Government and Politics
February 13, 2023
From: Minnesota Governor Timothy James WalzGovernor Walz Signs Bill Moving Minnesota to 100 Percent Clean Energy by 2040
This week, Governor Walz signed a bill leading Minnesota to 100% clean electricity by 2040. Through this law, Minnesota will take steps to lower greenhouse gas emissions, combat the climate crisis, create new clean energy jobs, and ensure Minnesotans will continue to have reliable, affordable, and safe energy resources.
“Climate change impacts lives and livelihoods in every corner of our state,” said Governor Walz. “Minnesota will continue to lead the way on combatting climate change and we’ll create clean energy jobs in the process. This bill is an essential investment in our future that will continue to pay off for generations to come.”
“Climate change threatens many of the things we love most about our state – which is why we’re going to lead Minnesota to 100% clean electricity by 2040,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “As we work to make Minnesota the best state to raise a family, investing in our climate future is an essential part of building a bright future for our kids. This bill is good news for Minnesota and our country as the North Star State leads the way.”
Governor Walz Signs Unanimous Bill Providing Over $315 Million to Improve Minnesota’s Roads
Governor Walz signed a bill into law unlocking $315.5 million in federally appropriated funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to improve Minnesota’s roads.
“By investing in Minnesota’s transportation system, we strengthen our communities, economy, and work force,” said Governor Walz. "I am grateful to the Legislature for working quickly to pass legislation that will improve our state infrastructure, create jobs, and directly improve the lives of Minnesotans across the state."
Governor Walz Chairs President’s Bipartisan Council of Governors Meeting
On Friday, Governor Walz chaired the Council of Governors’ 26th annual meeting in Washington, D.C. to discuss matters of homeland security with the White House. 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.
“The safety and security of each of our states is strengthened when we come together and work in a collaborative, bipartisan fashion,” said Governor Walz. “The Council of Governors remains united in our commitment to protecting our citizens. I look forward to continue working with my fellow governors and building this state-federal partnership.”
Governor Walz Signs Bill Expanding Attorney General’s Capacity to Prosecute Violent Crime
Governor Walz signed legislation providing funding for Attorney General Keith Ellison’s Office to hire up to seven additional criminal prosecutors, more than tripling the capacity of the Attorney General’s Office to prosecute violent crime and bring justice to victims of crime.
“Ensuring public safety and delivering criminal justice requires partnership and coordination across state, county, and local levels,” said Governor Walz. "This bill provides the critical resources necessary to bolster the state’s ability to fight violent crime, bring justice to victims, and support communities across Minnesota. We will continue to work with counties to make neighborhoods across the state safer for everyone."
During Black History Month, Governor Walz Highlights Ways his Budget will Support Black Minnesotans
On Monday, during Black History Month, Governor Walz highlighted a series of proposals within the One Minnesota Budget that would support Black Minnesotans.
“Our mission is to make Minnesota the best state to raise a family for everyone. This budget was built with the belief that we cannot build One Minnesota without ensuring Black Minnesotans are heard, supported, and valued,” said Governor Walz. “By investing in comprehensive health care, expanding access to child care, strengthening public safety, taking bold action to reduce child poverty, and investing directly in Black entrepreneurs and Black businesses – we have a historic opportunity to improve the lives of Minnesotans through the One Minnesota budget. I’m grateful for the Black community leaders whose vision for a stronger, more equitable Minnesota informed this budget.”
“From providing support for small businesses to expanding culturally-specific after-school learning, our administration partnered with Black community leaders to ensure our budget makes strategic and equitable investments in a stronger economic future for all Minnesotans,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “I am grateful for the spaces created to listen, learn, and be in community. Your voices helped build this budget.”