The bill also includes provisions to increase penalties for straw purchases and allocates funding for a new State Patrol headquarters

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.

“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,” said Governor Walz. “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.”

“Uber and Lyft are vital services that Minnesotans across the state rely on every day,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “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.”

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.

“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,” said Governor Walz. “This legislation will help ensure responsible gun ownership and prevent guns from ending up in the wrong hands.”

“Combatting gun crimes in Minnesota requires the implementation of commonsense gun legislation,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “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.”

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.

“Renovations to the Minnesota State Patrol headquarters are long overdue,” said Governor Walz. “Our officers work around the clock to keep our roads and motorists safe . They deserve the facilities and resources necessary to do their best work.”

The Governor also signed the following bills today:

- Historical horse racing ban at licensed racetracks (Chapter 119, Senate File 2219)

- 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 (Chapter 120, Senate File 5289

- Modification of existing cannabis law, and adjustment of appropriations to the Office of Cannabis Management and the Department of Health (Chapter 121 House File 4757)

- Consumer protection focused provisions including the expansion of enforcement against copper wire theft and insurance fraud (Chapter 121 House File 4757)

- Critical public safety and judiciary budget and policy provisions (Chapter 123, House File 5216)

- Increased transparency among landlords with their policies and fees, increased opportunities for tenants to clear evictions from their records (Chapter 118, Senate File 3492)

- Modifications of provisions governing disability, aging, and substance use disorder services (Chapter 125, Senate File 5335)

- Financially supporting farmers and agricultural communities (Chapter 126, Senate File 4942)

- Streamlining and accelerating permitting timelines and processes for clean energy and transmission projects (Chapter 126, Senate File 4942)

- 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 (Chapter 124, House File 4024)