, and climate action across Minnesota. Combined with Minnesota’s enactment of paid family and medical leave, we’re making progress in building a state and an economy that works better for everyone,”</strong> said House Speaker Hortman. <strong>“It was a pleasure to share our unique Minnesota story with the White House and to discuss how we can continue working together to build on the good work of this session.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At the White House, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan discussed Minnesota’s infrastructure, economic development, and climate investments made this past session. They also discussed ways Minnesota leveraged historic federal infrastructure funding. Approximately $2.4 billion of the recently enacted One Minnesota budget will go toward leveraging federal funding opportunities to improve infrastructure across the state, support Minnesota’s clean energy economy, and expand economic opportunity while creating good-paying jobs. White House Senior Advisor and Infrastructure Coordinator Mitch Landrieu, White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi, and Senior Advisor to the President for Clean Energy Innovation and Implementation John Podesta attended the meeting.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">White House senior officials also applauded Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan for passing paid family and medical leave this session. The paid family and medical leave program will provide Minnesotans with partial wage replacement for medical leave, bonding, or caring for a family member. Assistant to the President and Director of the White House Gender Policy Council Jennifer Klein and Deputy Director of the National Economic Council Aviva Aron-Dine attended the event.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz will conclude his trip to Washington, DC by attending a state dinner with President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi this evening.</p>5822422023-06-23T11:48:23Z361527424316<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-582241" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-20T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today travelled to Mankato to highlight investments made this session in Minnesota’s $4.4 billion fishing and outdoor recreation industry. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today travelled to Mankato to highlight investments made this session in Minnesota’s $4.4 billion fishing and outdoor recreation industry. Governor Walz fished on Madison Lake, where he caught 10 fish, and visited a state fish hatchery in Waterville. Photos and video from the Governor’s visit are linked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720309208749&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C764afb8bdd564ae4d0d708db71c331dd%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638228855506747167%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=TwRyWVcqo8pTWfIlY8Nvpd0Ljtz1Ni4zfcbaTXM%2ByQE%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong><strong>We’re making the case that we have a lot to offer here in Minnesota – including world-class fishing,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“By repairing and improving our state’s aging fish hatcheries and outdoor infrastructure, we’re ensuring Minnesota</strong> <strong>’s multi-billion-dollar fishing industry remains strong for decades to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This session, Governor Walz signed a $110 million investment in outdoor recreation into law, which provides funding to improve fishing access and update and modernize public water accesses, state park facilities, and fish hatcheries across the state. The <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579789">infrastructure bill</a> also includes $25 million to provide updates to aging fish hatcheries and fishing infrastructure across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“If you’re looking for a new place to fish, Madison Lake is the place to be,”</strong> Governor Walz continued. <strong>“Nobody will believe our haul, so go see for yourself. The sun is shining and the fish are biting. Regardless of where you fish or what you catch, I hope all Minnesotans get outside and enjoy our lakes this summer.”</strong></p>5822412023-06-23T11:48:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-581580" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-15T16:06:42ZLieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today met with global ambassadors in Washington, D.C. to continue to promote Bloomington, Minnesota as the 2027 World Expo host city. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today met with global ambassadors in Washington, D.C. to continue to promote Bloomington, Minnesota as the 2027 World Expo host city.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota has a long history of investing in health and wellness,</strong> <strong>the theme of the 2027 World Expo, and I am thrilled by the opportunity to host this event,”</strong>said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“This event and our continued investments aimed at making Minnesota the best place to raise a family make Minnesota an ideal candidate to promote the future of well-being and showcase to the world the historic progress we have made.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/543677">October</a> , Governor Walz joined an international delegation from the BIE and local Expo leaders to discuss the United States’ bid to host the 2027 World Expo in Minnesota. The 2027 World Expo, themed “Healthy People, Healthy Planet,” will highlight health and wellness and attract 1 billion global viewers and a $2.5 billion economic impact.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The core Expo 2027 site is found in the “Expo Village” location within the City of Bloomington’s South Loop development district. The land on the site of Expo 2027 is owned by the Mall of America, the City of Bloomington, and the Bloomington Port Authority. The Expo 2027 site will be a new development creation that links to existing structures at the Mall of America and surrounding area. There are buildings in the development process that will also be utilized for the exposition.</p>5815802023-06-16T18:33:23Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-581582" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-15T16:06:42ZGovernor Tim Walz today congratulated Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice Lorie Gildea on her retirement. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today congratulated Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice Lorie Gildea on her retirement.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I want to thank Chief Justice Gildea for her dedicated service to</strong> <strong>Minnesota. She has been a strong defender of the judicial branch.</strong> <strong>I have seen firsthand the balance and thoughtfulness she brings to her work each and every day</strong> <strong>– whether it’s improving and modernizing the judicial branch or serving on the Board of Pardons.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor will announce the application process for the vacancy on the court in the coming weeks.</p>5815822023-06-16T18:33:13Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-581584" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-15T16:06:42ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released the following statements after the United States Supreme Court rejected the constitutional challenges to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released the following statements after the United States Supreme Court rejected the constitutional challenges to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Statement from Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The U.S. Supreme Court did what’s right for Native children and their families with its opinion today that upholds the Indian Child Welfare Act. In Minnesota, we’re committed to making decisions that are rooted in what’s best for children, which is why we passed legislation this year to keep ICWA policies in place regardless of what this opinion would be. Today’s opinion affirms that we were right. I’m grateful for all the people who have told their stories over the decades to get us to this place - a decision that recognizes our sovereignty and protects our right to raise our babies. Those stories matter. We will keep telling our stories and we must ensure that our Native children remain with their families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Statement from Governor Tim Walz:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In Minnesota, we remain committed to upholding justice and protecting Native children and families from destructive policies, but these values unfortunately do not span across the nation. I am relieved to know that the U.S. Supreme Court recognizes the importance of the Indian Child Welfare Act. Our work does not end here. We will continue to listen and work collaboratively with</strong> <strong>Native communities and Tribes that share our geography to make Minnesota the best state for all children and families.”</strong></p>5815842023-06-16T18:33:08Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-581586" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-15T16:06:42ZLieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan visited St. Croix State Park and Pine Technical and Community College in Pine County yesterday to highlight new investments in Minnesota’s infrastructure and outdoor recreation. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan visited St. Croix State Park and Pine Technical and Community College in Pine County yesterday to highlight new investments in Minnesota’s infrastructure and outdoor recreation. She also attended an event recognizing Grand Casino Mille Lacs for supporting veteran employees and military families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Photos can be found <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720309089973&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cc6657596f90f40bbc94c08db6db731dc%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638224405832117222%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=KBN95A6MPFQqUxfSbB9fdQgs8sSgp6lu3GuWPRxe0Ek%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our budget makes big investments in every community across our state,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“From honoring and supporting our service members and veterans to making our state parks more inclusive and accessible to modernizing our higher education facilities to build the workforce of the future, this work in Pine County — and across Minnesota — is how we build a state where everyone can thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lieutenant Governor Flanagan visited Grand Casino Mille Lacs to recognize their designation as a Yellow Ribbon employer for supporting veteran employees and military families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At St. Croix State Park, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan highlighted the recent renovations to the visitor center, part of $115 million in investments for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/aboutdnr/legislativeinfo/2023/fy24-25-budget-modernize-outdoor-recreation-experiences.pdf" title="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/aboutdnr/legislativeinfo/2023/fy24-25-budget-modernize-outdoor-recreation-experiences.pdf">Get Out MORE</a> (Modernizing Outdoor Recreation Experiences) initiative. Get Out MORE will create more opportunities for all Minnesotans to enjoy a world-class outdoor recreation system by modernizing and updating the state’s outdoor recreation system including public water accesses, state park facilities, fish hatcheries, and accessibility on public lands. Throughout the month, the DNR is offering <a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/news/2022/06/09/gov-walz-proclaims-june-great-outdoors-month" title="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/news/2022/06/09/gov-walz-proclaims-june-great-outdoors-month">special programs</a> to encourage Minnesotans to get outdoors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted how the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-579789" title="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/?id=1055-579789">historic $2.6 billion infrastructure bill</a> recently signed by Governor Walz includes over $20 million in funding to invest in Pine Technical &amp; Community College's facilities and campus.</p>5815862023-06-16T18:33:02Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-580680" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-09T17:00:00ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board on Aging, Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, and State Arts Board. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board on Aging, Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, and State Arts Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Catherine Chavers – Orr, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Johnny Johnson – Welch, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Melanie Benjamin</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Susan McGeehan – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Roger Moe – Erskine, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Becky Olson-Kellogg – St. Louis Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Board on Aging</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Board on Aging:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Board on Aging develops, coordinates, evaluates, and administers federal and state funds for programs for the aging, makes grants to seven area agencies on aging and nonprofit agencies, and serves as an advocate for older persons.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Board on Aging can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/104" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pia Puentespina – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on Asian-Pacific Minnesotans</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Faamati Winey</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on Asian-Pacific Minnesotans:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Council on Asian-Pacific Minnesotans advises the Governor and the Legislature on issues pertaining to Minnesotans of Asian Pacific ancestry and advocates on behalf of this community on legislative and administrative matters within state government.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on Asian-Pacific Minnesotans can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/176" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>María-Victoria Kaptizke – St. Cloud, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Monica Segura-Schwartz</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Juventino Meza – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Ana Vergara</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Susana Pelayo-Woodward – Duluth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elvis Rivera – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Leticia Guadarrama</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Clara Ugarte Perrin – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs (MCLA) advises and informs the Governor and legislature on matters of importance to the Latino community. MCLA also serves as a bridge between the Latino community and state government.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/178" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Emily Galusha – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Arts Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michelle Sterner – Marshall, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Arts Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: June 14, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Christina Widdess</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Arts Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota State Arts Board encourages the creation, performance, and appreciation of the arts in the state through administering a series of grants, programs, and services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Arts Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/117" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5806802023-06-09T21:54:47Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-580533" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-07T16:59:15ZGovernor Tim Walz today met with sheriffs and law enforcement officials from across the state at a statewide conference hosted by the Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today met with sheriffs and law enforcement officials from across the state at a statewide conference hosted by the Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association. During the meeting, Governor Walz highlighted his plan, which was recently passed by the legislature and signed into law, to give $300 million in public safety aid to public safety departments across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Sheriffs and law enforcement officials are integral to the safety and well-being of every community. They know their communities best and deserve full support from the state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“After advocating for this funding for years, I’m excited we are investing $300 million in public safety departments across the state. Whether it’s Brainerd, Duluth, or the Twin Cities, this funding will directly help local public safety officials with recruiting, training, equipment, and officer wellness.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz has long advocated for public safety funding for local police, fire, and 911 departments. This session, Governor Walz signed $300 million into law for cities, counties, and tribes to meet their unique public safety, fire, or emergency management needs. The local public safety aid can be used for, but is not limited to training programs, community engagement, personnel or equipment costs, officer wellness, mental health crisis response, and victim services. The aid will be distributed by the Minnesota Department of Revenue through a formula based off city, county, and tribe population size.</p>5805332023-06-09T14:53:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-580532" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-06T16:59:15ZAt a national biomedical industry convention in Boston, Governor Tim Walz yesterday highlighted Minnesota as a global leader in biomedical technology and promoted continued investment in the state.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – At a national biomedical industry convention in Boston, Governor Tim Walz yesterday highlighted Minnesota as a global leader in biomedical technology and promoted continued investment in the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When it comes to biomedical technology and innovation, Minnesota leads the way. This was an opportunity to promote our world-class biomedical industry alongside national and global leaders who recognize the cutting-edge work we’re doing,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I look forward to continue working with leaders in the biomedical industry to expand our partnerships, promote growth and investment, and ensure Minnesota is on the frontline of medical innovation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz visited with leaders in the biomedical industry, including Philips Healthcare, Takeda Pharmecuticals, EcoLab, and Cytotheryx to discuss their investments in Minnesota and opportunities for continued partnership. He also met with members from Japan and Australia’s trade delegations. Governor Walz will lead a <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/575185">trade mission to Australia</a> in November.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This event comes as Mayo Clinic announced a <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.postbulletin.com%2Fhealth%2Fmayo-clinic-announces-historic-investment-in-redeveloping-6-downtown-rochester-blocks&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C77ccc5a84a704172909408db66c9c6d9%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638216789071150514%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=PU2aPM0r8imUEmZZE0GxsT4NA2QciMVmoVcPyN6wN5s%3D&amp;reserved=0">billion-dollar investment</a> in Rochester. The Governor’s Office worked closely with Mayo to secure the expansion. The investment will create jobs, build on Minnesota’s reputation for world-class health care, attract businesses and investment in Rochester, and pave the way for Minnesota to lead in biomedical innovation.</p>5805322023-06-09T14:53:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-580531" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-05T16:59:15ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced today that exports of manufactured, agricultural, and mining goods from Minnesota were valued at $6.6 billion in the first quarter of 2023, outpacing national growth.At $6.6 billion, state exports up 9 percent over the first quarter of 20221055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced today that exports of manufactured, agricultural, and mining goods from Minnesota were valued at $6.6 billion in the first quarter of 2023, outpacing national growth. This is Minnesota’s eighth consecutive quarter of export growth.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s economy is making a global impact,”</strong>said Governor Walz. <strong>“We will continue strengthening the trade partnerships that support our economy, create Minnesota jobs, and allow local communities to thrive. Minnesota’s workers and businesses should be proud of the results we’ve seen month after month.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"This quarter of growth shows how resilient and unceasing Minnesota’s economy is,”</strong> said DEED Temporary Commissioner Kevin McKinnon. <strong>“A $6.6 billion first quarter is an incredible start to the year and shows the extraordinary hard work and innovation Minnesota businesses provide for the global market.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At 9 percent annually, Minnesota’s exports grew faster than those of the United States as a whole, which saw 7 percent annual growth.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s largest exports markets remain Canada ($2.1 billion) and Mexico ($866 million). Minnesota showed widespread export growth across regions, driven by a 34 percent increase to Africa, a 28 percent increase to the Caribbean, Central and South America and a 15 percent increase to the European Union.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The full first quarter report is available on <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/data/economic-analysis/export-stats/current-past/">DEED's website</a> in the Export and Trade Statistics section.</p>5805312023-06-09T14:53:23ZNews640News361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579790" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-01T15:00:04ZToday the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy occurring on the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David A. Stofferahn. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy occurring on the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals. This vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable David A. Stofferahn.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, candidates must be learned in the law, have been licensed to practice law for at least five years, and have experience with and knowledge of workers’ compensation and the workers’ compensation laws of Minnesota. In addition, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on June 22 and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter.</strong> The commission expects to hold interviews in mid-July.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For inquiries concerning the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us" target="_blank">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p>5797902023-06-02T15:00:25ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579789" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-06-01T14:35:02ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a $2.6 billion infrastructure bill, the largest in state history, into law alongside Lieutenant Governor Flanagan, legislators, labor leaders, and advocates. Governor Walz signed the infrastructure bill along the Mississippi River near the Hennepin Avenue Bridge – funding for reconstructing the bridge is including in the bill. $2.6 billion plan will repair roads and bridges, create jobs, and invest in infrastructure across Minnesota1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a $2.6 billion infrastructure bill, the largest in state history, into law alongside Lieutenant Governor Flanagan, legislators, labor leaders, and advocates. Governor Walz signed the infrastructure bill along the Mississippi River near the Hennepin Avenue Bridge – funding for reconstructing the bridge is including in the bill. Photos from the event are attached and linked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720308759818%2Fwith%2F52943562104%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLiQin.Huang%40state.mn.us%7C082168d39a3b4992a67a08db62d6b7d4%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638212446614274776%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=gDBj6ppK2UQNmzwB8cxRd5nkzKjRxiLn0HZYwM5GZ28%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This infrastructure bill is about making life safer and easier for Minnesotans and delivering on the most basic things that government should provide – reliable roads, clean drinking water, and sound infrastructure to support safe, healthy communities,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With this investment, we’re going to rebuild our roads and bridges, repair fire stations and water treatment plants, and upgrade our veterans homes, fish hatcheries, and flood mitigation systems – all while creating good-paying jobs for Minnesotans. This is how we put a down payment on the future of our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From clean drinking water and strong community centers to safe housing</strong> , <strong>I am so thrilled by the progress and prosperity held in this infrastructure package,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“By making historic investments in communities – particularly Black, Brown, and Native communities – that have often been left out of public investment, this bill makes equitable investments, so no community is left behind. These projects <em>are</em> what make Minnesota the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.senate.mn%2Ffiscalpol%2Ftracking%2F2023%2FHF669-670-Final-5-22-23.pdf&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLiQin.Huang%40state.mn.us%7C082168d39a3b4992a67a08db62d6b7d4%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638212446614274776%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=SS48o4ByQ9OefjS%2FvqqBbXDJG3%2FodaMpxt6fg7UvmHs%3D&amp;reserved=0">$2.6 billion infrastructure bill</a> will help pay for hundreds of infrastructure projects that will create good-paying jobs and bring long-term benefits to communities across the state, including:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$403 million for transportation infrastructure, including local roads and bridges</li> <li>$501 million for water infrastructure projects</li> <li>$78 million for the Hastings Veterans Home</li> <li>$20 million for the Waterville fish hatchery</li> <li>$72 million for bus rapid transit</li> <li>$72 million for public housing rehabilitation</li> <li>Over $120 million for community-based organizations and nonprofits</li> </ul>5797892023-06-02T14:58:09ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579572" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-31T20:39:38ZGovernor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced that the state will award nearly $5 million in loans for 22 small businesses across Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] –Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) today announced that the state will award nearly $5 million in loans for 22 small businesses across Minnesota. These businesses are the first recipients of funding through the state’s new $100 million <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/544841">State Small Business Credit Initiative</a> , intended to help small businesses grow and succeed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Small businesses are at the heart of our communities, our workforce, and our state’s economy. By investing in small businesses, we’re investing in one of our state’s greatest assets,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This funding will bolster small businesses and help Minnesota’s economy continue to grow and thrive.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SSBCI is a significant small business initiative funded by the federal government to expand businesses’ access to capital. Announced last fall, the four SSBCI programs DEED oversees will help the agency carry out its commitment to make Minnesota the best possible place to start and grow a small business. DEED's SSBCI programs will create or retain more than 5,500 private sector jobs over the next ten years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Small businesses are critical to Minnesota’s economy – they employ three-fourths of our workers, create innovative products and services and enliven our corporate community,”</strong> said DEED Temporary Commissioner Kevin McKinnon. <strong>“DEED's goal is to help small businesses launch, expand, and thrive in Minnesota, and our SSBCI loan programs help more companies enjoy success.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The loans announced today come from two of the SSBCI programs DEED is implementing: one to help companies purchase automation equipment to increase productivity in light of Minnesota’s historically tight labor market, and another to help innovative seed- and early-stage technology businesses take off and grow.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Automation Loan Participation Program:</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As part of the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/ssbci/automation-loan/" target="_blank">Automation Loan Participation Program</a> , DEED makes companion loans to cover financing gaps and expand opportunities for businesses purchasing machinery, equipment or software to increase productivity and automation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The first loan recipients from the Automation Loan Participation Program include:</p> <table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="0" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>Business</strong></p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>City</strong></p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>Loan Amount</strong></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Steuart Contract Packaging</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Le Roy</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$500,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>The Amazing Chickpea</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>New Hope</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$95,835.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>TigerTough</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Oakdale</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$63,988.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Industrial Finishing Services, Inc.</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Perham</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$90,225.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Food Service Specialties</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Red Wing</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$500,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>FIt Butters</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Minneapolis</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$143,903.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>AmeriStar Manufacturing, Inc.</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Mankato</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$492,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>Total</strong></p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom" /> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>$1,885,951.00</strong></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> Eligible borrowers include manufacturing, distribution, technology and warehousing businesses located in Minnesota. The program targets businesses with fewer than 500 employees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Companion loans from DEED must be matched at least 1:1 with private financing secured by the borrowing company. DEED is still accepting applications from companies seeking automation companion loans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Growth Loan Fund Program:</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/ssbci/growth-loan/" target="_blank">Growth Loan Fund Program</a> supports start-up development in Minnesota by investing in technologically innovative seed- and early-stage businesses. Eligible companies must be researching or developing proprietary products or technologies in high-tech fields like aerospace, agriculture, renewable energy, biotech, conservation, environmental engineering, and food technology.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Businesses enrolled to receive loans from the Growth Loan Fund include:</p> <table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="0" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>Business</strong></p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>City</strong></p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>Max. Loan Amount</strong></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Nucleic Sensing Systems / NS2</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>St Paul</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$400,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>BioMagnetic Sciences, LLC</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Eden Prairie</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$400,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>ProcessBolt</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Minnetonka</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$100,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>DOCSI</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Minneapolis</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$100,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Nanodropper</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Rochester</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$120,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>ZeSa, LLC</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Minneapolis</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$400,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Raise a Hood</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Deephaven</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$100,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Eva Medtec</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Bloomington</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$200,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Neuraworx Medical Technologies Inc.</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Excelsior</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$200,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Renew Power Systems, Inc. / RPSi</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Minneapolis</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$160,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Morari Medical</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Maple Grove</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$100,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>NETZRO, SBC</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Minneapolis</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$250,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>SAB Co. Software</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Red Wing</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$100,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p>Martell Diagnostic Laboratories, Inc.</p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom"> <p>Roseville</p> </td> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p>$400,000.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="246" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>Total</strong></p> </td> <td width="84" valign="bottom" /> <td width="135" valign="bottom"> <p><strong>$3,030,000.00</strong></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> Businesses must raise private equity in order to qualify for loans. Applicants state how much equity they intend to raise, then have 12 months to do so. If they achieve their goal, DEED will provide a loan based on 20% of the total amount of equity investment raised in the funding round.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED is still accepting applications from companies seeking credit through the Growth Loan Fund.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lenders available for Loan Guarantee Program</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to the Automation and Growth Loan programs, DEED has begun partnering with banks, credit unions and nonprofit community lenders to provide small businesses with funding through two other SSBCI programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED continues to enroll lenders for the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/ssbci/loan-guarantee/" target="_blank">Minnesota Loan Guarantee Program</a> , whereby DEED provides guarantees to enrolled lenders for up to 80% of principal on loans to eligible businesses. The program helps lenders mitigate risk so they can increase capital to small businesses located across Minnesota. Borrowers include Minnesota-headquartered small businesses using the loan proceeds for eligible business purposes. <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/ssbci/loan-guarantee/" target="_blank">Lenders can be found here</a> . Applications for lender enrollment are also available.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Finally, as part of the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/ssbci/loan-participation/" target="_blank">Small Business Loan Participation Program</a> , DEED will purchase 25% to 30% participations in loans made by approved Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and nonprofit lenders. Borrowers include Minnesota businesses with fewer than 500 employees seeking loans for eligible business purposes. DEED is contracting with CDFI and nonprofit lenders now, and eligible companies will soon be able to <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/ssbci/loan-participation/" target="_blank">find an appropriate lender here</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>About the State Small Business Credit Initiative</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The U.S. Department of Treasury has approved Minnesota for up to $97 million in small business financing support, which allows DEED to carry out its commitment to help small businesses grow and succeed.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Two SSBCI venture capital programs, the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmnssbcivc.umn.edu%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLiQin.Huang%40state.mn.us%7C27d9e52100164a4c74d308db6216e2c8%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638211622666278221%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=rFyHrSXmrLqTRYZ4ggQYyOulfr2OKfUaSKhNsqa9Z6s%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank"><strong>Direct Investment and Multi-Fund Investment Programs</strong></a> , are offered by the University of Minnesota, investing in Minnesota-based seed- and early-stage businesses in the advanced manufacturing, agtech/foodtech, climate tech, life sciences, software and technology sectors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SSBCI was part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 and included $10 billion for state, territory and tribal business finance programs. This is the second SSBCI initiative – Minnesota received $15 million through the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010.</p>5795722023-05-31T20:42:02ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579538" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-31T18:53:26ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today joined state leaders and lawmakers to celebrate historic legislative investments that will help advance Minnesota’s climate action plan. Leaders visited the Kaposia Education Center in South St. Paul, a school powered by a rooftop solar array, to highlight new legislation and funding passed during the 2023 legislative session that advance the Administration’s Climate Action Plan. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today joined state leaders and lawmakers to celebrate historic legislative investments that will help advance <a href="https://climate.state.mn.us/minnesotas-climate-action-framework">Minnesota’s climate action plan</a> . Leaders visited the Kaposia Education Center in South St. Paul, a school powered by a rooftop solar array, to highlight new legislation and funding passed during the 2023 legislative session that advance the Administration’s Climate Action Plan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From clean energy jobs and electric vehicles to natural resource restoration and grants that prepare communities for severe weather, Minnesota is investing in innovative strategies that combat the effects of climate change,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With these historic investments, we are positioning our state as a national leader in climate solutions, ensuring Minnesota remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesotans recognize that the time is now to invest in and protect our climate,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am so proud of the historic investments we made this session to protect our natural resources, support communities impacted by the effects of climate change, and invest in a clean, competitive economy. This legislation is a win for our kids and grandkids and will have a transformational impact on our state for decades to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Legislature approved more than 40 climate initiatives in energy, environment, agriculture, health, transportation, and construction. Each proposal supports the implementation of Minnesota’s Climate Action Framework, a comprehensive plan rolled out in September 2022 to ensure a healthy, equitable, and resilient future for Minnesota. Laws passed during the 2023 legislative session support initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and prepare Minnesota communities for the impacts of climate change for decades to come.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We are celebrating a giant leap forward in our work to protect Minnesotans and our communities from climate change,”</strong> said Pollution Control Agency Commissioner Katrina Kessler. <strong>“Legislative investments allow us to help communities around the state improve aging infrastructure with climate-smart upgrades and to build stronger relationships with tribal nations to assist them in securing federal funding, ensuring we bring as much federal dollars to Minnesota as possible.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The Minnesota Department of Commerce is moving fast to enact new programs that will invest in clean energy infrastructure, help Minnesotans save money through more efficient energy use, and build a clean energy economy that will benefit Minnesota children and families for generations to come</strong> <strong>,”</strong> said Department of Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“While we are seeing the negative impact of climate change on Minnesotan’s public lands and waters, our natural lands also represent some of the most powerful resources to mitigate climate change,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. <strong>“With the new One Minnesota budget investments, the Minnesota DNR will help maximize our carbon capture and storage potential through enhancing grasslands, restoring wetlands and peatlands, and investing in public, private, and community forests. By investing in natural lands, we can mitigate and adapt to climate change and protect the health of our communities, economy, and the state’s unique natural resources for future generations.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our changing climate, with heavier rain events and extended droughts, has a major impact on Minnesota agriculture. Thanks to legislation passed this session, we can support farmers and help them adapt to weather extremes. Increased funding to our Agricultural Best Management Loan Program, added money to advance soil health, and extra investments that will provide biofuels to more Minnesotans are some of the many wins that will help advance Minnesota’s Climate Action Framework,”</strong> said Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These new laws ensure Minnesota’s commercial energy codes will be adopted more frequently to construct new, energy-efficient, large buildings and multifamily homes, and will provide convenient access to electric vehicle charging infrastructure where people work or live,”</strong> said Commissioner Nicole Blissenbach, Department of Labor and Industry. <strong>“As the state seeks to grow clean-economy jobs, this new legislation also provides funding to help workers acquire new skills through registered apprenticeship programs to maintain these new and evolving clean-energy technologies.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Top climate initiatives passed in 2023 include: <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>100% Carbon-free Electricity by 2040</strong> <br /> Governor Walz signed into law legislation establishing a Minnesota carbon-free electricity standard. With this law, Minnesota will take steps to lower greenhouse gas emissions, combat the climate crisis, and create new clean energy jobs. The new law ensures Minnesotans will continue to have reliable, affordable, and safe energy resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Growing Clean</strong> <strong>-Economy Apprenticeships</strong> <br /> As the state creates clean-economy jobs, providing workers with training and skills to adapt to new, cleaner technologies as they develop will be critical. The budget provides $3 million to grow apprenticeship opportunities for clean economy occupations. This funding will enable registered apprenticeship programs to purchase equipment and provide training to grow apprentice skills and train workers in clean technologies.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Expanding Solar for Schools</strong> <br /> The One Minnesota Budget invests nearly $30 million to expand the popular Solar for Schools program. This will provide the opportunity for every public school district in Minnesota to add solar power. Schools will be able to add solar arrays to help reduce school energy costs and offer students hands-on learning about clean energy and pathways to clean energy careers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Increasing Access to Electrical Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure</strong> <br /> Transportation is the largest contributor of greenhouse gas emissions in Minnesota and is a major contributor to climate change, air pollution, and ecosystem degradation. The One Minnesota Budget includes requiring EV charging infrastructure within or adjacent to new commercial and multi-family buildings to provide Minnesotans with more access to EV charging infrastructure and increase the feasibility of EV use for Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Enhancing Pollinator Habitats</strong> <br /> The Habitat Enhancement Landscape Program (HELP) provides financial and technical assistance to establish or enhance areas of diverse native vegetation to support declining populations of bees, butterflies, dragonflies, birds, and other wildlife species essential for ecosystems and food production. The One Minnesota Budget invests in three components of funding for homeowners, neighborhoods, and pollinator-friendly utilities such as solar farms.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Strengthening Minnesota Homes</strong> <br /> The Governor and Lieutenant Governor will help Minnesotans be more resilient to changing climate by providing $1 million to establish a program for protecting homes against extreme weather events. Modeled after successful programs in other states, this proposal will save Minnesotans money on homeowner insurance premiums is designed to help Minnesotans protect their homes from damaging storms and extreme weather.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Pre-Weatherizing Homes and Training Workers</strong> <br /> The pre-weatherization and workforce training program will invest more than $45 million over the next four years toward improving homes to be safe and warm and to grow the clean energy workforce trained to make these important home improvements. This proposal will help meet the state’s Climate Action Framework goal of weatherizing a quarter of low-income Minnesotans’ homes by 2030. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Improving Water Quality</strong> <br /> Clean water – especially clean drinking water – is important to ensure healthy and successful children and families. The Agricultural Best Management Loan Program (AgBMP) is a water quality program that provides low-interest loans to Minnesota farmers, rural landowners, and agriculture supply businesses to encourage agricultural projects or practices that help reduce, eliminate, or prevent water pollution. The One Minnesota Budget includes a $9.6 million increase in funding for this program, providing more Minnesotans access to improved water resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><br /> <strong>Preparing Communities for Climate Change</strong> <br /> More than 85% of Minnesota communities have reported experiencing at least one extreme weather event caused by climate change, preventing businesses and farmers from getting their products to market. To help communities better prepare for extreme weather events and strengthen their local economies, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan are investing $100 million in the resilient communities grant program to help communities upgrade aging infrastructure with climate-smart design, combat flooding, and heat island effect, and create local jobs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Improving Public Health Resilience</strong> <br /> From air quality and weather-related concerns to the emergence of new diseases, a changing climate means new health challenges. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s budget fortifies public health resilience against the human health impacts of climate change and supports interagency efforts around climate change. Activities include grants and technical assistance to local organizations and local public health to plan for the health impacts of extreme weather events as well as data analysis and reporting to implement, strengthen, evaluate, and track public health resiliency efforts in the face of climate change across the state. This proposal replaces CDC funding that ended in 2021.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Cutting Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions from Buildings</strong> <br /> Buildings use approximately 40% of the total energy consumed in Minnesota. Of that, about 19% is consumed by commercial buildings. The One Minnesota Budget includes an adoption framework for the statewide commercial building energy code that puts our state on a path to reduce energy use by 80% in new, large buildings by 2036. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Modernizing Regional Parks and Trails</strong> <br /> The One Minnesota Budget invests $12 million in one-time spending – matched with $2 of Metropolitan Council funds for every $3 from the state – supporting capital improvements for the Metropolitan Regional Parks System. These spaces are cared-for places to connect, build health, and access nature for millions of Minnesotans, and the need for repairs and upgrades have grown as more people used parks and trails during the pandemic, and as climate and weather events have continued to impact parks, trails, and structures. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Enhancing State, Community, and Private Forests</strong> <br /> Trees benefit Minnesota communities in many ways, including providing carbon storage, improving air quality, decreasing stormwater runoff, and adding natural beauty. Our community forests are threatened by tree pests and diseases and climate change adds to the problem. The One Minnesota Budget includes the $15.2 million ReLeaf program to help communities address urban and community reforestation needs and inequities in tree coverage created by emerald ash borer and other tree pests and diseases. The One Minnesota Budget also includes $4.2 million for private forest landowner technical assistance, cost share, and inventory as well as $800,000 to accelerate tree seed collection. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Investing in Tribal Partnerships</strong> <br /> The One Minnesota Budget invests $4 million to assist Tribal governments and Tribal organizations with applying for and managing environmental or climate grants from the state or federal government for assistance on climate-related work. This proposal responds to comments received from Tribal government partners, that in some cases they have limited capacity to apply for or manage grants and carry out climate-related work on their lands. <br /> <br /> <strong>Restoring Streams and Modernizing Water-Related Infrastructure</strong> <br /> More intense rains combined with land use changes are causing more flooding and road washouts, degrading streambanks, and overwhelming water control structures. This impacts fish, waterfowl, and recreation opportunities. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s budget invests $10 million to replace culverts and bridges to improve stream ecology, selectively remove dams and restore habitat to enhance fish passage and renovate other water control structures to address the impacts of climate change. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Enhancing Grasslands and Restoring Wetlands</strong> <br /> Key climate strategies identified in the Climate Action Framework include enhancing grasslands and restoring wetlands. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan’s budget invests $10 million to enhance and restore more than 6,000 acres of grasslands and wetlands on public lands to increase carbon storage, improve wildlife habitat, enhance water quality, reduce flooding, and increase groundwater recharge. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Building Soil Health</strong> <br /> Building soil health is important to water quality and natural resources in Minnesota. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s budget invests $1.25 million in the next biennium and $639,000 annually after that to build upon a pilot grant program to help farmers, producer groups, and local governments purchase or retrofit soil health equipment that is often specialized and expensive. These grants will expand the number of Minnesota farmers and acres engaged in soil health activities. <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Investing in Biofuels Infrastructure</strong> <br /> Motor fuel blends with ethanol burn cleaner than traditional fossil fuels and help give drivers more affordable options at the gas pump by increasing access to homegrown fuel that comes from Minnesota farmers. To promote the continued sale and use of higher ethanol blend biofuels, the One Minnesota Budget includes $750,000 of additional funds to the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Biofuels Infrastructure Investment Grant program. This program helps smaller service stations offset the cost of investing in upgraded equipment that is compatible with motor fuel containing at least 15% or more of ethanol.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>State Fund</strong> <strong>ing to Compete for Federal Investments</strong> <br /> The One Minnesota Budget includes $190 million for the State Competitiveness Fund to unlock billions in federal funding available through the Infrastructure Act and Inflation Reduction Act. This funding provides state resources to match federal funds, provide technical assistance, and provide grant-writing help for rural, tribal, and disadvantaged communities so Minnesota can compete for multiple energy-related federal grants and leverage historic tax credits and loan programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota</strong> <strong>Climate Innovation Finance Authority</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A new public corporation will stimulate the development of clean energy and greenhouse gas reduction projects. The Climate Innovation Finance Authority (CIFA) will use innovative financing tools to leverage private and public capital to reduce market barriers for climate-focused projects.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information on Minnesota’s Climate Action Framework visit <a href="http://mn.gov/framework" target="_blank">mn.gov/framework</a> .</p>5795382023-05-31T18:56:20Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579413" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-30T16:24:43ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill legalizing adult-use cannabis and providing for the expungement or resentencing of cannabis convictions. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill legalizing adult-use cannabis and providing for the expungement or resentencing of cannabis convictions. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by former Governor Jesse Ventura, legislators, and advocates to celebrate the bill signing. Photos from the event are linked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720308683391%2Fwith%2F52938398505%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cbaf4c55e9b2540acfa9208db6137c764%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638210664437599884%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=O9LnR0LZ5w3zWGsq8MjOVzCqk8oWbHVTtM6t05fA6pI%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’ve known for too long that prohibiting the use of cannabis hasn’t worked. By legalizing adult-use cannabis, we’re expanding our economy, creating jobs, and regulating the industry to keep Minnesotans safe,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Legalizing adult-use cannabis and expunging or resentencing cannabis convictions will strengthen communities. This is the right move for Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Legalizing adult-use cannabis is about keeping our communities safe, advancing justice for Minnesotans, and investing in a strong economic future,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Prohibiting the use of cannabis hasn’t worked and has disproportionately harmed communities of color across the state. By expunging nonviolent cannabis convictions, we are removing the barriers that prevent thousands of Minnesotans from fully returning to work, to their communities, and to their lives. This is how we make safer communities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF0100&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 63, House File 100</a> legalizes adult-use cannabis and establishes a new Office of Cannabis Management to regulate the new industry. The law also directs for the expungement or resentencing of cannabis related convictions. The bill includes a 10% tax on recreational cannabis.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Cannabis use and possession of <a href="https://cannabis.mn.gov/">certain amounts</a> will be decriminalized beginning August 1 along with the establishment of the Cannabis Expungement Board and provisions related to the automatic expungement of lower-level cannabis offenses. The bill allows sales for legal adult-use cannabis in Minnesota begin in the first quarter of 2025.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill also includes grants for cannabis growers; substance use treatment, recovery, and prevention; and communities that have disproportionately suffered the effects of cannabis prohibition.</p>5794132023-05-30T18:36:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579332" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-26T17:03:29ZGovernor Tim Walz announced today that through Executive Order 23-08, he will continue the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. The Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday coordinates and executes observances of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Junior's birthday at the state level in Minnesota and ensures that Dr. King’s memory and his mission are kept alive. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz announced today that through Executive Order 23-08, he will continue the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. The Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday coordinates and executes observances of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Junior's birthday at the state level in Minnesota and ensures that Dr. King’s memory and his mission are kept alive. This Executive Order designates the administration’s Chief Equity Officer to serve as the Chair of the Council. The Chief Equity Officer leads the Office of Equity, Opportunity, and Accessibility, which connects external stakeholders with state government partners for the purpose of achieving equity and opportunity for everyone in the State of Minnesota. Individuals can apply to the Council on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/66" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“People across Minnesota and the country are forever indebted to Dr. King for his tenacity, dedication, and sacrifice,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“I am proud to continue supporting this council whose mission is to commemorate the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. by creating opportunities for people in Minnesota to honor and remember Dr. King’s memory.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We carry Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy with us each day as we work to dismantle systemic racism and discrimination in communities across Minnesota and create equitable opportunities for everyone to thrive,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“I look forward to working with the future Council members to ensure Dr. King’s memory and mission continue to inspire and guide the hearts and minds of Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The council was first established by Governor Rudy Perpich in 1986 and has been re-established or continued by succeeding governors.</p>5793322023-05-26T17:04:43Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579333" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-26T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Podiatric Medicine, Clean Water Council, and State Competency Attainment Board. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Podiatric Medicine, Clean Water Council, and State Competency Attainment Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kimberly Bobbitt – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Podiatric Medicine</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Doctor Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Allison Willkom – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Podiatric Medicine</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Doctor Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Stephen Powless</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Podiatric Medicine:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Podiatric Medicine licenses doctors of podiatric medicine, disciplines licensees, and registers corporations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Podiatric Medicine can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/31" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Barten – Delano, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lakes/Streams Nonprofit Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Steven Christenson – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Business Organization Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Raj Rajan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Warren Formo – Eagan, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Farm Organization Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brad Gausman – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hunting Organization Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Todd Renville</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Holly Hatlewick – Granite Falls, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Soil and Water Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Holly Kovarik</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Annie Knight – Walker, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Environmental Organization Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jen Kader</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dan Sparks – Austin, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clean Water Council</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">County Government Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Frank Jewell</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Clean Water Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Clean Water Council advises on the administration and implementation of the Clean Water Legacy Act. The Clean Water Council also makes biennial recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature on expenditures from the Clean Water Fund, which receives funding from the voter-approved Legacy Amendment sales tax.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Clean Water Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/44">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jacqueline Buffington – Duluth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Competency Attainment Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mental Health Professional with Experience in Competency Attainment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elliot Butay – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Competency Attainment Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kelsey Shirkey – Fergus Falls, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Competency Attainment Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>KyleeAnn Stevens – Vadnais Heights, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Competency Attainment Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 31, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Competency Attainment Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Competency Attainment Board creates and administers a statewide, independent competency attainment system that certifies competency attainment programs and works to prevent people with mental illnesses and cognitive impairments from entering the legal system. The board also supports defendants in the competency process and those with mental illness and cognitive impairments and assists courts and partners in coordinating competency attainment services.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Competency Attainment Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/310" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5793332023-05-26T17:37:12Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579334" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-26T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed nine bills into law as passed by the Minnesota Legislature. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed nine bills into law as passed by the Minnesota Legislature.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s bill signing included:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF3288&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0&amp;b=house" target="_blank">Chapter 56, House File 3288</a> – Claims settlement bill; appropriating money</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">HF 3288 appropriates $1,157,068.32 to the Department of Corrections in order to pay claims to individuals who were either exonerated of their crime, received a medical reimbursement while pincarcerated, or received a work-related injury while incarcerated. The legislature’s Subcommittee on Claims approves the annual claims bill.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF1370&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 58, House File 1370</a> – DeepFake bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This bill establishes criminal violations and allows for a cause of action for the dissemination of nonconsensual deep fake images.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF0402&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 66, House File 402</a> – Hospital merger requirements</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This bill sets the following health care merger requirements and authorizes the attorney general to seek relief if a health care entity or transaction violates the notice and review requirements or is contrary to the public interest.</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Health care entities with an average annual revenue between $10-80 million must provide data to MDH concerning which entities are involved in the transaction, terms of the agreement, the health care services being provided, and other transparency measures. For health care entities with average annual revenues over $80 million, they must provide a written notice to the Attorney General of the transaction.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>No health care entity can enter into a transaction that would substantially limit competition or create a monopoly.</li> </ul> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The University of Minnesota health care facilities must remain dedicated to the university's public health mission and may not be controlled or owned by a for-profit entity or an out-of-state entity, unless the attorney general determines it is in the public interest.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF1900&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 67, House File 1900</a> <strong>–</strong>Environment and natural resources trust fund renewal provided, community grant program established, community grant program advisory council established, report required, money appropriated, and constitutional amendment proposed</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill renews the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) constitutional amendment, sending it to the voters for the November 2024 election, and establishes a new community grants program funded by the ENRTF that will reach underserved communities. The new community grant program will have an advisory council established by the DNR to oversee the grant program. Since 1991, the ENRTF has provided over $700 million to environmental, conservation, and educational projects and programs across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF3307&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 69, Senate File 3307</a> – Revisor’s bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This Revisor’s Office bill makes technical corrections to state statutes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF0447&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 73, House File 447</a> – Revisor’s Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This Revisor’s Office bill also makes technical corrections to state statutes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF3342&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 74, House File 3342</a> – Nursing Facility Relief Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill provides direct financial support to nursing facilities by establishing a Nursing Facility Workforce Incentive Grant Program and investing $75 million in nursing facilities to assist with recruiting and retaining direct support professionals, providing $173 million in direct payments to nursing facilities, and providing a temporary daily rate add-on for nursing facilities for 18 months starting July 1, 2023.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF1384&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 75, Senate File 1384</a> – Nurse and Patient Safety Act</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill expands the Hospital Nursing Education Loan Forgiveness Program to include nurses employed as a hospital nurse by a nonprofit hospital and providing direct care to patients at the nonprofit hospital. It also establishes requirements for hospitals in developing written action plans to address workplace safety, requires an annual report to the legislature on these action plans, and requires the Commissioner of Health to publish a report on the current status of the state’s nursing workforce employed by hospitals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF0197&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Resolution 1, House File 197</a> – Equal Rights Amendment Resolution to Congress</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A resolution encouraging Congress to recognize state ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment.</p>5793342023-05-26T17:12:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579304" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-26T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until noon on Monday, May 29, 2023, in honor of those who have died while serving in the United States military.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until noon on Monday, May 29, 2023, in honor of those who have died while serving in the United States military.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Memorial Day serves as a day of remembrance for people to gather for one purpose: to remember our fallen, pay homage to their sacrifice and courage, and recognize the selflessness of military service,”</strong> reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. <strong>“We honor those today who made the ultimate sacrifice for this great nation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since 1868, Memorial Day has been observed in the United States of America to celebrate and honor the valiant sacrifice of those in the military who have given their lives in service to the country.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>5793042023-05-26T15:13:54Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579287" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-25T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Matt Varilek to serve as Commissioner of Employment and Economic Development. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of Matt Varilek to serve as Commissioner of Employment and Economic Development. Varilek will replace Kevin McKinnon, who has been serving as temporary commissioner since March.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From strengthening the economy and communities of Greater Minnesota to advocating for small businesses on the federal level, Matt Varilek brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role driving our state’s economy forward,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I look forward to working with him to grow Minnesota’s strong, vibrant, and diverse economy and support our workers and businesses.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Matt Varilek is a steady, thoughtful leader who brings tremendous experience driving economic development and prosperity in diverse communities across the state,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan.<strong>“Having partnered with him to advance family economic security and child care in the past, I am confident in Matt’s ability to work within and across communities – from Greater Minnesota and the Twin Cities to our tribal nations – to build a more equitable and inclusive economy that works for all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Having grown up in a lower-income household, I'm passionate about helping more people enjoy greater economic prosperity,”</strong> said Matt Varilek. <strong>“I'm deeply grateful to Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan for the opportunity to join the talented team at DEED at this pivotal moment. The department has just been entrusted with an unprecedented set of tools and resources, and I'm eager to help put them to work for the benefit of businesses, workers, and families across Minnesota."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Matt Varilek is the president of the Initiative Foundation. Previously, Varilek was the chief operating officer for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), a regional administrator for U.S. SBA Region VIII, and a candidate for congress for the at-large district of South Dakota. Varilek was also an economic development director and speechwriter for the offices of U.S. Senators Tom Daschle and Tim Johnson and served as the director of policy and research for Natsource LLC. Varilek earned his B.A. from Carleton College, his M.Phil. in economic development from the University of Glasgow, and his M.Phil. in environment and development from the University of Cambridge. Varilek will start as Commissioner on June 20.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Matt brings an incredible background for this role, including experience with state and federal policy, deep relationships in business, nonprofits and foundations, and an important perspective from rural Minnesota,”</strong> said Minnesota Council on Foundations President Susie Brown. <strong>“I’m so pleased that Minnesota’s philanthropic community has a strong and positive relationship with Commissioner Varilek. We look forward to working with him and the DEED team to support Minnesota’s economic development opportunities.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Matt Varilek is a true leader and a consistent champion for businesses in Greater Minnesota,”</strong> said Joe Nayquonabe, Commissioner of Corporate Affairs for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. <strong>“He was a driving force behind the Enterprise Academy program within the Mille Lacs Tribal Economy and as CEO of the Initiative Foundation, he led a convening of other foundations across the state, promoting a ‘better together’ mentality. I’m confident he’ll bring that same leadership to the office of DEED and create an environment of innovation and growth.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“When I served as board chair of the Initiative Foundation, I got to see Matt’s steady and inclusive leadership style in action – welcoming diverse voices and helping to find a direction everyone could feel good about,”</strong> said Wyoming Machine, Inc. Co-President Traci Tapani. <strong>“As a business owner, I’m excited that he brings extensive knowledge of workforce development, small business lending, and other issues that are important to businesses, large and small. Matt is exceptionally well equipped to work productively with the business community as DEED’s next leader, and I congratulate Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan on a great choice.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About DEED</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is the state’s principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade, and community development. For more details about the agency and its services, visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/" target="_blank">DEED website</a>.</p>5792872023-05-26T15:14:06Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579303" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-25T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill providing paid family and medical leave for Minnesotans into law. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill providing paid family and medical leave for Minnesotans into law. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan were joined by House Speaker Melissa Hortman, Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic, legislators, and advocates, including Minnesota AFL-CIO President Bernie Burnham and Doran Schrantz, executive director of ISAIAH and Faith in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Paid family and medical leave is about investing in the people that made our state and economy strong in the first place,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By signing paid family and medical leave into law, we’re ensuring Minnesotans no longer have to make the choice between a paycheck and taking time off to care for a new baby or a sick family member. For the sustainability and health of our workforce and the future of our economy, I’m proud to sign this into law.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Whether it’s a new baby in the family, sick kiddo, mental health struggle, or life-altering diagnosis, everyone deserves paid time away from work to heal, grow, and live,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Today, Minnesota is leading with our values of caring for one other by getting paid family and medical leave across the finish line. This victory for our workers, our families, and our economy has been a long time coming, and I am so grateful to the folks who didn’t give up the fight.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=HF0002&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 59, House File 2</a> creates a state paid family and medical leave program which will provide partial wage replacement for 12-20 weeks of leave in a 52-week period for medical leave, bonding, or caring for a family member. The benefit distributions, premium collection, and small business grants will become available in January 2026.</p>5793032023-05-26T15:13:58Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579275" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-25T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 23-07, commissioning a study and convening a working group of drivers, riders, rideshare companies, members of the disability community, and labor to issue recommendations for rideshare legislation next year. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 23-07, commissioning a study and convening a working group of drivers, riders, rideshare companies, members of the disability community, and labor to issue recommendations for rideshare legislation next year. The Governor also issued a veto of the rideshare legislation in its current form.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Rideshare drivers deserve fair wages and safe working conditions. I am committed to finding solutions that balance the interests of all parties, including drivers and riders,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“This is not the right bill to achieve these goals. I have spent my career fighting for workers, and I will continue to work with drivers, riders, and rideshare companies to address the concerns that this bill sought to address.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The working group, comprised of legislators, drivers, rideshare company representatives, members of the disability community, labor, riders, and others will continue working on this topic and issue recommendations for the next legislative session. The executive order also requires the Department of Labor and Industry to commission a study to obtain and analyze data related to the working conditions of rideshare drivers in Minnesota and how potential changes may impact access and cost for riders.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To allow time to find solutions that balance the interests of all Minnesotans, Governor Walz vetoed <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF2369&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 65, House File 2369</a> as passed by the Minnesota legislature.</p>5792752023-05-25T22:53:21Z361527424316<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579302" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-24T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed the One Minnesota Budget into law alongside Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic, House Speaker Melissa Hortman, and DFL legislators on the front steps of the State Capitol. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed the One Minnesota Budget into law alongside Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic, House Speaker Melissa Hortman, and DFL legislators on the front steps of the State Capitol. The One Minnesota Budget provides the largest tax cut in state history, lowers costs and delivers direct payments to Minnesotans, cuts child poverty, increases funding for public education, and invests in Minnesota’s workforce and economic expansion.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In January, I outlined a vision to make Minnesota the best state in the nation for kids to grow up in. Today, we’re turning that vision into reality,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The work we’ve done over the last five months will make a generational impact on our state – it will lower costs, improve lives, and cut child poverty. The One Minnesota Budget delivers for Minnesotans, and it would not be possible without the leadership and partnership with the DFL-led legislature. I am grateful for their work and look forward to seeing this budget in action.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“From significantly cutting child poverty to lowering costs for Minnesotans across the state, we are leading with our values and keeping our promises by building the state and the future that our children deserve,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“The One Minnesota Budget is historic, deeply rooted in equity, and decades in the making.</strong> <strong>None of this work would have been possible without our partners in the legislature, our organizers and advocates, our testifiers, our parents, our young people, and our community members from every part of the state. This day and this victory are for you.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As part of the One Minnesota Budget, Governor Walz signed twelve budget bills into law:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=HF1938&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 64, House File 1938</a> – Tax Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Providing the largest tax cut in state history, the bill provides direct payments to Minnesotans up to certain incomes through a one-time refundable tax credit of $260 for single filers and up to $1,300 for a family with three kids. The tax bill also establishes a nation-leading Child Tax Credit, which provides up to $1,750 per child for lower income families, is expected to cut child poverty by 33%. The bill also fully exempts state taxes on social security for more than three quarters of seniors and includes $300 million in local public safety aid for cities and counties. The bill delivers $80 million each year for local government aid and county program aid to enable local governments to deliver critical services and avoid property tax increases. The bill also provides significant savings for homeowners and renters in the form of a Renter’s Property Tax Refund and Homestead Credit Refund.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF2497&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 55, House File 2497</a> – Education Finance Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill increases the general funding formula by 4% next year and 2% the year after and ties the funding to inflation, ensuring Minnesota schools have the resources to provide a world-class education for years to come. The bill establishes 5,200 new Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Seats, decreases the Special Education Cross Subsidy by 50%, and provides unemployment insurance for hourly school workers. The bill also provides funding for schools to hire mental health professionals and counselors and improves resources for American Indian students.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF3035&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 53, Senate File 3035</a> - Jobs, Economic Development, Labor, and Industry Omnibus Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill invests $500 million in the Minnesota Forward Fund - a toolbox that will be used to match federal investments in infrastructure and large-scale economic development projects in existing, new, and emerging industries made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and the CHIPS and Science Act. The bill invests in the Drive for 5 Workforce Fund, a workforce training program which creates a pipeline of workers who are skilled and prepared to enter high-growth and high-wage industries. The bill establishes the Office of New Americans, which will explicitly focus on supporting immigrant and refugee integration, reducing barriers to employment, and improving connections between employers and job seekers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF2292&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 54, House File 2292</a> – Early Learning Omnibus Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill allocates $400 million for programs targeted at Minnesota’s youngest learners. The bill includes an increase of $310 million over four years in Early Learning Scholarships and expands eligibility to ages 0-3, allowing the program to serve many more children and families with the highest need. The bill provides a $40 million increase to Head Start, providing another avenue for families to access early learning services for their children. Investments in the early educator workforce will also serve these programs, as well as additional funding for screening programs which help identify the needs of children early on.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/text.php?number=HF2310&amp;version=A&amp;session=ls93&amp;session_year=2023&amp;session_number=0&amp;type=ccr" target="_blank">Chapter 60, House File 2310</a> – Environment, Natural Resources, Climate, and Energy Omnibus Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill invests $110 million in Minnesota’s outdoor recreation industry to build, repair, and maintain the state’s fish hatcheries, boat ramps and public water accesses, and state park facilities. The bill provides $100 million in climate resiliency grants to help communities prepare for extreme weather events and upgrade aging infrastructure. The bill also includes funding for the Upper Sioux Agency State Park land transfer and investments in drinking water protection and PFAS response. The bill also expands the popular Solar for Schools program to provide the opportunity for solar power to be added at schools in Greater Minnesota outside of the Xcel Energy service territory.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF1403&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 50, House File 1403</a> – Human Services Policy Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill establishes an income exemption for workforce grant payments to ensure that eligibility for public assistance benefits and Medical Assistance is not compromised for direct support professionals. The bill establishes new ways for people to apply for adult income assistance programs submitted by phone or internet and creates a new process for obtaining signatures for an application received without one. It also removes the sunset date for four councils that advise the Department of Human Services: the American Indian Advisory Council, the Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Committee, the American Child Welfare Advisory Council, and the Cultural and Ethnic Communities Leadership Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.leg.mn.gov/leg/cc/Default?type=bill&amp;year=2023-93&amp;bill=HF-2073" target="_blank">Chapter 41, House File 2073</a> – Higher Ed Omnibus Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill funds the North Star Promise Program, which provides free college for students with a family income under $80,000. The bill also provides additional funding for the state’s tribal colleges by expanding the Tribal College Supplemental Grant Assistance program, ensuring tribal colleges receive the same per student funding as other Minnesota public higher education institutions. The bill also appropriates funding to the Board of Regents of University of Minnesota and to the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities to provide a first-dollar tuition and free pathway for eligible Minnesota American Indian students to complete an undergraduate education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=SF2744&amp;b=senate&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0" target="_blank">Chapter 57, Senate File 2744</a> – Commerce Omnibus Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Commerce Omnibus bill funds a study on free primary care for Minnesotans and codifies existing federal laws from the Affordable Care Act that allow Minnesotans to access certain preventative services, like routine health screenings, for zero-cost. The bill also funds the Prescription Drug Advisory Board, which creates a board that has the authority to review generic drugs if the price increases above a threshold.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=senate&amp;f=SF2934&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 61, Senate File 2934</a> – Omnibus Human Services appropriations Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill invests $2.9 billion over the next four years across the entire human services spectrum of need. This bill invests funding for long-term care, workforce, substance use and addiction, and provides rate increases for patient care assistants. The bill includes funding for nursing homes, workforce retention in the long-term care industry, and a new program to help bring new Americans into the human services field. Finally, the Human Services Omnibus Bill establishes a new Department of Direct Care and Treatment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=HF1830&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 62, House File 1830</a> – State Government Finance Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill appropriates money for the legislature, constitutional offices, councils, boards and commissions; Minnesota State Retirement System, provides deficiency funding, provides revenue recovery, provides statutory appropriation of funds to operate the House of Representatives, establishes the Office of Enterprise Translation, and creates county and local cybersecurity grants. The bill also modifies election administration provisions relating to voter registration, absentee voting, and election day voting.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=HF2887&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 68, House File 2887</a> – Transportation Omnibus bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This $1.3 billion bill includes a historic investment in Minnesota’s transportation infrastructure, including funding for improvements to the state’s roads and bridges and enhancements to the multimodal transportation system. The bill includes the necessary matching dollars for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, invests millions in the national electric vehicle infrastructure program, and provides funding to keep Minnesota’s communities connected.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF2995&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" target="_blank">Chapter 70, Senate File 2995</a> – Health and Human Services appropriations Omnibus bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill provides funding to help more families access affordable child care and help providers attract and retain workers. The bill also updates the Child Care Assistance Program rate to the 75th percentile and establishes the new Department of Children, Youth, and Families. This bill funds programs to address homelessness in Minnesota, including the Emergency Services Program, Homeless Youth Act, Transitional Housing, and Safe Harbor Housing and Support. The bill includes funding for food security and provides greater stability for Minnesotans living in poverty by requiring households accessing the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) and General Assistance to report changes every six months instead of monthly.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This bill addresses health care access and affordability and includes guaranteed reductions in cost-sharing, the establishment of the Center for Health Care Affordability, and other efforts to reduce the cost of health care. It also includes a guaranteed increase in health insurance coverage for children and disadvantaged communities. The bill raises reimbursement rates for multiple services including mental health and reproductive health.</p>5793022023-05-26T15:04:27Z361527424316<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579291" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-23T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced ForwardEdge ASIC, a subsidiary of the internationally renowned American aerospace company Lockheed Martin, plans to create at least 100 jobs in Saint Paul and invest $60 million in the community.The expansion, in partnership with DEED and City of Saint Paul, will create over 100 jobs and invest $60 million1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced ForwardEdge ASIC, a subsidiary of the internationally renowned American aerospace company Lockheed Martin, plans to create at least 100 jobs in Saint Paul and invest $60 million in the community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">ForwardEdge ASIC LLC (NAICS 334413) is a microelectronics design startup and makes application specific integrated circuits (ASICs). ForwardEdge signed a lease in Saint Paul and is actively recruiting new employees. All job openings will be posted on the State of Minnesota’s CareerForce website. ForwardEdge will also connect with local universities – including the University of Minnesota, St. Thomas University, and Metropolitan State University – to recruit and train new employees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Lockheed Martin considered multiple U.S. sites for this project, but ultimately chose to expand in Saint Paul,"</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>"The company's decision is a testament to Minnesota’s world-class talent and access to business support and infrastructure. This expansion will tap into Minnesota’s skilled workforce and diversify and strengthen our economy. This investment is good news for Minnesota."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State of Minnesota is supporting the ForwardEdge expansion with $800,000 from the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF) program and $500,000 from the Job Creation Fund (JCF) program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“ForwardEdge ASIC is an investment in the defense industrial base right here in Minnesota,”</strong> said Jay Malave, chief financial officer at Lockheed Martin. “ <strong>Saint Paul’s high-skilled labor force will lead our industry with secure, customer-focused microelectronics that meet or exceed mission expectations.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The MIF award, made in the form of a forgivable loan, will be administered by the City of Saint Paul. To qualify for funding, ForwardEdge must create and maintain at least 113 jobs over the next two years – with pay ranging from $40 to $70 per hour. All 100-plus jobs are anticipated to be professional level research and development positions including managerial and engineer level positions. The project is also eligible for the capital investment rebate for renovations to an existing building, which would be rebated up to 5% under the JCF program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This is an exciting opportunity for Saint Paul to support business expansion and job creation in our city,”</strong> said Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter. <strong>“This investment supports our local and statewide vision of being a technology hub attractive to our 21st century workforce.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED’s <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/mn-jcf/">Job Creation Fund</a> provides financial incentives to new and expanding businesses that meet certain job creation and capital investment targets. Eligible companies may receive up to $1 million for creating or retaining high-paying jobs and for constructing or renovating facilities or making other property improvements. In some cases, companies may receive awards of up to $2 million.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED’s <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/mif/">Minnesota Investment Fund</a> provides financing to help add new workers and retain high-quality jobs with a focus on industrial, manufacturing, and technology-related industries to increase the local and state tax base and improve Minnesota's economic vitality. Funds are awarded to local units of government who provide loans to assist expanding businesses.</p>5792912023-05-26T15:04:41Z361527424316<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579296" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-23T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that the state’s Direct Admissions program that removes financial barriers has expanded higher education opportunities for over 23,600 high school seniors across Minnesota this year. Pilot program proactively admits qualified high school seniors to participating colleges and universities1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that the state’s Direct Admissions program that removes financial barriers has expanded higher education opportunities for over 23,600 high school seniors across Minnesota this year. The program, launched in 2022 and administered through the Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE), ensures that graduating high school students know they qualify for admission to a variety of Minnesota colleges and universities. Participating colleges proactively notify high school seniors that they have been guaranteed admission based on their academic records and waive the application fee.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last year, 40 high schools in Minnesota participated in the pilot program. This year, 129 high schools have opted in, with a total of 23,684 high school seniors now being considered for proactive admission from <a href="http://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=2522">55 colleges and universities</a> in the 2023-24 academic year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Higher education is one of the greatest tickets towards economic growth and opportunity, but as a former teacher, I know the college admissions process can be a daunting process for students,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By making sure students know all of their options and waiving the cost to apply to schools, we are removing barriers and making higher education accessible for more students than ever across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“High schools across Minnesota are filled with bright, young minds that represent the future of our state, but not all of these students are equipped with the resources and support they need to pursue higher education,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“We can’t let students miss out on higher education opportunities because they can’t afford an application or don’t know if they would qualify. I am grateful our Direct Admissions program is removing these barriers and expanding opportunities for more students.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We know that earning a degree or credential after high school is the gateway to greater career options and higher lifetime earning potential, yet declining enrollment trends persist,”</strong> OHE Commissioner Dennis Olson said. <strong>“Direct Admissions helps every high school senior in the state to see themselves as college material by letting them know which colleges are ready to admit them. By removing the stigma, fear, and cost in the application process, we hope to reverse trends and see more students enroll in higher education every year.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Currently in a pilot program phase, high schools and colleges are able to opt in to participate. The first two years of the pilot program are funded through a 2022 investment of $1 million from Governor Walz and the Legislature. The 2023 Higher Education Omnibus Bill, which passed the Minnesota House and Senate last week, includes $1.15 million in ongoing funding for statewide implementation. The Governor expects to receive and sign the bill this week.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The list of 2023-24 participating high schools includes:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">622 Online High School – Online Program</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">AGAPE High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Academic Excellence Online High School – Duluth, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Albert Lea Senior High School – Albert Lea, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SPPS Gateway to College – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Apollo Senior High School – St. Cloud, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Austin Online Academy – Austin, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Austin Senior High School – Austin, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Banaadir Secondary School – Minneapolis, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Barnesville Secondary School – Barnesville, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Blooming Prairie Secondary School – Blooming Prairie, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Blue Earth Area Secondary School – Blue Earth, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Brandon-Evansville High School – Brandon, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Buffalo Senior High School – Buffalo, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Cannon Falls Secondary School – Cannon Falls, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Centennial High School – Circle Pines, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Central Senior High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Century Senior High School – Rochester, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chanhassen High School – Chanhassen, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chaska High School – Chaska, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Clearbrook-Gonvick Secondary School – Clearbrook, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Cloquet Senior High School – Cloquet, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Como Park Senior High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Creative Arts Secondary School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">CVA Fusion High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">CVA PASCAL Middle &amp; High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Denfeld High School – Duluth, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Detroit Lakes Senior High School – Detroit Lakes, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Duluth Area Learning Center – Duluth, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">East Grand Forks Senior High School – East Grand Forks, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">East High School – Duluth, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">East Ridge High School – East Ridge, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Eden Prairie Senior High School – Eden Prairie, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Edina Senior High School – Edina, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Edison High School – Minneapolis, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Fairview Alternative High School – Roseville, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Fertile-Beltrami Secondary School – Fertile, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">GFW High School – Winthrop, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Goodhue Secondary School – Goodhue, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Gordon Parks High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Harding Senior High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Harrison Education Center – Minneapolis, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hawley Secondary School – Hawley, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Henning Secondary School – Henning, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Heritage Academy High School – Minneapolis, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Highland Park Senior High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hmong College Prep Academy High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hopkins Senior High School – Hopkins, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Houston Secondary School – Houston, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Humboldt High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Insight School of Minnesota – Brooklyn Center, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Integrated Arts Academy – Chaska, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jane Goodall Environmental Sciences Academy – Maple Lake, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jefferson Senior High School – Bloomington, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">John Marshall Senior High School – Rochester, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Johnson Senior High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jordan High School – Jordan, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Kennedy High School – Fergus Falls, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Kennedy Senior High School - Bloomington, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lakes International Language Academy Upper School – Forest Lake, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">LEAP High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lewiston-Altura Secondary School – Lewiston, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mankato East Senior High School – Mankato, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mankato West Senior High School – Mankato, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Maple River Secondary School – Maple River, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mayo Senior High School – Rochester, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Medford Secondary School – Medford, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Milaca Secondary High School – Milaca, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Online High School – Online Program</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Virtual Academy High School – Online Program</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnetonka Senior High School – Minnetonka, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnewaska Secondary School – Minnewaska, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MTS High School – Minneapolis, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Code Academy High School – Bloomington, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">North Senior High School – North St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Northland Secondary School – Remer, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Open World Learning Secondary School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Orono Senior High School – Orono, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">PACT Charter Secondary School – Ramsey, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Park High School – Cottage Grove, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Parnassus Preparatory School-Rhetoric – Maple Grove, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Pequot Lakes Senior High School – Pequot Lakes, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">PIM Arts High School – Eden Prairie, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Plainview-Elgin-Millville High School – Plainview, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Prairie Seeds High School Academy – Brooklyn Park, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Prior Lake High School – Prior Lake, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Quora Secondary School – Little Canada, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Red Lake County Central High School – Oklee, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Red Lake Secondary School – Red Lake, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Red Rock Central Secondary School – Lamberton, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Richfield Senior High School – Richfield, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Robbinsdale Armstrong Senior High School – Robbinsdale, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Robbinsdale Virtual Academy – Robbinsdale, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rockford Secondary School – Rockford, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Roosevelt High School – Minneapolis, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Roseville Area Senior High School – Roseville, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sacred Heart Academy – Robbinsdale, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SAGE Academy Charter School – Brooklyn Park, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Saint Paul Online High School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sebeka Secondary School – Sebeka, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sejong Academy Upper School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Shakopee High School – Shakopee, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sibley East-Arlington Senior High School – Arlington, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Simley Senior High School – Inver Grove Heights, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">South St. Paul High School – South St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">South Washington Alternative High School – Cottage Grove, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SoWashCo Online High School – Online Program</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Spring Grove Secondary School – Spring Lake Grove, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Spring Lake Park Senior High School – Spring Lake Park, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">St. Louis Park Senior High School – St. Louis Park, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">St. Peter High School – St. Peter, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Staples-Motley Senior High School – Staples, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">SWMetro ALC – Chaska, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tartan Senior High School – Oakdale, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Technical Senior High School – St. Cloud, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">TrekNorth High School – Bemidji, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">United South Central High School – Wells, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Venture Academy High School – Minneapolis, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Verndale Secondary School – Verndale, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">VOA High School – Minneapolis, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Wadena-Deer Creek Senior High School – Wadena, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Warroad High School – Warroad, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Waseca Area Learning Center – Waseca, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Waseca Senior High School – Waseca, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Washburn High School – Minneapolis, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Washington Tech Secondary Magnet School – St. Paul, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Watershed High School - Richfield, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Watertown-Mayer High School – Watertown, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Woodbury High School – Woodbury, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Zumbrota-Mazeppa Senior High School – Zumbrota, MN</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information on Direct Admissions Minnesota, <a href="http://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=2484">visit the Minnesota Office of Higher Education website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Richfield High School Student Testimonials from the first year of the Direct Admissions pilot program:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kharisma Naidu <br /></strong> “<strong>I can say that Direct Admissions helped me feel less stressed with my college application process</strong>,” said Richfield High School senior Kharisma Naidu. <strong>“Being the first generation in my family, and an only child, made me explore higher education independently with no training wheels</strong> .”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Since Kharisma’s parents didn’t go to college, she was unfamiliar with the application process. “<strong>Direct Admissions has been very beneficial for my family and me since it reassures us of my acceptance to one of many colleges that I have been interested in. Now that I know these colleges have already accepted me, I can start my application process stress-free without wondering if I will get in.</strong>”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elsy Cruz Parra <br /></strong> Richfield High School senior Elsy Cruz says the Direct Admissions program means a lot to her. “<strong>As a first-generation student and the oldest in my family, it gave me a sense of relief to know I am already admitted to my top colleges</strong>.” Cruz was amazed with how many colleges were on her list. She said she had a feeling that “all my hard work paid off!”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ashley Lucero</strong> <br /> Ashley is a first-generation college attendee and says her plan has always been to attend college, as a personal goal and as something her parents have always wanted her to do. She also has a list of her top five colleges, and of those, four of them are on her Direct Admissions list. Ashley said that before Direct Admissions, she was stressed about college applications. “<strong>Since we got that email, I’m relaxed because I know which colleges I got into,</strong>” she said.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Ashely also remembers coming home and seeing her dad’s face after he had received her Direct Admissions letter. <strong>“I saw his face and he was smiling. And then he said, ‘I’m so proud.’ I played it cool, but I was screaming inside. I was literally going to cry because my parents and family and friends all said they were proud of me</strong> .”</p>5792962023-05-26T15:04:32Z361527424316<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-579288" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-22T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz released the following statement celebrating the historic 2023 Minnesota Legislative Session. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz released the following statement celebrating the historic 2023 Minnesota Legislative Session.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Statement from Governor Walz:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“The</strong> <strong>work we’ve done over the last five months will make a generational impact on our state – it will lower costs, improve lives, and cut child poverty.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In January I outlined a vision to make Minnesota the best state in the nation for kids to grow up in. The</strong> <strong>DFL-led legislature delivered on that promise.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We’re going to put resources behind the educators that teach our children. We’re going to rebuild our roads. And we’re going to give money directly back to Minnesotans who need it most, whether through direct checks or the child tax credit.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“None of this could have happened without the tireless, consistent leadership of Speaker Hortman and Majority Leader Dziedzic. Because of their work, Minnesota is leading the nation on climate,</strong> <strong>on gun safety, and protecting women’s rights. I will be incredibly proud to sign this budget into law.”</strong></p>5792882023-05-26T15:04:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-578396" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-19T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed historic gun safety measures into law, including universal background checks and a red flag law that allows law enforcement to intervene when someone is at high risk of injuring themselves or others with a firearm. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan were joined by former Congresswoman and gun violence prevention advocate Gabby Giffords, legislators, and gun safety advocates to celebrate the action taken to address gun violence.Legislation includes additional $113.3 million to fight violent crime1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed historic gun safety measures into law, including universal background checks and a red flag law that allows law enforcement to intervene when someone is at high risk of injuring themselves or others with a firearm. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan were joined by former Congresswoman and gun violence prevention advocate Gabby Giffords, legislators, and gun safety advocates to celebrate the action taken to address gun violence.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a veteran, gun-owner, hunter, and dad, I know basic gun safety isn’t a threat to the Second Amendment – it’s about keeping our kids safe,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“There’s no place for weapons of war in our schools, churches, banks, or anywhere else people are just trying to live their lives. Today is about taking meaningful action to create a safer future for our kids, and I am proud to sign this commonsense, life-saving legislation into law.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As a mom, I am very clear that our first responsibility to our kids is keeping them safe. With this historic budget, we are going to do just that,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“By signing a red flag law and universal background checks into law, we are saving lives and building a better, more hopeful future for our kids. Thank you to Congresswoman Giffords and all of the advocates who turned their deepest pain into hope and progress – their courage is why we are here today.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Historic gun safety and violent crime prevention measures in <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF2909&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 52, Senate File 2909</a> include:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Universal Background Checks</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill requires a background check for private party transfers of pistols and semiautomatic weapons. A background check is not required for a private transfer of a hunting rifle or between immediate family members. Both parties must retain a copy of the record of the transfer for 10 years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Extreme Risk Protection Orders</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Extreme risk protection orders, also known as “red flag laws,” allows a family member, guardian, city or county attorney, or police chief to intervene when someone is at high risk of injuring themselves or others with a firearm.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Bureau of Criminal Apprehension</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill invests over $43 million over four years for the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) to combat violent crime statewide. This investment will provide increased funding for BCA lab analysis, analytics supports, and to continue partnerships with local law enforcement.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Limiting No-Knock Warrants</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill limits the use of no-knock warrants. These warrants can only be allowed if either the search cannot be executed while the premises is unoccupied or the occupants in the premises present an imminent threat of death or great bodily harm to the officers executing the warrant or other persons.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Other highlights of the public safety bill include:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Providing funding to reimburse counties for the costs of sexual assault examination kits, to fill the gap in federal victims of crime act funding, and for the BCA to meet a 90-day goal for forensic evidence exam turnaround times.</li> <li>The bill establishes the Office of Missing and Murdered Black Women and Girls to promote the safety and success of Black women and girls through training, advocating for systems change, and ending violence against and trafficking Black women and girls.</li> <li>Investing $87.2 million to help ensure evidence-based practices, bring community supervision systems up-to date with needed funding across the three delivery systems, and provide state funding to tribal governments.</li> <li>$70 million for the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) to provide grants to community-based crime prevention programs. Eligible grantees include organizations that support victims of gun violence, youth support, violence interrupters, homelessness support, neighborhood watch, re-entry programs for incarcerated individuals, and community and faith-based projects.</li> <li>Providing $5 million in fiscal year 24 for the new Intensive Peace Officer Education &amp; Training Program. Local law enforcement agencies will be able to receive grants so they can pay education and training costs, in addition to paying the candidate a salary while they are in training.</li> <li>$35 million over two years in juvenile-justice efforts. This includes funding for youth-intervention grants, dual status youth programs, restorative justice grants, increasing the capacity of OJP’s Youth Services Office, establishing a new office at OJP for Restorative Justice, and funding an innovative pilot program in Ramsey County for juvenile home placement and treatment.</li> <li>Ensuring incarcerated individuals have access to free phone calls for family and friends.</li> <li>Increased funding to the Department of Human Rights to strengthen their investigative capacity, legal team, settlement monitoring team, and equity and inclusion in state contracting work. These investments will support the Department’s vision to make Minnesota a state where everyone can lead lives fully of dignity and joy.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor has long advocated for public safety funding for local police, fire, and 911 departments. The Governor expects to receive and sign the legislation in the coming days.</p>5783962023-05-19T22:29:57Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-578397" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-19T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed nine bills into law as passed by the Minnesota Legislature.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed nine bills into law as passed by the Minnesota Legislature.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Public safety professionals put their lives on the line for their communities,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We have an obligation to ensure that when they need mental health support, they get it. By funding treatment programs for public safety professionals, we’re delivering on that promise and supporting the people that serve our communities each and every day.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s bill signing included:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF1234&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 48, House File 1234</a> – Duty Disability</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill provides $104 million to fund treatment programs for police officers, firefighters, and other public safety professionals diagnosed with PTSD. The bill also provides funding to cover their wages and benefits while in treatment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=HF1999&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 40, House File 1999</a> – Legacy Omnibus Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Legacy Omnibus Bill appropriates $818 million for conservation, clean water, parks &amp; trails, and arts &amp; culture projects and programming across the state. The bill funds habitat restoration, clean water programs across state agencies, parks and trails funding throughout Greater Minnesota and the metro, and museums, educational arts programs, and more.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF2204&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0&amp;b=house">Chapter 42, House File 2204</a> - Redistricting provision of the Metropolitan Council districts</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As directed by Minnesota Statute 473.123, this bill redistricts the Met Council districts so that each district has a substantially equal population.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF1126&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 44, House File 1126</a> – Higher Ed Policy Omnibus</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill adds language expanding the uses of the mineral research scholarships account to include students enrolled in STEM programs and provides a definition for “Tribal Colleges.”</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF3100&amp;b=house&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 45, House File 3100</a> – Omnibus Pension Bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill reduces the actuarial assumption for investment rate of return, eliminates the delay to normal retirement age on the commencement of postretirement adjustments, and reduces the vesting requirement for the general employee's retirement plans of the Minnesota State Retirement System and the Public Employees Retirement Association. This bill also modifies the postretirement adjustment for the local government correctional service retirement plan, provides a onetime postretirement adjustment to all pension plan members, temporarily and reduces the employee contribution rate for the general state employees’ retirement plan.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF0782&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 46, House File 782</a> – Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program establishment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This bill provides $5 million to establish and administer the Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program, a state-sponsored program allowing private sector employees to save for retirement. ​</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF2950&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 47, House File 2950</a> – Pension policy bill</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This bill amends certain Minnesota statutes which govern the State Patrol Retirement Plan to reduce the length of time from 90 days to 60 days before retirement that a member of the Plan may apply for retirement. It also extends the minimum time period for purchasing service credit for periods of military leave under the Teachers Retirement Association and the St. Paul Teachers Retirement Fund Association to three years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF1486&amp;b=house&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 49, House File 1486</a> – Substance use disorder licensing modifications</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill will expand access to addiction treatment services by allowing a former student to practice alcohol and drug counseling for 90 days at the site where the student completed their internship. The bill requires the student to be paid, supervised, and provides that the practice will automatically expire after 90 days.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF2988&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 51, House File 2988</a> – Workers’ Compensation Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This bill adopts recommendations made by the Workers’ Compensation Advisory Council (WCAC) related to workers’ compensation self-insurance; workers’ compensation housekeeping and system efficiency proposals; permanent partial disability schedule updates; hospital outpatient fee schedule payments; and a Department-led study of work-related post-traumatic stress disorder.</p>5783972023-05-19T22:29:54ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-578333" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-18T17:53:11ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited a farm in Finlayson, Minnesota, to sign the agriculture and broadband bill into law. The bill includes a $100 million investment to expand high-speed broadband, establishes a grain indemnity fund to protect grain producers, and strengthens the state’s work to help aspiring farmers and producers succeed. Governor Walz was joined by local farmers, legislators, and leaders in the agriculture and broadband industries. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited a farm in Finlayson, Minnesota, to sign the agriculture and broadband bill into law. The bill includes a $100 million investment to expand high-speed broadband, establishes a grain indemnity fund to protect grain producers, and strengthens the state’s work to help aspiring farmers and producers succeed. Governor Walz was joined by local farmers, legislators, and leaders in the agriculture and broadband industries.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Agriculture is central to our state’s identity, and this bipartisan law will empower Minnesota’s farmers, ranchers, and producers to succeed for years in the future,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“From protecting producers with the state’s first grain indemnity fund to making a $100 million investment in expanding high-speed broadband and supporting Minnesota’s emerging farmers, this budget provides security for our farmers and producers and ensures we can continue growing and innovating in our nation-leading agriculture industry.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am so excited for the work we will get done for farmers, producers, and rural communities across the state with this budget. By expanding our work to support Minnesota’s emerging farmers, we’re removing barriers and investing in the future of agriculture right here in Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“We know broadband isn’t a nice to have – it’s a must have. By investing $100 million in expanding high-speed broadband, we’re working to close the digital divide and make reliable internet accessible to every Minnesotan – no matter where you live.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Highlights of <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF1955&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 43, Senate File 1955</a> include:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Grain Indemnity Fund</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill includes $10 million to establish the state’s first grain indemnity fund, providing protections and security for producers who have unpaid grain sales when grain buyers or warehouses become financially insolvent.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Support for Emerging Farmers</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill includes funding to expand the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Emerging Farmers Office, which allows additional staff to focus on the needs of emerging farmers, and immigrant and BIPOC producers and business owners. The new funding will help the department remove barriers that prevent new or potential farmers from entering the field or succeeding.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Expanding High-Speed Broadband</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill includes $100 million to expand high-speed broadband and help achieve the state’s goal of ensuring everyone has access to high-speed broadband across the state. This investment will supplement federal funding allocated to Minnesota under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Soil Health Equipment Grants</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill provides $1.25 million to build on the new Soil Health Financial Assistance Program that began as a pilot in 2022. The grants will help farmers implement soil health management practices by awarding funds to access specialized equipment and machinery.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Forever Green Initiative</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill includes funding to the University of Minnesota to support the Forever Green Initiative. The initiative brings together researchers, local groups, private-sector partners, and non-profits to advance and commercialize new high value commodity crops for conservation purposes.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Good Acre LEAFF Program</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill provides funding to support The Good Acre’s Local Emergency Assistance Farmer Fund (LEAFF) which provides underserved farmers with new market channels by paying market-rate prices for their produce, all of which is then donated to hunger-relief organizations across Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>DAIRI Program</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill provides $4 million for the Dairy Assistance, Investment, Relief Initiative (DAIRI). The program provides financial assistance to Minnesota dairy cow operations that produced less than 16,000,000 lbs. of milk in 2022 and that enrolled in the Dairy Margin Coverage Program, a federal dairy risk protection program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Supporting Farm Safety, Health, and Wellness</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill will fund farm safety outreach and equipment cost-share payments to farmers; stress and mental health outreach, promotion, and support to farmers and others in the agricultural community; and a pass-through grant to the Minnesota FFA Foundation to engage FFA chapters in creating innovative education, training, or outreach projects that respond to community needs to mitigate stress and promote mental health.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Replenishing the Ag Emergency Account</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill includes $1 million in fiscal year 2024 to replenish the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Ag Emergency Account, ensuring the agency is ready to respond to ag-related emergencies in a timely manner.</p>5783332023-05-19T22:35:54ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-578087" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-17T20:27:47ZGovernor Walz today announced that the state is partnering with 59 Minnesota businesses to provide nearly $3.3 million in Dual Training Grants to fund on-the-job training for employees in high-demand industries. Over half of the grants awarded by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE) were to employers located in greater Minnesota. Grants to provide over 650 employees in high-demand industries with training and career pathways1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Walz today announced that the state is partnering with 59 Minnesota businesses to provide nearly $3.3 million in <a href="https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=2160">Dual Training Grants</a> to fund on-the-job training for employees in high-demand industries. Over half of the grants awarded by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE) were to employers located in greater Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These grants provide continued educational opportunities that strengthen our workforce, benefit our businesses, and grow our economy,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The state is committed to investing in Minnesota’s economic future by supporting our businesses and providing career growth and training opportunities for workers to excel in our high-demand industries.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"These grants support economic growth throughout the state, empowering businesses and connecting Minnesotans to great careers,"</strong> said OHE Commissioner Dennis Olson. <strong>“These businesses are critical partners in our work to provide an array of postsecondary options, and I hope we will be able to support all who are interested in future grant rounds.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">OHE’s Dual Training Grant program partners with the <a href="https://www.dli.mn.gov/pipeline">Minnesota Dual-Training Pipeline Program</a> at the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) to help employers meet their workforce needs by creating earn-and-learn programs for employees. Employers collaborate with training providers and contribute substantially to career advancement and development of their employees by providing them with on-the-job training and supporting their postsecondary education. Grant funds can be used to cover the cost of dual trainees' tuition, fees and required materials for the related instruction training in program occupations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The awarded funding will allow 59 employers to provide educational advancement and career pathways to a total of 664 current and new employees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Grants are currently available to employers who are in the following high-growth, in-demand industries: advanced manufacturing, agriculture, health care services, and information technology. Of the 59 employers receiving a grant this year, 28 are in health care services, 26 in advanced manufacturing, three in agriculture and two in information technology.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Pipeline dual training and registered apprenticeships are important training models that provide skills for workers and help employers meet their workforce needs,”</strong> said DLI Commissioner Nicole Blissenbach. <strong>"We are excited to continue our support of Minnesota’s employers and workers with this new round of grants.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last week, the Minnesota Legislature passed the Higher Education Omnibus Budget Bill which invests over $5 million in the Dual Training Grant program for the next biennium, as well as an ongoing increased investment of $1 million per year. In addition, the Legislature has expanded the program’s eligible industries to include childcare and transportation, both industries that have statewide workforce shortages and require industry-related training. Governor Walz plans to sign the Higher Education Omnibus Budget Bill in the coming weeks.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Grants are being awarded to the following Minnesota organizations:</strong></p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Acme Metal Spinning – Fridley</li> <li>Allina Health System – Minneapolis</li> <li>American Crystal Sugar Company – Moorhead</li> <li>Apple Tree Dental – Mounds View</li> <li>Bedford Industries – Worthington</li> <li>BTD MFG – Detroit Lakes</li> <li>C.A.R.E. Clinic – Red Wing</li> <li>Center for Alcohol and Drug Treatment – Duluth</li> <li>CentraCare Health System – St. Cloud</li> <li>Cerenity Senior Care – White Bear Lake</li> <li>Children's Minnesota – Edina</li> <li>Community Dental Care – Maplewood</li> <li>Cuyuna Regional Medical Center – Crosby</li> <li>Daikin Applied Americas – Faribault</li> <li>Dakota County Regional Chamber Foundation – Eagan</li> <li>Design Ready Controls – Brooklyn Park</li> <li>Dotson Iron Castings – Mankato</li> <li>Fair Meadow Nursing Home – Fertile</li> <li>Fairview Health Services – St. Paul</li> <li>Family Tree Clinic – Minneapolis</li> <li>Grand Rapids Dental Care – Grand Rapids</li> <li>Grand Village – Grand Rapids</li> <li>Greater Bemidji – Bemidji</li> <li>HealthPartners – Bloomington</li> <li>HyLife Foods – Windom</li> <li>In Control – Fridley</li> <li>Intek Plastics – Hastings</li> <li>JBS Pork – Worthington</li> <li>Jones Metal – Mankato</li> <li>Jones-Harrison Residence – Minneapolis</li> <li>KLN Family Brands – Perham</li> <li>Knute Nelson – Alexandria</li> <li>Mankato Clinic – Mankato</li> <li>Mayo Clinic – Rochester</li> <li>McNeilus Truck &amp; Manufacturing – Dodge Center</li> <li>Mille Lacs Health System – Onamia</li> <li>Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association – Plymouth</li> <li>MRG Tool and Die – Faribault</li> <li>North Memorial Health Care – Robbinsdale</li> <li>Perham Health – Perham</li> <li>Pike Lake Dental Center – Duluth</li> <li>Plastic Products Company – Lindstrom</li> <li>Post Consumer Brands – Northfield</li> <li>rms company – Coon Rapids</li> <li>Sage Electrochromics – Faribault</li> <li>Sanford Health – Bemidji</li> <li>Sappi Cloquet – Cloquet</li> <li>Seneca Foods Corporation – LeSueur</li> <li>St. Peter Family Dental Center – Saint Peter</li> <li>Stevens Community Medical Center – Morris</li> <li>Stillwater Family Dental – Oak Park Heights</li> <li>Syngenta Seeds – Amboy</li> <li>The Aagard Group – Alexandria</li> <li>Two Rivers Enterprises – Holdingford</li> <li>UMC – Monticello</li> <li>University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum – Chaska</li> <li>V-TEK – Mankato</li> <li>WellShare International – Minneapolis</li> <li>Winegar – Waseca</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about Dual Training Grants contact Jacquelynn Mol Sletten, state financial aid administrator, at 651-355-0609 or <a href="mailto:jacquelynn.mol.sletten@state.mn.us">jacquelynn.mol.sletten@state.mn.us</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about Minnesota Dual-Training Pipeline contact Dan Solomon, program manager, at 651-284-5355 or <a href="mailto:dan.solomon@state.mn.us">dan.solomon@state.mn.us</a> .</p>5780872023-05-17T20:28:23ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-578081" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-17T20:17:31ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Oluyinka Ajose – Blaine, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Catherine Chavers – Orr, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Angela Conley – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sidarth Gazula – Maple Grove, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aisha Ibrahim – Eagan, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brandon Jones – Woodbury, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Keenan Jones – Plymouth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicole Kern – Sartell, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Tiffany Kong – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sarah Moberg – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alisha Porter – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sheri Riemers – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rebecca Shlafer Nealy – Minnetonka, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Andrea Singh – Apple Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chair</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carrie Sparks – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 22, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: April 5, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council makes recommendations to the Children’s Cabinet and has an important role in community engagement and bringing family and community voices to the Children’s Cabinet’s cross-agency efforts. Learn more at the <a href="https://mn.gov/mmb/childrens-cabinet/">Children’s Cabinet website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/263" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5780812023-05-17T20:21:52Z361527News640News<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-578078" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-17T20:14:33ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law that will improve Minnesotans’ health and safety by providing $240 million to remove and replace lead pipes across the state. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan were joined by legislators, labor and environmental advocates, and representatives from Greater Minnesota to celebrate the bill signing. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law that will improve Minnesotans’ health and safety by providing $240 million to remove and replace lead pipes across the state. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan were joined by legislators, labor and environmental advocates, and representatives from Greater Minnesota to celebrate the bill signing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Safe, clean drinking water is a foundational human need – and it is long past time we make it a reality for all Minnesotans,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By investing in lead pipe replacement across the state, we’re taking the burden off families and homeowners and improving the health and safety of Minnesotans in every corner of the state. This is how we build a safer, cleaner future for our children and grandchildren.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Every Minnesotan deserves safe, clean drinking water – full stop,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Right now, over 100,000 pipes are leaching lead into our drinking water, presenting the greatest risk to children and pregnant people and disproportionately harming marginalized communities across the state. This is unacceptable, and we’re taking action. I am so grateful to the legislators and broad coalition of advocates for recognizing that we <em>can</em> make safe drinking water a reality for <em>everyone</em>.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF0024&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 39, House File 24</a> provides $240 million to the Public Facilities Authority to establish a grant program for replacing water service lines containing lead. The following groups will be eligible to receive the grants: community public water suppliers of a community water system, municipalities, suppliers of other residential drinking water systems; and anyone eligible for grants or loans under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Health estimates there are about 100,000 water service lines in the state leaching lead into the drinking water flowing through them. Coming in contact with lead can damage the brain, kidneys, and nervous system. In children, lead can also slow development or cause learning, behavior, and hearing problems.</p>5780782023-05-17T20:15:26ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-577816" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-15T20:57:36ZThis weekend, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan celebrated the Governor’s Fishing Opener on Madison Lake near Mankato. On Friday, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan interviewed with radio stations from across the state during Radio Row, visited the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota, and presented the Fishing and Water Education Day in Minnesota proclamation at an outdoor learning event. On Saturday, she participated in the opening day launch ceremony before fishing on Madison Lake. Afterwards, she joined other anglers for a shore lunch. Photos from the weekend’s events can be found on Flickr and video and soundbites can be found in DNR’s media library. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – This weekend, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan celebrated the Governor’s Fishing Opener on Madison Lake near Mankato. On Friday, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan interviewed with radio stations from across the state during Radio Row, visited the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota, and presented the Fishing and Water Education Day in Minnesota proclamation at an outdoor learning event. On Saturday, she participated in the opening day launch ceremony before fishing on Madison Lake. Afterwards, she joined other anglers for a shore lunch. Photos from the weekend’s events can be found on <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720308213895&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLiQin.Huang%40state.mn.us%7C5bf2296975c84e7fd24208db5557ebef%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638197608332536939%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=st0DixglXoncDWfAHoThE79DDpcZVeRN6VSUiBfsGiU%3D&amp;reserved=0">Flickr</a> and video and soundbites can be found in <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/mediaroom/">DNR’s media library.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Fishing is important to our state for so many reasons, and this weekend has been a great showcase for that,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I was honored to take part in such a fun and longstanding tradition, celebrating our state’s strong outdoor economy, important local businesses, and abundant natural resources. I had a great weekend taking advantage of all these opportunities and hope it inspires others to do the same. I want to thank the Greater Mankato Area for being gracious hosts and encourage everyone to get out and enjoy all that our state has to offer!”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><u>Schedule of Events</u></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Friday morning, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan hosted Radio Row in Mankato and talked with reporters from around the state. Later, she visited the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota in Mankato. Lieutenant Governor Flanagan also visited an outdoor learning event hosted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and presented the Fishing and Water Education Day in Minnesota proclamation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Saturday morning, Lieutenant Governor Flanagan attended an opening day launch ceremony and fished on Madison Lake. The Lieutenant Governor was hosted by Dan Sprague and fished with DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen, Explore Minnesota Tourism Director Lauren Bennett McGinty, and Senator Nick Frentz. After fishing, she joined fellow anglers for a shore lunch.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor's Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota's $4.4 billion fishing industry, and in recent years, it has served as an iconic kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season. Travel and tourism have traditionally generated approximately $16 billion in leisure and hospitality gross sales in Minnesota annually.</p>5778162023-05-15T20:59:48ZNews640News408559361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-577802" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-15T20:40:11ZToday, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the untimely passing of the Honorable Sally L. Tarnowski. This seat will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Today, the Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in Minnesota’s Sixth Judicial District. The vacancy occurred upon the untimely passing of the Honorable Sally L. Tarnowski. This seat will be chambered in Duluth in St. Louis County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. The commission is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a> . Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on June 5 and should be addressed to the Chair of the Commission, Erin Sindberg Porter. The commission expects to hold interviews in late June.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The judges of the Sixth Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants. To request more information or for other inquiries about the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/appointments/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</a></p>5778022023-05-15T20:47:51ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-577793" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-15T20:17:49ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset on Monday, May 15, 2023, in honor of peace officers who have been killed or injured in the line of duty. Governor Walz has also proclaimed May 15-21, 2023, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week in the State of Minnesota. The President has designated May 15 of each year as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as Police Week.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset on Monday, May 15, 2023, in honor of peace officers who have been killed or injured in the line of duty. Governor Walz has also proclaimed May 15-21, 2023, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week in the State of Minnesota. The President has designated May 15 of each year as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as Police Week.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today and every day, it is fitting to honor those Peace Officers who gave their lives to protect ours and to thank the over 10,900 Law Enforcement Officers in Minnesota who serve in 417 law enforcement agencies for their dedication and service to Minnesota communities,”</strong> reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>5777932023-05-15T20:52:28ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-577792" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-15T20:14:39ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed into law a comprehensive veterans and military affairs bill that will move the state closer to its goal of becoming the fourth state to end veteran homelessness, expand service bonuses for veterans, fund veterans homes, and invest in the readiness of the Minnesota National Guard.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed into law a comprehensive veterans and military affairs bill that will move the state closer to its goal of becoming the fourth state to end veteran homelessness, expand service bonuses for veterans, fund veterans homes, and invest in the readiness of the Minnesota National Guard.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“For the dedication and sacrifice our military members and veterans give to our state and country, they deserve our highest support,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By expanding service bonuses, investing in veterans homes and the health of our service members, and moving Minnesota closer to ending veterans homelessness, this bill will improve the lives of veterans and service members across the state. With nearly unanimous support from the legislature, this bill shows that Minnesotans deeply care about their veterans, and we will continue to show up for them at the Capitol.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“There is no question - Minnesotans remain united in their support for those who’ve raised their hand to serve,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am proud of leaders at the Capitol for coming together in support of our active service members and our veterans. We are delivering real, meaningful support to protect the health and safety of our soldiers and ensure our veterans have a safe and stable place to call home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Highlights of <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=HF1937&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 38, House File 1937</a> include:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Service and Retention Bonuses</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill includes an additional $15 million for service bonuses for post-9/11 era veterans and Gold Star Families and $3 million for reenlistment bonuses for members of the Minnesota National Guard. The bill also expands eligibility for the 9/11 bonuses to include veterans who currently live in Minnesota but were not Minnesota residents when they entered service.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Veteran Homelessness</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill includes millions in new funding to effectively end and prevent veteran homelessness, including funds to construct dozens of permanent supportive housing rental units and facilitate the Homeless Veteran Registry, a tool that identifies veterans experiencing homelessness and connects them to services. This funding will help Minnesota achieve its goal of being the fourth state in the country to declare an end to veteran homelessness statewide.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Veterans Homes</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill includes $47 million to start up and operate three new veterans homes to support aging veterans in Bemidji, Montevideo, and Preston, Minnesota. The new veterans homes are scheduled to open later this year.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Minnesota National Guard Readiness</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill includes $1.5 million to adopt a health and fitness program for the Minnesota National Guard, which has been shown to reduce substance abuse and suicide rates and improve overall health, fitness, and health-promoting behaviors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill also includes over $17 million to construct an Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) Field House at the Arden Hills Army Training Site. The facilities will include administrative rooms, weight rooms, cardio space, classrooms, an indoor running track, and the required space to conduct the Army Combat Fitness Test and store necessary equipment. The ACFT Field House will build readiness for the Minnesota National Guard.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill passed the Minnesota House and Senate with nearly unanimous support.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz also signed <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF0800&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 36, House File 800</a> into law, which ratifies collective bargaining agreements and memorandums of understanding for several units of state workers.</p>5777922023-05-15T20:53:16ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-577783" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-15T19:47:06ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed into law the $1 billion housing omnibus bill, the largest single investment in housing in state history. The bill will help construct new housing with a focus on units in Greater Minnesota, reducing homeownership disparities, and expanding access to rental assistance. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed into law the $1 billion housing omnibus bill, the largest single investment in housing in state history. The bill will help construct new housing with a focus on units in Greater Minnesota, reducing homeownership disparities, and expanding access to rental assistance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“</strong> <strong>As one of the largest costs for families and most foundational human needs, our Administration is making a generational investment in housing,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“</strong> <strong>Housing is central to growing our workforce and ensuring Minnesotans’ health, safety, and financial security. Whether it’s building new housing infrastructure, providing rental assistance, or ensuring homeownership is an option for all Minnesotans, this bill will have a historic impact on the quality of life in Minnesota and move us towards becoming the best state to raise a family.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Not all Minnesotans have the same options when it comes to housing, and this bill is one big step towards filling in those gaps,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“We can provide additional affordable housing options, make homeownership achievable for more Minnesotans, invest in new housing across the state, and so much more. We know housing security is the foundation of educational and professional growth, health, safety, and allowing kids and families to thrive in our state, and I look forward to seeing the impact this legislation will have on Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=HF2335&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 37, House File 2335</a> allocates $1 billion to reduce disparities in housing and homeownership, improve access to affordable housing, provide rental assistance, and invest in homelessness prevention across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The bill’s funding includes:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$200 million for down payment assistance programs. This includes $150 million for first-generation down payment assistance.</li> <li>$200 million for housing infrastructure investments.</li> <li>$95 million for the Economic Development and Housing Challenge Program to support new workforce housing.</li> <li>$40 million to support workforce housing and infrastructure in Greater Minnesota.</li> <li>$45 million for homelessness prevention in addition to the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/572012">$50 million</a> that Governor Walz signed into law on March 31.</li> <li>Creates permanent funding for housing needs across the state.</li> </ul>5777832023-05-15T20:55:50ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-577642" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-11T19:21:51ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today congratulated two Minnesota students who were named U.S. Presidential Scholars by the U.S. Department of Education. Stavya Arora from Maple Grove (Maple Grove Senior High School) and Matthew Chen from Maple Grove (Wayzata High School) were recognized as part of the 59th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today congratulated two Minnesota students who were named U.S. Presidential Scholars by the U.S. Department of Education. Stavya Arora from Maple Grove (Maple Grove Senior High School) and Matthew Chen from Maple Grove (Wayzata High School) were recognized as part of the 59th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars. Scholars are honored for their demonstration of leadership, scholarship, contribution to school and community, and outstanding accomplishments in the arts, sciences, career and technical education, and other fields of interest.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Congratulations to our two outstanding U.S. Presidential Scholars, Stavya and Matthew, for this incredible achievement,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Through challenges, you both have shown grit, determination, and leadership. Thank you for leading by example - Minnesota is so proud of you.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Thank you, Stavya and Matthew, for setting examples of what fantastic leadership, passion for learning, and dedication to your community looks like,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“With outstanding students like Stavya and Matthew leading the way, I know Minnesota’s future is so bright.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Congratulations to Stavya and Matthew on this outstanding accomplishment,”</strong> said Education Commissioner Willie Jett. <strong>“Your work and your passion for academics and your dedication to your community have brought you to this honor. You are both an inspiration to your fellow students, and we are extremely proud of you.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww2.ed.gov%2Fprograms%2Fpsp%2Fcommission.html&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLiQin.Huang%40state.mn.us%7C90b878ca04d14be02bd708db526a8b00%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638194389800311661%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=QylkIa9J6r9sfjAkdk71eyUJuRI8nyy7vZJjpXNbBZ8%3D&amp;reserved=0">White House Commission on Presidential Scholars</a> selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as a demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Created in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored over 8,000 of the nation’s top-performing students. The program was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Presidential Scholars Class of 2023 will be recognized for their outstanding achievement this summer with an online recognition program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To learn more about the program, visit the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww2.ed.gov%2Fprograms%2Fpsp%2Findex.html&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLiQin.Huang%40state.mn.us%7C90b878ca04d14be02bd708db526a8b00%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638194389800311661%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=aylyFOaE6OYBfRaTX28UUgRu8vaXwFpcXiFTinNsLfQ%3D&amp;reserved=0">U.S. Presidential Scholars Program</a> webpage of the U.S. Department of Education website.</p>5776422023-05-12T19:24:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-577266" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-09T20:23:39ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law designating a portion of Trunk Highway 5 as the “Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway” in honor of the Minnesota icon.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law designating a portion of Trunk Highway 5 as the “Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway” in honor of the Minnesota icon. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by legislators and friends and family of Prince at Paisley Park to celebrate the bill signing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“There are few artists who have had a greater footprint on popular music, style, and artistry than Prince. He transformed the music scene in Minnesota and across the world, and he continues to inspire to this day,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Prince was a proud Minnesotan through and through, and it is only fitting that we honor one of the greatest musical and creative icons in the community he called home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Prince not only inspired millions with his music and style, but he moved people with the values and lessons he lived by,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I hope that when people drive down the 7 mile stretch of Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway, they feel inspired to put on their favorite Prince song and are reminded of the healing power to treat others with kindness, respect, and acceptance for who they are. Minnesota is not the same without Prince, but we are better because he was part of our state and our story. We will love him forever.”</strong></p> <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=HF0717&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chapter 35, House File 717</a> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">designates a portion of Trunk Highway 5 between Eden Prairie and Chanhassen as the “Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway.” The new highway signs will be purple to honor the artist’s favorite color.</p>5772662023-05-10T17:10:13Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-577568" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-08T16:23:15ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law providing $50 million for the Rural Finance Authority at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) to continue providing agricultural loans.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law providing $50 million for the Rural Finance Authority at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) to continue providing agricultural loans. Governor Walz also signed the Omnibus Economic Development Policy bill, which makes minor and technical changes to several programs.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s farmers and producers feed and fuel our state and country. Minnesota is committed to helping our new and emerging farmers grow and succeed,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These loans will prioritize beginning farmers, helping them get on their feet and started on a path toward success.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF463&amp;b=house&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 32, House File 463</a> provides $50 million in bonding authority for the Rural Finance Authority (RFA) at MDA to provide agricultural loans. The RFA will prioritize beginning farmer loans, seller-sponsored loans, and agricultural improvement loans with this appropriation. The bill will provide program funds for approximately two to three years for the Beginning Farmer Loan Program, the Seller-Assisted Loan Program, the Agricultural Improvement Program, the Livestock Expansion Loan Program, and the Restructure II Loan Program.</p> <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF2369&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chapter 33, Senate File 2369</a><span style="font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">, the Omnibus Economic Development Policy bill, makes minor and technical changes to several programs, including increasing the total membership of the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council from 28 to 35 voting members, increasing the timeframe for filing appeals on unemployment claim determinations from 20 to 45 days, and ensuring Tribes are eligible applicants for the Contaminated Site Cleanup and Development program and can apply for these funds directly.</span>5775682023-05-12T15:48:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-576954" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-08T16:23:15ZIn accordance with a notice from the White House, Governor Tim Walz today has directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff effective immediately until sunset on Thursday, May 11, to remember, mourn, and honor the lives lost in the shooting in Allen, Texas, on Saturday, May 6.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] – In accordance with a notice from the White House, Governor Tim Walz today has directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff effective immediately until sunset on Thursday, May 11, to remember, mourn, and honor the lives lost in the shooting in Allen, Texas, on Saturday, May 6.</span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“As we mourn the loss of the victims of this senseless act of violence, we know the pain we experience as a nation is only amplified for the friends and families of the victims,”</span></strong> <span>reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. <strong>“We join states across the nation to remember and honor the victims whose lives were senselessly lost.”</strong></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</span></p>5769542023-05-08T18:34:51Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-576675" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-06T21:57:43ZGovernor Tim Walz today has directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, May 7, to honor firefighters who have been killed or injured in the line of duty.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today has directed all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, May 7, to honor firefighters who have been killed or injured in the line of duty. This order occurs annually in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service<strong>.</strong></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span>“Every year, we remember the men and women who gave their lives to protect our communities,”</span></strong> <span>said Governor Walz. <strong>“I am grateful to our Minnesota firefighters who continue to do this heroic work day after day, and we will never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”</strong></span></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span>Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Minnesota fallen firefighters and their families.</span></p>5766752023-05-10T15:27:57ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-576686" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-05T19:15:50ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law protecting the freedom to vote and increasing voting accessibility. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by Secretary of State Steve Simon, legislators, and advocates to celebrate the bill signing. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law protecting the freedom to vote and increasing voting accessibility. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by Secretary of State Steve Simon, legislators, and advocates to celebrate the bill signing. Photos from the event are <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720308050299&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLiQin.Huang%40state.mn.us%7C1dc3cd5a15c5440ecf3208db4d9c76d1%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638189106638894120%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=bcWo3KnlVaQzIfPFeMY%2FA7p2%2BZDdjAg4TjReRux%2FyiI%3D&amp;reserved=0">linked here</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota consistently leads the nation in voter turnout, and we plan to keep it that way,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We know that the more people vote, the more representative our state government can be. This bill will strengthen our democracy, allow future voters to get engaged early, and keep our campaigns honest and fair.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“A strong democracy is one where everyone has the opportunity to make their voice heard and vote count,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am proud to be breaking down barriers to voting and campaign transparency with today’s bill. Our democratic process should be a welcoming, accessible space for all, and I look forward to seeing even more Minnesotans at the ballot boxes this year.”</strong></p>5766862023-05-05T19:18:00ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-578586" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-05T18:15:28ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law protecting the freedom to vote and increasing voting accessibility. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by Secretary of State Steve Simon, legislators, and advocates to celebrate the bill signing. Photos from the event are linked here. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law protecting the freedom to vote and increasing voting accessibility. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by Secretary of State Steve Simon, legislators, and advocates to celebrate the bill signing. Photos from the event are <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720308050299&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLiQin.Huang%40state.mn.us%7Cfafbfa43b2f34eb169ed08db58baaf8b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638201331066382150%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=1r1DtoiOJeWLJSQCRdNVpLSLdikeD57GWT4XNFnrWzo%3D&amp;reserved=0">linked here</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota consistently leads the nation in voter turnout, and we plan to keep it that way,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We know that the more people vote, the more representative our state government can be. This bill will strengthen our democracy, allow future voters to get engaged early, and keep our campaigns honest and fair.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“A strong democracy is one where everyone has the opportunity to make their voice heard and vote count,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am proud to be breaking down barriers to voting and campaign transparency with today’s bill. Our democratic process should be a welcoming, accessible space for all, and I look forward to seeing even more Minnesotans at the ballot boxes this year.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chapter 34, House File 3 establishes automatic voter registration, preregistration for individuals over 16, permanent absentee voter status, expanded language options for voting instructions and sample ballots, prohibitions around intimidation and interference of election officials and the voting processes, modernizes the campaign finance system to increase disclosure of secret spending, and expands the definition of express advocacy to ensure the campaign and election process remain fair and accessible to all Minnesotans.</p>5785862023-05-23T01:13:03ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-576617" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-05T14:36:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today congratulated departing Commissioner Alice Roberts-Davis and thanked her for her years of service at the Minnesota Department of Administration (Admin). 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Note: The deadline for applications has been extended. Application materials will be accepted until the position is filled.</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] - Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today congratulated departing Commissioner Alice Roberts-Davis and thanked her for her years of service at the Minnesota Department of Administration (Admin). Roberts-Davis will depart from her position to serve as the University of Minnesota’s Vice President of University Services. Commissioner Roberts-Davis was appointed by Governor Walz in January 2019.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am incredibly grateful for Commissioner Roberts-Davis’ extraordinary leadership and service throughout these last four years and especially during the pandemic response,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“From providing resources to Minnesotans with developmental disabilities to examining remains at Native American burial sites, Commissioner Roberts-Davis has led with dignity, intelligence, grace, and a passion for bettering Minnesota today and for generations to come. We wish her the best at the University of Minnesota and look forward to partnering with her in this new role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Commissioner Roberts-Davis has truly defined what it means to make Minnesota and our state systems more accessible and beneficial to everyone,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Throughout her work, she has led with equity and efficiency as guiding principles and made a lasting impact on our state. We will miss Commissioner Roberts-Davis but are immensely grateful for her years of service and dedication to Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I want to thank Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan for the opportunity to serve in their administration,”</strong> said Commissioner Roberts-Davis. <strong>“I am so proud of all we accomplished including the COVID response and making government contracts more accessible to small diverse businesses. I look forward to bringing the principles of One Minnesota with me to the University of Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Alice Roberts-Davis</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Alice Roberts-Davis is the Commissioner for the Department of Administration. Commissioner Roberts-Davis is responsible for 24 divisions that provide critical services to the public, state agencies, and communities throughout the state. As part of Governor Walz’s Cabinet, Commissioner Roberts-Davis is focused on delivering excellent service to the agency’s partners, leading sustainable practices across state government, and ensuring that diversity and inclusion are key factors in agency decisions. Prior to joining the state, Commissioner Roberts-Davis worked for Target Corporation for 12 years in different leadership capacities, including real estate development, strategic sourcing, and compliance. She was responsible for the purchase and development of land across the country, and later led the company’s $1 billion supplier diversity initiative. Commissioner Roberts-Davis lives in Woodbury and calls Elk Grove Village, Illinois her hometown. She attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where she earned a degree in Communications and earned her Juris Doctor degree at Florida State University College of Law. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Admin</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Admin is tasked with overseeing and managing the administrative functions of other executive branch state agencies, including their purchasing and contracting, facilities management and more. State law also grants Admin the authority to engage in strategic planning efforts for the state and to investigate and study the management of state agencies, reorganizing them when necessary to ensure effective and efficient operations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">With $176.5 million in annual operating costs and 475 full-time employees, Admin oversees $2.1 billion in state purchases, maintains 4.4 million square feet of owned space and leases an additional 3.6 million square feet of space for over 100 state agencies, boards and councils. The agency also insures $12 billion in property and 13,400 vehicles, and manages over 400 building projects and $166 million in capital appropriations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Roberts-Davis’ last day as commissioner will be June 2, 2023. Deputy Commissioner Stacie Christensen will serve as temporary commissioner until a permanent successor is appointed by the Governor.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals wishing to apply to be Minnesota’s next Commissioner of Administration can contact <a href="mailto:gov.appointments@state.mn.us">gov.appointments@state.mn.us</a> to request an application. <strong>Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on May 25, 2023</strong>, and should be addressed to Governor Tim Walz. Applicants may contact <a href="mailto:gov.appointments@state.mn.us">gov.appointments@state.mn.us</a> or (651) 201-3400 with questions about the application process or to request reasonable accommodations.</p>5766172023-05-26T14:49:03Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-577225" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-05T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Barber Examiners, Board of Psychology, Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, and the State Guardian Ad Litem Board.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Barber Examiners, Board of Psychology, Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, and the State Guardian Ad Litem Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kristopher Custer – Faribault, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Barber Examiners</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 10, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Robert Jones</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Vinson – Brooklyn Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Barber Examiners</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Barber</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 10, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Collette Lease</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Barber Examiners:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Barber Examiners oversees the administration, enforcement, regulation, and adoption of rules regulating the barber profession and works to protect the public through the regulation of barbering in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Barber Examiners can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/164" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Joel Bakken – Moorhead, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Psychology</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Master's Degree Licensed Psychologist</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 10, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nancy Cameron – Shoreview, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Psychology</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 10, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sebastian Rilen – Eden Prairie, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Psychology</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Doctoral Degree Licensed Psychologist</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 10, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Michael Brunner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Thompson – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Psychology</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Doctoral Level Licensed Psychologist</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 10, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jessica Gourneau</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Psychology:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Psychology licenses psychologists, establishes rules of conduct and takes appropriate action against licensees who do not meet and maintain those ethical requirements, establishes or approves programs that qualify for professional psychology continuing education credit, educates the public about licensure requirements and the rules of conduct, and receives and reviews complaints against licensees who may have violated the Psychology Practice Act.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Psychology can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/33" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Donald McFarland – Robbinsdale, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 10, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: The Honorable Anne McKeig</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee oversees Minnesota’s compliance with the federal Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act. The Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee provides leadership and support in setting a vision for juvenile justice in Minnesota that is informed by evidence-based practices, multi-disciplinary experience, and the diverse communities of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/74" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ann Ahlstrom – Bloomington, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Guardian Ad Litem Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 10, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Sharon Chadwick</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Stephanie Bumgardner – Laporte, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Guardian Ad Litem Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: May 10, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Patricia Moses</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Guardian Ad Litem Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Guardian Ad Litem Board creates and administers a statewide independent guardian ad litem program to advocate for the best interests of children, minor parents, and incompetent adults in juvenile and family court cases; approves and recommends to the Legislature a budget for the board and the guardian ad litem program; and establishes guardian ad litem program standards, administrative policies, procedures, and rules.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Guardian Ad Litem Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/216" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the </p> <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a>5772252023-05-10T16:53:10ZNews640News361527408559<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-576616" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-04T14:31:35ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced two vacancies on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Denise D. Reilly and the Honorable Lucinda E. Jesson. Judge Reilly and Judge Jesson both serve in an at-large capacity. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced two vacancies on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. These vacancies will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Denise D. Reilly and the Honorable Lucinda E. Jesson. Judge Reilly and Judge Jesson both serve in an at-large capacity. Governor Walz has asked a merit selection panel consisting of leadership in the Governor’s Office, the chair of the Commission on Judicial Selection, and the at-large members of the commission to solicit applicants, review candidates, and recommend finalists for appointment.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The panel is searching for fair, experienced, and civic-minded individuals to serve on the bench and offer their talents and services to Minnesota’s judicial system. The Governor is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The application process is now open for this vacancy. Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor via e-mail at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>. <strong>Only one application is required to be considered for both vacancies. Application materials are due by 4:00 pm on June 1 and should be addressed to Governor Tim Walz.</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For inquiries concerning the application process, please contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor at <a href="mailto:Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us">Judicial.Selection@state.mn.us</a>.</p>5766162023-05-08T14:01:16ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-576638" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-03T16:23:15ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today joined Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff and the U.S. Small Business Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman to celebrate National Small Business Week and Minnesota’s Small Business Week award winners.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today joined Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff and the U.S. Small Business Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman to celebrate National Small Business Week and Minnesota’s Small Business Week award winners. The event took place at the Landmark Center in Saint Paul and was attended by nearly 200 small businesses, federal partners, and community leaders. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor highlighted the need for inclusive entrepreneurship, small business developments, and continued collaboration with federal partners. Minnesota is home to 534,397 small businesses, representing 99.4 percent of all Minnesota businesses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Small businesses are at the heart of communities across Minnesota. They drive our economic growth, culture, and innovation,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Today we celebrated some of these outstanding small business owners and highlighted their importance in Minnesota. We are committed to strengthening our federal partnerships and investing in small businesses and breaking down barriers for future generations of entrepreneurs.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Small businesses provide opportunities for every Minnesotan,” s</strong>aid Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Nearly half of Minnesota’s workforce is employed by a small business, and I am grateful Second Gentleman Emhoff, SBA Administrator Guzman, and our federal partners recognize the importance of small business development to our state. Minnesotans work best when we work together to provide solutions and support for entrepreneurs and workers alike. Just as small businesses owners and employees work hard every day to better our state, we will continue to make Minnesota work better for them.”</strong> </p>5766382023-05-05T16:27:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-577489" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-03T13:24:07ZAhead of the fishing opener, Governor Tim Walz today participated in the second annual Minnesota Fishing Summit hosted by MN-FISH to discuss strategies to improve fishing throughout Minnesota. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Ahead of the fishing opener, Governor Tim Walz today participated in the second annual Minnesota Fishing Summit hosted by MN-FISH to discuss strategies to improve fishing throughout Minnesota. Governor Walz was joined by members of the MN-FISH Coalition, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen, and fishing and angler advocates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today we discussed the future of fishing in Minnesota with some of our state’s most passionate and talented anglers. You can feel the excitement growing for the state’s unofficial kick off to summer,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“With meaningful investments in conservation and outdoor recreation, we can preserve this outstanding tradition and make the case to others across the country that we have a lot to offer here in Minnesota – including some world-class fishing.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This event comes after Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan toured a state fish hatchery in St. Paul earlier this week to discuss needed investments in fish hatcheries, public water accesses, and outdoor recreation. <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/aboutdnr/legislativeinfo/2023/fy24-25-budget-modernize-outdoor-recreation-experiences.pdf">The One Minnesota budget’s Get Out MORE (Modernize Outdoor Recreation Experiences)</a> proposal would make a $118 million General Fund investment, which would combine with additional funds in the Governor’s bonding proposal, to ensure all Minnesotans are able to take part in Minnesota’s outdoor traditions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans will flock to lakes and rivers for the opening of the walleye, sauger, and northern pike season on Saturday, May 13, and the tradition will be celebrated in many ways. <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mngovernorsopener.com%2Fgovernors-fishing-opener-schedule%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7Cf9d10193cf5b4a01e65b08db4c21eec2%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638187480912661447%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=KY%2BATlFvY%2B5e1WxTv4JWI8qjTAxsRXx3nM18RkwQHTo%3D&amp;reserved=0">The 2023 Governor’s Fishing Opener</a> will be held in the greater Mankato area Thursday, May 11, through Saturday, May 13. It’s also Take a Mom Fishing Weekend (May 13-14), when Minnesota moms can fish for free without a license and participate in the virtual <a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/news/2023/04/27/minnesota-moms-join-mothers-day-weekend-fishing-challenge">Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge.</a> You can find out more about how to participate in the challenge and information about fishing opportunities across Minnesota on the <a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fishing/index.html">DNR website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The MN-FISH Coalition is a grassroots sportfishing, marine, and angler advocacy network that gives anglers a legislative voice and works to achieve public policies to restore, protect, and enhance sportfishing for the present and future generations to enjoy.</p>5774892023-05-11T18:06:57ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-576642" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-02T16:29:33ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law improving workplace safety and training standards at oil refineries. The bill requires a percentage of third-party contractor employees be graduates or apprentices in a registered apprenticeship program. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan were joined by legislators, labor advocates, and members of the Minnesota Building and Construction Trades at Pipefitters Local 455 to celebrate the bill signing.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law improving workplace safety and training standards at oil refineries. The bill requires a percentage of third-party contractor employees be graduates or apprentices in a registered apprenticeship program. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan were joined by legislators, labor advocates, and members of the Minnesota Building and Construction Trades at Pipefitters Local 455 to celebrate the bill signing. <br /> <br /> “We will not cut corners when it comes to workplace safety in Minnesota. We are adding safeguards and improving training standards, so that workers can return home safe,” said Governor Walz. “Today, we’re celebrating this win to improve the safety of our oil refineries and recommitting ourselves to the fight to keep our workers and their families safe. <br /> <br /> “Workers in our oil refineries do tough jobs, and we must do everything in our power to keep them safe. This legislation provides critical improvements to workplace safety and training standards,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “I’m grateful to the workers who persistently showed up to make this happen and to our partners in the legislature who are committed to fighting and delivering for workers. Together, we can do right by workers and their families here in Minnesota.”</p>5766422023-05-05T16:31:56ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-575303" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-01T20:13:34ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today toured a state fish hatchery in St. Paul ahead of the fishing opener. The facility was the first state-run hatchery established in Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today toured a state fish hatchery in St. Paul ahead of the fishing opener. The facility was the first state-run hatchery established in Minnesota. Today, the facility produces young walleye, muskellunge, and tiger muskie used to stock lakes across the state. Photos from the visit are attached and linked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720307937267&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLiQin.Huang%40state.mn.us%7Cd3e6bf670a254c5b1cc308db4a7f873e%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638185683889037195%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=KBDAtRBj0f0AlVA1s0vPiC%2Bbt%2FY8Ntq%2Bih8RDtJhX1Q%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Fishing is one of our greatest outdoor traditions, and it makes up a $4.4 billion dollar industry in Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Hatcheries are an essential part of conservation and the system we have to ensure the continuation of our fishing and outdoor recreation industry. We need to make investments to repair and improve our aging fish hatcheries and outdoor infrastructure to ensure world-class fishing for decades to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Fishing is embedded in the culture and traditions of communities all across our state - and one of the ways we celebrate the very best of Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am proud of the work being done at our state hatcheries to preserve this critical outdoor industry, and I look forward to joining Minnesotans and getting out on the water during this year’s opening weekend.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The St. Paul Fish Hatchery is one of 15 hatcheries operated by DNR, each of which specializes in one or more fish species. Like the St. Paul hatchery, most of these facilities were constructed decades ago—many predate the 1960s—and need renewal and modernization. Critical issues, including biosecurity, aging infrastructure, and safety, need to be addressed within the hatchery system. The <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/aboutdnr/legislativeinfo/2023/fy24-25-budget-recommendation-overview.pdf">One Minnesota Budget</a> for DNR proposes investments in these facilities, fisheries management, and the lakes and rivers where Minnesotans fish.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Like so many Minnesotans, I can’t wait to get back out on open water and cast a line for walleye this fishing opener weekend. The outstanding and diverse angling opportunities we experience during opening weekend and throughout the season depend on the work and dedication of DNR staff and partners, and the investments Minnesota makes in managing our fisheries resources,”</strong> DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen said. <strong>“By investing in the infrastructure, places, and people that make fishing opportunities possible across the state, we help support our economy and the premiere outdoor recreation experiences Minnesota is known for.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The state’s diverse aquatic habitat, from Lake Superior and Lake of the Woods in the north to small, cold streams in the Driftless Area of the southeast, offers world-class fishing that DNR’s hatcheries support through stocking programs. <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/aboutdnr/legislativeinfo/2023/fy24-25-budget-modernize-outdoor-recreation-experiences.pdf">The One Minnesota budget’s Get Out MORE (Modernize Outdoor Recreation Experiences)</a> proposal would make a $118 million General Fund investment, which would combine with additional funds in the Governor’s bonding proposal, to ensure all Minnesotans are able to take part in Minnesota’s outdoor traditions. The General Fund proposal includes $35 million to enhance fisheries and fishing infrastructure, $35 million for modernizing boating access, and $15 million for restoring streams and modernizing water-related infrastructure to support outdoor recreation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans will head to lakes and rivers for the opening of the walleye, sauger, and northern pike season on Saturday, May 13, and the tradition will be celebrated in many ways. <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mngovernorsopener.com%2Fgovernors-fishing-opener-schedule%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CLiQin.Huang%40state.mn.us%7Cd3e6bf670a254c5b1cc308db4a7f873e%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638185683889037195%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=yae1GQ4y%2BoHFReJP7Q9r%2BpNnZ3vQvkSff72bEJRZn5I%3D&amp;reserved=0">The 2023 Governor’s Fishing Opener</a> will be held in the greater Mankato area Thursday, May 11, through Saturday, May 13.May 13-14 is also Take a Mom Fishing Weekend, when Minnesota moms can fish for free without a license and participate in the virtual <a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/news/2023/04/27/minnesota-moms-join-mothers-day-weekend-fishing-challenge">Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge.</a> You can find out more about how to participate in the challenge and information about fishing opportunities across Minnesota on the <a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fishing/index.html">DNR website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional video, photos and soundbites from the visit will be available after 4 p.m. in the <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/mediaroom/News%20release%20resources/">DNR Media Room</a> .</p>5753032023-05-01T20:16:47ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-575270" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-01T18:39:26ZGovernor Tim Walz highlighted the need for good-paying union jobs and collective bargaining rights in states across the country. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At the national convention of the International Union of Operating Engineers in Hollywood, Florida, Governor Tim Walz today highlighted the need for good-paying union jobs and collective bargaining rights in states across the country. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><img src="/governor/assets/IUOE%20Convention_tcm1055-575268.jpg" title="IUOE Convention" alt="IUOE Convention" style="width: 500px; height: 666px;" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:title="IUOE Convention" /> <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is a labor state, and it will always be a labor state. We know that strong unions make our state, and country, strong. We will not tolerate moves to weaken the collective voices of our workers,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Across the nation, it’s imperative that we continue to fight for strong wages and safe working conditions. Let’s invest in infrastructure projects to create jobs for our highly skilled union workers in Minnesota and states across the country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On January 25, Governor Walz signed a bill into law <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/561860">extending Unemployment Insurance benefits for workers on the Iron Range.</a> The bill provides an additional 26 weeks of benefits for over 400 workers who were laid off due to the idling of Northshore Mining last May.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On February 7, Governor Tim Walz signed into law legislation to <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/563448">unlock $315.5 million in federally appropriated funds</a> from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to improve Minnesota’s roads. On February 7, Governor Tim Walz also signed into law legislation <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/563453">establishing a Minnesota carbon-free electricity standard.</a> The law ensures Minnesota will take steps to lower greenhouse gas emissions, combat the climate crisis, and create new clean energy jobs. Governor Walz signed the bill alongside legislators, labor, and environmental advocates at the St. Paul Regional Labor Center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This week, Governor Walz will sign a bill into law improving worker safety at oil refineries.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In January, Governor Walz proposed his <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/561786">2023 Infrastructure Plan</a> , which would create good-paying jobs and invest in critical projects focused on roads, bridges, and water systems, housing and homelessness, and environmental stewardship.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The International Union of Operating Engineers is a diversified trade union that represents over 400,000 workers. Union members work as heavy equipment operators, mechanics, surveyors, and stationary engineers in the construction industry.</p>5752702023-05-01T18:43:34Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-575189" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-28T19:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Accountancy, Board of Chiropractic Examiners, and Minnesota Forest Resources Council. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Accountancy, Board of Chiropractic Examiners, and Minnesota Forest Resources Council.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Todd Lifson – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Accountancy <br /> Certified Public Accountant <br /> Effective: May 5, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Gregory Steiner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Charles Selcer – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Board of Accountancy <br /> Certified Public Accountant <br /> Effective: May 5, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Accountancy: <br /></em>The Board of Accountancy examines, licenses, and regulates certified public accountants and registered accounting practitioners.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Accountancy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/16" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Derek Doty – Shoreview, MN <br /></strong>Board of Chiropractic Examiners <br /> Chiropractor Member <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Noel Fredericksen – Forest Lake, MN <br /></strong>Board of Chiropractic Examiners <br /> Chiropractor Member <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2024 <br /> Replacing: Ridge Pidde</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kim Hill – Woodbury, MN <br /></strong>Board of Chiropractic Examiners <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Noble – Shoreview, MN <br /></strong>Board of Chiropractic Examiners <br /> Public Member <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Nestor Riano</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Chiropractic Examiners: <br /></em>The Board of Chiropractic Examiners licenses and regulates chiropractors, handles complaints, reviews and approves continuing education programs, and registers professional corporations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Chiropractic Examiners can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/100" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Peter Aube – Bemidji, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Chair <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>James Manolis – Minneapolis, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Conservation Organization Rep <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Patty Thielen – St. Paul, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> DNR Representative <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2024 <br /> Replacing: Forrest Boe</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kathleen Preece – Bemidji, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Private Forest Land Owner <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dale Erickson – Baudette, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Commercial Logging Contractor Representative <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Lowell Pittack</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dale Gentry – Shoreview, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Environmental Organization Representative <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Kathryn Fernholz</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rick Horton – Grand Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Forest Products Industry Representative <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Scott Johnson – Bovey, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Game Species Management Organization Representative <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Replacing: Craig Engwall</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Debra Theisen – Park Rapids, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> Resort and Tourism Industry Representative <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 4, 2027 <br /> Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Stansberry – Cass Lake, MN <br /></strong>Minnesota Forest Resources Council <br /> U.S. Forest Service Representative <br /> Effective: May 3, 2023 <br /> Term Expires: January 1, 2024 <br /> Replacing: Connie Cummins</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Forest Resources Council: <br /></em>The Minnesota Forest Resources Council develops and recommends sustainable forest policies, practices, and plans that balance the economic, environmental, and social values of the state’s forest resources.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Forest Resources Council can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/88" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" style="font-family: Verdana;">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5751892023-04-28T20:20:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-575185" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-28T16:47:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced that he will lead a trade mission to Australia, November 10-18, 2023, with stops in the major business centers of Sydney and Melbourne. Trade mission scheduled for November 10-18, applications for businesses to join the delegation are now open1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that he will lead a trade mission to Australia, November 10-18, 2023, with stops in the major business centers of Sydney and Melbourne. The mission will focus on growing the state’s exports of goods and services, showcasing Minnesota as a top destination for business investment, developing new partnership opportunities, and strengthening existing ties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz will lead a delegation comprised of representatives from approximately 35 businesses and organizations within Minnesota’s medical technology, food and agriculture, environmental technology, and higher education sectors.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota is home to innovative and nation-leading agriculture, clean energy, and medical technology industries and I look forward to showcasing our state to our partners in Australia,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Alongside business leaders from across the state, I look forward to building on our existing relationships and encouraging Australian businesses to start or grow their operations in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota’s total trade in goods with Australia was valued at $579 million in 2022, with exports of $438 million and imports of $141 million,”</strong> said Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) temporary Commissioner Kevin McKinnon. <strong>“Australia was also Minnesota’s 13th largest market for goods last year and can also provide a strategic base for Minnesota companies to engage with Southeast Asian markets. We’ve also seen innovative Australian companies establishing a presence in Minnesota. We are excited about the opportunity to further these important ties during the upcoming trade mission.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“A strong Minnesota ag and food economy relies on fostering international trade relations and growing business partnerships,”</strong> said Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) Commissioner Thom Petersen. <strong>“We look forward to this opportunity to visit Australia and showcase the many products grown and made in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Participants will receive an extensive business agenda based upon their industry sector, including market briefings, networking events with business and government leaders, and site visits.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Trade Office at DEED is organizing the trade mission and <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/business/exporting/australia/">applications to join the business delegation</a> should be submitted by Friday, June 30, 2023.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DEED is the state's principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade, and community development. For more details about the agency and its services, visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/deed/">DEED website</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Promoting Minnesota’s high quality agricultural products in new and existing domestic and international markets is core to the MDA’s mission to ensure the strength and resilience of Minnesota’s agricultural economy. For more details about the agency and its services, visit the <a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/" style="font-family: Verdana;">MDA website.</a></p>5751852023-04-28T20:12:01Z361527News640News<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-575115" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-27T21:02:00ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law protecting people seeking or providing abortions in Minnesota, banning the practice of conversion therapy, and protecting people seeking or providing gender-affirming health care in Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Tim Walz today signed three bills into law protecting people seeking or providing abortions in Minnesota, banning the practice of conversion therapy, and protecting people seeking or providing gender-affirming health care in Minnesota. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by legislators and advocates to celebrate the bill signing. Photos from the event are attached and linked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720307843694&amp;data=05%7C01%7CErin.Keefe%40state.mn.us%7C9a57634cfcdf446a28b108db4750950c%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638182183705529768%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=uMTFRM2UWIqj7PyyD4FLpwkWI9LlWKGK9Wp403lZkWg%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today, we’re protecting the rights of Minnesotans and making sure our state remains a place where people have the freedom to get the care they need to live their fullest lives,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re also protecting young and vulnerable Minnesotans from the harmful and discredited practice of conversion therapy. We’re putting up a firewall to ensure Minnesotans have the freedom to make their own health care decisions.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Everyone deserves to feel safe to be who they are, love who they love, and live without fear of violence and discrimination,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am proud to live and raise a family in Minnesota knowing that young people, especially our LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit youth, can be their full, authentic selves and exercise agency over their bodies and lives.</strong> <strong>In this state, we will continue to fight for love over hate every single day.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF16&amp;b=house&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 28, House File 16</a> prohibits mental health practitioners or mental health professionals from providing conversion therapy to vulnerable adults and clients under age 18. The bill also prohibits fraudulent or deceptive advertising practices relating to conversion therapy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF146&amp;b=house&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0">Chapter 29, House File 146</a> prevents state courts or officials from complying with child removal requests, extraditions, arrests, or subpoenas related to gender-affirming health care that a person receives in Minnesota. As states across the country move to ban access to gender affirming health care and restrict access to gender-affirming care, the bill protects the rights of Minnesota’s LGBTQ+ community to seek and receive gender affirming health care in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF366&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 31, House File 366</a> , the Reproductive Freedom Defense Act, ensures that patients traveling to Minnesota for abortion care, and the providers who serve them, are protected from legal attacks and criminal penalties from other states.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In response to these historic bills, Governor Walz also issued Executive Order 23-06 today. The executive order rescinds Executive Order 21-25, which the Governor issued to protect Minnesotans from conversion therapy. Because of Minnesota’s new law prohibiting conversion therapy, Executive Order 21-25 is no longer necessary. Today’s executive order also amends Executive Order 22-16, which protects Minnesotans’ right to reproductive health care services, and Executive Order 23-03, which protects and supports Minnesotans who seek gender affirming health care services, by rescinding provisions that are no longer necessary due to the new laws.</p>5751152023-04-28T15:23:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-575125" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-25T19:05:51ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has recently awarded $4.22 million in grants through its Farm to School program.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has recently awarded $4.22 million in grants through its <a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/farm-school-grants">Farm to School</a> program. A total of 114 schools received funding this year, which they will use to purchase Minnesota-grown and -raised foods for use in school meals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This record amount of Farm to School grant awards was made possible by <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.usda.gov%2Fmedia%2Fpress-releases%2F2022%2F08%2F23%2Fusda-expands-local-foods-school-meals-through-cooperative-agreement&amp;data=05%7C01%7CErin.Keefe%40state.mn.us%7Ca5ef64f834bc45cb7d2008db45fe118b%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638180729735204656%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=PHB0aHV6xSgS8t0thYCQU5kF0HPv9YipRNmnqWjM9DE%3D&amp;reserved=0">Minnesota’s Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement</a> with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA Local Foods Schools Program and the MDA’s Farm to School grant programs seek to increase the amount of healthy, local foods served in school meals while expanding market opportunities for small businesses and socially disadvantaged farmers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“These Farm to School grants support Minnesota’s local farmers and producers and provide students with healthy, local foods in their school meals,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By providing grant funding to over 100 schools to purchase Minnesota-grown and -raised foods, we are strengthening our local communities and economy and working to ensure every student receives nutritious meals to promote their learning and growth at school.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“By making it easier for schools to provide meals with fresh, locally-grown ingredients, we’re giving small and emerging farmers a boost while providing our students with healthy meals they need to succeed,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I am proud of this program and thankful to our federal partners for helping expand this work to deliver for Minnesota’s farmers, students, and schools.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“With support from the USDA’s Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement, our Farm to School program is reaching new heights in Minnesota,”</strong> said Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. <strong>“The MDA is grateful to be able to provide this historic amount of grant funding to schools. When schools buy local, Minnesota’s farmers, communities, and economy all benefit, and our students enjoy the most fresh and nutritious foods that our state can offer.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Recipient school districts were awarded one of two grants to purchase foods that were grown or raised in Minnesota:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Farm to School <a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/f2smini">First Bite Mini-Grant</a> : For school districts new to local purchasing and looking to start small.</li> <li>Farm to School <a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/f2sfulltray">Full Tray Grant</a> : For school districts with some Farm to School procurement experience and looking to take on larger projects.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">These grant awards range in size from $2,500 to $150,000 and will support over $3.45 million in local food purchases by schools. Applicants were also able to apply for additional funding through the MDA’s <a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/grants/agri">Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) program</a> to purchase equipment to support their Farm to School initiatives. Equipment awards totaled $769,714.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Implementation of the MDA’s Local for Schools Cooperative Agreement and the Farm to School grant programs is supported by the Cargill Foundation. Grant recipients may also receive technical assistance to successfully implement their farm to school procurement activities from the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy thanks to funding from the</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.mda.state.mn.us/business-dev-loans-grants/specialty-crop-block-grant">USDA’s Specialty Crop Block Grant</a></p> <p class="xxmsonormal" style="margin:0in" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Farm to School Grant Recipients</span></strong></p> <p class="xxmsonormal" style="margin:0in" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt"> </span></strong></p> <p class="xxmsonormal" style="margin:0in" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><span style="font-size:12.0pt">First Bite Grants:</span></em></p> <p class="xxmsonormal" style="margin:0in" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><span style="font-size:12.0pt"> </span></em></p> <table class="MsoNormalTable" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-yfti-tbllook:1184;mso-padding-alt:0in 0in 0in 0in" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <tbody> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width: 179.75pt; border-top-width: 1pt; border-bottom: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-left: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-top-color: rgb(112, 173, 71); border-image: initial; border-right: none; background: rgb(112, 173, 71); padding: 0in 5.4pt; height: 14.2pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">FY23 First Bite Grantee School/School District</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width: 94.5pt; border-top-width: 1pt; border-top-color: rgb(112, 173, 71); border-left: none; border-bottom: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-right: none; background: rgb(112, 173, 71); padding: 0in 5.4pt; height: 14.2pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">City</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="108" valign="top" style="width: 81pt; border-top-width: 1pt; border-top-color: rgb(112, 173, 71); border-left: none; border-bottom: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-right: none; background: rgb(112, 173, 71); padding: 0in 5.4pt; height: 14.2pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">First Bite Award</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width: 1in; border-top-width: 1pt; border-top-color: rgb(112, 173, 71); border-left: none; border-bottom: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-right: none; background: rgb(112, 173, 71); padding: 0in 5.4pt; height: 14.2pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Equipment Award</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width: 76.25pt; border-top-width: 1pt; border-right: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-bottom: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-top-color: rgb(112, 173, 71); border-image: initial; border-left: none; background: rgb(112, 173, 71); padding: 0in 5.4pt; height: 14.2pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Total Award</span></strong></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:1;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Adrian Public Schools, ISD 511</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Adrian</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$14,024.45</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$19,024.45</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:2;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Austin Public Schools, ISD 492</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Austin</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:3;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Barnesville Public Schools, ISD 146</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Barnesville</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$22,700.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$32,700.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:4;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Benson Public Schools, ISD 777</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Benson</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:5;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="spelle"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt; color:black">Bluffview</span></strong></span> <strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt; color:black">Montessori, ISD 4001</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Winona</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$9,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$9,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:6;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Burnsville Eagan Savage Schools, ISD 191</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Burnsville</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$2,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$12,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:7;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Cook County Schools, ISD 166</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Grand Marais</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:8;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Cornerstone Montessori Elementary School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">St. Paul</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$4,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$4,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:9;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Duluth Public Schools, ISD 0709</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Duluth</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:10;height:17.1pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.1pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">East Range Academy of Technology and Science</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.1pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Mountain Iron</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.1pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.1pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:17.1pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:11;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Fergus Falls Public Schools, ISD 544</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Fergus Falls</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$2,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$16,573.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$19,073.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:12;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Frazee Vergas Public Schools, ISD 23</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Frazee</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$7,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$7,500.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:13;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Fridley Public Schools, ISD 14</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Fridley</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$45,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:14;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Granada Huntley East Chain Schools, ISD 2536</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Granada</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$12,151.99</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$22,151.99</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:15;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Hibbing Public Schools, ISD 701</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Hibbing</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:16;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Hinckley-Finlayson Public Schools, ISD 2165</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Hinckley</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:17;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Holy Rosary School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Detroit Lakes</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$7,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$16,849.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$24,349.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:18;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Holy Trinity Catholic School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Pierz</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:19;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Intermediate District 287</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Plymouth</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$4,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$4,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:20;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Jordan Public Schools, ISD 717</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Jordan</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:21;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Lake of the Woods School, ISD 390</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Baudette</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$6,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$6,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:22;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Lake Superior School District, ISD 381</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Two Harbors</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$45,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:23;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Lanesboro Public Schools, ISD 229</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Lanesboro</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$45,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:24;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Mankato Area Public Schools, ISD 77</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Mankato</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$14,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$24,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:25;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Minnewaska Area Schools, ISD 2149</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Glenwood</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$6,700.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$16,700.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:26;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Moorhead Area Public Schools, ISD 152</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Moorhead</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,759.68</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$15,759.68</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:27;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Mountain Lake Christian School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Mountain Lake</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$1,709.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$6,709.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:28;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Nativity of Our Lord School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">St. Paul</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:29;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="spelle"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt; color:black">Nett</span></strong></span> <strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt; color:black">Lake Public Schools, ISD 707</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="spelle"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; color:black">Nett</span></span> <span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Lake</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:30;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">North Branch Area Public Schools, ISD 138</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">North Branch</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:31;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Northland Community Schools, ISD 118</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Remer</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$3,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$13,890.83</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$17,390.83</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:32;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Paynesville Public Schools, ISD 741</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Paynesville</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:33;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Pelican Rapids Public Schools, ISD 548</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Pelican Rapids</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:34;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Pine Island Public Schools; ISD 255</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Pine Island</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$18,159.50</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$28,159.50</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:35;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Plainview-Elgin-Millville Schools, ISD 2899</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Plainview</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$7,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$698.59</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$8,198.59</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:36;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Red Lake School District, ISD 38</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Red Lake</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:37;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Red Rock Central Schools, ISD 2884</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Lamberton</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:38;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Richfield Public Schools, ISD 280</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Richfield</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:39;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Ridgeway Community School, CSD 4083</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Houston</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$3,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$3,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:40;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Rush City Schools, ISD 139</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Rush City</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:41;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Rushford-Peterson Public Schools, ISD 239</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Rushford</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$9,962.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$9,962.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:42;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">SAGE Academy, CSD 4087</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Brooklyn Park</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:43;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">St. Charles Public Schools, ISD 858</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">St. Charles</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$16,356.88</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$26,356.88</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:44;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Salem Lutheran School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Stillwater</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$6,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$1,995.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$7,995.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:45;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Sartell-St. Stephen Public Schools, ISD 748</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Sartell</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$7,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$7,500.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:46;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools, ISD 47</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Sauk Rapids</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:47;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Schoolcraft Learning Community, CSD 4058</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Bemidji</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:48;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Springfield Public Schools, ISD 85</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Springfield</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:49;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">St Peter Public Schools, ISD 508</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">St. Peter</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:50;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">St. Peter Lutheran School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">St. Peter</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$2,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$105.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$2,605.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:51;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Staples-Motley School District, ISD 2170</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Staples</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:52;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">United South Central Public Schools, ISD 2134</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Wells</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:53;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Vermilion Country School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Tower</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$7,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$7,500.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:54;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Voyageurs Expeditionary School, CSD 4107</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Bemidji</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:55;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Willow River Public Schools, ISD 577</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Willow River</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:56;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Wrenshall Public Schools, ISD 100</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Wrenshall</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$2,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$2,500.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:57;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Zion Lutheran Church and School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Alexandria</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:58;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;height:14.2pt"> <td width="240" valign="top" style="width:179.75pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Zumbrota-Mazeppa Public Schools, ISD 2805</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="126" valign="top" style="width:94.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Zumbrota</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:81.0pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="96" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.0in;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$18,159.50</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.25pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:14.2pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$28,159.50</span></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p class="MsoNormal" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span style="font-size:12.0pt"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Full Tray Grants:</span></em></p> <p class="MsoNormal" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><span style="font-size:12.0pt"> </span></em></p> <table class="MsoNormalTable" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-yfti-tbllook:1184;mso-padding-alt:0in 0in 0in 0in" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <tbody> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;height:.2in"> <td width="246" valign="top" style="width: 184.25pt; border-top-width: 1pt; border-bottom: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-left: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-top-color: rgb(112, 173, 71); border-image: initial; border-right: none; background: rgb(112, 173, 71); padding: 0in 5.4pt; height: 0.2in;"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">FY23 Full Tray Grantee School/School District</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" valign="top" style="width: 1.2in; border-top-width: 1pt; border-top-color: rgb(112, 173, 71); border-left: none; border-bottom: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-right: none; background: rgb(112, 173, 71); padding: 0in 5.4pt; height: 0.2in;"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">City</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="108" valign="top" style="width: 80.65pt; border-top-width: 1pt; border-top-color: rgb(112, 173, 71); border-left: none; border-bottom: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-right: none; background: rgb(112, 173, 71); padding: 0in 5.4pt; height: 0.2in;"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Full Tray Award</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="101" valign="top" style="width: 75.55pt; border-top-width: 1pt; border-top-color: rgb(112, 173, 71); border-left: none; border-bottom: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-right: none; background: rgb(112, 173, 71); padding: 0in 5.4pt; height: 0.2in;"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Equipment Award</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="102" valign="top" style="width: 76.65pt; border-top-width: 1pt; border-right: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-bottom: 1pt solid rgb(112, 173, 71); border-top-color: rgb(112, 173, 71); border-image: initial; border-left: none; background: rgb(112, 173, 71); padding: 0in 5.4pt; height: 0.2in;"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Total Award</span></strong></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:1;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Aitkin Public Schools, ISD 1</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Aitkin</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$41,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$13,572.57</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$54,572.57</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:2;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Alexandria Public Schools, ISD 206</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Glenwood/ <br /> Alexandria</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$27,183.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$28,550.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$55,733.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:3;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">All Saints Catholic School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Lakeville</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$7,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$7,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:4;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Becker Public Schools, ISD 726</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Becker</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$17,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$17,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:5;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Belgrade-Brooten-<span class="spelle">Elrosa</span> Public Schools, ISD 2364</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Belgrade</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$22,600.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$22,600.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:6;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Bloomington Public Schools, ISD 271</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Bloomington</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$48,974.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$19,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$67,974.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:7;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Brainerd Public Schools, ISD 181</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Brainerd</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$100,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,600.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$110,600.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:8;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose Schools, ISD 877</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Buffalo</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$28,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$28,500.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:9;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Cannon Falls Public Schools, ISD 252</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Cannon Falls</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$52,250.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$52,250.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:10;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Crosby-Ironton Public Schools, ISD 182</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Crosby</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$31,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$31,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:11;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Crosslake Community School, CSD 4059</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Crosslake</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$6,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$1,160.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$7,160.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:12;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Dassel Cokato Public Schools, ISD 466</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Cokato</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$104,263.42</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$139,263.42</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:13;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Deer River Public Schools, ISD 317</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Deer River</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$53,978.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$53,978.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:14;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Delano Public Schools, ISD 879</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Delano</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$62,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$62,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:15;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Detroit Lakes Schools, ISD 22</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Detroit Lakes</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$57,266.22</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$8,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$65,266.22</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:16;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton Public Schools, ISD 2164</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Dilworth</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$71,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$71,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:17;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Eden Prairie Public Schools, ISD 272</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Eden Prairie</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:18;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">First Evangelical Lutheran School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Glencoe</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$6,700.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$4,350.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$11,050.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:19;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Foley Public Schools, ISD 51</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Foley</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$60,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$60,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:20;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Fond du Lac Reservation Ojibwe School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Cloquet</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$20,634.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$20,634.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:21;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Glacial Hills Elementary, CSD 4168</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Starbuck</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$17,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$17,500.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:22;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Heron Lake <span class="spelle">Okabena</span> Public Schools, ISD 330</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="spelle"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Okabena</span></span><span style="font-size:12.0pt">/Heron Lake</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$30,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$30,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:23;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Holy Trinity Catholic School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">South Saint Paul</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$12,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$12,500.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:24;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Hopkins Public Schools, ISD 270</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Hopkins</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$150,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$2,090.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$152,090.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:25;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Hutchinson Public Schools, ISD 423</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Hutchinson</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$141,686.94</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$176,686.94</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:26;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Immanuel Lutheran School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Gaylord</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$5,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:27;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Lake City Schools, ISD 813</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Lake City</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:28;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Litchfield Public Schools, ISD 465</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Litchfield</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$91,127.03</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$126,127.03</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:29;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">McGregor Public Schools, ISD 4</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">McGregor</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$18,084.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$18,084.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:30;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Mesabi East Schools, ISD 2711</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Aurora</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$65,270.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$9,978.57</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$75,248.57</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:31;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Minneapolis Public Schools, Special School <span class="spelle">Dist</span> No. 1</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Minneapolis</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$150,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$150,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:32;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Morris Area Public Schools, ISD 2769</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Morris</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$36,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$36,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:33;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">New Millennium Academy, CSD 4143</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Brooklyn Center</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$15,754.25</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$4,836.93</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$20,591.18</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:34;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">New Ulm Area Catholic Schools</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">New Ulm</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$12,800.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$12,800.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:35;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Northwestern MN Juvenile Center</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Bemidji</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:36;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva Schools, ISD 2168</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">New Richland</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$53,744.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$53,744.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:37;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Osseo Area Public Schools, ISD 279</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Maple Grove</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$100,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$100,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:38;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Pine City Public Schools, ISD 578</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Pine City</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:39;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools, ISD 719</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Prior Lake</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$125,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$160,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:40;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Riverway Learning Community</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Winona</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$8,600.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$8,600.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:41;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Robbinsdale Area Schools, ISD 281</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">New Hope</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$142,629.14</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$20,007.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$162,636.14</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:42;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Schools, ISD 196</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Rosemount</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$150,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$23,750.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$173,750.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:43;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Roseville Public Schools, ISD 623</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Roseville</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$120,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$29,444.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$149,444.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:44;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">St. Anthony-New Brighton Schools, ISD 282</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">St. Anthony</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$30,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$34,388.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$64,388.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:45;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">St. Paul Public Schools, ISD 625</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">St. Paul</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$100,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$100,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:46;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">St. Louis Park Public Schools, ISD 283</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">St. Louis Park</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$50,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$50,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:47;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">St. Cloud Public Schools, ISD 742</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Waite Park</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$100,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$18,811.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$118,811.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:48;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">St. Croix Preparatory Academy, CSD 4120</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Stillwater</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$30,722.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$30,722.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:49;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">St. Michael-Albertville Schools, ISD 885</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Albertville</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$50,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$19,576.77</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$69,576.77</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:50;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">St. Wenceslaus School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">New Prague</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$13,520.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$5,920.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$19,440.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:51;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">The Journey School</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">St. Paul</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$13,300.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$3,846.61</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$17,146.61</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:52;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Wabasha-Kellogg Schools, ISD 811</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Wabasha</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$19,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$19,500.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:53;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Wayzata Public Schools, ISD 284</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Plymouth/Wayzata</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$150,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$185,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:54;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">White Bear Lake Public Schools, ISD 624</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">White Bear Lake</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$50,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$35,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$85,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:55;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Willmar Public Schools, ISD 347</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">Willmar</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$28,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$10,000.00</span></p> </td> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; background:#E2EFD9;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;color:black">$38,000.00</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:56;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;height:.2in"> <td width="246" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:184.25pt;border:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; border-top:none;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Winona Area Public Schools, ISD 861</span></strong></p> </td> <td width="115" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:1.2in;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">Winona</span></p> </td> <td width="108" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:80.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$11,500.00</span></p> </td> <td width="101" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:75.55pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in" /> <td width="102" nowrap="nowrap" valign="top" style="width:76.65pt;border-top:none; border-left:none;border-bottom:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt;border-right:solid #A8D08D 1.0pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:.2in"> <p class="MsoNormal" align="right" style="text-align:right"><span style="font-size:12.0pt">$11,500.00</span></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p class="xxmsonormal" style="margin:0in" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><span style="font-size:12.0pt"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">.</p>5751252023-04-28T18:47:19Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-575123" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-25T19:05:51ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law strengthening penalties for labor trafficking. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law strengthening penalties for labor trafficking. The bill creates a crime for labor trafficking that results in death and creates enhanced penalties for labor trafficking that continues for an extended period or causes great bodily harm.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Labor trafficking is an unacceptable practice that often targets vulnerable and marginalized communities. It will not be tolerated here in Minnesota,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“By strengthening penalties for labor trafficking, we are standing with all of Minnesota’s workers and the victims of this devastating crime. We will not stop fighting to ensure that all workers are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF0042&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chapter 27, House File 42</a> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">, passed unanimously by the state legislature, creates a crime for labor trafficking that results in death. It also creates enhanced penalties if a person is labor trafficked over an extended period or if a labor trafficking victim suffers great bodily harm as a result of the trafficking. Additionally, the bill makes technical changes to the definition related to labor trafficking crimes, while also harmonizing the definitions in the sex trafficking statutes with the definitions in the labor trafficking statutes.</p>5751232023-04-28T16:01:00Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-574367" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-20T19:05:51ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today visited a home in Saint Paul to highlight their $240 million proposal to replace lead pipes across Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today visited a home in Saint Paul to highlight their $240 million proposal to replace lead pipes across Minnesota. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by legislators, union workers, and representatives from the St. Paul Regional Water Service Board, Conservation Minnesota, and Coalition for Greater Minnesota Cities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“No matter where you live, we’re making investments that will improve your quality of life,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Our proposal will fund local projects to identify and replace lead pipes across the state at no cost to families and homeowners. Minnesotans deserve to know where their water comes from and that it is safe and healthy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“No amount of lead is safe for people, and no Minnesotan should be exposed to lead through their drinking water,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Investments in lead pipe mapping and replacement are investments in the health and safety of all Minnesotans, especially our mothers and children. We can live in a state that provides safe, clean water for everyone.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>"Clean water starts with safe drinking water. Yet thousands of Minnesotans still receive their drinking water from aging and unsafe lead water lines,"</strong> said Paul Austin, executive director of Conservation Minnesota. <strong>"A person's zip code shouldn't negatively impact their health. Investing in the inventory and replacement of these dangerous lines will help address the disproportional burden lead lines present for our low-income neighborhoods and protect the health and wellbeing of Minnesota children."</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Department of Health estimates there are about 100,000 water service lines in the state leaching lead into the drinking water flowing through them. Coming in contact with lead can damage the brain, kidneys, and nervous system. In children, lead can also slow development or cause learning, behavior, and hearing problems.</p>5743672023-04-21T15:38:32Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-574369" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-19T19:14:49ZGovernor Tim Walz delivered his State of the State Address tonight in the Minnesota House Chamber. Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz delivered his State of the State Address tonight in the Minnesota House Chamber. Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thank you and good evening.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Madame Speaker and Members of the Minnesota House of Representatives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mr. President and Members of the Minnesota Senate.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Madam Chief Justice, Distinguished Members of the Minnesota Supreme Court, and Chief Judge Segal.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">My fellow Constitutional Officers.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Members of my Staff, Cabinet, and Administration.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Dayton, and Mrs. Ana Dayton, welcome back and thank you for your continued service to our state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Distinguished Tribal Leaders, Chairwoman Cathy Chavers and President Robert Larsen.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Escorts in the Minnesota State Patrol and the Minnesota National Guard.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chaplain Colonel Buddy Winn, State Chaplain of the Minnesota National Guard.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, and Minnesota’s Second Gentleman, Tom Weber.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s First Lady, Gwen Walz.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Guests, and my fellow Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Before we get started, I want to send all of our best wishes to Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Senator Dziedzic has long been a leader in Minnesota, but she’s recently become a role model for unexpected reasons.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Like so many of our neighbors and loved ones, Senator Dziedzic is battling cancer. But she hasn’t let her fight with cancer stop her from fighting for all Minnesotans. In-between treatments, Senator Dziedzic is calling into meetings, negotiating, and working hard to deliver for the people of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Senator Dziedzic, we know you are watching tonight, and we are in awe of your strength, your courage, and your commitment to public service. Thank you, and we look forward to seeing you soon!</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Half a century ago, a Governor came to Saint Paul with a mandate for change.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Despite fierce opposition, he eventually won popular support for an agenda rooted in the belief that Minnesota could – and should – be the best place in America to raise a family.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">His plan reshaped our state’s finances, invested hundreds of millions of dollars in our schools, lowered costs for working families, and put Minnesota on the path to a brighter and more sustainable future for all.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The national press called it the “Minnesota Miracle.” But it wasn’t a miracle – not really. It was just patience and hard work – the quiet building of political will behind a vision shared by an overwhelming majority of Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last fall, the people of Minnesota sent me back to Saint Paul for another four years to serve the state that I love so much. But they didn’t send me alone.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans elected the most diverse legislature in our history, one that’s united around a shared vision of making our state, once again, the best place in America to raise a family.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That’s why, the day I took the oath of office for the second time, I declared that the era of gridlock was over.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For four years, despite enormous headwinds and complicated politics, we did manage to get a lot done for the people of Minnesota. But now we have a new mandate for action – a chance to set aside old fights in favor of doing something truly historic for our children and grandchildren.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This is a moment we have been building towards for a long time. And we won’t let it go to waste.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We started out this session by cutting taxes by $100 million to make it a little bit easier for families to pay their bills and businesses to pay their workers. And that’s just the beginning of the work we’ve done to strengthen the economy in every corner of the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thanks to a unanimous vote of this legislature, we unlocked millions in infrastructure funding to help rebuild and repair our roads and highways.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We passed financial assistance to help struggling families to stay in their homes, and emergency funding for food shelves so those families can keep putting dinner on the table.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We got assistance for workers on the Iron Range, to help miners when Northshore Mining went idle.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We established a carbon-free electricity standard that will transition us to 100 percent clean energy by 2040 and help our state to win the race to create new jobs and industries.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And just last month, I had the honor of signing into law a bill that will provide free school breakfast and lunch for all Minnesota students, because it’s a heck of a lot easier to learn when you’ve got something in your stomach.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesotans: Three months into our second term, I’m proud to report that the state of our state is strong, and it’s getting stronger with every investment we make in our people and the futures they’re working so hard to build.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But make no mistake: Minnesota’s strength isn’t just in our economy, or our schools, or our natural resources. Our strength also comes from our values.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The forces of hatred and bigotry are on the march in states across this country and around the world. But let me say it now, and let me say it clearly: That march stops at Minnesota’s borders.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And let’s do something a little un-Minnesotan: Let’s talk about what we’re really talking about.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I’ve seen some of these other governors on TV – they spend a lot of time on TV – and they’re always talking about “freedom.” But it turns out what they mean is that government should be free to invade your bedroom, your children’s locker room, and your doctor’s office.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Here in Minnesota, when we talk about freedom, we mean your children should be free to go to school without worrying they’ll be shot dead in the halls.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Now, I’m only the Governor of this great state, and it’s not up to me how folks in places like Florida go about their business. But I have to tell you, I’m pretty glad we do things our way and not their way.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">I mean: They’re banning books from their schools. We’re banishing hunger from ours.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And the differences don’t end there.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">They look at their most vulnerable people and they see scapegoats. We look at our most vulnerable people and we see neighbors. And that’s why we’re giving undocumented Minnesotans the opportunity to get a driver’s license and live their lives with dignity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">They see people trying to vote as a threat to their power. We see it as a source of pride. And that’s why we restored the right to vote for more than 55,000 of our fellow citizens.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">They’re afraid of facing up to our nation’s entire history. I guess we’re just made of stronger stuff. And that’s why we now recognize Juneteenth as a state holiday.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">They want to put bullies in charge of your health care. We want to put you in charge of your health care – and put bullies in their place. And that’s why we protected access to gender-affirming health care and established an iron-clad right to reproductive freedom.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Look, I get it. These politicians, they want to be seen as “fighters.” But what they don’t understand is that it’s not enough to be a fighter. You have to choose the right fights.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And if there’s one thing I hope folks in other states take away from what we’re doing here in Minnesota, it’s this: It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you stop complaining about corporations going “woke” and start giving a damn about the real lives of real people.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">So I’m here today to say: Let’s keep choosing the right fights. Let’s keep going to bat on behalf of Minnesota families. And let’s keep making Minnesota the nation’s best place for our children to grow up.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That’s what this year’s budget is all about.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Our plan starts by focusing help on the families who need it most, in the form of a nation-leading Child Tax Credit that would put billions of dollars in the pockets of parents struggling to make ends meet. If we got this done and nothing else, we’d reduce child poverty in Minnesota by 25 percent.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Doing so isn’t just a moral imperative or the right thing to do. It’s a critical piece of our plan to improve our schools and grow our economy.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And it’s just the start of what we can do for Minnesota families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Our plan would send a portion of the surplus right back to Minnesotans in the form of checks that can pay for everything from gas and groceries to summer camp and college tuition.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Meanwhile, let’s start making it a whole lot easier for parents to find and pay for great child care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Our plan would give more than 150,000 Minnesota households thousands of dollars each to help pay those child care bills.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To make sure there are enough spots for everyone’s children, we’re going to make it easier to start a child care business – and we’re going to give the professionals who take care of our children a long-overdue raise.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Our plan also adds 25,000 public pre-K seats to make sure there’s a place for your child when they’re ready. And it invests in early learning scholarships for families who need them most, to make sure that you can make the best choice.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Anyone in this room who’s a parent knows that, for the first five years of your child’s life, nothing gives you more anxiety than balancing work and family – and making great child care accessible and affordable for everyone will make that a whole lot easier.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And, by the way, so will universal paid leave!</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Of course, once your child gets to kindergarten, you’ve got something else to think about for the next 13 years.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">No parent in Minnesota should have to settle for second-best when it comes to our public schools. And with rising costs putting financial pressure on educators and school boards across the state, it’s high time we tied school funding to inflation to make sure nobody has to start cutting corners.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On top of that, our plan invests billions more in our education system, including a more than 10 percent increase to the general education funding formula over the next four years to support the heroic work of our great teachers. And it includes enough money to provide universal school meals so no child in Minnesota has to learn on an empty stomach.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That’s not all. Our plan addresses the mental health needs of our kids, and allows for more school counselors and nurses and social workers to make sure that nobody who needs help falls through the cracks.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And we’re launching a new plan to modernize state government to put families first, establishing a new agency focused exclusively on providing comprehensive support for parents who need help. Whether it’s early learning or food assistance or anything else, you ought to have somewhere you can go to access all our resources in one place – and under our plan, you will.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Of course, putting families first also means upholding the very first and most basic responsibility of government: keeping our communities safe.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That’s why our plan includes more than half a billion dollars in public safety funding for cities and counties across our state, the largest investment in Minnesota history. Whether it’s fighting the surge in car theft or taking on the epidemic of opioid abuse, our first responders and law enforcement agencies have enough to deal with – they should have every resource they need to get the job done.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But we can’t talk about public safety without talking about guns. So let’s have an honest talk about guns.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Now, I’ll put my credibility up against anyone else when it comes to this issue. I’m a veteran. I’m a hunter. I was one of the best shots in Congress, and I have the trophies to prove it. I know guns as well as anyone else in this room.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But I’m sick and tired of talking about all that when we talk about gun safety. Because I’m not just a veteran, or a hunter, or a gun owner. I’m a dad. And for many years, I was a teacher. I know that there’s no place for weapons of war in our schools, or in our churches, or in our banks, or anywhere else people are just trying to live their lives without fear.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In fact, let’s be really honest: We all know it. We’re just used to being bullied by the gun lobby. But, you know what? I got an A rating from the NRA my first term in Congress. Now I get straight F’s. And I sleep just fine.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">More to the point, I’m not going to stand by and let anyone make this about the Second Amendment when it’s really about our first responsibility to our kids: keeping them safe. And I’m not going to let anyone hide behind thoughts and prayers when what we need is action now.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’ve got a gun safety bill on the table. And we’re going to get it passed. And I’m gonna sign it. We’re going to have universal background checks. We’re going to have a red flag law to keep guns out of the wrong hands.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And if anyone in America doubts that we can take meaningful action to protect our kids, I’ve got two words for you: Watch us.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">There’s lots more in our plan – an increase in local government aid, funding to replace lead pipes across the state and rebuild aging roads and bridges, tax credits for people to buy electric vehicles. We’ve got a real opportunity here to improve our infrastructure and grow our economy, and we’re going to create a lot of new jobs in the process.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Oh, and by the way? Those are going to be good-paying union jobs, because Minnesota is a labor state and we’re always going to be a labor state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">These are pragmatic, progressive ideas – things that may not make headlines but will make life easier, safer, and more fulfilling for people across our state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’re gonna get them done. And we ought to be darn proud of it.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">After all, we’re not the only place in America where people want a shot to raise their kids with good schools, safe streets, clean water, and economic opportunity. And we’re not the only place in America where people are organizing around that positive vision.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">But when it comes to putting that vision into action – when it comes to showing people what comes after gridlock, what they can have instead of the gridlock, what we can do when we set aside the dumb fights and choose good ones instead – well, there’s nowhere quite like Minnesota right now.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And that’s a credit to everyone involved in our state’s democracy. Starting with the folks in this room tonight, but also including the organizers and the activists, the people who show up not just on Election Day, but every day, fighting for equity and our environment and our labor unions and our small business owners and our farmers and our LGBTQ community and, of course, our kids.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tonight, I want to thank you for your service to these valuable causes, and for your service to the civic life of our state. And I want to ask you to keep pushing, keep fighting, keep going – because the whole nation is looking to you for inspiration.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Together, we’re not just showing the people of our state that we’re capable of delivering on our promises. We’re showing the American people just how much promise is contained in the progressive vision shared by so many.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We’re drawing a roadmap for 49 other states by doing whatever it takes to be a state that works – for everyone.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And we’re proving that not only can you campaign on compassion and foresight and decency, you can actually govern that way, too.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Fifty years after the Minnesota Miracle, we have another chance to be America’s North Star.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">An opportunity to carve out a corner of our country where no child is left hungry. No community is left behind. And nobody gets told they don’t belong.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A place where government exists not to meddle in your life, but to make it easier.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We have the resources. We have the shared vision. And for the first time in half a century, we have the political will to get this done.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">So let’s not waste this opportunity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Let’s get to work building a state we’re proud to raise our kids in. A state we’re proud to start new businesses in. A state that we’re proud to brag about.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">And let’s start today. Thank you and God bless the great state of Minnesota!</p>5743692023-04-21T15:46:54Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-573986" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-18T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota immediately until sunset on Saturday, April 22, 2023, in honor and remembrance of Deputy Josh Owen.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has ordered all Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota from immediately until sunset on Saturday, April 22, 2023, in honor and remembrance of Deputy Josh Owen.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Deputy Owen was a dedicated law enforcement officer and a veteran of the Minnesota National Guard who was respected by his family, friends, and colleagues,”</strong> reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. <strong>“With its deepest gratitude, the State of Minnesota recognizes Deputy Josh Owen for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his fellow Minnesotans, and our prayers are with his family, friends, and community.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>5739862023-04-19T14:58:36Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-574041" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-18T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law to unlock billions in federal infrastructure grants for clean and renewable energy projects across Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law to unlock billions in federal infrastructure grants for clean and renewable energy projects across Minnesota. The bill creates a $115 million competitiveness fund within the Minnesota Department of Commerce, which will provide the required state matching funds to help Minnesota compete for billions of dollars in federal grants. Governor Walz also signed <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF1581&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 25, House File 1581</a> into law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We have a golden opportunity to invest in clean, sustainable infrastructure and improve our energy grid. These funds will be used to unlock billions of dollars for infrastructure projects that will create clean jobs across the state and move us closer to a sustainable future for all Minnesotans,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Minnesota is and will continue to be a leader in creating a clean energy economy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&amp;f=HF1656&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 24, House File 1656</a> provides $115 million to help state, local, and tribal governments, higher education institutions, rural cooperatives, and electric utilities in Minnesota pursue federal grants for clean energy infrastructure. The state grants awarded would be used to fund any nonfederal match requirement and would be used to help applicants develop their federal grant applications.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF1581&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 25, House File 1581</a> makes miscellaneous and technical corrections to laws and statutes, corrects erroneous, obsolete, and omitted text and references, and removes redundant, conflicting, and superseded provisions.</p>5740412023-04-19T14:42:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-574046" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-17T13:24:07ZAs communities across the state prepare for the impact of spring flooding, Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law strengthening the state’s emergency management and disaster assistance response.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – As communities across the state prepare for the impact of spring flooding, Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law strengthening the state’s emergency management and disaster assistance response. The bill provides $40 million to replenish the state’s Disaster Assistance Contingency Account, which is used to respond to natural disasters. Governor Walz signed the bill alongside bill authors Senator Aric Putnam and Representative Gene Pelowski, Minnesota Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson, Homeland Security and Emergency Management Interim Director Kevin Reed, and Stillwater Mayor Ted Kozlowski.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“While we hope disaster doesn’t strike, we know hope is not a plan. Whether it’s flooding, tornados, or snowstorms, this bill ensures Minnesota is ready to support recovery efforts in local communities across the state,”</strong> said Governor Walz. “ <strong>As communities brace for the crest of spring floods, I am grateful to the legislature for recognizing the urgency of these funds.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?f=HF1278&amp;y=2023&amp;ssn=0&amp;b=house">Chapter 26, HF1278</a> , passed unanimously by the state legislature, provides $40 million in fiscal year 2023 to replenish the state’s Disaster Assistance Contingency Account. The funds will be used to respond to natural disasters declared by the federal or state government and can be deployed quickly without legislative action.</p>5740462023-04-19T14:49:29Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-573983" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-16T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released the following statements on the death of Pope County Sherriff Deputy Josh Owen who was tragically shot and killed in the line of duty on April 15. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today released the following statements on the death of Pope County Sherriff Deputy Josh Owen who was tragically shot and killed in the line of duty on April 15.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota grieves for the family and colleagues of Pope County Sheriff’s Deputy Josh Owen, who was shot and killed in the line of duty last night. Deputy Owen was a husband, a father, a veteran, and a hero,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Just last year, he was honored with a distinguished service award after helping to rescue a neighbor from a burning home. He bravely served his state and nation. Gwen and I are praying for his family and community through this tragedy.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Our hearts are heavy today as we grieve for Pope County Sheriff’s Deputy Josh Owen, who was killed in the line of duty last night,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Our family prays for his loved ones, wishing them peace and comfort through the outpouring of support from Minnesotans across the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota flags, individuals, and businesses should plan to lower their flags in honor of Deputy Josh Owen on the day of his interment.</p>5739832023-04-18T20:00:07Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-573779" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-15T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz celebrated the spring turkey hunting season near Northfield early this morning.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz celebrated the spring turkey hunting season near Northfield early this morning. Governor Walz was joined by National Wild Turkey Federation Director of Development Tom Glines, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen, Rep. Rick Hansen, Sen. Foung Hawj, and members of the Learn-to-Hunt program. The Governor hunted on private land owned by Jerry Wicklund.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It was a beautiful morning to spend some time in the woods and join friends and neighbors in celebrating one of the many outdoor sports and activities Minnesota has to offer,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful for our state’s partnership with the National Wild Turkey Federation for introducing more people to turkey hunting, restoring wild turkeys, and ensuring this tradition can carry on for generations to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Photos, soundbites, and video from the morning will be available in the <a href="https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/mediaroom/News%20release%20resources/">DNR Media Room</a> after 3 p.m. along with other turkey season photos, video, and soundbites from earlier this week.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Governor’s Turkey Hunt highlights spring turkey hunting and celebrates the conservation success of the decades-long partnership between the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to restore wild turkeys and introduce people to turkey hunting. In 1973, 29 wild turkeys were relocated to Minnesota in southeastern Houston County. Thanks to the efforts of the DNR and conservation partners including the NWTF, turkeys now range across nearly the entire state. More than 50,000 people hunt turkeys in Minnesota each spring.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Governor’s Turkey Hunt coincides with NWTF’s annual statewide, mentored turkey hunt, which has introduced thousands of Minnesotans to turkey hunting.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Turkey hunting continues in Minnesota through Wednesday, May 31. Details on the season are available on the</p> <a href="https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/hunting/turkey/index.html" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">DNR website</a> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">.</p>5737792023-04-17T17:08:09Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-573669" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-14T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Hastings to meet with local legislators, city leaders, and residents to discuss the city’s spring flood preparations. Governor Walz was joined by Senator Judy Seeberger, Representative Shane Hudella, city councilmembers, city engineers and administrators, and local law enforcement. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Hastings to meet with local legislators, city leaders, and residents to discuss the city’s spring flood preparations. Governor Walz was joined by Senator Judy Seeberger, Representative Shane Hudella, city councilmembers, city engineers and administrators, and local law enforcement. Photos from the event are attached and linked <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flickr.com%2Fphotos%2Fmngov%2Falbums%2F72177720307494925&amp;data=05%7C01%7CHolland.Griffin%40state.mn.us%7C27f28bc176584960626308db3d1a032a%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638170954145485340%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=rZ%2FYemHo7swn%2B3vmOY3wqNeeLkH6kffxValyresbt9M%3D&amp;reserved=0">here.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It was great to be in Hastings today to discuss how our local, state, and federal partners are working behind the scenes to prepare for spring flooding and keep Minnesotans safe,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“From the Rainy River Basin and Red River to the Mississippi, the state stands ready to provide assistance to local communities across the state as we prepare for a tough spring flooding season.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Yesterday, Governor Walz hosted a briefing with state and federal partners to provide information about the state’s current spring flood outlook and statewide preparations. He was joined by Twin Cities National Weather Service Meteorologist in Charge Dan Hawblitzel, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Deputy Commander Lt. Col. Rob Wilkins, Homeland Security and Emergency Management Interim Director Kevin Reed, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Floodplain Manager Ceil Strauss, and Minnesota Department of Commerce Deputy Commissioner Julia Dreier.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Resources and information on how to prepare for spring flooding can be found <a href="https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/hsem/Pages/spring-flooding.aspx">here.</a></p>5736692023-04-14T21:35:38Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-573670" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-14T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice, Board of School Administrators, and Commission on Judicial Selection. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice, Board of School Administrators, and Commission on Judicial Selection.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Bartzen – South Haven, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Occupational Therapy Practice</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Non-Metro Occupational Therapist</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Katelyn Bills – St. Cloud, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Occupational Therapy Practice</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jeffrey Malikowski</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessica Engman – White Bear Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Occupational Therapy Practice</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metro Occupational Therapist</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Barbara Kloetzke – Shoreview, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Occupational Therapy Practice</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metro Occupational Therapy Assistant</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Lynette Buckley</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Karoline Pierson – St. Louis Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Occupational Therapy Practice</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Stephen Jobe</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Occupational Therapy Practice adopts and enforces rules and laws, issues licenses to qualified individuals, assesses and collects fees for the issuance and renewal of licenses, educates the public about the requirements for licensing occupational therapy practitioners, educates occupational therapy practitioners about the rules of conduct, and enables the public to file complaints against applicants and licensees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/235" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marty Fridgen – Lake Elmo, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of School Administrators</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Classroom Teacher Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Mary Frances Clardy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jinger Gustafson – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of School Administrators</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Higher Edeucation Administrator Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Drew Hildenbrand – Bemidji, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of School Administrators</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Secondary School Principal Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Brian Siverson-Hall – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of School Administrators</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Community Education Director</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 5, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Scott Wallner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of School Administrators:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of School Administrators is responsible for the licensing of nearly 7,000 superintendents, principals, directors of special education, and directors of community education. The board is also charged with approving university preparation programs for school administrators, establishing and approving continuing education requirements, and enforcing the Code of Ethics.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of School Administrators can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/34">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lisa Beane – Apple Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Commission on Judicial Selection</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">First Judicial District Attorney Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 19, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Richard Gorman</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Commission on Judicial Selection:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Commission on Judicial Selection solicits, considers, and recommends candidates to the Governor for vacancies in the district courts and the Workers’ Compensation Court of Appeals.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Commission on Judicial Selection can be found on the Judicial Appointments <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5736702023-04-14T21:35:33ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-573210" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-12T19:04:28ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today highlighted accomplishments of the first 100 days of their second term.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today highlighted accomplishments of the first 100 days of their second term. Since their inauguration, Governor Walz signed bills that codify reproductive rights, provide breakfast and lunch to all students, commit Minnesota to 100 percent renewable energy by 2040, make Juneteenth a state holiday, ban natural hair discrimination, cut taxes by $100 million, make driver’s licenses available for all, and invest over $315 million in infrastructure. Governor Walz also signed an Executive Order to protect access to gender affirming health care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“In the first 100 days of our second term we’re showing Minnesotans that the era of gridlock is over,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We’re wasting no time getting to work making Minnesota the best state in the nation for kids, cutting taxes, and investing in our economic future. It’s no coincidence that we are already making history and immense progress this session: We have the most diverse legislature in our state’s history, with leaders who are committed to getting things done for Minnesotans. I look forward to the next 100 days and continuing to fight to make Minnesota the best state to raise a family.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We have made historic strides in the first 100 days to improve the lives of so many Minnesotans, but we’re not done yet,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“The progress we have made thus far has granted freedom and rights to Minnesotans who have been forgotten for far too long. From restoring voting rights, increasing access to driver’s licenses for undocumented Minnesotans, protecting reproductive freedom and gender-affirming health care to providing free breakfast and lunch in schools, this has been a historic 100 days. We want Minnesotans to know that the Capitol is the people’s house, and in the people’s house, we fight to improve the life of every Minnesotan.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>First 100 Days Accomplishments</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/559978"><strong>Providing $100 Million in Tax Cuts</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On January 12, Governor Tim Walz signed bipartisan legislation providing $100 million in tax cuts to Minnesota individuals and businesses. It was the fastest a tax conformity bill has ever been enacted in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/561860"><strong>Extending Unemployment Insurance for Workers on the Iron Range</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On January 25, Governor Walz signed a bill into law extending Unemployment Insurance benefits for workers on the Iron Range. The bill provides an additional 26 weeks of benefits for over 400 workers who were laid off due to the idling of Northshore Mining last May.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/562506"><strong>Protecting Reproductive Freedom</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On January 31, Governor Walz signed the Protect Reproductive Options (PRO) Act into law, establishing reproductive freedom as a fundamental right for every Minnesotan. The PRO Act establishes that every Minnesotan has a fundamental right to make decisions about their own reproductive health, including the right to use or refuse reproductive health care, to continue a pregnancy and give birth, and to obtain an abortion.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/562864"><strong>Banning Hair Discrimination</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On February 1, Governor Tim Walz signed the CROWN Act into law, explicitly prohibiting racial discrimination based on natural hair texture and hair styles such as braids, locs, and twists.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/567627"><strong>Providing Emergency Food Shelf Funding</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On February 2, Governor Tim Walz signed into law $5 million in emergency funding to food shelves.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/562954"><strong>Establishing Juneteenth as a State Holiday</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On February 3, Governor Tim Walz signed into law legislation establishing Juneteenth as a state holiday. The law commemorates June 19 as the official end of slavery in the United States.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/563448"><strong>Providing Over $315 Million for Infrastructure Improvements</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On February 7, Governor Tim Walz signed into law legislation to unlock $315.5 million in federally appropriated funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to improve Minnesota’s roads.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/563453"><strong>Moving Minnesota to 100 Percent Clean Energy by 2040</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On February 7, Governor Tim Walz signed into law legislation establishing a Minnesota carbon-free electricity standard. The law ensures Minnesota will take steps to lower greenhouse gas emissions, combat the climate crisis, and create new clean energy jobs. Governor Walz signed the bill alongside legislators, labor, and environmental advocates at the St. Paul Regional Labor Center.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/567631"><strong>Expanding Voting Rights to 55,000 Minnesotans</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On March 3, Governor Tim Walz signed into law the largest expansion of voting rights in Minnesota in the last half century. The law restores voting rights for over 55,000 formerly incarcerated people in Minnesota. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by legislators, faith, labor, and community advocates to celebrate the bill signing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/568209"><strong>Expanding Access to Driver’s Licenses</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On March 7, Governor Tim Walz signed a bill into law expanding eligibility for a standard Minnesota driver’s license by allowing Minnesotans, regardless of immigration status, to obtain a license. With an estimated 81,000 undocumented immigrants in Minnesota, the law will increase safety across Minnesota by ensuring that all drivers are licensed, insured, and have taken driver’s education courses. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan were joined by legislators, community, faith, labor, law enforcement, and immigrant advocates to celebrate the bill signing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/568986"><strong>Protecting Access to Gender Affirming Health Care</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On March 8, Governor Tim Walz took executive action to protect access to gender affirming health care in Minnesota. Gender affirming health care services refers to all medical, surgical, counseling, or referral services, including telehealth services, that an individual may receive to support and affirm that individual’s gender identity or gender expression.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/569987"><strong>Protecting Minnesotans from Catalytic Converter Theft</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On March 16, Governor Tim Walz signed legislation into law that will crack down on catalytic converter theft. The law allows only registered scrap metal dealers to purchase catalytic converters, increasing criminal penalties for the illegal possession or sale of catalytic converters, and requires catalytic converters to carry the vehicle identification number of the car it originated from.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/569987"><strong>Strengthening Protections for Native American Children and Families</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On March 16, Governor Tim Walz also signed a bill into law strengthening child welfare protections for Native American children and families. The bill affirms the authority of all federally recognized Indian tribes to handle cases of Indian child custody and child placement proceedings and requires social workers to make active efforts to preserve family unity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/570080"><strong>Providing Free School Meals for Students</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On March 17, Governor Tim Walz signed into law a bill providing free school breakfast and lunch for all Minnesota students at participating schools. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor were joined by legislators, students, and advocates at Webster Elementary in Northeast Minneapolis to celebrate the bill signing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/572012"><strong>Providing $50 Million in Homelessness Prevention and Assistance</strong></a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On March 31, Governor Tim Walz signed into law a bill providing $50 million for the Family Homelessness Prevention and Assistance program, which provides financial assistance and support services to people and households that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The law also allows for qualified households to receive more than 24 months of direct rental assistance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to these bills, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan unveiled the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/561484">One Minnesota Budget</a> in January which aims to make Minnesota the best state to raise a family. The budget includes historic investments in education, child care, health and safety, and Minnesota’s economic future. If passed, the One Minnesota Budget will lower costs for families, reduce childhood poverty by 25 percent, cut taxes, invest in local communities and projects, reduce gun violence, combat the opioid crisis, increase home affordability and ownership, and more.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additionally, Governor Walz has made over 200 appointments to state boards, commissions, councils, and task forces, appointed 8 judges, hired the state’s first <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/571642">Chief Equity Officer</a> , and came to the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/570924">earliest budget targets agreement</a> with legislative leaders in the state’s recent history.</p>5732102023-04-12T15:04:37Z408559361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-573494" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-11T19:02:48ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointments of John Bowen and Jason Steffen as district court judges in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">ST. PAUL, MN – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointments of John Bowen and Jason Steffen as district court judges in Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District. The seats will be chambered in Buffalo in Wright County and Pine City in Pine County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Bowen will be replacing the Honorable Bethany A. Fountain Lindberg for the seat chambered in Wright County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my pleasure to appoint John Bowen to the Wright County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“His impressive track record of public service and commitment to treating all litigants with fairness and respect will make him a great judge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“John Bowen understands that judges play a critical role in promoting public trust in the justice system, and I am certain that he will approach every case with this in mind.”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“I applaud his appointment.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Steffen will be replacing the Honorable Ellen L. Maas for the seat chambered in Pine County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my pleasure to appoint Jason Steffen to the Pine County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Having spent a decade of his career as a public defender, he took his impressive academic background and applied it to help those most in need.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Jason Steffen has demonstrated a profound sense of fairness and justice in his work, recognizing that approaching his job with humility and understanding is the best way to ensure a just outcome,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “ <strong>He will be a great addition to the Tenth Judicial District.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Tenth Judicial District encompasses Anoka, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Pine, Sherburne, Washington, and Wright counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About John Bowen</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">John Bowen is the assistant civil division chief in Wright County, where he provides legal advice and representation to the Wright County Board of Commissioners and all Wright County departments. In this role, he also serves as counsel to the Wright County Opioid Settlement Advisory Council and as a member of the Wright County Safe Harbor Task Force. Bowen previously served as an assistant county attorney in Pine County and as a law clerk to the Honorable Margaret Shaw Johnson. His community involvement includes serving as a member of the Wright County Children’s Justice Initiative, Wright County Safe Schools Committee, and the Election Law Committee of the Minnesota County Attorney’s Association. Bowen is also the coach of the Rockford Middle and High School Speech Team. He earned his B.A from St. Olaf College and his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Jason Steffen</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Jason Steffen is an assistant county attorney in Chisago County, where he prosecutes all types of criminal cases. He served as public defender for nearly a decade in the Tenth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office and the Mohave County Public Defender’s Office in Arizona. Steffen has also served as an adjunct professor at Mitchell Hamline School of Law and has taught at Hamline University and the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. Steffen’s community involvement includes assisting with criminal expungement cases for the Volunteer Lawyers Network and volunteering with Feed My Starving Children and Happy Tails Rescue. He also has volunteered as a judge for the William E. McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court Competition and the Summit Cup 1L Motion Argument Competition at Mitchell Hamline School of Law. He earned his B.A. from Georgetown University, J.D. from Harvard Law School, and Ph.D. in philosophy from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the </p> <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">.</p>5734942023-04-14T14:42:28Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-573201" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-11T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today announced the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has officially approved nearly half the funding needed to build the $505 million METRO Gold Line Bus Rapid Transit project, money that was secured in the infrastructure law passed in Congress in 2022.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has officially approved nearly half the funding needed to build the $505 million METRO Gold Line Bus Rapid Transit project, money that was secured in the infrastructure law passed in Congress in 2022. The project is part of more than $21 billion invested in public transportation nationwide and is set to open in 2025. Governor Walz was joined by U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, U.S. Senator Tina Smith, Metropolitan Council Chair Charlie Zelle, FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez, U.S. Representative Betty McCollum, Ramsey County Commissioner Trista MatasCastillo, and Washington County Commissioner Stan Karwoski to make this announcement.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The METRO Gold Line will be a 10-mile bus rapid transit route that travels between Lowertown in Saint Paul and Woodlane Station in Woodbury, serving stops in Maplewood, Landfall, and Oakdale. The METRO Gold Line will offer easy transit service to nearly 100,000 jobs along the route, including the 3M headquarters. It will also offer convenient travel to Union Depot, Sunray Shopping Center, Woodbury Village, and other attractions.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am grateful to Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith and all our federal partners for ensuring this important project becomes a reality,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The Gold Line will connect tens of thousands of Minnesotans to nearly 100,000 jobs, educational opportunities, friends, and family. Investments in transportation are investments in Minnesota’s economy, workforce, and future.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Investments in public transit make it easier for Minnesotans to get to school, work, and other destinations, while reducing traffic congestion and pollution,”</strong> said U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar. <strong>“This federal funding will support the Metro Gold Line Bus project, helping construct bus-only lanes and providing more reliable transit service between downtown St. Paul and the eastern suburbs. I’ll keep pushing for resources to ensure public transit is safe and reliable for all Minnesotans.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This announcement is the culmination of decades of work to expand transit access across Minnesota,”</strong> said U.S. Senator Tina Smith. <strong>“</strong> <strong>I was pleased to host Administrator Fernandez in Minnesota two years ago so she could hear directly from the community about how important this project is. As we showed her then, in order to remain competitive nationally and globally, it is essential we continue investing in our infrastructure. The METRO Gold Line is one piece of a larger effort to prepare us for long-term growth and continued success.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I’m thrilled the Federal Transit Administration has validated this project by signing the Full Funding Grant Agreement,”</strong> said Metropolitan Council Chair Charlie Zelle. <strong>“As public servants, it’s important to evaluate transit projects through many lenses, including whether a project delivers the kind of service and benefits our community deserves. I’d like to thank the FTA and the Biden administration for making transit a priority, as well as the thousands of community members who offered their comments, support, and ideas to help bring this project to fruition.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Today’s announcement shows what is possible when neighbors, local communities, and the federal government come together in partnership</strong> ,” said U.S. Representative Betty McCollum. <strong>“The METRO Gold Line isn’t just a rapid transit route—it’s a reminder that with a lot of hard work and collaboration we can improve lives and do great things as a community, region, and country.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Gold Line is now more suited to serve trips throughout the day, including mid-afternoon peaks</strong> ,” said Washington County Commissioner Michelle Clasen. <strong>“Mid-afternoon now dominates ridership more so than the traditional morning and evening commutes of office workers, many of whom continue working remotely or hybrid.’’</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“An added advantage for the Gold Line is that it will be the first BRT service in Minnesota to operate primarily in bus-only lanes,”</strong> said Ramsey County Commissioner Rafael Ortega. <strong>“This will ensure on time arrival while providing a premium travel experience and the permanency required to generate substantial economic development.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Improved transit service along this route is critically important since 13% of the households do not have cars, 16% of the population lives in poverty, and 44% of the population is racially and ethnically diverse,’’</strong> said Ramsey County Commissioner Trista MatasCastillo.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Washington County is doing some development of its own on the corridor, having chosen to build its new county service center adjacent the line’s eastern endpoint at Woodlane Station in Woodbury,”</strong> said Washington County Commissioner Stan Karwoski.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>About METRO Gold Line</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Planning for the METRO Gold Line began in 2010. The FTA gave the green light to enter project development in 2018, and construction started in 2022. As part of the Federal New Starts Program, the METRO Gold Line needed strong partnerships with Ramsey and Washington counties, the local funders for the project, and the federal government.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The METRO Gold Line will open in 2025 at a cost of $505 million, with more than 47% ($239 million) coming from FTA and nearly 48% ($120 million each) from Ramsey and Washington counties. The federal funding from FTA comes from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which provided about $2.7 billion in federal funding for over 180 infrastructure projects in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">By 2030, Metro Transit anticipates operating a 165-mile network of 12 bus rapid transit lines, with connections to the METRO Blue Line and METRO Green Line light rail, their extensions, and local and express buses. Bus rapid transit fills a gap in Metro Transit’s services by offering fast, all-day service where only local or express bus services currently exist.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">METRO Gold Line will connect people across the region to job centers, housing options, transit stations, and key destinations in the Interstate 94 corridor. The line will connect Saint Paul, Maplewood, Landfall, Oakdale, and Woodbury along I-94.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Through 2021, Metro Transit found permitted development worth nearly $476 million and planned development worth more than $1.2 billion in the corridor. This includes 903 permitted housing units and another 1,461 planned housing units. Learn more about the latest Development Trends Along Transit report from Metro Transit’s Transit Oriented Development Office</p> <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.metrotransit.org%2Fdevelopment-along-transit&amp;data=05%7C01%7CErin.Keefe%40state.mn.us%7Cb396c8de162741004cc108db3ac1d9d0%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638168376481893816%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Xp6RhHz53sq7B4Zbog1%2BP2QYS2ta19pzUjQa%2BYR9v4Y%3D&amp;reserved=0" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">here.</a>5732012023-04-12T14:50:39Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-573084" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-10T20:27:51ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Pharmacy; Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction; Metropolitan Airports Commission; Mineral Coordinating Committee; Minnesota Environmental Quality Board; and Public Employees Retirement Association Board of Trustees. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Pharmacy; Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction; Metropolitan Airports Commission; Mineral Coordinating Committee; Minnesota Environmental Quality Board; and Public Employees Retirement Association Board of Trustees.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Haag – Blaine, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Pharmacy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Pharmacist Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Mary Phipps</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Amy Paradis – Fairmont, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Pharmacy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Pharmacist Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Pharmacy:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Pharmacy regulates the pharmacy profession and the quality, labeling, and distribution of drugs, and administers the Minnesota Prescription Monitoring Program, the Opiate Product Registration Fee Program, and the Minnesota Insulin Safety Net Program.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Pharmacy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/30" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Beth Elstad – Duluth, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chair</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 10, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">New Seat</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction identifies opportunities for and barriers to the development and implementation of policies and strategies to expand access to effective services for Minnesotans. The advisory council also examines services, supports, and needs and provides opportunities for Minnesotans who have experienced addiction.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Governor’s Advisory Council on Opioids, Substance Use, and Addiction can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/303" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Braj Agrawal – Eden Prairie, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Airports Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District B Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Yodit</strong> <strong>Bizen</strong> <strong>– Apple Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Airports Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District H Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Carl Crimmins – Champlin, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Airports Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District A Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dixie Hoard – Thief River Falls, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Airports Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Commissioner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rick King – Eden Prairie, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Airports Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Chair</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rodney Skoog – White Bear Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Metropolitan Airports Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">District F Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Metropolitan Airports Commission:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) promotes air transportation locally, nationally, and internationally by developing the Twin Cities as an aviation center. The MAC owns and operates the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and six reliever airports throughout the Twin Cities area.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Metropolitan Airports Commission can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/79" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>John Cunningham – Eagan, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mineral Coordinating Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Industrial Minerals Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Matt Bryan</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Julie Lucas – Side Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mineral Coordinating Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Non-Ferrous Metallic Mineral Industry Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Frank Ongaro</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kristen Vake – Chisholm, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Mineral Coordinating Committee</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Iron Ore and Taconite Industry Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: June 30, 2026</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kelsey Johnson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Mineral Coordinating Committee:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Mineral Coordinating Committee plans for diversified mineral development of the state's mineral economy through long-term support of mineral exploration, evaluation, environmental research, development, production, and commercialization.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Mineral Coordinating Committee can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/83" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dan Katzenberger – Eden Prairie, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Environmental Quality Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Benjamin Yawakie</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Environmental Quality Board includes the heads of nine state agencies and public board members from around the state. The board provides leadership and coordination across state agencies on priority environmental issues, serves as a locus for public engagement, and oversees the state’s Environmental Review program. The board carries out a diverse range of projects aimed at shaping environmental policy and programs and engaging Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/107" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Mary Falk – Anoka, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Employees Retirement Association Board of Trustees</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Knowledge of Pensions</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 17, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 31, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Public Employees Retirement Association Board of Trustees:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) provides retirement, survivor, and disability benefits for public employees of county and local government. PERA’s Board of Trustees manages the public employees’ retirement fund.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Public Employees Retirement Association Board of Trustees can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/133" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5730842023-04-12T14:52:50Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-572826" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-06T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today visited Ely, Minnesota, to highlight the child care plan in the One Minnesota Budget released in January.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Ely, Minnesota, to highlight the child care plan in the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/560468">One Minnesota Budget</a> released in January. Governor Walz visited the Ely Head Start center to discuss the Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s plan, which would increase child care access and affordability and provide middle class families with up to $10,500 to help pay for child care. Governor Walz was joined by Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board Commissioner Ida Rukavina and Senator Grant Hauschild. The Governor also toured Minnesota North College to see proposed improvements that would be funded by the Governor’s <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/561786">Infrastructure Plan</a> and visited a manufacturing company in Tower.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Child care is the backbone of the workforce in Ely and in communities across the state. When we invest in our child care providers, we invest in our families, our economy, and our future,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Whether you live on the Iron Range or in the metro, our child care plan addresses a wide variety of needs to lower costs for families by thousands, drive economic and workforce development, and make Minnesota the best place for kids to grow up.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Child care providers keep our economy running, but their care is increasingly falling out of reach as child care costs rise and availability decreases. We’re taking action at the Legislature to address this, and Governor Walz has been a key partner in that work.”</strong> said Senator Hauschild. <strong>“I want to thank him for joining me in Ely this morning to hear directly from child care providers about the issues they’re facing. When it comes to making Minnesota the best state in the nation to raise a family, the governor and I are in full agreement. I’m committed to continuing this critical work in Saint Paul to improve child care affordability and accessibility for all Minnesota families.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Child Care Plan: Expand Access to Child Care and Early Learning</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">To reduce child care expenses and provide economic relief to middle class and lower income families, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan propose $539 million in tax credits in 2024-2025 and a $547 million in tax credits in 2026-2027 to expand the Child and Dependent Care Credit, reducing costs for 100,000 Minnesota households. This child care plan will allow families making under $200,000 with one child to receive up to $4,000 a year for child care costs. Families with two children could receive up to $8,000, and families with three children could receive up to $10,500. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan also propose expanding public pre-K seats for nearly 25,000 eligible children, investing in early learning scholarships, and improving child care access for Minnesota families by increasing child care assistance payment rates. Finally, the One Minnesota Budget addresses Minnesota’s child care shortage by increasing staff compensation and supporting providers starting child care businesses.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Child Care Plan: Support Working Families</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At a time when more Minnesotans are accessing food nutrition programs, the One Minnesota Budget also invests in the Minnesota Food Shelf Program and emergency food and distribution facilities across Minnesota, increases outreach for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and includes new funding to support food security among tribal nations and American Indian communities. Additionally, the Walz-Flanagan budget proposes a grant program that allows colleges and universities to provide parents or expectant parents with the support they need to complete their education.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Child Care Plan: Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Grants</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan recognize that access to child care is an economic and workforce development issue across the state. The One Minnesota Budget includes a proposal to create and Office of Child Care and Community Partnerships at DEED to establish a central force for efforts to advance child care. The office would administer a proposed $18 million over four years in DEED Child Care Economic Development Grants to support child care and economic development in Greater Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Child Care Plan: DEED Office of Child Care and Community Partnerships</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Recognizing that access to child care is an economic and workforce development issue across the state, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan recommend creating an Office of Child Care and Community Partnerships at DEED to establish a central force for efforts in recognizing access to child care as an economic and workforce development issue across the state. The office would administer DEED Child Care Economic Development Grants and the Governor proposes investing $18 million more over four years in these funds to support child care economic development activities in Greater Minnesota, which will assist child care providers, create much-needed new child care slots, and increase the capacity and quality of child care across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to improving child care, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan are also working to eliminate child poverty. Shown to reduce child poverty and improve outcomes for families at every stage of life, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan recommend a nation-leading Child Tax Credit, providing lower income families $1,000 per child with a maximum credit of $3,000. This Child Tax Credit alone would cut child poverty by 25%. The proposal would result in $1.1 billion in tax cuts in 2024-2025 and $1.2 billion in 2026-2027.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In January, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor rolled out the One Minnesota Budget which will <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/560468">support children and families</a> , <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/560905">invest in Minnesota’s economic future</a> , <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/560832">protect Minnesotans’ health and safety</a> , and <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/news/#/detail/appId/1/id/561484">provide the largest tax cut in state history</a> .</p>5728262023-04-07T17:41:43Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-572824" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-06T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today exercised his statutory authority to assign Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison to the Zaria McKeever murder case in Hennepin County.Assignment follows formal request from Attorney General Ellison for Governor Walz to give him the case1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today exercised his statutory <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/8.01" target="_blank">authority</a> to assign Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison to the Zaria <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.startribune.com%2Fag-ellison-says-he-disagrees-with-juvenile-prosecution-in-brooklyn-park-killing%2F600264897%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CErin.Keefe%40state.mn.us%7C861e80ce25de4b7aa95308db3761f0e0%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C638164666016976622%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=lDbPdSccnpIm2YXAzrcOsjEBMoDI9H4U68Bj7Rb7iyM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">McKeever</a> murder case in Hennepin County. This decision comes after Governor Walz received a formal request from Attorney General Ellison. The Attorney General’s request and the Governor’s response are attached here.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“My heart breaks for the McKeever family,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We will not tolerate violent crime in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s authority to assign a case to the Attorney General is rarely used. The Governor has made clear that he will exercise the authority only if he receives a written request from the Attorney General to prosecute a case.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I have absolute confidence in Attorney General Ellison,”</strong> Governor Walz continued.  <strong>“He has requested this important case and stepped up once again to serve the people of Minnesota. I know Keith will work tirelessly to seek justice and bring a modicum of peace to the grieving family.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/8.01" target="_blank">state statute</a> gives governors the power to request that the attorney general prosecute any person charged with an indictable offense, preside over a grand jury, and otherwise exercise the powers of a county attorney. Under the same state statute, the attorney general may prosecute a criminal case upon request from a county attorney.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Attorney General’s Office often prosecutes violent crime cases throughout the state and in Hennepin County. In June of 2020, former Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman requested that Attorney General Ellison prosecute former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin for the killing of George Floyd. In May of 2021, Freeman again requested that Ellison prosecute former Brooklyn Center police officer Kimberly Potter for the killing of Daunte Wright.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor recently signed Senate File 33, a bill providing $269,000 in 2023 and $2 million each year thereafter to expand the Attorney General’s Office criminal enforcement team. The additional funds will be used to hire seven additional full-time criminal prosecutors and two legal assistants who will provide needed legal services to county attorneys to prosecute serious violent crimes.</p>5728242023-04-07T17:31:53Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-570260" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-05T17:09:43ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law providing deficiency funding for the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) to continue providing hearings for campaign and data practice matters.1055[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed a bill into law providing deficiency funding for the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) to continue providing hearings for campaign and data practice matters. Chapter 23, Senate File 1816 provides $196,000 in fiscal year 2023 for the Office of Administrative Hearings. The funds will be used to maintain fair, timely, and impartial hearings in campaign and data practices matters. The purpose of these funds is to accommodate an increase in data practices and campaign cases received by the OAH.5702602023-04-10T20:28:49Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-570081" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-04-04T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today joined a call with a bipartisan group of governors and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to express support for Ukraine and solidarity with the Ukrainian community in Minnesota.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today joined a call with a bipartisan group of governors and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to express support for Ukraine and solidarity with the Ukrainian community in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Minnesota stands with Ukraine,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“It was an honor to hear from President Zelenskyy firsthand and offer him our unwavering support. Minnesota is a proud home to many Ukrainian families, and we will continue to welcome and support Ukrainian refugees in our state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The call was facilitated by the National Governors Association.</p>5700812023-04-05T17:29:54ZNews640News408560361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-572022" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-31T19:26:17ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board, Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy, Board of Nursing, Gambling Control Board, and Occupational Safety and Health Review Board. 1055<p align="center" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Walz, Flanagan Announce Appointments</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board, Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy, Board of Nursing, Gambling Control Board, and Occupational Safety and Health Review Board.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Michael Skaug – Beltrami, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Farmer Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: James Hlatky</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board accepts applications for reimbursement from the Agricultural Chemical Response and Reimbursement Account, determines eligibility and amount of reimbursement due, and notifies the Commissioner of Agriculture of eligible claims.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Agricultural Chemical Response Compensation Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/98" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Randy Anderson – Golden Valley, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Marlae Cox-Kolek</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Christopher Anderson – Elbow Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed Professional Counselor/Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Rebecca Lund</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jacqueline Bluem – Edina, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Randy Stillday – Red Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jae Hyun Shim</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Marjorie Van Slyke – St. Louis Park, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed Professional Counselor/Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy regulates the practices of alcohol and drug counseling, professional counseling, and professional clinical counseling in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/20" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shaunequa James – Ramsey, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Nursing</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Jacob Anderson</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Nursing:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Nursing holds nurses accountable for conduct based on legal, ethical, and professional standards. The board regulates nursing practice through credentialing, education, discipline, complaint resolution, establishing nursing practice standards, performing data analytics, workforce planning, and other work.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Nursing can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/101" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Kate Luthner – Forest Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Gambling Control Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Karen Diver</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Gambling Control Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Gambling Control Board regulates the lawful gambling industry to ensure the integrity of operations and provide for the lawful use of net profits. The board licenses organizations, distributors, and manufacturers of gambling equipment; registers gambling equipment; collects license fees and inspects records; and conducts hearings.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Gambling Control Boardcan be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/63" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>David Lillback – Clear Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Occupational Safety and Health Review Board</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: April 5, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Michael Murphy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Occupational Safety and Health Review Board:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Occupational Safety and Health Review Board issues decisions involving untimely contested OSHA citations and proposed penalty cases and reviews appeals of administrative law judge orders involving OSHA citations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Occupational Safety and Health Review Board can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/125" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the  <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5720222023-03-31T19:29:00ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-572012" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-31T18:47:59ZGovernor Tim Walz has signed two bills into law providing $50 million in funding for homelessness prevention and assistance and allowing wills to be completed electronically.Walz also signs bills allowing wills to be completed electronically1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has signed two bills into law providing $50 million in funding for homelessness prevention and assistance and allowing wills to be completed electronically.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Ensuring our children and families have access to safe and affordable housing is central to our commitment to making Minnesota the best state for kids to grow up,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Housing is a basic need that every Minnesotan deserves, and this bill moves us closer to making sure this need is met for everyone in the state.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Affordable, stable housing is the foundation for Minnesotans’ health, safety, and growth,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“This investment provides direct assistance without delay to our neighbors experiencing homelessness and will help prevent homelessness before it happens. This is just the beginning of what we will accomplish this session to ensure every Minnesotan has a safe place to call home.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF1440&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 20, House File 1440</a> provides $50 million for the Family Homelessness Prevention and Assistance program, which provides financial assistance and support services to people and households that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The bill also allows for qualified households to receive more than 24 months of direct rental assistance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF244&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 21, House File 244</a> , the Uniform Electronic Wills Act, allows wills to be completed electronically, instead of in writing.</p>5720122023-03-31T18:49:40ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-572007" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-31T18:32:42ZGovernor Tim Walz signed into law a bill providing resources to help eligible Minnesotans keep their Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare health insurance.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – As the federal COVID-19 public health emergency unwinds, Governor Tim Walz signed into law a bill providing resources to help eligible Minnesotans keep their Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare health insurance.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“We want everyone who qualifies to keep Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare so they can continue receiving uninterrupted health care,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“These resources will help us reach people, so Minnesotans across the state can stay covered.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare cover one in four Minnesotans, including 40% of Minnesota children,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“Any gaps in coverage have the potential to make Minnesota’s existing health disparities even worse. This bill will help reach communities where they are so people can keep their insurance.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&amp;f=SF2265&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 22, Senate File 2265</a> provides state funding for the transition to regular Medicaid eligibility verification procedures, which were <a href="https://mn.gov/dhs/renewmycoverage/overview/">put on hold during the federal COVID-19 public health emergency</a> . The Minnesota Department of Human Services and county and tribal processing agencies will soon begin verifying eligibility requirements for 1.5 million people who get health coverage through the two programs. The bill also provides $36 million to help county and tribal processing agencies process the health care renewals.</p>5720072023-03-31T18:33:16Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-572042" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-31T13:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 23-05, amending previous executive orders to ensure continuity of task forces, councils, and committees created by those executive orders. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued Executive Order 23-05, amending previous executive orders to ensure continuity of task forces, councils, and committees created by those executive orders. Executive Order 23-05 also rescinds Executive Orders 11-06 and 21-34.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Order 23-05 amends previous executive orders that created or continued a task force, council, or committee. The amendments ensure the seamless transition of members as their terms reach their expiration dates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Executive Order 23-05 also rescinds Executive Orders 21-34 and 11-06. Executive Order 21-34 established the Governor’s Council on Justice Reinvestment, which drove a bipartisan effort to improve community supervision outcomes and increase the likelihood of success for people on probation and supervised release to improve community safety across Minnesota. The council submitted its report, and its work is complete. Executive Order 11-06 established reporting requirements for the Department of Human Services. Federal changes have rendered those reporting requirements duplicative, so the executive order is no longer needed.</p>5720422023-03-31T21:42:37Z361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-572041" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-31T13:24:07ZToday, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan released the following statements on the agreement between the Minnesota Department of Human Rights and City of Minneapolis that requires the city and the Minneapolis Police Department to make transformational changes to their organizational culture:1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“This critical work from Commissioner Rebecca Lucero and the Minnesota Department of Human Rights is an important step to make Minneapolis a safer community for all,”</strong> said Governor Tim Walz. <strong>“I’m grateful for MDHR’s partnership with the City of Minneapolis on this agreement and the work to engage community members and law enforcement for feedback along the way. This is an important step, but let’s not lose sight of the work left to do – this is the beginning of a process to restore trust and ensure public safety for all.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Lawful, non-discriminatory policing is good public safety,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. <strong>“People in Minneapolis – and across the state – deserve to be safe. Community deserves to be heard. And the people charged with keeping us safe should be supported in their work. Minnesotans have been asking for change, and today I’m proud of the step Commissioner Rebecca Lucero, the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, and City of Minneapolis are taking to bring that change.”</strong></p>5720412023-03-31T21:42:16ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-571965" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-30T17:11:55ZGovernor Tim Walz traveled to Raymond, Minnesota, this morning to survey the site where a train carrying ethanol derailed. The Governor met with residents and offered the state’s full support. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] - Governor Tim Walz traveled to Raymond, Minnesota, this morning to survey the site where a train carrying ethanol derailed. The Governor met with residents and offered the state’s full support. The Governor is coordinating closely with the United States Department of Transportation, Minnesota Department of Transportation, Minnesota Department of Public Safety, and Homeland Security and Emergency Management to protect the health and safety of the Raymond community. Photos from the visit are attached.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am immensely grateful for the swift, coordinated response between local, state, and national partners to ensure the immediate safety of the Raymond community,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“The state’s multi-agency emergency response team will continue working on the ground to ensure health and safety. This incident has highlighted the critical need to invest in rail safety and the state’s emergency management response to prevent incidents like this from happening again.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Rail Safety during his time in Congress, Governor Walz helped secure requirements around puncture-resistant DOT-117J tank cars to reduce fatalities during the transport of hazardous materials.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor’s proposed budget makes significant investments in rail safety and emergency management, including:</p> <ul type="disc" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>$600,000 for rail safety inspectors to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations</li> <li>Over $300 million in funds to make safety improvements at rail crossings</li> <li>Over $1 million annually to fund state emergency response assets and ensure response teams are ready to respond across the state when major emergency incidents occur</li> <li>$40 million in increased funding for the Disaster Assistance Contingency Account to help communities respond to and recover from disasters</li> <li>$1 million each year to support firefighter training and education</li> <li>Increasing funding for the Fire Safety Account to ensure fire agencies across the state have sustainable resources to support their work</li> </ul>5719652023-03-31T21:45:40ZNews640News361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-571666" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-29T21:02:22ZGovernor Tim Walz today signed Chapter 19, House File 45 into law 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today signed <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&amp;f=HF45&amp;ssn=0&amp;y=2023">Chapter 19, House File 45</a> into law as passed unanimously by the Minnesota Legislature.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In 2021, the legislature established a procedure under which certain current or former members of the United States military charged with crimes could be eligible for deferred prosecution if the crime stemmed from a service-related disability. Under the statute, a veteran who pled guilty or was found guilty would be assessed for eligibility in the program. If eligible, the veteran would have the opportunity to have the case dismissed after completing probation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This bill amends the existing statute to allow courts to determine whether a veteran is eligible for deferred prosecution before a finding of guilt.</p>5716662023-03-29T21:07:14Z408559361527News640News<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-571649" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-29T19:59:06ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Tori Stewart as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">ST. PAUL, MN – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Tori Stewart as District Court Judge in Minnesota’s First Judicial District. Stewart will replace the Honorable Kevin F. Mark and will be chambered in Red Wing in Goodhue County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am proud to appoint Tori Stewart to the First Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“Her significant courtroom experience and extensive criminal law background will make her an asset to the bench for years to come.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“As the first woman to sit on the Goodhue County bench, Tori Stewart will bring a valued perspective to this important role,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “I am confident that her impressive legal background and deep commitment to justice will serve the community well.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s First Judicial District consists of Carver, Dakota, Goodhue, Le Sueur, McLeod, Scott, and Sibley Counties.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><img src="/governor/assets/Stewart%2C%20Tori%20-%20Headshot_tcm1055-571648.jpg" title="Stewart, Tori - Headshot" alt="Stewart, Tori - Headshot" style="width: 350px; height: 466px;" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:title="Stewart, Tori - Headshot" /> <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Tori Stewart is an assistant county attorney in Dakota County, where she prosecutes felony-level crimes including murder, assault, criminal sexual conduct, child physical abuse, criminal vehicular operation, and domestic-related offenses. She was previously an assistant county attorney in Rice County, where she prosecuted all levels of criminal offenses, and an associate attorney at Hughes &amp; Costello. Her community involvement has included serving on the Minnesota DWI Task Force; the Dakota County Attorney’s Office Diversity, Equity &amp; Inclusion Alliance; the Minnesota County Attorney’s Association Impaired Driving Educational Alliance; and the Minnesota State Bar Association Public Law Section’s Executive Council. She has also volunteered as a mock trial judge with the Minnesota High School Mock Trial Program. Stewart earned her B.A. from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities and her J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/">Governor’s Judicial Appointments webpage</a> .</p>5716492023-03-29T20:01:32Z361527News640News<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-571642" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-29T19:53:55Z Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan announced Dr. Stephanie Burrage as Chief Equity Officer for the State of Minnesota1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">​[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced Dr. Stephanie Burrage as Chief Equity Officer for the State of Minnesota. Dr. Burrage will be responsible for working with the Governor’s Office and cabinet to create the new Equity and Opportunity Office and partnering with external stakeholders to achieve equity and opportunity across the state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>​</strong> <strong>“Our mission is to make Minnesota the best state to raise a family for everyone. This role was created to serve communities across Minnesota and help eliminate disparities across race, geography, ability, gender, sexual orientation, and economic status,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“ <a name="x_x__Hlk130903253" id="x_x__Hlk130903253">Dr. Burrage understands the importance of community and relationship building and will use her strengths and expertise to advance equity in communities across Minnesota.”</a></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Dr. Burrage is an exceptional leader, community builder, and fierce advocate for equity, progress, and justice in Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“This position isn’t a nice to have – it is a must have. In this role, Dr. Burrage will uplift the voices of those that have been left out of government for far too long to create meaningful change and equitable policies. I look forward to partnering with her to ensure every Minnesotan has a seat at the table.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>​</strong> <strong>“This work is critical and will help remove systemic inequities while increasing opportunities for all communities,”</strong> said Dr. Burrage. “ <strong>I will help ensure that Minnesotans are both heard and represented in our government. I am pleased that Governor Tim Walz has appointed me to this essential role.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I am excited for the appointment of Dr. Burrage as the Chief Equity Officer for the State of Minnesota,”</strong> said James Burroughs, Children’s Minnesota Senior Vice President, Government and Community Relations, and Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer. <strong>“Her knowledge, temperament, passion and community relationships will benefit the Governor’s Office in developing strategies to finally eliminate racial disparities in the State of Minnesota. I look forward to partnering with Dr. Burrage and the community to end racial disparities in Minnesota and throughout the nation.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>​<img src="/governor/assets/Stephanie%20Burrage_headshot_tcm1055-571643.png" title="Stephanie Burrage_headshot" alt="Stephanie Burrage_headshot" style="width: 350px; height: 437px;" xlink:title="Stephanie Burrage_headshot" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Dr. Stephanie Burrage is the deputy commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education and a senior advisor to the Governor’s Office. She has taught and led in urban and suburban school districts in Minnesota and Michigan for over three decades. Dr. Burrage is also an education consultant, impacting policy and practice through turnaround school transformation, Board of Education training, as well as leadership strategies for districts and companies. She is a champion for equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts and finds her most rewarding work remains her connections with communities and families through meaningful conversations, amplifying their voices, and advocating for a bold future for all. Dr. Burrage earned a bachelor of arts in secondary education from Western Michigan University, a master’s degree in elementary education from the University of Wisconsin, and a second master’s degree in educational administration from Saint Mary’s University. She earned her doctorate in educational policy and administration from the University of Minnesota.</p>5716422023-03-29T19:54:34Z361527News640News363384<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-571979" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-27T17:00:53ZGovernor Tim Walz has ordered all Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota effective immediately until sunset Friday, March 31, 2023 to remember and honor the lives lost today at the Convenant School shooting in Nashville, Tennessee1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – In accordance with a notice from the White House, Governor Tim Walz has ordered all Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota effective immediately until sunset Friday, March 31, 2023 to remember and honor the lives lost today at the Convenant School shooting in Nashville, Tennessee.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Gwen and I are praying for the students and families in Nashville as we reel from another devastating shooting in a school – a place that should be free of violence,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“We are going to pass commonsense gun safety laws this session to help prevent tragedies like this in Minnesota.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.</p>5719792023-03-31T18:09:20Z361527408560<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-571053" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-24T20:24:07ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy; Board of Social Work; Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing; Council on Disability; Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission; Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission; and State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care. 1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the following appointments to the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy; Board of Social Work; Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing; Council on Disability; Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission; Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission; and State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chilah Brown – Isle, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Marriage and Family Therapy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Ukasha Dakane</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jessie Everts – White Bear Lake, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Marriage and Family Therapy</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Marriage and Family Therapy licenses marriage and family therapists and enforces the statutes and rules governing the practice of marriage and family therapy to ensure a standard of competent and ethical practice.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/26" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Linda Gustafson – Minnetonka, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board of Social Work</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Public Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Kenneth Middlebrooks</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Board of Social Work:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Board of Social Work promotes and protects public health, safety, and welfare through the licensure and regulation of persons who practice social work in Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Board of Social Work can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/102" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaron Peterson – Warren, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Northwest Bemidji Advisory Council Representative</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Les Fairbanks</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing serves as the principal agency of the state to advocate on behalf of deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing Minnesotans by working to ensure those persons have equal access to the services, programs, and opportunities available to others.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/185" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Nicholas Volkmuth – Princeton, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Council on Disability</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 6, 2025</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: John Fetcher</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Council on Disability:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Council on Disability advises and aids the Governor, state agencies, and the public on policy and the administration of programs and services for people with disabilities in Minnesota. The council advises, provides technical assistance, and collaborates with advocates to expand opportunities, improve the quality of life, and empower all people with disabilities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Council on Disability can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/54">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Elizabeth Huntley – St. Paul, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Commissioner</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 1, 2024</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Replacing: Ruth Martinez</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact offers a streamlined licensing process for physicians practicing in multiple states. Thirty-three states, the District of Columbia, and the Territory of Guam currently participate in the compact.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission can be found on the <a href="https://mn.gov/boards/medical-practice/consumers/imlc/" target="_blank">Minnesota Board of Medical Practice website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Alberder Gillespie – Woodbury, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Experience Promoting Amateur Sports</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Lori Higgins – Blaine, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member with Experience Promoting Amateur Sports</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Reappointment</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission supports amateur sports associations in the state and promotes amateur sports events. The commission’s work includes governing the National Sports Center, creating amateur sporting events, and fostering partnerships between public, private, state, and local organizations.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/98" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Shakira Bradshaw – Eagan, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jeanne Dickhausen – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Barbara Fabre – Ogema, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member and Chair</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Claire Forbes – Minnetrista, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Jennifer Mueller – Monticello, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Rinal Ray – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Sandra Simar – Rochester, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Aaron Sojourner – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Johanna Villa – Minneapolis, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Abby Zylstra – Willmar, MN</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Member</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Effective: March 29, 2023</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Term Expires: January 4, 2027</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About the State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care, along with the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council makes recommendation to the Children’s Cabinet. Learn more at the <a href="https://mn.gov/mmb/childrens-cabinet/" target="_blank">Children’s Cabinet website</a> .</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Additional information about the State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/Details/263" target="_blank">Secretary of State’s website.</a></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are seeking qualified and diverse individuals who are passionate about using their knowledge, skills, and lived experiences to serve the state of Minnesota. A list of boards and commissions, including open positions, can be found on the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Position" target="_blank" style="font-family: Verdana;">Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.</a></p>5710532023-03-24T20:26:09ZNews640News408559361527<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1055-570926" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-03-24T17:18:09ZGovernor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan have appointed Sarah Hudleston and Matthew Frank as district court judges in Minnesota's Fourth Judicial District, with Hudleston replacing M. Jacqueline Regis and Frank replacing Nicole A. Engisch, both of whom will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.1055<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">ST. PAUL, MN – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointments of Sarah Hudleston and Matthew Frank as district court judges in Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District. The seats will be chambered in Minneapolis in Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Hudleston will be replacing the Honorable M. Jacqueline Regis.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is my honor to appoint Sarah</strong> <strong>Hudleston</strong> <strong>to the Fourth Judicial District,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“She is an exceptional attorney who will work hard to ensure that our justice system strives to be the best that it can be.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“I applaud the appointment of Sarah</strong> <strong>Hudleston</strong> <strong>,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“She understands and appreciates that all cases are unique, and justice should never be a one-size-fits-all approach. Her heart and lived experience will serve all those who enter her courtroom.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Frank will be replacing the Honorable Nicole A. Engisch.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“It is also my honor to appoint Matthew Frank to the Hennepin County bench,”</strong> said Governor Walz. <strong>“He will be a remarkable judge who will approach this position with the understanding that justice is a process, not a result.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>“Matthew Frank is a dedicated public servant who has committed his career to delivering justice for the people of Minnesota,”</strong> said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. <strong>“His wide-ranging experience and calming leadership in challenging moments will make him an excellent judge.”</strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District encompasses Hennepin County.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Sarah</em> <em>Hudleston</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><img src="/governor/assets/Hudleston%2C%20Sarah%20Headshot%20Final_tcm1055-570928.jpg" title="Hudleston, Sarah Headshot Final" alt="Hudleston, Sarah Headshot Final" style="width: 350px; height: 232px;" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:title="Hudleston, Sarah Headshot Final" /> <br /></em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Sarah Hudleston is an assistant United States attorney in the Violent and Major Crimes Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota. In this role, she prosecutes a range of felonies, including child exploitation, bank fraud, kidnapping, armed robbery, firearms, narcotics, and government program fraud offenses. Hudleston was previously a law clerk to the Honorable Ann D. Montgomery and an attorney at Robins Kaplan Miller &amp; Ciresi and Fried Frank Harris Shriver &amp; Jacobson. Her community involvement includes serving as a volunteer for the U.S. District Court’s Open Doors program, a mentor for students in the University of St. Thomas School of Law Mentor Externship Program, a volunteer with the Innocence Project, and a former board member of the Volunteer Lawyers Network. Hudleston is a two-time recipient of Tubman’s Attorney of the Year Award for her pro bono representation of domestic violence victims and indigent family law clients. She earned her B.A. from the University of Wisconsin - Madison and J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>About Matthew Frank</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><img src="/governor/assets/Frank%2C%20Matthew%20Headshot%20Final_tcm1055-570927.jpg" title="Frank, Matthew Headshot Final" alt="Frank, Matthew Headshot Final" style="width: 350px; height: 409px;" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:title="Frank, Matthew Headshot Final" /> <br /></em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Matthew Frank is the managing attorney of the Criminal Division at the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General, where he supervises a team of attorneys who handle criminal prosecutions, criminal appeals, civil commitments, civil matters regarding the predatory offender registration statute, and community notification risk level appeals. He previously worked as an assistant county attorney in the Wright County Attorney’s Office, an assistant public defender in the Tenth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office, an attorney in the Taylor Law Firm, and a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Allen Oleisky of the Fourth Judicial District. Frank’s community involvement includes serving on the Minnesota Supreme Court Advisory Committees on the Rules of Criminal Procedure and the Special Rules of Procedure Governing Proceedings under the Minnesota Commitment and Treatment Acts, the Minnesota County Attorneys Association Appellate Committee, and the Minnesota Child Mortality Review Panel. He has also volunteered as a brief and oral argument judge for the William E. McGee National Civil Rights Moot Court Competition. He earned his B.S. from University of Wisconsin - Madison and J.D. from Hamline University School of Law.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/administration/judicialappointments/" target="_blank">Governor’s Judicial Appoi