As the Minnesota Legislature wraps up its third week, a new normal is settling in. While technical difficulties still pepper committee hearings and legislator meetings, everyone is getting used to operating in a new way.  Here’s what is new and coming up at the Legislature:

Picking Up the Pace

Aside from taking place online, committee hearings are moving forward almost as usual. Many committees continue to hear overviews, while some have begun hearing bills. Not surprisingly, some committee chairs have commented on the lack of bills referred to their committee at this point, resulting from the continued backlog in the Revisor’s office and limited access to the Capitol grounds.

Broadband

One issue that unifies most in the Legislature is the need for continued broadband expansion throughout the state. While the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the lack of access for various parts of the state, questions still exist about the appropriate funding level and use of federal funds. A House committee held a hearing on H.F. 14, which would appropriate $120 million for the 2022-2023 biennium for broadband expansion. The committee plans to re-visit the issue later in session once more is known about federal funding opportunities.

Virtual Advocacy

Many organizations typically have a “day on the hill” for their grassroots members to communicate with their elected officials. With the Capitol and legislative office buildings largely closed to the public, many groups have opted for an online forum and are finding ways to effectively advocate for their cause in new ways. Winthrop & Weinstine has been helping clients to navigate this new space.

Governor’s Budget

As expected, Governor Tim Walz has announced that he will be releasing a detailed budget proposal for the next biennium on Tuesday, January 26. Either next month or early in March, the administration will update the proposal based on the February forecast. Following the release of the budget proposal next week, legislative finance committees will begin hearings on the proposals.

All is Quiet

A week ago, many were concerned about possible violent protests at state capitols. Thankfully, the inauguration of President Joe Biden has taken place without significant protests or violence. In Minnesota, only a handful of protesters gathered, and they did so peacefully.

January 22, 2021